Living as an expatriate in Japan opens the door to unique experiences filled with culture shock, opportunities for personal growth, and remarkable friendships. Two individuals sharing their narratives offer insight not only about their life-changing adventures but also about the deep impact Japan has had on their lives.
One expatriate, who arrived in Tokyo as a fresh college graduate, describes his overwhelming initial experiences upon landing. The moment he stepped foot on the island nation, the language barrier became immediately apparent as he struggled to read restaurant menus. 'I couldn’t read the restaurant menu, so I had to point at pictures and hope for the best,' he recalls. Walking through crowded streets filled with shops and nightclubs, he felt awash with excitement. The cacophony and buzz of Tokyo were both exhilarating and intimidating. Yet, he notes, it wasn’t lonely or scary—it was thrilling.
This expatriate had moved to Japan to teach English through the Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Program after developing friendships with Japanese individuals during his college years. He became fascinated with Japanese culture, paving the way for his ultimate decision to immerse himself completely. "I felt like part of a community in Japan," he shares, describing his work life spent teaching English at schools, where he earned about $2,500 monthly and experienced the camaraderie of regular drinking parties known as 'enkai' with his Japanese colleagues.
The bonds he forged were significant as he navigated the daily nuances of Japanese culture. Learning to conduct himself appropriately was pivotal, whether it was taking off shoes when entering homes or using chopsticks deftly. 'Living in Japan as an American is a 24-hour immersive learning experience,' he reflects. Despite the challenges, he appreciated the kindness and patience of the people, citing heartwarming instances such as being offered rides from strangers.
His time spent outside of Hidaka, where he worked, proved transformative. Connections made through friends opened the door to rich experiences, from relaxing weekend retreats at hot springs to eating authentic sushi at unassuming restaurants near Tokyo’s largest fish market. Yet, after a year filled with excitement and learning, he decided to return to the US, drawn by career opportunities he felt were more abundant at home.
On the flip side, actress Tokiko Kitagawa, who has appeared prominently on screen, continues her career as she grounds herself in Japan but also aspires for international opportunities. During her interviews promoting her latest film, "One Night in Tokyo," she discussed her experiences of engaging with both her Japanese roots and the desire to connect globally.
Kitagawa, who is still based in Tokyo and navigates acting and modeling projects, candidly shared her language-learning struggles. Although she attended Kansai Gaidai University, she admitted, 'My English was still like my weak point, it was kind of difficult to get jobs.' Her drive propelled her to study English independently, often watching films and forming friendships with English-speaking peers.
Her role as Ayaka required her to embody complex emotions and build chemistry with co-star Reza Emamiyeh. Kitagawa emphasized the depth of characters they portrayed, highlighting how director Joshua Woodcock nourished their artistic growth through extensive conversations about character backgrounds, emotions, and scenes. She also praised the Japanese crew’s familiarity with local customs, which allowed their film to reflect authenticity without losing its essence.
Despite her success, Kitagawa dreams of establishing roots overseas. Inspired by inquiries from various producers at film festivals, she expressed her desire to take on more American projects, stating, 'So after the film festival for 'One Night in Tokyo,' I decided to move here.'
Both narratives intertwine, showcasing the appeal of Japan for expatriates who face challenges but also enjoy rich, rewarding experiences. From the difficulties of breaking through language barriers to building vibrant communities and friendships, the experience of living and working as expatriates offers personal rewards and emotional connections.
While one expatriate returned to the US for professional opportunities, he carries fond memories of Japan, keeping close ties with friends across the Pacific. He appreciates the collective mindset he encountered there, contrasting it against America's often competitive nature. 'Compared to Japan, America’s individualist culture sometimes feels too stressful and selfish,' he observes. The sense of community found abroad often evokes longing even years later.
Kitagawa’s aspirations to bridge her local success with international fame echoes the sentiments expressed by many expatriates—an enduring yearning for growth and adventure. Her blend of Japanese and global experiences signifies the continuous exchange of culture, stories, and opportunities across borders.