AHH THE PASSAGE OF TIME AHH 😭🤧 Thank you guys for watching!! And remember, the first 1,000 people to use the link will get a 1 month free trial of Skillshare: skl.sh/allisonintokyo09231
I came back after 1 year of JET, but I definitely don't regret trying! It was a life- changing experience and it helped me figure out what I truly need to have my dream life I now have. If someone reads this who thinks they want to try to live in Japan, don't hesitate to! And if it isn't for you long-term, please don't feel like you "gave up"; because you will have gained valuable experiences and learned something.
I moved to Tokyo like two months ago. I was really nervous about the whole process, but your videos have really helped me prepare. They have such a calming atmosphere and are filled with good avice. So thank you! :) It has not been long but so far I did not regret a single day in Japan!
@@zontikotsolntsaa lot of foreigners do english teaching jobs such as tutoring. you can check out gaijinpot to give you an idea of what kind of jobs there are for foreigners
I was kind of depressed when I came back from Japan. The litter on the streets, the graffiti, the poor customer service, the lack of public transportation, the loudness of people, the obese people with bad tattoos. I love my country, but we could do some soul searching.
I’m moving to Japan for 12-18 months for university next year and really appreciated this video! The advice to not get complacent is really good. Also, your apartment is looking so cute!! I need that lamp.
Great advice at any age. Trying and failing is better than not trying at all. Plus most of the time I think things end up being a succes s. 5 years and your not even 30. My 5 years plans never really materialize but its not for lack of trying.
When I was at the point you are here in Japan I considered myself a lifer. It sucked making friends and them leaving a year or two later but I knew I was staying in Japan for the rest of my life. Well, unless the universe wanted me elsewhere. On my 12th year here and now I'm married plus a home owner. I think you are 100% about growing and not being settled. Life will always throw things at you and you need to be ready. I taught English for 11 years. 4 years at my last private school, and at the same time I broke my back at the end of last year, my contract was not renewed. I had to stay in bed to heal for a couple months and decided to use the time to write. I had always loved wrting stories and my supportive hubby suggested I try to write full time. That's what I'm doing. I wrote my Sailor Moon inspired Fantasy Fomance debut novel in 3 months. I released it at the start of this month on Amazon. It's scary, but coming to Japan was scarier and easier in someways. That sheer aloneness of the start, being surrounded by another language and culture that you only understand so much, and learning how to do everything on your own again... was harder because I had to do that alone. This time I have my hubby and my 2 cats with me. That also makes it harder too. Hubby being by my side while I do this is great but it also means I'm causing hardships for him as well. Feeling if I fail then we don't eat, or skipping a birthday cake because of money is all my fault is harder then when I first came to Japan but I'm not alone though. It prepared me to take the chance if that makes any sense. Also! You talking about how the US has changed... think about of how much it seems to have changed in since 2011! lol All I want though is sourdough bread and some Monterey Jack cheese! 😅
thank you for making videos like this!!! it's always so encouraging to hear someone talk about japan as a home, especially as a viewer who is trying to achieve that same goal, feeling, and experience 🥺
I definitely see you in Japan for at least another 5 years. It really is your home now. So proud of everything you’ve accomplished and I can really appreciate all the hard work and determination it took to get there. You are an inspiration so it’s fine to be inspiration speakerish ❤. Keep up the great work!!
Way to go Allison! It's crazy to think how far you've come when looking back at yourself. I for one wanted to move to Japan for the exact same reason: anime. I'm a die hard otaku even in my 40s, I wear it proudly. But, I'm also a thinker and hailing from a 3rd world country, my options were limited. Ultimately I had to let go of the dream of actually moving there, but I never let go of my fascination for the country, which led me to soon visit for the first time next month; hype! Here's to your continued growth as both a person and a professional, and keep them sweet sweet videos coming. I love your perspective of not glorifying Japan, instead presenting a much more grounded-in-reality approach as a normal person just living out your life. Cheers!
Thank you for putting this video out. The JET application opens any day now and I have spent seven years waiting for my turn to apply so it feels SO CLOSE now and SO SCARY because it's FINALLY HAPPENING and I needed this thank you. Also happy birthday!
Congratulations! It's too late for me, but I hope my son will choose to study in Japan (or some other country). You are completely correct about the US, and especially Florida. I've lived in Florida for decades now and it's changing for the worse. I don't feel safe here anymore either and it doesn't feel like home. Not sure where we're going next, or when, but seeing people like you making your dreams come true outside of the US just gives me hope that maybe my husband and I can make it happen during retirement...and get out of Florida for good!!
I really like your advice in the end, and the part where you said "I can not imagine my life in America anymore". Really speaks to how much you've devoted to building your life in Japan! I just spent 2 months studying abroad/living alone in Japan over the summer and come to the conclusion that I still see myself living in the US for the time being. So yeah you really just have to try it and see for yourself.
We took our 12 year old to Japan this past Spring Break because she loves manga and anime and we watched your videos beforehand. She may follow in your footsteps one day!
As a person whose parents didn't support her goals or dreams unless it suited theirs...thank you. Your child will thrive and grow with that type of love ❤
I’m so happy to see your channel growing and getting more subs!! It’s totally well deserved!! Your vids are always so informative and fun and I always look forward to them!! 🥰🫶 keep crushin it girllll!! 💖💖
To some degree I wish I were aware of the JET program 15-20 years ago. It's hard to be too regretful since I'm pretty happy with my life, but it's definitely the sort of thing I would have jumped on at the time if I were aware of it. Luckily, as it is I'm fortunate to have business dealings in Japan and the means to visit fairly often. I was also a pretty quiet kid who was forced to evolve through circumstances. Which is good, since that's a skill in and of itself! The ability to turn on the appearance of extroversion is... exhausting in my experience, but valuable since to some degree that means you have some mastery of both modes. Introversion and extroversion are both valuable, and being able to switch between them at will can be a kind of superpower. Cheers to five years in Japan!
Fellow expat here. You still have to file for taxes as an expat though you'll rarely pay anything but you'll still need to file an FBAR and a federal. Sorry to be a downer :( just want to look out for fellow expats. Congrats on your 5 years❤
Hey Allison, cool video but I wonder, are there other ways to go to Japan beside the JET prorgram because the Jet program seems to be unreachable/impossible to do if youre not a native English speaker😥. Do you have any tips. also congratulation on you 5 years in Japan 🎉🎉
Hey Allison!!! Awww grandest thanks for creating amazing content for us while working so very hard for your new job!! Your vlogs greatly help us enjoy our beautiful family trips to Japan!! Thank you for sharing as we plan our 3rd vacation for Japan and ANA Airlines!!
This is so sweet 🥹 I love your content and it helped me a lot with my travels to Japan earlier this year. I remember wishing I could visit and move to Japan when I was young, too. I never went that route but I love hearing the perspective of someone who did go for it and loves it. You’ve acclimated well because you were open and respectful to the culture and learning. I’m convinced you’re the kind of person who would be happy anywhere she settled! For now, that’s Japan! Thanks for you content and hope you keep thriving girlie!!!
Congratulations Alison ! I grew up in Japan and I move to America. It is interesting that you feel Japan is your home and I feel America is my home 😂! I think it is nice to know and experience two cultures.
Hi Allison. I think you've convinced yourself that you made the right decision and living in Japan not only gave your a better life but the quality of your life will always be better than living in the US. Besides your family, Japan offers so many different lifestyles and they care for the land, environment and each other. Good decision and keep pursuing your dreams.
Hi Allison, firstly congratulations on 5 years in Japan 🎉 it’s great to hear that you’ve achieved the initial goals you set for yourself by working hard and taking the opportunities when they arose, long may that continue for you. The nicest thing to hear is that you’re happy and enjoying living life. Thank for sharing your experiences with everyone, I wish you continued success for the future. Best wishes
I lived in Japan for 5yrs and decided to move back home to give it a try. I've regretted it. Coming back home made me realized all the little things I had in Japan and now miss. I'm trying my best to move back to Japan and hopefully make it stick. :)
Interesting... In what way did you regret moving back? I am from Denmark and have lived in Japan for 4 years now. I am considering moving back or staying, but am very split. Would be nice to get your input!
@@cecilie531 It's basically all the same reasons Allison mentioned when she goes back home. The reverse culture shock. The main thing is how as soon as I came back I instantly went on alert walking around and where I was before, which was the countryside, was so peaceful. There was also a sense of community that I miss as well. It's been 2yrs and I still miss it.
@@latrestante I see thank you for your reply 😊 Seems like feelings of safety and community is a big reason huh? Now I do not fear for my safety in Denmark, more for feeling bored and depressed tbh. Denmark can have endless cloudy days, has a long winter and super expensive prices, which makes it hard to go out and have fun 😅
@@cecilie531 It was the same for me, I stayed in Japan for a few years and I've always regretted moving back to Canada. Now with a family and a job and everything it's way more complicated to bring everybody to move back there. Japan was just so much better as a country in so many ways, for me at least. I hope one day I can move back there again, because just visiting as a tourist will never be the same.
First of all congrats on 5 years! I totally relate with the beginning of your story. Got interested in Japan around the same time in the same way as you. Eventually ventured into kpop and ended up going to Korea for a year. Really loved it and am looking to return in the future.
10 years!!! 🤩 Great video as always, I loved the piece of advice at the end, no matter the age (I am soon 28) we can still go out there and make our dreams come true! I am back to college to get a degree and hopefully I will see you all in Japan in 2 years!! Follow your dreams ❤
Lived in Japan for 5 years and moved for a better work opportunity. Realized quickly that I wanted to go back but the pandemic happened 😂 Trying to move back and it’s a process. Wish me luck.
Congratulations on your 5 years in Japan! 🎉 While I was watching this video, I was able to relate to almost everything you said 👏🏼 I didn’t think I would move to Korea and live there for 9 years…😱 I look forward to see your “10 Years in Japan” video in the future! 😉 Time definitely flies 😂
It's really interesting to hear your experience and your thoughts on whether or not to move back to the US or anywhere other than Japan for that matter. I can attest that it is possible to learn how to be an adult all over again in a different setting, country, language and culture; it is a lot of work though but worth it. For five more years and more Allison!
Congratulations for staying 5 years in Japan. I'm hoping to begin my journey of living in Japan starting next month. I'm coming over on a cultural activities visa as my interest in coming to Japan wasn't anime, but martial arts. I currently do karate lessons on zoom that is based in the Tokyo prefecture and coming to Japan to learn in person. However I knew when I was a kid beginning my training in martial arts back in the late 1980s and early 1990s that I wanted to live in Japan eventually. I stepped away from that goal to be a normal American and when I began doing the zoom lessons with the Sensei in the Tokyo prefecture, I realized that I wanted to do it again. But I want to congratulate you for making 5 years. I hope that I will make it that long and possibly longer.
Great video! Love your outlook on staying in Japan... More specifically, would you like to live somewhere other than Tokyo again (not necessarily the mountain /countryside)?
I agree when you notice differences when you go home. We were only in Japan for 9 days for our honeymoon and we cried when we landed back in London. Someone spat on us not 30 mins of being home... the UK is dirty, smelly and just bloody rude. We do want to move to Japan but because I'm a retail worker, it would be hard for me. Whereas my husband is a business analyst and would probably find work better.
I used to have nightmares where I had to go back to the US--then I'd wake up and lie there, and think, NO...I'm still here in Japan, YEAH. It was the most wonderful feeling.
Lol, I actually really appreciate your “inspirational speech” towards the end bc man…I really needed to hear that. Its hard not letting fear and anxiety make my decisions, but I only live once right? Even if its cliche, its the truth. I don’t want to regret not trying, and that applies to any part of my life, not just my desire to move to Japan. Thank you for the advice, its been really valuable to me. I’m happy you’re at a place in life (literally and figuratively) where you’re content. Goals, fam. Goals. 🩷
Thank you for this video! I also am hoping to move to Japan within a few years so this was super helpful to watch. And congratulations on 5 years!! 🎉🎉 I actually also had a question about skill development, does anyone have recommendations for specific skills to build on and how? I'm currently studying graphic design as my major but I'm not sure if I'll be able to get a job with that in Japan so I'm wondering what skills are needed there and how I can start preparing a few years in advance :) Thanks if anyone can help!!
I definitely felt really lonely than I already did in america when I went over there for 3 weeks. I enjoyed traveling around japan to see the festivals but man...
I didn’t know you had done language school during one of your study abroad times in Japan! That’s one thing I’d love to do but certainly can’t as my job wouldn’t be okay with me up and leaving for a few months lol. So instead I’m doing a way slower paced language school online via Zoom classes.
When you asked in 5 years if I didn't move to Japan would I regret it..I've been wanting/trying to go to Japan since a little bit before 2010. Me not having made it to Japan yet, makes me feel like a failure
I am on the side of the person who didn’t go. But staying stateside has given me opportunities to vacation to Japan multiple times. It’s a toss up. I’m looking for a way to move but if it doesn’t pan out, coming in 4 weeks a year isn’t too bad.
You are “lucky” to be where you are but it sounds like you have earned every bit of it. Maybe accomplished is more accurate than lucky. Either way congrats on living your dreams. Hard work pays off
As a fellow suburban Floridian who was also introduced to Japan through anime (but mine was Sailor Moon back in the 90s *cough I'm old cough*), I could not relate more to this more. However, the closest I've ever been to actually going to Japan is Epcot. 😅 I am, finally, studying Japanese after wanting to for 25ish years and planning to visit as soon as my kids are a little older. And also, congratulations on 5 years! 🥰
It’s a worldwide thing, 🌏not just being abroad! You can do or be alone anywhere! Regardless, of the country! It’s good to have a happy balance of wanting to be alone and doing things solo and wanting to hang out with others or friends! Can be tricky, whichever situation anyone is in! Granted, it may be harder to make friends abroad depending on opportunities or job! But it can just be as lonely whichever country we are in! 🇯🇵😲 Loved your video, regardless and good insight information!🌾🍵⛩️♥️👘🍡 Would love the opportunity to at least study or something abroad! It’s on my list!🗺️📝
The main concern I'd have: At some point, one needs to commit to a single country to ensure you're building up paid Social Security taxes in the US, or to the Japanese Pension System. If you became disabled, you may have issues qualifying for benefits if your work history is split between two or more countries. It's long-term issues such as that giving me pause. It's okay to "try it" for a few years when one is young, but at some point, it's necessary to put down real roots and set a course for your life. Thank you for sharing your story, Allison. I'm sure it will help many people thinking about what's right for them. I feel you gave a very clear and fair description of the main issues. Informative, educational, and solid life advice. TH-cam is at its best when used in this way. Thanks for doing this, Allison.
Omedetou! Gambatte! Moving back to Florida would not be optimal. Hawai'i might have less cultural impact, but job-wise tough. LA/San Francisco/West Coast other good options for less cultural impact if/when the desire/need to move back arises. Current favorite mango to anime is The Masterful Cat is Depressed Again Today.
I'm much older than you, but I guess I've experienced what you're talking about. I lived in Japan for 6 years, in China for 2 (and that really made me want to go back to the US). So when I did return to the US, yeah, it was soooo hard, for so many reasons. I actually had to take my driver's test again (I passed). But getting to see family, to see nieces and nephews growing up, to celebrate holidays and take vacations with my family was/is really great. I also got my master's in TESL. I was at home when the older people in my family passed, including my mom. I can't imagine not being able to attend funerals as well as help take care of my mom when she really needed it. When I was in grad school, a professor said to me, "I'm surprised that you came back--most people that live abroad as long as you do just stay there." That surprised me--I had no idea. Many years passed and my dream of going back to Japan had pretty much faded, also I once again felt like I belonged in my own country, but things were getting weird with my job and I decided to take a stab at working in Japan again. So here I am, back again! You know, before you come you have this dreamy notion of what being in Japan will be like, but in my case, while I feel quite happy and relaxed, that "dreamy" kinda touristy feeling isn't really there. It's just like, yeah, this is where I live, this is where I work. Cool. I do feel contented.
アリソンのこの動画見て思った。この先日本の人口は減って行く、そして若い人達は海外に憧れ日本を離れる人も居る。その中で、アリソンみたいな本当に日本の文化が好きな人達の力は、これからの日本にとって必要不可欠な存在になると思う。現に日本の伝統を受け継ぐ職人と呼ばれる方々の中にも海外の人がいて日本人よりも自分の仕事に情熱を注ぎ込んでる人すら多い。だからアリソンにも誇りを持って日本で生きていってもらいたいと思う。Anyway It was really nice clip to watch 👍 I’m sorry if my Japanese of your name was incorrect. 🙏😅
Oh you haven't ever done taxes in the US?? You still have to file every year if you have enough income, even if you live abroad!! (Glad you're having such a good time there. I'm 31 now and definitely regret my decision of not going in the end but I'm married now and it's not an option anymore haha)
No offense, but is difficult to have the opportunities you had. Many of those programs like JET are mostly directed to US citizens. Exchange on high school no matter what country, it wasn't even on any dreams of me or my classmates. I'm not apart of your age, but I feel the US have a huge advantage on that. Glad it worked for you.
Congratulations on your accomplishments! Yes, the US has changed, but the same can be said of any country. I would temper describing America as dirty and the people rude. I don’t know how much you experienced the US ( it sounds like Florida was it) but the people, towns/cities, and cultures vary tremendously. I have met rude people in Europe and have seen extremely impoverished areas. Unlike any other country, the US is indeed multicultural/ethnic/racial. I do not think that in Japan you would ever be considered Japanese unless you were born and raised there and are ethnically Japanese. In the US, you would be called an American or Japanese American… or Italian American etc
Congrats!! And uhhhh, maybe somebody has already told you but….all Americans have to file American tax returns no matter where they live…..I’m prrrrrrrretty sure. 🙃🫣🤔😵💫 You might want to check on that!
AHH THE PASSAGE OF TIME AHH 😭🤧 Thank you guys for watching!! And remember, the first 1,000 people to use the link will get a 1 month free trial of Skillshare: skl.sh/allisonintokyo09231
I came back after 1 year of JET, but I definitely don't regret trying! It was a life- changing experience and it helped me figure out what I truly need to have my dream life I now have. If someone reads this who thinks they want to try to live in Japan, don't hesitate to! And if it isn't for you long-term, please don't feel like you "gave up"; because you will have gained valuable experiences and learned something.
Agree...you describe Joe Brandon's Amerika to a tee 10:20; what right thinking person would want to live in that dystopian hellscape!
May I ask what your story is if okay?
Thanks for your update
I moved to Tokyo like two months ago. I was really nervous about the whole process, but your videos have really helped me prepare. They have such a calming atmosphere and are filled with good avice. So thank you! :) It has not been long but so far I did not regret a single day in Japan!
Hello i hope its not weird of me asking but what do you do for work?
Im ab17 year old with no idea what jobs even exist and how to get those ^^
@@zontikotsolntsaa lot of foreigners do english teaching jobs such as tutoring. you can check out gaijinpot to give you an idea of what kind of jobs there are for foreigners
Congratulations for 5 remarkable years in Japan ❣️❣️❣️❣️❣️
thank you ️❣️
10 YEARS - GO FOR IT!!! JAPAN IS THE BEST PLACE TO LIVE FOR SURE!!
You have grown into a beautiful young independent woman in Japan. Wishing you very best for the future. 🥰👍
I was kind of depressed when I came back from Japan. The litter on the streets, the graffiti, the poor customer service, the lack of public transportation, the loudness of people, the obese people with bad tattoos. I love my country, but we could do some soul searching.
I’m moving to Japan for 12-18 months for university next year and really appreciated this video! The advice to not get complacent is really good.
Also, your apartment is looking so cute!! I need that lamp.
Great advice at any age. Trying and failing is better than not trying at all. Plus most of the time I think things end up being a succes s. 5 years and your not even 30. My 5 years plans never really materialize but its not for lack of trying.
When I was at the point you are here in Japan I considered myself a lifer. It sucked making friends and them leaving a year or two later but I knew I was staying in Japan for the rest of my life. Well, unless the universe wanted me elsewhere. On my 12th year here and now I'm married plus a home owner.
I think you are 100% about growing and not being settled. Life will always throw things at you and you need to be ready. I taught English for 11 years. 4 years at my last private school, and at the same time I broke my back at the end of last year, my contract was not renewed. I had to stay in bed to heal for a couple months and decided to use the time to write. I had always loved wrting stories and my supportive hubby suggested I try to write full time. That's what I'm doing. I wrote my Sailor Moon inspired Fantasy Fomance debut novel in 3 months. I released it at the start of this month on Amazon. It's scary, but coming to Japan was scarier and easier in someways. That sheer aloneness of the start, being surrounded by another language and culture that you only understand so much, and learning how to do everything on your own again... was harder because I had to do that alone. This time I have my hubby and my 2 cats with me. That also makes it harder too. Hubby being by my side while I do this is great but it also means I'm causing hardships for him as well. Feeling if I fail then we don't eat, or skipping a birthday cake because of money is all my fault is harder then when I first came to Japan but I'm not alone though. It prepared me to take the chance if that makes any sense.
Also! You talking about how the US has changed... think about of how much it seems to have changed in since 2011! lol
All I want though is sourdough bread and some Monterey Jack cheese! 😅
i will regret it if i dont come to japan so i will be coming next year yayyyyyyy
Good video. I like that you have no regrets! It's always nice watching your videos.
thank you for making videos like this!!! it's always so encouraging to hear someone talk about japan as a home, especially as a viewer who is trying to achieve that same goal, feeling, and experience 🥺
I definitely see you in Japan for at least another 5 years. It really is your home now. So proud of everything you’ve accomplished and I can really appreciate all the hard work and determination it took to get there. You are an inspiration so it’s fine to be inspiration speakerish ❤. Keep up the great work!!
Omg I was just thinking abt you and there's a video right away, love you 🌷💌
❤️❤️
Way to go Allison! It's crazy to think how far you've come when looking back at yourself.
I for one wanted to move to Japan for the exact same reason: anime. I'm a die hard otaku even in my 40s, I wear it proudly. But, I'm also a thinker and hailing from a 3rd world country, my options were limited. Ultimately I had to let go of the dream of actually moving there, but I never let go of my fascination for the country, which led me to soon visit for the first time next month; hype!
Here's to your continued growth as both a person and a professional, and keep them sweet sweet videos coming. I love your perspective of not glorifying Japan, instead presenting a much more grounded-in-reality approach as a normal person just living out your life.
Cheers!
If I lived in Florida, I would want to move far far away too.
Thank you for putting this video out. The JET application opens any day now and I have spent seven years waiting for my turn to apply so it feels SO CLOSE now and SO SCARY because it's FINALLY HAPPENING and I needed this thank you. Also happy birthday!
thank you for sharing your journey
Congratulations 🎉
Flickr 😂😂 I used to love looking at aesthetic Japan street photos too but mainly on tumblr! How the times have changed.. haha
Congratulations! It's too late for me, but I hope my son will choose to study in Japan (or some other country). You are completely correct about the US, and especially Florida. I've lived in Florida for decades now and it's changing for the worse. I don't feel safe here anymore either and it doesn't feel like home. Not sure where we're going next, or when, but seeing people like you making your dreams come true outside of the US just gives me hope that maybe my husband and I can make it happen during retirement...and get out of Florida for good!!
Congratulations!! 🎉🎉🎉
❤🌸❤ Happy Birthday 🎈
I really like your advice in the end, and the part where you said "I can not imagine my life in America anymore". Really speaks to how much you've devoted to building your life in Japan! I just spent 2 months studying abroad/living alone in Japan over the summer and come to the conclusion that I still see myself living in the US for the time being. So yeah you really just have to try it and see for yourself.
We took our 12 year old to Japan this past Spring Break because she loves manga and anime and we watched your videos beforehand. She may follow in your footsteps one day!
As a person whose parents didn't support her goals or dreams unless it suited theirs...thank you. Your child will thrive and grow with that type of love ❤
@@Brooke-dy7gx Oh Gosh, that is such a sweet compliment and it made my evening! She is really an awesome kid. :)
I’m so happy to see your channel growing and getting more subs!! It’s totally well deserved!! Your vids are always so informative and fun and I always look forward to them!! 🥰🫶 keep crushin it girllll!! 💖💖
To some degree I wish I were aware of the JET program 15-20 years ago. It's hard to be too regretful since I'm pretty happy with my life, but it's definitely the sort of thing I would have jumped on at the time if I were aware of it. Luckily, as it is I'm fortunate to have business dealings in Japan and the means to visit fairly often.
I was also a pretty quiet kid who was forced to evolve through circumstances. Which is good, since that's a skill in and of itself! The ability to turn on the appearance of extroversion is... exhausting in my experience, but valuable since to some degree that means you have some mastery of both modes. Introversion and extroversion are both valuable, and being able to switch between them at will can be a kind of superpower.
Cheers to five years in Japan!
Good information 😲🇯🇵
Fellow expat here. You still have to file for taxes as an expat though you'll rarely pay anything but you'll still need to file an FBAR and a federal. Sorry to be a downer :( just want to look out for fellow expats. Congrats on your 5 years❤
As a fellow American expat, this part of the video really stood out to me. All US citizens must file taxes no matter where you live! Be careful.
I FILE THEM DONT WORRY
Hey Allison, cool video but I wonder, are there other ways to go to Japan beside the JET prorgram because the Jet program seems to be unreachable/impossible to do if youre not a native English speaker😥. Do you have any tips. also congratulation on you 5 years in Japan 🎉🎉
Hey Allison!!! Awww grandest thanks for creating amazing content for us while working so very hard for your new job!! Your vlogs greatly help us enjoy our beautiful family trips to Japan!! Thank you for sharing as we plan our 3rd vacation for Japan and ANA Airlines!!
You have such a nice place!
Congrats! I love watching your videos, I just want to get the courage to visit Japan. I know I wouldn’t regret it but I get so nervous!
Hey Alison so nice to see you again. I love you videos.
I LOVE THE FLOWER LAMP OMG
Congratulations on 5 years, and can’t wait to see your 10 year anniversary video! 🎉🎉🎉
This is so sweet 🥹 I love your content and it helped me a lot with my travels to Japan earlier this year. I remember wishing I could visit and move to Japan when I was young, too. I never went that route but I love hearing the perspective of someone who did go for it and loves it. You’ve acclimated well because you were open and respectful to the culture and learning. I’m convinced you’re the kind of person who would be happy anywhere she settled! For now, that’s Japan! Thanks for you content and hope you keep thriving girlie!!!
Congratulations Alison ! I grew up in Japan and I move to America. It is interesting that you feel Japan is your home and I feel America is my home 😂!
I think it is nice to know and experience two cultures.
You are passionate about Japanese culture, Miss Allison, able to stay and find your dream in Japan.
Great video! You will for sure still be in Japan in 5 yrs. My daughter has been there for 11 yrs, it's her home. You sound so much like her.
appreciate your honesty, thanks!
A video of differences between Japan and America would be neat.
Hi Allison. I think you've convinced yourself that you made the right decision and living in Japan not only gave your a better life but the quality of your life will always be better than living in the US. Besides your family, Japan offers so many different lifestyles and they care for the land, environment and each other. Good decision and keep pursuing your dreams.
Hi Allison, firstly congratulations on 5 years in Japan 🎉 it’s great to hear that you’ve achieved the initial goals you set for yourself by working hard and taking the opportunities when they arose, long may that continue for you. The nicest thing to hear is that you’re happy and enjoying living life. Thank for sharing your experiences with everyone, I wish you continued success for the future. Best wishes
Happy Birthday Allison!🎆🎂
Ah that last part of your speech really hits me hard hahahah.
I guess I'll try to follow my dreams! And that's thanks to you :)
I lived in Japan for 5yrs and decided to move back home to give it a try. I've regretted it. Coming back home made me realized all the little things I had in Japan and now miss. I'm trying my best to move back to Japan and hopefully make it stick. :)
Interesting... In what way did you regret moving back? I am from Denmark and have lived in Japan for 4 years now. I am considering moving back or staying, but am very split. Would be nice to get your input!
@@cecilie531 It's basically all the same reasons Allison mentioned when she goes back home. The reverse culture shock. The main thing is how as soon as I came back I instantly went on alert walking around and where I was before, which was the countryside, was so peaceful. There was also a sense of community that I miss as well. It's been 2yrs and I still miss it.
@@latrestante I see thank you for your reply 😊 Seems like feelings of safety and community is a big reason huh? Now I do not fear for my safety in Denmark, more for feeling bored and depressed tbh. Denmark can have endless cloudy days, has a long winter and super expensive prices, which makes it hard to go out and have fun 😅
@@cecilie531 It was the same for me, I stayed in Japan for a few years and I've always regretted moving back to Canada. Now with a family and a job and everything it's way more complicated to bring everybody to move back there. Japan was just so much better as a country in so many ways, for me at least. I hope one day I can move back there again, because just visiting as a tourist will never be the same.
@@GoldenSirius I see... What things do you miss about Japan? And why would you want to come back here?
First of all congrats on 5 years! I totally relate with the beginning of your story. Got interested in Japan around the same time in the same way as you. Eventually ventured into kpop and ended up going to Korea for a year. Really loved it and am looking to return in the future.
10 years!!! 🤩 Great video as always, I loved the piece of advice at the end, no matter the age (I am soon 28) we can still go out there and make our dreams come true! I am back to college to get a degree and hopefully I will see you all in Japan in 2 years!! Follow your dreams ❤
Lived in Japan for 5 years and moved for a better work opportunity. Realized quickly that I wanted to go back but the pandemic happened 😂 Trying to move back and it’s a process. Wish me luck.
Same for me, pretty much. I regret leaving Japan in the first place, but going back now is more complicated because of family, etc.
Congratulations on your 5 years in Japan! 🎉 While I was watching this video, I was able to relate to almost everything you said 👏🏼 I didn’t think I would move to Korea and live there for 9 years…😱 I look forward to see your “10 Years in Japan” video in the future! 😉 Time definitely flies 😂
Happy earth birthday. Mine is coming up as well but I'm officially becoming an old man and turning 40.
Congratulations on your 5 years keep it going I like your content and videos ❤
It's really interesting to hear your experience and your thoughts on whether or not to move back to the US or anywhere other than Japan for that matter.
I can attest that it is possible to learn how to be an adult all over again in a different setting, country, language and culture; it is a lot of work though but worth it.
For five more years and more Allison!
Congratulations for staying 5 years in Japan. I'm hoping to begin my journey of living in Japan starting next month. I'm coming over on a cultural activities visa as my interest in coming to Japan wasn't anime, but martial arts. I currently do karate lessons on zoom that is based in the Tokyo prefecture and coming to Japan to learn in person. However I knew when I was a kid beginning my training in martial arts back in the late 1980s and early 1990s that I wanted to live in Japan eventually. I stepped away from that goal to be a normal American and when I began doing the zoom lessons with the Sensei in the Tokyo prefecture, I realized that I wanted to do it again.
But I want to congratulate you for making 5 years. I hope that I will make it that long and possibly longer.
Thanks for your update
Happy birthday Allison! Have a great day!
Great video! Love your outlook on staying in Japan... More specifically, would you like to live somewhere other than Tokyo again (not necessarily the mountain /countryside)?
I also came to Japan 5 years ago with N3, graduated with master degree, got a job, and now still stuck with N3 😂
I agree when you notice differences when you go home. We were only in Japan for 9 days for our honeymoon and we cried when we landed back in London. Someone spat on us not 30 mins of being home... the UK is dirty, smelly and just bloody rude. We do want to move to Japan but because I'm a retail worker, it would be hard for me. Whereas my husband is a business analyst and would probably find work better.
I used to have nightmares where I had to go back to the US--then I'd wake up and lie there, and think, NO...I'm still here in Japan, YEAH. It was the most wonderful feeling.
Lol, I actually really appreciate your “inspirational speech” towards the end bc man…I really needed to hear that. Its hard not letting fear and anxiety make my decisions, but I only live once right? Even if its cliche, its the truth. I don’t want to regret not trying, and that applies to any part of my life, not just my desire to move to Japan. Thank you for the advice, its been really valuable to me. I’m happy you’re at a place in life (literally and figuratively) where you’re content. Goals, fam. Goals. 🩷
Thank you for this video! I also am hoping to move to Japan within a few years so this was super helpful to watch. And congratulations on 5 years!! 🎉🎉 I actually also had a question about skill development, does anyone have recommendations for specific skills to build on and how? I'm currently studying graphic design as my major but I'm not sure if I'll be able to get a job with that in Japan so I'm wondering what skills are needed there and how I can start preparing a few years in advance :) Thanks if anyone can help!!
Gongrats! But honestly... compared to the US you just made a big improvement with Japan.
I definitely felt really lonely than I already did in america when I went over there for 3 weeks. I enjoyed traveling around japan to see the festivals but man...
I didn’t know you had done language school during one of your study abroad times in Japan! That’s one thing I’d love to do but certainly can’t as my job wouldn’t be okay with me up and leaving for a few months lol. So instead I’m doing a way slower paced language school online via Zoom classes.
When you asked in 5 years if I didn't move to Japan would I regret it..I've been wanting/trying to go to Japan since a little bit before 2010. Me not having made it to Japan yet, makes me feel like a failure
I am on the side of the person who didn’t go. But staying stateside has given me opportunities to vacation to Japan multiple times. It’s a toss up. I’m looking for a way to move but if it doesn’t pan out, coming in 4 weeks a year isn’t too bad.
Wait your apartment looks different. Is this place new?
Wow study abroad in high school! Thats awesome
You are “lucky” to be where you are but it sounds like you have earned every bit of it. Maybe accomplished is more accurate than lucky. Either way congrats on living your dreams. Hard work pays off
LOL I heard it Chipotle. Yeah that is hard to live without. Can we send you some??
I want to move there too but I have a family
❤❤❤
I kindly ask how can you approach finding a professor and persuade them to accept you as their Ph.D. student under their supervision?
As a fellow suburban Floridian who was also introduced to Japan through anime (but mine was Sailor Moon back in the 90s *cough I'm old cough*), I could not relate more to this more. However, the closest I've ever been to actually going to Japan is Epcot. 😅 I am, finally, studying Japanese after wanting to for 25ish years and planning to visit as soon as my kids are a little older.
And also, congratulations on 5 years! 🥰
Because of the weird calendar system there, you could’ve seen year 0 in japan
It’s a worldwide thing, 🌏not just being abroad! You can do or be alone anywhere! Regardless, of the country! It’s good to have a happy balance of wanting to be alone and doing things solo and wanting to hang out with others or friends! Can be tricky, whichever situation anyone is in! Granted, it may be harder to make friends abroad depending on opportunities or job! But it can just be as lonely whichever country we are in! 🇯🇵😲 Loved your video, regardless and good insight information!🌾🍵⛩️♥️👘🍡 Would love the opportunity to at least study or something abroad! It’s on my list!🗺️📝
Good Job.
東京大学の修士号は凄いですね。今後の仕事も永住許可も凄く優位に働くと思います。
I have to move to Japan permanently in a few years. Japan isn't a terrible country but definitely not my first choice ...
Where is your choice
always ask for ketchup shy girl!
The main concern I'd have: At some point, one needs to commit to a single country to ensure you're building up paid Social Security taxes in the US, or to the Japanese Pension System. If you became disabled, you may have issues qualifying for benefits if your work history is split between two or more countries. It's long-term issues such as that giving me pause. It's okay to "try it" for a few years when one is young, but at some point, it's necessary to put down real roots and set a course for your life.
Thank you for sharing your story, Allison. I'm sure it will help many people thinking about what's right for them. I feel you gave a very clear and fair description of the main issues. Informative, educational, and solid life advice. TH-cam is at its best when used in this way. Thanks for doing this, Allison.
Omedetou! Gambatte! Moving back to Florida would not be optimal. Hawai'i might have less cultural impact, but job-wise tough. LA/San Francisco/West Coast other good options for less cultural impact if/when the desire/need to move back arises. Current favorite mango to anime is The Masterful Cat is Depressed Again Today.
I'm much older than you, but I guess I've experienced what you're talking about. I lived in Japan for 6 years, in China for 2 (and that really made me want to go back to the US). So when I did return to the US, yeah, it was soooo hard, for so many reasons. I actually had to take my driver's test again (I passed). But getting to see family, to see nieces and nephews growing up, to celebrate holidays and take vacations with my family was/is really great. I also got my master's in TESL. I was at home when the older people in my family passed, including my mom. I can't imagine not being able to attend funerals as well as help take care of my mom when she really needed it. When I was in grad school, a professor said to me, "I'm surprised that you came back--most people that live abroad as long as you do just stay there." That surprised me--I had no idea. Many years passed and my dream of going back to Japan had pretty much faded, also I once again felt like I belonged in my own country, but things were getting weird with my job and I decided to take a stab at working in Japan again. So here I am, back again! You know, before you come you have this dreamy notion of what being in Japan will be like, but in my case, while I feel quite happy and relaxed, that "dreamy" kinda touristy feeling isn't really there. It's just like, yeah, this is where I live, this is where I work. Cool. I do feel contented.
Which country to visit first
Allison how did you make your social circle? Or are you more of a loner. Cause i'm in tokyo and if I don't go to events I'd be alone all the time lol
Same, it's harder to make friends then get a gf in Japan. But I noticed that when I go to places half the people are by themselves
The USA also got legit worse in the last five years, esp Florida
アリソンのこの動画見て思った。この先日本の人口は減って行く、そして若い人達は海外に憧れ日本を離れる人も居る。その中で、アリソンみたいな本当に日本の文化が好きな人達の力は、これからの日本にとって必要不可欠な存在になると思う。現に日本の伝統を受け継ぐ職人と呼ばれる方々の中にも海外の人がいて日本人よりも自分の仕事に情熱を注ぎ込んでる人すら多い。だからアリソンにも誇りを持って日本で生きていってもらいたいと思う。Anyway It was really nice clip to watch 👍 I’m sorry if my Japanese of your name was incorrect. 🙏😅
Privileged
Oh you haven't ever done taxes in the US?? You still have to file every year if you have enough income, even if you live abroad!!
(Glad you're having such a good time there. I'm 31 now and definitely regret my decision of not going in the end but I'm married now and it's not an option anymore haha)
No offense, but is difficult to have the opportunities you had. Many of those programs like JET are mostly directed to US citizens. Exchange on high school no matter what country, it wasn't even on any dreams of me or my classmates. I'm not apart of your age, but I feel the US have a huge advantage on that.
Glad it worked for you.
Congratulations on your accomplishments! Yes, the US has changed, but the same can be said of any country. I would temper describing America as dirty and the people rude. I don’t know how much you experienced the US ( it sounds like Florida was it) but the people, towns/cities, and cultures vary tremendously. I have met rude people in Europe and have seen extremely impoverished areas. Unlike any other country, the US is indeed multicultural/ethnic/racial. I do not think that in Japan you would ever be considered Japanese unless you were born and raised there and are ethnically Japanese. In the US, you would be called an American or Japanese American… or Italian American etc
Do you not want a partner or something ?
Just talked to you in telegram
Congrats!! And uhhhh, maybe somebody has already told you but….all Americans have to file American tax returns no matter where they live…..I’m prrrrrrrretty sure. 🙃🫣🤔😵💫 You might want to check on that!