Considering Japan for my future.
 

Hello,

I have recently given more life to an ideal I have years about when I was in my teens. Now that I'm 21, I have been finding myself searching over the internet about life in japan or more specific Moving and working in Japan. Not just staying for bit, but maybe settling down there and making it my permanent home (yes that does mean changing my citizenship).

Currently this is just in the thinking phase, as I have been gathering a lot of data on how to accomplish such a feat, and this is where I need first and knowledgeable experience that will not white wash things for me.

First off it seems that the most basic start is a English teacher (which sounds great seeing how I do like English myself) but recently I learned of the Nova incident and how that career path kinda ends. Would someone be kind enough to post some helpful tips on career paths for an American in Japan?

Secondly, I spent two years of my life doing nothing and would like to apply myself towards a goal/career. I mention earlier that I do like English and I have some talent in artistic department. The question is how did you work out paying for college (stateside) and going to Japan?

These are two of my greatest generic questions that I need some help on from experienced people. I have nothing holding me down in the States and I do not mind the small apartments and I adore the culture and values that on the surface are presented in Japan. Now if you think I need more information on something or you think I may be at a lost please feel free to help. I also have not visited Japan and I will not make an decision to move there until I do so ( I was thinking I could work it out during college as a student transfer).

You should probably visit before making any decision, you're in the same boat as many others on this forum. Life here isn't very different from life back home (wherever that may be), just a difference in culture.

As for teaching english, give that a shot, there are plenty of companies that hire, you just have to look for them. A couple months in Japan may change your opinion if you really want to live in japan.

you should go if it is something you really want to do and think that you will enjoy not only living there but working there too.

There really isn't a career path for foreigners in Japan, just jobs because they tend to get rid of foreigners and replace them with Japanese. English teaching is a job because everyone I know got sick of it quickly.
If you have bills in the US, you will be short of money if you take a English teaching job because the pay is low.
Sorry to rain on your parade, but life in Japan isn't as easy as people think. It's crowded, expensive, and is much more difficult if you don't speak or read the language. Visit and if you do decide to go, good luck.

I was thinking of eventually ending up teaching English in a university. The only bills I would have would be college related. I already know about the whole gaijin mentality, and how expensive and crowded it is. I don't mind all the people and small apartments. Also I don't consider learning the language to be hard (I have translated a little here and there for my own personal use).

I'm trying to plan out not just going and working in Japan but also a future there past the whole "off the boat" experience. Like maybe meeting an wife, raising an family and overall growing old. I would like to see my self holding down a respectable job (English teaching in a University for example). I just need help staying for the long term or maybe permanently if that's is to be my future.

So you have a college degree now?

No, and before you write I've read many and even your thread about not being able to go to Japan without one. I wouldn't even start down a career path in my home country (USA) without one. I'm going to college regardless if I choose to live in Japan or not. What I wanted to know about the two is the potential end career that I could have that may relate to what I study in college.

It depends on what you study, I suppose. The number of foreign professionals stationed permanently in Japan is much fewer than those in Japan temporarily.

I plan to put myself toward an teaching career and want to actually teach, and ask if there is a difference between an eikaiwa and actual English teaching?

Also I don't consider the language to be an barrier, I will not put myself into a position to be part of a new land where I'm not at least somewhat understanding of customs and language (I will learn what I can by being in an English country). I'm will/would take part in the culture and not try to create a bubble around myself and other English speakers.

I've got a long way to go, college first and then see whats in the field after that. Hopefully the recession will be over by then.

The real question is; Why do you want to live in Japan permanently?

It's just strange that you've made up your mind that you want to live there for keeps, when you haven't even visited.

If you're trying to escape something in your home country, that's probably not the best incentive. :vsign:

you mistake my post, I did say I wouldn't make a decision until I visited. I have also said that this is in the thinking/planning phase thus a lot could be subject to change. Secondly I'll try to explain this as best as I can.

I don't have anything that potentially would tie me down in that states (only family, but that's a different matter). In essence it does not matter If I choose a career path in USA, Japan, or Israel. Yes, it is easiest to do in your own country, but I'm not looking for a life made "easy" I want to do what I like within bounds. No, I don't dislike the USA I love what it stands for. I would have more rights here then In Japan. The US Government is not at the point to where it's a joke like Japans but that's not what I care for. I'm not running from anything and indeed I would miss the USA and still support it through all the good it does for the world. The only Western part of culture that would that I would miss is "warhammer" then again I can find that here, not as big as in the west but it's here (check out gamesworkshop if you don't know what that is).

I want to live in a country doing something I love. Teaching would be something I would care for because simply I like to teach. The language in Japan also is something I find fascinating (hence one of the reasons why I would not find it difficult to learn). Food would be good for me (in America it was to easy to become fat). I like the idea of a culture actually based on family and responsibility (at the surface it looks like they still believe that). I actually would be able to get around without a car (I know this is in some areas but nevertheless appeals to me). I will say I do like anime and manga but then again I do watch more news then the two combined. Overall I have judge from what I know of Japan to be something I would be more interested in working in then US culture.

A lot of what I said can be subjective to where you live in the USA, and as such makes a moot point in comparing the two. It's the same as to the various regions of the States and why some would prefer New York to say rural Kentucky. As of right know I believe (as much as I can without visiting) I would be more satisfied living in Japan then here. I would also say if I'm going to go over there I'm not coming back, I don't like the idea of starting a life somewhere completely alien to me only to make money, or to live "fun". I'm not going to put off the rest of my life (like marriage; kids; fulfillment) to only come back to the US when I'm 40 or 50. I've wasted enough of my life, to know the difference between living a dream and reality; sure if I do go, it's going to be hard the first years. I only got one life, got to make the best situation I can with potential that is offered to me (mainly because of the United States)

I have lived in several countries besides Japan. Japan was the most difficult by far.
You love to teach. Teaching gets old after awhile. To work at a University, like my friend, you need not only to be fluent (and knowledgeable about grammar) in English but in Japanese also (writing and grammar). I spoke 3 languages before learning Japanese and Japanese is the most difficult and I am still learning how to read and write it.
Food. Food is not too different anymore. They have most of the same fast food there and I guarantee you will get tired of rice and fish if you weren't brought up eating it. There also are many "American" foods at the market, so don't count on being thin unless you already are.
Not having a car is nice, until you need one. Try to bring home a computer on a train, it sucks. Also, having to go home before the trains stop running or pay an outrageous cab fare is another thing to keep in mind. If you enjoy something like camping, try taking your camping gear on a train or bus. No fun.
Working in Japan. Japanese working conditions are much different than the US. More hours, and you are expected to put work before everything, including family and friends. Under Japanese law you are given the same rights as a Japanese worker, but good luck in finding a court or lawyer who will not discriminate against a gaijin (this happened to me when I got injured on the job there). You will find discrimination in other parts of Japanese society too. Like my girlfriend broke up with me because her family didn't want her to date a gaijin. It was a eye opening chapter in my life.
Now, I will agree with the family being important and responsibility too. Many of the Japanese families have problems because of the work is first idea, it doesn't leave time for the family. Many Japanese women look for a Western mate because work isn't our lives (at least this is some of their thinking). I would never consider an American wife ever again after dating Japanese women.(no offense American women reading this, just my opinion)
Just be sure you think it out good before you make a decision. Get a degree in something that excites you, not something that might be handy to live in Japan. Sorry if this isn't what you want to hear.

It looks like your rationale can be applied to any non-English speaking country. :confused:

If you're not looking for a "life made easy" and want to experience something new, perhaps you should consider the Peace Corps, Doctors Without Borders, the military. ;)

Where to start?

I know Japan is not easy to live in, even then for a foreigner. Here lies the fundamental concept that going to another country where less opportunity awaits you isn't logical (barring people who line up a lucrative deal). That said I'm trying to be as realistic as possible, as Japan is no fun land of imagination and cosplay mates. It has some major problems mainly do to the corrupt way working people are treated. I'll try to give more information about my background and reason(s) why I would want to live in Japan.

For me, and it's different for each individual learning Japanese would not be considered "hard". I'll give reasons; first off I'll fascinated by the way the language is portrayed, I have a very good memory for symbols (like around 85-90% tested), Have a very needed application for said material, have some experience in trying to learn an foreign language, and a will to put myself into a position to learn it like a "baby would they're first language". That said, it doesn't change the fact that the language is hard, I believe over some said individuals I have an easier time learning it.

Teaching is one of the iron-clad need I have. I simply love it being theology to actually helping people with some grammar and sentencing (as best as an non-trained American can do). I simply do not believe I will tire of it. To even be considered for a University you have to have a minimum masters in TESOL, some experience in teaching undergraduate, and published papers relating to said subject. Secondly I also want to go there to help out with the local churches (christian) I have a great desire to do that also.

It's my fault for not completely informing everyone of my background and the lack of communication has caused some misinformation. What I mean by the food is overall the image can lead to an healthier eating habits. I have been raised on fish, although I prefer noodles to rice. I will repeat I don't like fast food, or coke wither that be here or in Japan. I also have an habit of all ways wanting to try new food, which bleeds into me wanted to cook different foods.

The whole things about the care was more figurative then anything. What I meant was I like to travel without the use of a car, and being in Japan with it's transportation system is a nice bonus. In reality it's really minor point (of course I have to get a car).

What you said (belyvis) about Japanese women is somewhat of a long the lines of what I was thinking about the difference between America and Japan culture. I at least knew at the surface those values where there. To be discriminated against is not something I really even consider a problem. I just don't care what people are going to find an fault in me. I'll even add no one should care, look at some of the blacks in USA during times of discrimination they rose to meet the challenge and beat it to. I cannot please everybody, not will I'll take offensive for what people think of me.

Teaching would be something I could put passion and professionalism behind (even with the stigma that comes with it in Japan). If I was in it for profit I would even give a dime about Japan (please I have to make money, no way around it).

Tuna,

Yes just about going to any other country can be ration the same way. I don't want to stress descriptive and short answers about going to another country. People are different and what draws them to another country is not important as long as they understand why they themselves are going. What needs to be stressed is the reality of such a situation. Reasons I will give as to why I haven't considered those you mention is; I don't want to shuffle myself around, want some control over my life, don't want to be a doctor.

Yes I know this question has been beaten to deaf. It's much better to take flack for asking, and getting knowledgeable about such an potential pitfall. Belyvis is good for providing necessary negatives for those (me included) who may want to go to Japan. Without a college degree all this is wish full thinking and in the five years it takes to get the education I want many things I plan may very well be in need of change. It doesn't hurt to have at the very least a plan of what you actually going to do/accomplish.

Good luck to you. I wished I lived in your dream world, it sounds nice.:ywave:

Ok, seeing how I did take your points seriously, I don't care to much for attitude. You don't know me, you have no idea what I try to plan and I though I made things clear about what I expect going to a new country, while apparently you don't care. You helped and yet you blast me for trying to have a conversation about the plan which is what it is right now and I cannot stress that enough. I came here wanting actual help not to be lambasted, I want to make a serious plan here realistically.

I don't need (for the matter no one does) snide remarks. I need conversation and help on a realistic plan. I posted my thoughts and personality so you could get a look at what type of person I am and better judge my position, not to call me a naive fool. I also have some experience in living in other sates (Illinois, Kentucky, Georgia, Florida, Minnesota, and North Carlina). I really don't know what your problem is. I was really enjoying your posts they where very helpful, then you come and post this.

I think he is saying you need to experience some more...and you are on that path. Don't be discouraged.

I didn't get that feeling from his (belyvis) post myself, MMM. I do second your suggestion that solemnclockwork shouldn't be discouraged in his planning.

And, solemnclockwork, belyvis' post is more a reaction to the vast majority of people posting here with entirely the wrong ideas about Japan. So much so that well-reasoned, intelligent threads like yours are seen through very jaded eyes that see only the negative that has been repeated so much in the past and most likely will be seen in the future (but not from forum members such as yourself).

Don't take it too personally.

I'm not saying don't follow your dream, just get your head out of the clouds. I went to Japan for a job only, not for anime, or becoming a Ninja or Samurai. I read all the posts about Japan (like you) but didn't believe the bad ones enough (like you again). While I loved Japan and it's people and culture, I wished I went in more prepared than I was (and I was better than most gaijin I met there).
We are all naive fools when it comes to moving to a foreign country. I've done it 3 times and I always ran into problems I never would have dreamed of. I just want youngsters (I am older than most on here, so most of you are youngsters), to be as prepared as possible without false ideas about a move to a place where most conceptions about it are wrong. I met many people who went back to their home countries crying and hating Japan and the people there because it didn't meet their expectations. I just want to make sure your expectations are realistic. Sorry if you feel I'm picking on you, but you will thank me later when you see what I am saying is true.

I wonder how all the people (like me) that moved to Japan before the Internet existed survived without a bevy of advice from strangers from around the world...

you're right. Let them make their own mistakes.

I am just having a bit of a realization with this thread...there is a zone between underpreparing and overpreparing. We have had posters spend months here preparing for a 2 week vacation.

There's a point where you get diminishing returns.

I have spent a lot of time in Japan, so I don't prepare much for my trips other than telling friends I am coming. I usually have a half-dozen things I want to do, which means half or more of my days have no schedule, but I usually have no trouble finding something to do.

At the same time, I am lucky that I get to come to Japan often, where for others it will be a one-time experience. I guess I am saying I am glad that I came to Japan with a "clean slate"...without any preconceived notions or fears that the Internet seems to be good at feeding. That era is surely over.

So why does it have to be Japan? What is it about Japan that makes you want to live there? Judging by your responses, it sounds like you've already made up your mind... which is a little mind boggling because you've never even visited the country.

Seconded. It's a shame.

Here's what you do clockworkjapangoer:
1. Get a college degree.
2. Save up some money.
3. Learn Japanese: speaking, reading, & writing.
4. Go to Japan.
5. ???
6. Profit.

I can't say much about wanting to stay there permanently. I thought the same when the thought of going to a foreign country jumped into my mind, but you change your mind rather quick when you figure out that everything you know is wrong or, if it isn't wrong, different.

Belyvis,

I know well enough without visiting Japan I will have no real evidence of what the country is like. Hence why I came here to get a framework to think about. Until I actually visit, I will "have my heads in the clouds". I'm just trying to break the ice on this.

MMM,

you make an excellent point, which I didn't think of it that way. I'll just try to have general goals set, instead of planing everything. Better more to have a flexible life then a brittle one.

Spicytuna,

I haven't made up my mind, and I've stated won't do so until I visit the country. Everything right now can be taken for hypothetical until I'm in college and visited the country and by then I'm sure I've changed some things I want to do with my life.

Why Japan? I like the landscape, closeness to the ocean (it's an island) architecture, Mountains, it's size, cities and the amount of people there. Take in mind What I have to go on is what I've learned over the years. Secondly besides the teaching job, it's also an religious thing. I would be spending much of my time (what I can) helping out local churches with mainly youth ministry and what ever else they could need help on. I probably should of said it sooner, but I would also be going to work in churches there too.

Thirdsight,

I will say you right, right now I don't even need to think about staying permanently, just let what comes, come. That's why I choose to take a step and post about my ideals, thus I gain valuable knowledge from people who are knowledgeable about it. I would much rather have an idea, and the knowledge of what can/would come from an experience person then to screw up myself.

Yeah, you definitely shouldn't rush into anything. Japan can be hard m'kayyy, and you need to learn the language m'kayyy, this place is not a paradise land m'kayyy, and don't think it's like it is in the anime m'kayyy. Don't forget to get married to a Japanese person or get a degree before you come here or YOUR LIFE WILL BE A LIVING HELL!!!!!!!! Pfft, nooobies:rolleyes:

Serously, you claim to be Unversity teacher and you come to troll my thread? How umprofessinal are you going to act? Do you need a physchotrist to talk to to fell loved? Grow up.

What's a physchotrist??

I will say I went over the line. Hence the grammar and spelling mistakes. I'm cool now so no worries on that part.

Well to get back on topic, One area that I should of pointed out in all this is my religious background. I'm Christian, (the post above make me look bad, anger is not your best friend) and I do take part in many church roles. One I'm currently apart of is technology management. What I do is manage the sound board for Sundays and Wednesdays. This relates to above reasons why I would go to Japan; to help out a church(s). Of course if that doesn't happen I will take part in churches in the US, point is regardless where I'm at I'll be in the church in some form. This leads to me having more help then the average person when it comes to people that can help me go/ get settled, I will also have an extra outlet for stress. Japan also in a way could be considered an "Mission field" for me, I have great desire to help the Christians that are there wither I'm in the United states or over there. Also one the reasons why I need to pray/give a lot of consideration about going there.

I really should of given more light to this part of my life, if anyone is confused about this I will offer more of an explanation about it.

You do realize Japan is not a Christian country and most Japanese don't like being converted. I know your heart means well, but it will be a difficult path if you go to Japan for this reason only. (BTW, my official title is "Reverend Doctor" non denominational) Good luck.

I do, and being a christian on that part will be hard. I believe it like 1-2% of the population are christian, and well probably smaller then are actually faithful. I will have to be respectful of those who don't believe the religion, (this isn't America) I will have to speak to many Christian Asians about how to talk to them . I made the mistake once of announcing what I'm going to do with my life, and tried to live by that. Didn't turn out well and I'm eating those words years ago. I've learned form my mistake that events like this require A LOT of thinking and praying. I have a lot on my plate to sort though, I thank everyone who posted trying to set me strait by opening my eyes. Give me about a week(s) to sort everything out and see to where to go from there. Thanks.

I`m not Christian, and can`t say I enjoy those who come around and attempt to convert people (and I doubt it will win you any friends in Japan...)

But I can`t say I am against Christianity or practicing it - anything that encourages someone to be a better person is nothing to be against, in my opinion.

There are a number of smaller churches in Japan, and I am guessing that with the small number of Christians they have tightly knit communities. I am absolutely sure that you would have no problem finding a church to help, even if not in a mission capacity. Although I imagine it will be hard to be picky when it comes to denomination - barring a few exceptions I have only seen churches listing themselves as "Christian", with no denominational attachment. There is a small church somewhat near me, and they are always advertising gatherings. I have also spotted the church name reserving gathering places, etc, for parties and get-togethers. They seem to be very active.

It LOOKS like there are a number of large churches in every town, but they`re almost all fake. :D Part of "Dream Wedding" complexes.

I can't be picky with denominations in Japan. I currently attend an church as about 150ish people. In all, I do prefer churches that are smaller, since you get to know people better then larger ones. From experience I would say people generally don't like the ideal of an religious person approaching them. that's in America to, I can't imagine how an Japanese would react. the iron rule will be respectful, and not to pester those who say no. Being an christian in Japan would be a huge minority, but what is life without hardship?

Well, as you are just trying what it is in japan, you could apply for a part-time job. In many japanese magazines there is job searching pages, where is many jobs avaible, but it could need a sertain gender, age, japanese language ability and other. If you do not fit into everything that is asked in the job-add, it is not worth to apply for the job because there is many people applying. It must be difficult for foreigner who does not know japanese, to find a job.

As a teaching job, japanese school starts in april, therefore I think the best time to search for a teaching job, is december~february.
It will be easy, if you have contacts. Maybe where you are studying, you could ask if there is some colleagues who have teached in japan and ask from them?

If you have awards, diplomas or other from your college, you should bring them with you to show that you are a good teacher.

You can teach english privately and in private english conversation schools too. But remember, a teaching job is something that a person feels deeply about and really want to do it. You can really easily lose your interest to it.

It is very brave to leave a homecountry to somewhere like Japan!
Please prepare yourself well, so your stay will be pleasant.

Did you understand my english? I'm sorry if you could not ^^;; I'm a bit rusty with the ability. hee-

/aoi

Aoiru,

Your English is fine.

I may have mislead you on my original post. I'm not in college yet. I have a little to work out before I even go to college. I have to think about how I'm going to visit Japan first wither that be a trip or some type of exchange program in college.

I also thank you for the time you given to help me. When the time comes I will take all the advice that has been offered and apply it to practice. Thanks.