Hoping to spend a year in Japan

Member since 10 February 2026

JohnSchofield5750New member11 February 2026 15:32:57

Hi, I'm hoping to spend a year in Japan as part of my degree if I get to uni this autumn. I'm interested in finding out what a student work placement or living longer term in Japan would be like. So, as part of an A level topic, I'm researching what it's like living and working in Japan as a foreigner. I have lots of official-type secondary data, but need first hand accounts too. If you'd be willing to answer some of the following questions, I'd be grateful. Thanks, John

How long have you worked in Japan? and what is your nationality?
What sector / job? What is the best aspect of living in Japan?
Did you have Japanese language skills to start / any help to learn?
Did you have help with Japanese workplace etiquette? How well do non- Japanese fit into the workplace?
Was finding accommodation a problem? How is the cost of living
Do you live amongst foreign nationals or Japanese?
How many of your co-workers are non-Japanese? Are overseas workers encouraged ?
Have you observed any change in numbers of foreign nationals generally / in your work?

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Fred Indonesia Expert

Member since 02 August 2009

A smile is the universal welcome.
Max Eastman

FredIndonesia Expert11 February 2026 17:33:15

30213

Was finding accommodation a problem? How is the cost of living

Depends on where. Think of the diverse answers you would get if you asked the same question of the UK.

People in the Square Mile would tell you of 6 million quid flats, but those who live in Grimethorpe will point you to 80 grand houses all over the place.

You have to be far more specific about the areas you are interested in.

JohnSchofield5750 New member

Member since 10 February 2026

JohnSchofield5750New member12 February 2026 14:29:05

Thanks Fred. Good point.

Do you know of a good city / town to aim for which seems foreigner - friendly, not too expensive compared say to average costs in UK? I know Tokyo is a lot dearer than elsewhere.

Also, What type of jobs do people tend to get into without initially having language skills?

Thinking ahead - do the multinationals take on staff without Japanese language?

Any info on your experience of living / working in Japn would be great. Thanks.