Some can even produce devastating tsunamis, such as the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami which killed nearly 16,000 people. Quakes range from minor rumbles to building-destroying shakes. These plates create frequent earthquakes in Japan. Japan sits on the Ring of Fire, which is a horseshoe-shaped rift in the Pacific Ocean, where tectonic plates touch. Natural disasters are an ever-present threat.Over time, this can make residents feel cramped and claustrophobic in their own home. In a country where space is limited, houses and apartments are designed to take up as little space as possible. If you like spacious accommodation, Japan may not be the best place for you. Japan has a large culture of “after-work drinks.” It is not uncommon for workers to guzzle too much nearly every night of the week. In addition to the normal health problems, work stress can bring, the work-life imbalance in Japan leads many employees to go straight from the office to the bar. Working over 12 hours a day is not uncommon, and is often expected, even of foreigners.
This means the same time and dedication one would normally spend on family and friends outside of work, should instead be spent at the office. Japanese business culture expects employees to treat the workplace as an extension of their family.
Whether it is a major department store or eclectic boutique shop, it is possible to find something to suit every taste. No matter where you are in Japan, you will find plenty of great shopping opportunities. Noodle dishes such as ramen and yakisoba are also popular and easy to find at cheap prices. In general, Japanese culture is known for its high-quality seafood, rice and vegetable dishes, and sweet desserts. Even if you are not a fan of sushi, it is easy to find tasty food throughout Japan. You can read more about this in our Public Transportation section below. The high-speed Shinkansen train, also known as the “bullet train”, moves riders throughout the country at speeds of up to 240-320 km/h (150-200 mph). It is easy to live in Japan without a car. Transportation is expansive and efficient.7-Eleven and Lawson shops can be found every few blocks, providing people with such items as basic groceries, hot meals, medicine, liquor, and even small electronics.
Like many Asian countries, Japan is surrounded by convenience. In fact, in a society as advanced and efficient as Japan, what constitutes as a drawback will likely be based on personal preferences. What are the pros and cons of living in Japan? Most expats who have already settled in the country will agree that there are many more advantages than there are disadvantages.
JAPANESE WAYS OF LIFE HOW TO
Whether you need to know how to greet people in Japan, the best way to set up communications, such as your phone or internet, or tips on driving and public transportation, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to feel at home in this exciting Asian nation. Luckily, Japanese society is very welcoming of foreigners and forgiving should you commit a faux pas. There are many pros and cons to living in Japan and expats can feel overwhelmed with the list of dos and don’ts. You can learn more about this in our Culture and Social Etiquette section. Incorrect positions can be rude or, worse, a symbol for death. It is important to place your chopsticks on the table correctly whenever you are not using them. Chopsticks are used in most meals in Japan. One important custom to learn when moving to Japan is the proper way to handle chopsticks. While these are all true, there are other practicalities to be aware of when making the Land of the Rising Sun your new home. Are you wondering how it is to live in Japan? Images of the country typically include snow-capped mountains, bustling city streets, and conveyor belts of sushi.