Expat Life in Japan: Pros and Cons After 35 Years

I have been a long-term resident in Japan for 35 years, and while the term 'expat' may not fully describe my situation, I'll go with it for the sake of this article. Over these years, I have encountered many pros and cons that one might face as a foreigner in this fascinating country. Let's explore them in detail.

Pros of Living in Japan as an Expat

1. Safety: A Secure Place to Live

One of the biggest advantages of living in Japan is the country's overall safety. Japan is among the safest places in the world, which means that expats can travel and live here without having to worry about violent crime, such as being shot in the street or having their homes broken into.

2. Polite and Respectful Society

The Japanese people are known for their politeness, hospitality, and respect for others and their property. You're less likely to encounter robberies or petty theft, such as theft of a wallet. This makes it easier to feel secure and respected in public spaces.

3. Culinary Delights

Japan offers a vast array of culinary experiences. From sushi and ramen to tempura and teppanyaki, there's something for every palate. The food variety is one of the main reasons many expats choose to live in Japan.

4. Access to Affordable Healthcare

Japan has one of the best national healthcare systems in the world. It's both extensive and affordable, helping expats avoid the nightmare of medical bills that can bankrupt them in other countries.

5. Personal Space and Privacy

While Japan is undoubtedly a crowded country, you can still find peace and quiet. The people respect personal boundaries and allow you to live your life without unnecessary interference from neighbors. This is a blessing for those who need space and time for themselves.

6. Efficient Public Transport

The public transport infrastructure is top-notch, making it easy and convenient to get around. Whether you're using the JR trains or buses, you're likely to find a schedule that suits your needs.

Cons of Living in Japan as an Expat

1. Natural Disasters

Living in Japan comes with the potential for experiencing natural disasters such as earthquakes, typhoons, floods, and even heavy snow in certain regions. These can be challenging but are manageable with the right preparation and support.

2. Language and Bureaucracy Barriers

For some, the language barrier and the complex bureaucracy can be daunting. While the Japanese are generally willing to help expats, navigating the system requires time and effort. The pace of bureaucratic processes is often slower than in many Western countries.

3. Long Distances for Home Flights

In case of an emergency, the distance to the nearest home country can be significant. This can be a concern for those who need to return quickly for personal reasons.

4. High Taxes and Costs

Life in Japan is not free from financial burdens. There are various taxes, including city taxes, health insurance, pension contributions, road taxes, and housing taxes, which add up quickly.

5. Fitting In and Making Friends

While Japan has a welcoming attitude towards foreigners, making real, long-lasting friendships can be challenging. It may take a considerable amount of time to form genuine connections, especially if you're an expat.

Joel's Perspective

Joel, another long-time expat in Japan, shares his views on the subject. He initially found life in Japan welcoming and easy, partly due to the assistance he received from locals and the positive sentiment towards Americans. However, he acknowledges the tough part of being a foreigner (an gaijin) in a place where even though you speak the language and understand the customs, you are still always seen as a foreigner. The constant "you're not Japanese, so you couldn't understand" mentality can be both a blessing and a curse, according to Joel.

In conclusion, whether living in Japan as an expat is easy or hard depends largely on the individual and their approach to the challenges presented. If one can navigate the cultural nuances and embrace the unique aspects of Japanese society, life in Japan can be immensely rewarding.