Japan Country Bundle: suggestions, stories and tips
Content about Japan on WorldSupporter
Japan: Updates & Travel
Travel in Japan
- Japan is a special mix between hypermodern and traditional. The old codes of conduct still apply and the kimono is still a worn garment, while most of Tokyo is hypermodern with high-rise buildings and life goes on 24/7.
- The Tsukiji fish market was the largest fish market in the world, where all kinds of Japanese fish are sold. The "famous" market has moved and is now called Toyosu market. Around the place where the Tsukiji fish market was, the activities around it are still going on and there are (fish) restaurants.
- Attend a sumo match during one of the six major tournaments that are held each year. Looking for something more refined? Then visit a puppet show (Bunraku).
- Himeji-jo, the most beautiful remaining castle in Japan, from where you have a view over the Kansai plain. This castle plays a role in a James Bond film and in The Last Samurai. Visit a Geisha dance (Odori), which is held in April, May and October.
- Relax in an "Onsen". Swimming pools and saunas have been built on the spot where a natural spring emerges from the ground.
- Go to Kyoto, the former imperial city full of temples and stone gardens (to become Zen in). If you are a fan of Japanese manga comics, you should definitely visit the Kyoto International Manga Museum.
- Mount Fuji is the highest mountain in Japan west of Tokyo. Climb Mount Fuji in the summer. You will (unfortunately) not be the only one doing this, but the view is worth it.
- Tokyo has a 24 hours economy. Visit one of the palaces, dive into a karaoke bar, enjoy yourself in an arcade with (computer) games for young and old, view art in the art triangle, eat sushi and visit a tea ceremony. Almost 9 million people in the historic city, constant hustle and bustle and always something to do: Tokyo is either your dream city or your worst nightmare.
- Hiroshima. The city that was almost completely bombed by the first atomic bomb during the Second World War. This is the place to learn more about Japan and the Second World War in the Peace Memorial Museum.
- Enjoy the bounty beaches on the Okinawa islands. Also a great place to dive.
- Be prepared to face crowds and overtourism, especially in Tokyo and Kyoto.
- Be prepared to experience an earthquake. Yearly around 5.000 small earthquakes are registered in Japan.
Updates Japan
- More about Japan, updates and contributions, see the link below.
Why live in Japan, why emigrate to Japan or stay for a long time?
Why should you live in Japan as an expat, emigrant or working nomad?
- Because it is really something different.
- Because it is safe in Japan and there is a high quality of life. The cities are clean, public transportation is efficient and reliable, and health care is excellent.
- Because the work culture is collective, and the common interest of the team is high on the list.
- Because the work culture is known for high standards and efficiency.
What should you pay attention to?
- if you meet someone for business, or are given someone's business card? Then never accept it with one hand, but always use both hands. By the way, this also applies to cards and money. Also, never put the card in your pocket right away. Look at it and store it respectfully.
- in your daily interactions with others, especially colleagues, in the workplace or relative strangers, it is helpful to have an idea of the form of politeness in the Japanese language. For example, address others by last name+“san,” this shows respect, and do not ask direct or personal questions if you do not yet know each other well.
- that emotions or problems are not easily talked about because it feels like bothering others. So it can also be difficult to make deep friendships. Hugging is rare and most contact is through bowing. Shaking hands is also out of the question. Still, the contact can be warm and fun, and of course it varies depending on the person you meet.
- in many cases, the common thread is consideration for others and mutual respect. In Japan, you almost never communicate “no.” If you can't or won't, you often indicate it in a roundabout way by saying “maybe,” for example, so that you don't offend another person. The message is understood.
- dealing with each other is formal, for example, communication, dress code and etiquette.
- overtime is not uncommon. The work culture can be demanding, and balancing work and leisure time can be challenging.
- arrive on time, adapt to group dynamics, make sure your home is clean and orderly, be very hospitable (hospitality is hugely important in Japan, and also a lot of fun to experience), respect the elderly and go “out of your way” to help them and others.
- individualism is not always appreciated.
Where to study in Japan, do an internship, do volunteer work or look for a job in Japan?
Why study, do an internship, volunteer or work temporarily in Japan?
- because it is a good way to get in touch with the rich history and culture, with the mix of traditional and modern elements in Japanese society.
- because the workplace is a place where group spirit is important. Employees should help each other. Team outings are popular, and usually with food.
- because the work culture has a clear hierarchy; it is clear that the employer has the say.
What should you pay attention to?
- that there are many cultural customs, which are often difficult to recognize or figure out. Some important customs are bowing to each other when greeting, when leaving. The deeper the more respect and it is not uncommon to bow several times in a row.
- respect for higher-ups is very important.
- decisions are often made by those in charge, without (much) input from the lower ranks.
- it is customary to bring a little something with you when you visit someone in Japan. Consider something from home, an expensive piece of fruit, or an (edible) souvenir from another region of Japan.
Which visum for Japan
- In need of a Japanese visum?
- The first place to visit is the embassy's/government's website
- Here you can find experiences and advice regarding Japanese visa
Are you going to Japan some time soon? Maybe for work, travelling or volunteering? Than you might need to get a visum. In this bundle you can find advice and experiences regarding the Japanese visum process.
Recipes from Japan or with a Japanese twist by WorldSupporters - Bundle
Recipes from Japan shared by WorldSupporters
Japan: selection of contributions by WorldSupporters - Bundle
Content and contributions about Japan shared by WorldSupporters
Japan: selectie van blogs en bijdragen van WorldSupporters - Bundel
Selectie van of blogs en bijdragen van WorldSupporters over Japan
- 627 reads