It's never too late to follow your dreams! 🇯🇵 Learn Japanese with me, join now 'Beginners Japanese Course' :www.chanijapan.com/japanese-beginners-alphabet-and-phonics-1 🇯🇵
She might want to think twice and verify, if she is not Japanese and a Japanese citizen, how she is gonna pay into, and get out, a full Japanese PENSION, as your life is limited as a Gaijin in Japan.
@O00H576IJ 1. Telling me that something POSTED ON SOCIAL MEDIA is not my business is dumb as a bag of rocks. You are a M0R0N. 2. In forming people of THE REALITY of FINANCIAL INFO. FOR RETIREMENT IN A FOREIGN COUNTRY is being RESPONSIBLE, and HELPFUL, since the info is from an EXPERIENCED English teacher who has been living in Japan for 31 YEARS, and has at one point OWNED THEIR OWN ENGLISH SCHOOL IN JAPAN. You obviously live in a fantasy world of delusion, and don’t like facts and reality. People like you love ignorance, learned helplessness, and don’t like being prepared when making life changing decisions. 3. You are rude, immature and trash. I have a job - I work for a major JAPANESE auto manufacturer for 4 years - they make the best cars IN THE WORLD (rhymes with FOYOTA). You would NEVER be appropriate to work in ANY Japanese company OR the country, or to live in Japan - you are RUDE, INSULTING, IGNORANT, DELUSIONAL AND TRASH. The Japanese can’t STAND THAT, ROFL. They usually toss people like you out of their country. They hate mannerless trash. Thank you for proving that point with your comment.
50 myself. recently laid off. studied in Japan for two years long time ago. I was wondering if Japan would accept someone of my age. You gave me a hope. Thank you!
You’ve seemed to be enjoying your life in Japan, and I’m happy for you. We too moved to Japan when we were about the same age as you. Like you, we renovated our old house ourselves and finally arrived at the peaceful life we are leading now. Since I am Japanese, it’s much easier for me to adjust to a new way of life in Japan. Given that, I respect your challenges and positive attitudes. If you ever travel to Kyushu, please come by. I used to live in Rockhampton for two years. I will continue to enjoy your TH-cam videos.
Thank you for your wonderful video. I am old (79) and moved last year from Southern California to Nagoya last year. My wife (since 1991) is Japanese and wanted to see more of her mom. We lived in Hokkaido once before when I had a Fulbright Fellowship to learn about Ainu people. I have been fascinated with Japan since I was 16 and discovered Kurosawa movies and sushi. I was also motivated to come because I have become so disappointed with the USA--what it has become politically and as a society. I dread the thought that Japan will follow or be influenced in that direction but feel increasingly reassured this will not be the case the longer I live here. The main thing I want to say is that your video made me feel guilty about being able to stay so easily because my wife is a Japanese citizen. All the immigration paperwork and medical insurance and banking business would have been impossible for me. I speak some Japanese, but not well enough for all that stuff, and I cannot tell you how impressed I am with what you have done. I love the little K cars here and would be camping myself if I were younger. Where we live there is a beautiful cemetery and park (Heiwa Park) and a Buddhist Temple (Nittai Ji) for when I die. PS I am not going to die any time soon and enjoy long bike rides when it's not so hot.
I lived in Nagoya for 26 years. Back here now but just visiting for a while. Funny sort of place, such a big city and yet attitudes and behaviours are in some ways more akin to a small town. But interesting to compare and contrast life here in Nagoya with Chani's life out in the boonies. Japanese especially favour 'convenience of living' and so that is partly why the rural areas are becoming less populated. Living in a city like Nagoya is extremely convenient, for sure with big teaching hospitals, medical clinics all over the place, regular public transportation and never more than a few minutes away from a convenience store. But, no mountain air, no scenic views and affordability of housing is, of course, on a different scale. Where you are, out Hoshigaoka way is nice, for sure, but if I were to live full time in Japan off my own bat, i.e. not as a company employee, Chani's way of doing things seems idyllic. That's life, though, isn't it? Always competing priorities. I hope that you continue to have a good life in Nagoya for many years to come. (I recommend the Trek bicycle shop in Hoshigaoka if you are a keen cyclist, excellent service).
@@maijo2597Thanks MaiJo. I like the people at Cycle Joy, so I will stick with them, but I appreciate the free bike parking in front of the Trek shop when I go to Mitsukoshi or Uniqlo for shopping. When I was younger (in the 1970s), I lived on the Klamath River in Northwest California at a town called Weitchpec (on the Yurok Indian Reservation). The population was 185, and the only buildings were Pearson's Store, an elementary school, and an Assembly of God Church. Gas was from a propane tank, water was from a tank up the hill that ran out every year in the late summertime, and electrical power was always down because kids liked to shoot guns at the poles. I burned wood that I cut myself for heat, caught my own fish, and lived mainly on steelhead, salmon, and venison. I used to fix up and resell houses in the USA after that, and I also like small towns better than big ones. But now I am an old man and appreciate the convenience of Nagoya. The medical care at Nagoya City university East Side Medical center is awesome, even though the doctors look like teenagers to me.
@@maijo2597 Hi Maijo. I wrote you a response earlier, but it disappeared. I wonder if it got censored because I mentioned specific businesses or something. Very troubling. I am opposed to any type of censorship in forums like this. Anyway, I wanted to ask how you came to Nagoya initially. I also wanted to let you know that I previously lived many years of my life in rural areas that were beautiful and also fixed up houses to resell for many years. I know what you mean about the beauty of country life. But Nagoya is pretty laid back and where I live there are beautiful parks with ponds, so you know. I can't stand Tokyo--too busy, crowded, and impersonal.
@@NKABoX I would start out in a big city like Tokyo or Osaka at first because there are many English-speakers there. People are patient everywhere and don't really expect you to speak Japanese, but it takes a while, and there will be more people who are able to help in a city like Tokyo. I think a lot of gai-jin (outside people) live in Tokyo for years without learning Japanese. For me, it is a hobby, and I have time because I am retired. I think if you search on the internet for "Teach English in Japan" you might find some opportunities. I don't think they pay much, but they do take care of your residence issues., and the cost of living is less than the USA. Japanese people take English classes in school, but they are not good at regular conversation, so that is the main thing you do as a teacher. Maybe you can learn Japanese while teaching English. Good luck.
I want to move to Japan more than anything in the whole world. My husband and I are both almost 50 and I know it will be tough with two kids (9 and 10) but you've given me hope!
I really appreciate your openness around how long you may stay in Japan! Me and my husband moved to Sweden and have lived here for a little over for years. It’s been really only in the last few years have we begun to reframe our thinking around how long we will be here. This has allowed us to enjoy our time here and not get too wrapped up in future planning.
Chani, Millie and Mori 🌳🌳🌳🚐🐾 ready for adventures 👏👏. I can't wait to join you on them. I hope that you have a great stay in Nara 🦌⛩️. I would love to live in Japan but unfortunately, I can't. However, I am planning to visit. Thank you for another excellent video Chani. Hugs to you 🤗 and Millie 😻🫶
I am always in awe of people like you Chani, you had a plan and executed it to perfection, there is a saying that goes like " Perfect Preparation Prevents Poor Performance " and this is your mantra to a tee, me I struggle just to get outside the front door, best wishes on your great adventure !
I’m so happy for you! I did 5 years in South Korea (started at 32) with the EPIK program and although I don’t miss the work, I miss the vibe a lot.. especially coming from the US. All the best on your journey!
Thanks Chani..I love Japan..I lived there back in 1997..I met my hubby over there (US Navy) ..I am a kiwi and I was teaching over there..I really want to go back now my sons are older...I worked in Warabi, Shin-Yurigaoka...I worked for Kids World....I fell in love with Japan from the minute my feet hit the ground in Narita Airport ...I lived with my sister before meeting my hubby lol....your info is awesone and very helpful..im 53 and I want to go back and probably going to start the process next year...plus being one of the countries that Japan allows to get working holiday visas im excited...I am a permanent resident of the US right now but still have my NZ citizenship....so long story short..thanks for the info
Thank you for going through all that to get a Visa. I'm too old and disabled to do anymore traveling and I love Japan and would have loved to have lived there, but life happens as you know and I didnt get that dream, maybe on my next life😊 Anyway I love your vlogs and look forward to each one. Stay healthy, happy and safe always.
I admire your perseverance to pursue your desire . I am in my 70’s living in US just about half a century . I left Japan when I was 25 for the second college in a different field , music . I have always interested in different cultures and I am planning to move to Philippines . As I was busy in my working years being a musician I thought retiring in a country less pressured financially would be nice . Although moving back to Japan was a choice I wanted to have one more challenge before I expire also hope to be able to do something nice to their society . I truly enjoyed reading your experience . Thank you !
Thank you Chani for all those precious information from experience. Those are still difficult to find on the internet. I was searching for a year a job in research in Japan, but Japan seems to be really closed on itself when it is a question of jobs. Now I started to get some contacts from some university that I met in France, where I am living. But it is still very complicated to find an entrance. I am currently learning japanese, maybe that will help me finding a potential job in Japan. Great video! :)
University jobs are highly sought after. I'd recommend scrounging for a year or so at some other job in Japan while you make connections to land your dream job.
@@Mishaschroetter I interviewed a French man for a job at an English school recently. He was married to a Japanese, but got divorced, and still wanted to stay on in Japan. His background is IT, which pays far better than English schools, but his Japanese level was really too low to get hired. . He was a really nice guy, but his English level wasn't high enough to hire him. I just give this example to give you an idea of what some others are going thru. Myself, I've lived nearly 3 decades in Japan, but can't get a permanent visa, and am planning to leave to be a missionary in some country where people are open to the Gospel of Jesus Christ. . Good luck in your endeavors.
I see. I worked for two years in China, I know exactly what you mean about not having the choice of living the life you want in another country. And yes, being an expatriate can be an advantage in another country, but only if your qualifications interest the country you want to live in. That's the struggle, you need to speak the language, which is like having a phd to learn japanese + another speciality like a real pdh or a degree that you can "sell" to this new country. For China and Japan it is hard. Thanks again for sharing your experience. And good luck with your gospel project :)
I definitely think you’ve prepared yourself for the greatest amount of success in moving to a new country. You researched all your options and prepared very well for it. You uprooting your life, buying an akiya, and living in Japan alone sounds very spontaneous but it’s clear you put a lot of thought into it. You’re fluent in Japanese and been to Japan a number of times. Even though you don’t know if you’ll be there for the rest of your life I’m pretty confident you’ll plan very well for whichever scenario you end up with.
Wow, even in Japan going the extra step to network and being the one to reach out unlocks these hidden opportunities. The same in Australia i feel. Good on you!
Hello!!! Your title just *MADE* me want to watch your video! 🤣🤣 And I am so glad I did. I'm 56 and ever since I watched the Travel Channel segment about Japan, in 2015/2016, I've been wanting to visit this country. And few years after that, I wanted to live there. Here it is, 2024 almost 2025, I'm looking at ways to make it happen. Thank you for all the insight and the links.
I didn't 'fall in love' with Japan or anything like that when I visited with my Japanese speaking daughter a year ago, but I felt at home if that's possible. Japan just felt so familiar, even though I am quite possibly a bit loud for Japan! I can change..or at least try. I am 55 and not sure how to approach moving, or at least buying a vacation home or similar and spending 3 months at a time to really try and embed the language...I have no degree but was a pastry chef and chocolatier..now social worker..Diploma only. Thinking of part time living in Japan and working back in Australia for 3 months and returning.back to Japan again. Thanks for your thorough and honest representation of the journey I might face Chani!
I was a student for many years in Japan and loved it - best days of my life, but that was over 20 years ago, and as much fun it was back then - I couldn't do it again now. I think you made the right choice.
Such a great share on visa information and the process involved Chani! I know that many people out there will find this clear sharing on information so helpful. When you were talking about your visa application and tracking down all of the dates for past visas brought my my own nightmare of going through that process haha Well done mate and keep up the great work! 🙋🏽♂🇯🇵
Thank you for a new perspective! I'm turning 22 this month, and going on a 2 week trip to JP in April. I've always considered living in Japan, but it seems there's some barriers for me yet I will need to work on (college, saving money). It's unfortunate only because I have a career that I can't transfer to Japan (firefighter) so I need to find a position that will give me skills I can use to hopefully one day be able to work there that doesn't include teaching English 😅
Great tips and interesting to hear the struggle of accepting overseas applicants. Makes the world of difference once you're here when applying. Best of luck for the future applications.
So glad that you didn't have to go to Plan B to fulfil your Japanese adventures, Chani. Loved this week's content and especially the upclose bonus of sweet Millie. Good on you for never giving up on achieving your dreams!
Wow, you're 50, I would never have guessed. Loving your videos, I love Japan and it's culture, I would gladly live there, but I'm too old and wouldn't get a visa. I'm considering having a go at one of your Japanese language courses. 😲😂 Keep up with the great videos.
I have been following your venture from Canada and I am so proud of you! We are of similar age and I can only imagine how that must feel for you! Congratulations! Well deserved.
Even though I've made up my mind some time ago, the cheer amount of paperwork and the possibility of being denied your visa at anytime is honestly scary
@@ChaniJapan Chani, true, but remember you are always at the mercy of your employer. If a new principal comes in or more worringly, if your school closes down, you may be in trouble. But yes, as far as Immigration goes, after you get that first visa, renewals are a breeze.
Thank you for your Visa backstory. My appreciation for your Japan journey just doubled! Patience and perseverance are necessary to make dreams come true. Does someone check in on Millie while you are away? Pet care while traveling is a big concern for me. 😼
I totally worry about Millie while I am away. If I go overnight she stays home. If I go for two nights, my lovely vet will take her. I don't go away much. When the weather cools down I will take Millie with me to pet friendly places to camp. Its really too hot here at the moment to take her anywhere.
Take each day as it comes - exactly! You did well to secure what sounds a great teaching position. It's not always easy to get teaching work in Asia as an older applicant.
Thanks friend, good video. Looking at moving to Japan. Not sure when but within the next 3 years. Thank you so much for the info on this video. :) I for one appreciate it.
There is a business manager visa for starting your own business if your self employed or a digital nomad with your own business and want a residence visa. The "digital nomad visa" doesn't give you residence just a extended tourist visa honestly so the business manager route would be better for long term residency.
Thanks for sharing your journey! I was an ALT for 2 years in my 20s and now I'm in my mid-40s and studying Japanese. It's great to know this option is not out of reach. Sadly Japanese spring doesn't agree with me and my hay-fever so for now I've decided just to make Japan a place to take long holidays and not a place to live.
I'd take a primary school teaching job again! I was an ALT in Japan for a Year (returned to the US to take care of my sick mother), and I loved it. The kids were great! My coworkers were very helpful (then again I think they were comfortable since I already spoke some Japanese)! The job itself was alot of fun. The dispatch company I worked for though... well... wasn't that great. I would LOVE to teach in Japan again, especially Elementary School/Primary School. I just need to get all my own finances in order, so I can move there again.
hey loving the videos! i'm really looking into getting a place in japan so i stumbled upon your channel :). im also from australia so yeah i shall look into how you did it !
A third option is a business manager visa, to start a business in Japan (even if it is an online business)! Sadly I do not qualify for any job :( and my Japanese level is too low, so that would be my way to go in a couple years hopefully. Great info by the way! ❤ I’m a new follower and liking ur channel a lot
Perfect timing. I'll be applying for my COE on Monday and was a bit worried that despite my preparations, if I would be running into any complications. I feel a bit more reassured now,.
Enjoyed your excellent video!😊 Talking about getting a visa, this is only for young people between the age of 18 and 30 (I assume most viewers here are over 30), but there’s a Working Holiday Visa (up to only one year) for nationals from 30 countries (the U.S. is not included) under bilateral agreements. Australia was the first country that Japan partnered with this visa in 1980! Another way is that if you are single and open to marrying a Japanese, try to find Mr. or Ms. Right. I saw several videos created by couples of Japanese and their foreign spouses. Many of them met online such as through language exchange sites. The oldest couple I saw was they got married in their 50s. On a side note that I found, nationals of 7 countries (Austria, Germany, Ireland, Liechtenstein, Mexico, Switzerland, UK) can stay without a visa in Japan up to 6 months based on the bilateral agreements.
Long time ago when I went through this. (50 next year myself) but I can say it’s never too soon to apply for a PR and it is all plus no minus. I too think about my parents aging. Fortunately my brother is near them.
There's another way of getting a visa for Japan. If you work for a company that has an office or subsidiary in Japan you could ask your company to transfer you into their Japanese operations. In that case your company can apply for an "intra-company transferee" visa. That's how I got there. Same as Chani my visa was each time granted and renewed for three years. During my twelfth year I requested a PR visa instead and was granted that (I was told that immigration uses a ten year stay as one of their internal guidelines).
It's never too late to follow your dreams! 🇯🇵 Learn Japanese with me, join now 'Beginners Japanese Course' :www.chanijapan.com/japanese-beginners-alphabet-and-phonics-1 🇯🇵
She might want to think twice and verify, if she is not Japanese and a Japanese citizen, how she is gonna pay into, and get out, a full Japanese PENSION, as your life is limited as a Gaijin in Japan.
@O00H576IJ 1. Telling me that something POSTED ON SOCIAL MEDIA is not my business is dumb as a bag of rocks. You are a M0R0N.
2. In forming people of THE REALITY of FINANCIAL INFO. FOR RETIREMENT IN A FOREIGN COUNTRY is being RESPONSIBLE, and HELPFUL, since the info is from an EXPERIENCED English teacher who has been living in Japan for 31 YEARS, and has at one point OWNED THEIR OWN ENGLISH SCHOOL IN JAPAN. You obviously live in a fantasy world of delusion, and don’t like facts and reality. People like you love ignorance, learned helplessness, and don’t like being prepared when making life changing decisions.
3. You are rude, immature and trash. I have a job - I work for a major JAPANESE auto manufacturer for 4 years - they make the best cars IN THE WORLD (rhymes with FOYOTA). You would NEVER be appropriate to work in ANY Japanese company OR the country, or to live in Japan - you are RUDE, INSULTING, IGNORANT, DELUSIONAL AND TRASH. The Japanese can’t STAND THAT, ROFL. They usually toss people like you out of their country. They hate mannerless trash.
Thank you for proving that point with your comment.
Wonderful. They say 'Where there's a will, there's a way,' which is indeed true.
Very true
you are a great woman, should be proud of yourself.
Very kind of you 😀 I hope the video will help someone.
50 myself. recently laid off. studied in Japan for two years long time ago. I was wondering if Japan would accept someone of my age. You gave me a hope. Thank you!
You're an inspiration.
わたしは日本人であなたと同じ年齢ですが、あなたの行動力がとても羨ましいです！私も海外に行くのが夢でしたが叶いませんでした。日本にようこそ🇯🇵
You’ve seemed to be enjoying your life in Japan, and I’m happy for you. We too moved to Japan when we were about the same age as you. Like you, we renovated our old house ourselves and finally arrived at the peaceful life we are leading now. Since I am Japanese, it’s much easier for me to adjust to a new way of life in Japan. Given that, I respect your challenges and positive attitudes. If you ever travel to Kyushu, please come by. I used to live in Rockhampton for two years.
I will continue to enjoy your TH-cam videos.
I really hope to travel all around Kyushu one day. I will pop in ☕️
Thank you for your wonderful video. I am old (79) and moved last year from Southern California to Nagoya last year. My wife (since 1991) is Japanese and wanted to see more of her mom. We lived in Hokkaido once before when I had a Fulbright Fellowship to learn about Ainu people. I have been fascinated with Japan since I was 16 and discovered Kurosawa movies and sushi. I was also motivated to come because I have become so disappointed with the USA--what it has become politically and as a society. I dread the thought that Japan will follow or be influenced in that direction but feel increasingly reassured this will not be the case the longer I live here. The main thing I want to say is that your video made me feel guilty about being able to stay so easily because my wife is a Japanese citizen. All the immigration paperwork and medical insurance and banking business would have been impossible for me. I speak some Japanese, but not well enough for all that stuff, and I cannot tell you how impressed I am with what you have done. I love the little K cars here and would be camping myself if I were younger. Where we live there is a beautiful cemetery and park (Heiwa Park) and a Buddhist Temple (Nittai Ji) for when I die. PS I am not going to die any time soon and enjoy long bike rides when it's not so hot.
I lived in Nagoya for 26 years. Back here now but just visiting for a while. Funny sort of place, such a big city and yet attitudes and behaviours are in some ways more akin to a small town. But interesting to compare and contrast life here in Nagoya with Chani's life out in the boonies. Japanese especially favour 'convenience of living' and so that is partly why the rural areas are becoming less populated. Living in a city like Nagoya is extremely convenient, for sure with big teaching hospitals, medical clinics all over the place, regular public transportation and never more than a few minutes away from a convenience store. But, no mountain air, no scenic views and affordability of housing is, of course, on a different scale. Where you are, out Hoshigaoka way is nice, for sure, but if I were to live full time in Japan off my own bat, i.e. not as a company employee, Chani's way of doing things seems idyllic. That's life, though, isn't it? Always competing priorities. I hope that you continue to have a good life in Nagoya for many years to come. (I recommend the Trek bicycle shop in Hoshigaoka if you are a keen cyclist, excellent service).
@@maijo2597Thanks MaiJo. I like the people at Cycle Joy, so I will stick with them, but I appreciate the free bike parking in front of the Trek shop when I go to Mitsukoshi or Uniqlo for shopping. When I was younger (in the 1970s), I lived on the Klamath River in Northwest California at a town called Weitchpec (on the Yurok Indian Reservation). The population was 185, and the only buildings were Pearson's Store, an elementary school, and an Assembly of God Church. Gas was from a propane tank, water was from a tank up the hill that ran out every year in the late summertime, and electrical power was always down because kids liked to shoot guns at the poles. I burned wood that I cut myself for heat, caught my own fish, and lived mainly on steelhead, salmon, and venison. I used to fix up and resell houses in the USA after that, and I also like small towns better than big ones. But now I am an old man and appreciate the convenience of Nagoya. The medical care at Nagoya City university East Side Medical center is awesome, even though the doctors look like teenagers to me.
@@maijo2597 Hi Maijo. I wrote you a response earlier, but it disappeared. I wonder if it got censored because I mentioned specific businesses or something. Very troubling. I am opposed to any type of censorship in forums like this. Anyway, I wanted to ask how you came to Nagoya initially. I also wanted to let you know that I previously lived many years of my life in rural areas that were beautiful and also fixed up houses to resell for many years. I know what you mean about the beauty of country life. But Nagoya is pretty laid back and where I live there are beautiful parks with ponds, so you know. I can't stand Tokyo--too busy, crowded, and impersonal.
Where and why could you recommend to live?
@@NKABoX I would start out in a big city like Tokyo or Osaka at first because there are many English-speakers there. People are patient everywhere and don't really expect you to speak Japanese, but it takes a while, and there will be more people who are able to help in a city like Tokyo. I think a lot of gai-jin (outside people) live in Tokyo for years without learning Japanese. For me, it is a hobby, and I have time because I am retired. I think if you search on the internet for "Teach English in Japan" you might find some opportunities. I don't think they pay much, but they do take care of your residence issues., and the cost of living is less than the USA. Japanese people take English classes in school, but they are not good at regular conversation, so that is the main thing you do as a teacher. Maybe you can learn Japanese while teaching English. Good luck.
I want to move to Japan more than anything in the whole world. My husband and I are both almost 50 and I know it will be tough with two kids (9 and 10) but you've given me hope!
so happy to see the language course live! and this video was sooo helpful for someone aspiring to move to japan one day 🍡🌸🎌
I hope it helps someone to know that it can take time and a bit of effort to make it happen 😀
I really appreciate your openness around how long you may stay in Japan! Me and my husband moved to Sweden and have lived here for a little over for years. It’s been really only in the last few years have we begun to reframe our thinking around how long we will be here. This has allowed us to enjoy our time here and not get too wrapped up in future planning.
I agree with you. I'm glad you are enjoying your time and living each day ♥️
You don't look 50.
Always look forward for your video. ❤your kitty
Oh thank you! 😽
Thanks for this information. My daughter has just left Japan after 1 year there and is intending to move there permanently in 2 years.
That is awesome, hopefully you can go and visit her in Japan 🇯🇵
Nice choice of prefecture.👍😉
Great perseverance on working on your goal to work and live in Japan!! 👏👏
Thank you!! 😊
Chani, thanks for all your informative videos your always on point God bless you.
Thanks Edwin 😀
I love Nara - thank your for capturing the cute deer things here and there
Some really nice Nara touches at the hotel 🦌
Chani, Millie and Mori 🌳🌳🌳🚐🐾 ready for adventures 👏👏. I can't wait to join you on them. I hope that you have a great stay in Nara 🦌⛩️. I would love to live in Japan but unfortunately, I can't. However, I am planning to visit. Thank you for another excellent video Chani. Hugs to you 🤗 and Millie 😻🫶
Thanks so much. Mori was a great choice by everyone 🌳🌳🌳 Nara was nice too. It’s a great little spot to visit.
@@ChaniJapan It's definitely on my list ❤️
You can if you wish, easiest way is to be as a student or digital norm visa
@@angelag1702 Thank you for the suggestion 😊
I am always in awe of people like you Chani, you had a plan and executed it to perfection, there is a saying that goes like " Perfect Preparation Prevents Poor Performance " and this is your mantra to a tee, me I struggle just to get outside the front door, best wishes on your great adventure !
Thank you so much 🙂
Great video, Chani, and thank you for sharing this valuable information with your viewers.
My pleasure!
Thanks Chani!
Very interesting video
I’m living in Japan vicariously with you 😁
You are an inspiration & awesome, Chani
I’m so happy for you! I did 5 years in South Korea (started at 32) with the EPIK program and although I don’t miss the work, I miss the vibe a lot.. especially coming from the US. All the best on your journey!
Thanks for putting together such amazing content, love watching your videos ❤
You are so welcome!
Another excellent video. I don't know of anybody else who provides info so useful.
Glad it was helpful!
Thank you for the tip 😊
Thanks Chani..I love Japan..I lived there back in 1997..I met my hubby over there (US Navy) ..I am a kiwi and I was teaching over there..I really want to go back now my sons are older...I worked in Warabi, Shin-Yurigaoka...I worked for Kids World....I fell in love with Japan from the minute my feet hit the ground in Narita Airport ...I lived with my sister before meeting my hubby lol....your info is awesone and very helpful..im 53 and I want to go back and probably going to start the process next year...plus being one of the countries that Japan allows to get working holiday visas im excited...I am a permanent resident of the US right now but still have my NZ citizenship....so long story short..thanks for the info
Thank you Chani, very helpfull this video, hello from La manga Club in Cartagena (Spain)
Thank you for sharing Chani!
This video made me realize that at 35 y.o. i still have the chance to move and hopefully get a job in japan. 🤞
You can do it!
Thank you for going through all that to get a Visa. I'm too old and disabled to do anymore traveling and I love Japan and would have loved to have lived there, but life happens as you know and I didnt get that dream, maybe on my next life😊 Anyway I love your vlogs and look forward to each one. Stay healthy, happy and safe always.
Thanks for watching and I will take you along on my journeys 🩷
頑張ったねー！
Don’t let negative comments get you down and keep up the good work you do. I’m cheering for you from Yokohama.
😊😊😊
Thank you so much!!
A very level-headed answer to a question often asked of many youtubers based in Japan. Thank you!
I admire your perseverance to pursue your desire . I am in my 70’s living in US just about half a century . I left Japan when I was 25 for the second college in a different field , music .
I have always interested in different cultures and I am planning to move to Philippines . As I was busy in my working years being a musician I thought retiring in a country less pressured financially would be nice .
Although moving back to Japan was a choice I wanted to have one more challenge before I expire also hope to be able to do something nice to their society .
I truly enjoyed reading your experience .
Thank you !
Thank you Chani for all those precious information from experience. Those are still difficult to find on the internet. I was searching for a year a job in research in Japan, but Japan seems to be really closed on itself when it is a question of jobs. Now I started to get some contacts from some university that I met in France, where I am living. But it is still very complicated to find an entrance. I am currently learning japanese, maybe that will help me finding a potential job in Japan.
Great video! :)
I agree, it is really hard. It took me a long time of trying.
University jobs are highly sought after. I'd recommend scrounging for a year or so at some other job in Japan while you make connections to land your dream job.
@@earlysda Thank you for this advice, I think it is a good one, I will think about it :)
@@Mishaschroetter I interviewed a French man for a job at an English school recently. He was married to a Japanese, but got divorced, and still wanted to stay on in Japan. His background is IT, which pays far better than English schools, but his Japanese level was really too low to get hired.
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He was a really nice guy, but his English level wasn't high enough to hire him. I just give this example to give you an idea of what some others are going thru. Myself, I've lived nearly 3 decades in Japan, but can't get a permanent visa, and am planning to leave to be a missionary in some country where people are open to the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
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Good luck in your endeavors.
I see. I worked for two years in China, I know exactly what you mean about not having the choice of living the life you want in another country. And yes, being an expatriate can be an advantage in another country, but only if your qualifications interest the country you want to live in. That's the struggle, you need to speak the language, which is like having a phd to learn japanese + another speciality like a real pdh or a degree that you can "sell" to this new country. For China and Japan it is hard.
Thanks again for sharing your experience. And good luck with your gospel project :)
I definitely think you’ve prepared yourself for the greatest amount of success in moving to a new country. You researched all your options and prepared very well for it. You uprooting your life, buying an akiya, and living in Japan alone sounds very spontaneous but it’s clear you put a lot of thought into it. You’re fluent in Japanese and been to Japan a number of times. Even though you don’t know if you’ll be there for the rest of your life I’m pretty confident you’ll plan very well for whichever scenario you end up with.
Thanks. I’m hoping to stay for a while 😃😽
You are such a wise person, making such good decisions. Thank you for these very informative videos.
Thank you for watching! I am glad the videos are helpful for you.
Thank you for the sharing. Valuable information and your story is very encouraging
Thank you so much ❤️
おめでとうございます！🎉🎉
Chani I think you are great! I envy the vision you had for your life, you dreamt it, you made it happen..... You are brilliant!!!
Thank you so much!!
I’ve just found your channel, it’s so interesting 😊TFS really informative
Wow, even in Japan going the extra step to network and being the one to reach out unlocks these hidden opportunities. The same in Australia i feel.
Good on you!
Thinking outside the square can help sometimes!
Thanks for this weeks video 😊
Hello!!! Your title just *MADE* me want to watch your video! 🤣🤣 And I am so glad I did. I'm 56 and ever since I watched the Travel Channel segment about Japan, in 2015/2016, I've been wanting to visit this country. And few years after that, I wanted to live there. Here it is, 2024 almost 2025, I'm looking at ways to make it happen. Thank you for all the insight and the links.
Wonderful! I hope you can make it happen 🩷
I didn't 'fall in love' with Japan or anything like that when I visited with my Japanese speaking daughter a year ago, but I felt at home if that's possible. Japan just felt so familiar, even though I am quite possibly a bit loud for Japan! I can change..or at least try. I am 55 and not sure how to approach moving, or at least buying a vacation home or similar and spending 3 months at a time to really try and embed the language...I have no degree but was a pastry chef and chocolatier..now social worker..Diploma only. Thinking of part time living in Japan and working back in Australia for 3 months and returning.back to Japan again. Thanks for your thorough and honest representation of the journey I might face Chani!
Not sure if you noticed, but the closed captions for this video spell your website address wrong. Thank you for your informative and uplifting videos!
I was a student for many years in Japan and loved it - best days of my life, but that was over 20 years ago, and as much fun it was back then - I couldn't do it again now. I think you made the right choice.
Thank you for sharing your useful information! Your videos always inspire me.😊
You are so welcome!
Such a great share on visa information and the process involved Chani! I know that many people out there will find this clear sharing on information so helpful. When you were talking about your visa application and tracking down all of the dates for past visas brought my my own nightmare of going through that process haha
Well done mate and keep up the great work! 🙋🏽♂🇯🇵
Thank you for a new perspective! I'm turning 22 this month, and going on a 2 week trip to JP in April. I've always considered living in Japan, but it seems there's some barriers for me yet I will need to work on (college, saving money).
It's unfortunate only because I have a career that I can't transfer to Japan (firefighter) so I need to find a position that will give me skills I can use to hopefully one day be able to work there that doesn't include teaching English 😅
Great tips and interesting to hear the struggle of accepting overseas applicants. Makes the world of difference once you're here when applying. Best of luck for the future applications.
Thanks!
Thank you so much 🩷
Thank you so much as another Aussie.
You are most welcome!
Thank you Chani for another beautiful video
My pleasure 😊
Great information and advice Chani 👍🏻
I stumbled across your channel recently and find it absolutely interesting and curious.
Keep it up!
Thanks, will do! Glad you found the channel 👋
So glad that you didn't have to go to Plan B to fulfil your Japanese adventures, Chani. Loved this week's content and especially the upclose bonus of sweet Millie. Good on you for never giving up on achieving your dreams!
Plan B would have been very expensive 😬
Thanks for this information, Chani. ❤
Wow, you're 50, I would never have guessed.
Loving your videos, I love Japan and it's culture,
I would gladly live there, but I'm too old and wouldn't get a visa.
I'm considering having a go at one of your Japanese language courses. 😲😂
Keep up with the great videos.
Thanks! 😃
Thank you for documenting and sharing your process, it's gold and it helps a lot of us with the same idea as you 🙏
You are so welcome!
I enjoy watching your videos a lot. The stories you're telling are interesting and it's fun watching your travels as well! You're amazing
Thank you 🩷👋
Thanks for the cool videos and I wish you all the luck in the world!
Thanks so much!
I have been following your venture from Canada and I am so proud of you! We are of similar age and I can only imagine how that must feel for you! Congratulations! Well deserved.
Thank you so much!
Inspiring. 🙏🏻
Morning from Northern Ireland ❤ your vlogs
Morning ♥️👋
I think I'm in love with Millie..❤❤❤. Very informative video. You are an inspiration.
Thank you so much! Millie is a cutie 😽
Thank you for the information! I love watching your videos!
Thanks 🩷
Even though I've made up my mind some time ago, the cheer amount of paperwork and the possibility of being denied your visa at anytime is honestly scary
Once you have the visa and a job you are fine. I heard renewal isn’t an issue as long as you are employed and a good resident.
@@ChaniJapan Chani, true, but remember you are always at the mercy of your employer. If a new principal comes in or more worringly, if your school closes down, you may be in trouble. But yes, as far as Immigration goes, after you get that first visa, renewals are a breeze.
Beautiful and inspiring video, thanks..
So nice of you
You are such a brave woman.proud of you
You need a T-shirt that says..."Will work for visa!" In English and Kanji. LOL!
That would be a funny shirt to see around town 🤣
Thank you for your Visa backstory. My appreciation for your Japan journey just doubled! Patience and perseverance are necessary to make dreams come true. Does someone check in on Millie while you are away? Pet care while traveling is a big concern for me. 😼
I totally worry about Millie while I am away. If I go overnight she stays home. If I go for two nights, my lovely vet will take her. I don't go away much. When the weather cools down I will take Millie with me to pet friendly places to camp. Its really too hot here at the moment to take her anywhere.
Loved this video! 💚
Thank you!!
Take each day as it comes - exactly! You did well to secure what sounds a great teaching position. It's not always easy to get teaching work in Asia as an older applicant.
I agree with you there. Older applicants can be looked over. 😃
Thanks friend, good video. Looking at moving to Japan. Not sure when but within the next 3 years.
Thank you so much for the info on this video. :) I for one appreciate it.
Glad it was helpful!
Thank you for sharing your knowledge. I admire your resilience. I imagine that being fluent in Japanese was an advantage during your job hunting.
I was mostly applying for English teaching jobs that don't require Japanese but it may have helped.
There is a business manager visa for starting your own business if your self employed or a digital nomad with your own business and want a residence visa. The "digital nomad visa" doesn't give you residence just a extended tourist visa honestly so the business manager route would be better for long term residency.
Is the business manager visa the same as the start-up visa?
thank for your great advice
Congrats to your new Japanese visa!
Hope you had a good time at the onsen. It looks lovely. 👍👏❤
Yes, thank you. I really love a dip in the onsen. I'm keep to camp but it is a bit hot at the moment 🔥
Thank you soooo much for the tips! I'm also an English teacher and I want to go to Japan and teach there.
Keep up the good work Chani
Thank you 😃
Thanks for sharing your journey! I was an ALT for 2 years in my 20s and now I'm in my mid-40s and studying Japanese. It's great to know this option is not out of reach. Sadly Japanese spring doesn't agree with me and my hay-fever so for now I've decided just to make Japan a place to take long holidays and not a place to live.
Spring can be a nightmare for some 🤧
Hard to predict the future, awesome to enjoy your current life. Thats about as best we can do...kanpai 👍
Absolutely!! 🍻
Your car is so cute! Congratulations on getting your visa :)
Nice video. Thanks from Osaka.
Thanks for watching!
BTW the new camera looks great! always remember to wipe and clean your lens with proper tools before every use! Enjoy!
Call your car “lucky” and allow it to bring you luck, wherever you go ♥️🙏🏻
Excellent tips for how people can set their expectations for how long this process takes, and how they might go about making the transition.
Thanks 🩷
I'd take a primary school teaching job again! I was an ALT in Japan for a Year (returned to the US to take care of my sick mother), and I loved it. The kids were great! My coworkers were very helpful (then again I think they were comfortable since I already spoke some Japanese)! The job itself was alot of fun. The dispatch company I worked for though... well... wasn't that great.
I would LOVE to teach in Japan again, especially Elementary School/Primary School. I just need to get all my own finances in order, so I can move there again.
I would have Loved to live in Japan I love everything about Japan, how disciplined they are etc, etc take care and be happy ❤
Glad to hear you are still contributing to Australian super.
Why? You like wasting money? Strange.
@@Ninsidhe Odd comment, women need to have retirement savings too, and the returns on Australian super have been good.
Good info and advice
Glad it was helpful!
Wow, admire your determination. A lo tof people, including me, would have given up after a year trying. Good on ya
Thanks. It was a bit painfully slow and annoying at the time 😬
That wood panelling on the car reminds me of National Lampoons Vacation, so it so should be called "Wagon Queen Family Truckster" :)
I like it!
Best of luck!
hey loving the videos! i'm really looking into getting a place in japan so i stumbled upon your channel :). im also from australia so yeah i shall look into how you did it !
Awesome!
Hi nice to meet you Chani, I’m living in japan Osaka nice video
👋Hi! Thanks for watching. Hope you are surviving the heat 🫠
@@ChaniJapanyeah I can speak Japanese I can read and writing some Japanese katakana hiragana but kanji difficult
A third option is a business manager visa, to start a business in Japan (even if it is an online business)! Sadly I do not qualify for any job :( and my Japanese level is too low, so that would be my way to go in a couple years hopefully. Great info by the way! ❤ I’m a new follower and liking ur channel a lot
Thanks for sharing!
Perfect timing. I'll be applying for my COE on Monday and was a bit worried that despite my preparations, if I would be running into any complications. I feel a bit more reassured now,.
I think you can manage it. Just keep providing all the documents that are requested and it will be fine. 👋
Enjoyed your excellent video!😊
Talking about getting a visa, this is only for young people between the age of 18 and 30
(I assume most viewers here are over 30), but there’s a Working Holiday Visa (up to only one year) for nationals from 30 countries (the U.S. is not included) under bilateral agreements. Australia was the first country that Japan partnered with this visa in 1980!
Another way is that if you are single and open to marrying a Japanese, try to find Mr. or Ms. Right. I saw several videos created by couples of Japanese and their foreign spouses.
Many of them met online such as through language exchange sites. The oldest couple I saw was they got married in their 50s.
On a side note that I found, nationals of 7 countries (Austria, Germany, Ireland, Liechtenstein, Mexico, Switzerland, UK) can stay without a visa in Japan up to 6 months based on the bilateral agreements.
Long time ago when I went through this. (50 next year myself) but I can say it’s never too soon to apply for a PR and it is all plus no minus.
I too think about my parents aging. Fortunately my brother is near them.
There's another way of getting a visa for Japan. If you work for a company that has an office or subsidiary in Japan you could ask your company to transfer you into their Japanese operations. In that case your company can apply for an "intra-company transferee" visa. That's how I got there. Same as Chani my visa was each time granted and renewed for three years. During my twelfth year I requested a PR visa instead and was granted that (I was told that immigration uses a ten year stay as one of their internal guidelines).