Hey Guys~ Thank you so much for joining today. I hope that you get some value out of this one and I will see you again real soon (from North Carolina!)
Interesting video ... I think the basic point of not going for a quick, easy, option and hoping that things will work out rather than saving and thinking things through, is true for a lot of things in life not just moving to Japan. Personally what made me not consider moving to Japan is far simpler and impossible to do anything about ... age. Didn't really get interested in Japan till I was 30 and now I'm north of 40 I don't really have the energy to start again in a new country ... doesn't stop me visiting though 😋
1. Don't/Try to incur debt in your home country so you do not have to worry about paying it off when you are in Japan. 2. A way to save money for your trip. open another account at a bank/credit union that you have to physically go to(you do not have a bank card)have the money direct deposit to that account.
For me it was worth it to move to Japan right away. I was afraid of getting stuck in in my home country, and I was right. What happens to a dream deferred? If you really want to be here and are capable of building your skills here, don't hold yourself back out of fear!
i think people should save money and max out a 90 day tourist stay, to get a better feel for deciding if they will gain permanent residence and work later. even one month would help. its better than going all out and being overwhelmed unable to find work because you didn't scope the place out for potentials first. plus you get an awesome vacation.
lol I did it all by the book after falling in love with Japan after volunteering in Japan years ago. I went to University to gain a degree merely for the visa as I had the skills already from working in the design industry for many years, but I saved up, learnt the language and did so much research on where to live and work, but it took so long I got married and had a baby in that time lol. It's not so easy then to just up sticks and emigrate now with a whole family, but the dream is still there. At least they all love Japan too!
I was the "I want to go to Japan right now" girl; slacked 3 years of my life only dreaming of going to Japan while being a shut-in in my room, waiting for a miracle prize or a winner lottery ticket to get there. Luckily, I woke up one day and said "you know what? that's not gonna happen" and now I am in my fourth year in my Engineer course :) I still feel like "ugh I want to go to Japan right now, living a good life etc etc" sometimes, but this is teaching me how to be patient and not to rush things... now I just need to stop thinking "I will be so old when I get to Japan" hahaha :) Thanks for the reasuring video :)
How is it going?? I will go to Japan in October 2022 to study Japanese. I am also an Engineer I am doing an online master's degree in Informatics Engineering. Are you there in Japan or still planning to go?
Cannot agree more! I just got my 5 year work visa to Japan, and I want to stress the fact that I am well prepared for it. What I see is Japan always welcomes highly skilled labors. So if you are serious about long term in Japan, go for the high skill route (college degree, 10+ yrs exp in your field, language skills). Working holiday is great but you might get stuck in low paying foreigner jobs. Or go for the work visa specifically for labor shortage areas like healthcare or constructions. Another route is visa thru establishing a business/investment in Japan. Good luck!
This video reminds me of a saying my mom always tells me, “ lo barato siempre sale caro” it means the cheap always turns out expensive. Doing something cheaply or half heartedly will turn bad in the end. It’s always stuck with me.
I've considered the idea of moving to Japan since I was in my early 20s...and now, at 37 and with nearly 10 years of business management experience, I believe I'm closer than ever to making it happen. Though I still have a ways to go (learning Japanese to at least a reasonable level of proficiency, actually visiting Japan for the first time, losing weight (while I've dropped from 309.4 lbs/140.3 kg to 262.8 lbs/119.2 kg, I still have about 78 lbs/35 kg to go to reach my goal), making sure my business can take care of itself without as much of my intervention, etc.)...but I know if I'd moved there at, say, 25 or 26, I'd probably have been back here in the States before I was out of my 20s, likely for some combination of the reasons you listed. I'm also working on getting into photography and videography...looking at buying a nice camera rather soon (a Canon R5C), and putting in the time and practice to learn what I need to know (and maybe a few things I don't necessarily need to know, but should probably know anyway). I always enjoy watching your videos...your insight is much appreciated :) .
This video made me feel a lot more confident. I'm attempting to teach English in Japan very soon and going through the interview process. Watching this has assured me that I"m going about things in a responsible way, though I am a lot older than the typical person trying to move there long term. I'm hoping to bolster my Japanese language skills and eventually transition into a job in my field. I've been a professional designer and illustrator for over 9 years now and I"m hoping that will carry some weight once I get my Japanese in tip-top shape! When I was younger I was anxious to hurry up and go, but I'm kind of glad I took my time in hindsight. I've gained a lot of skills that will help me in teaching and in my career path! Fingers crossed anyway. Thanks for making this video! I think it's pretty important to have reality checks from time to time with regard to this whole concept.
so true, i went to japan without developing my skills to the level that allows me to earn enough to live for long term and here i am back in my country after 3 years..... time to work on those SKILLS!
I really appreciated your video! I'm currently planing and thinking about working and living in Japan and I now feel more clam and relaxed about waiting that little bit longer to go to Japan. Have an awesome day!
Definitely true. I did opt to come to Japan earlier by coming to college in Japan, but now my life kind of revolves around planning what jobs experience I need to get to work in a field that I would like once I graduate. I still have a few years before I graduate, but I want to be ready and prepared to obtain that working visa with as little complications as possible. Its true that its hard to work at something that isn't guaranteed but if its something you want to truely do, I think its a risk you have to be prepared to take and invest in the long-run
Just rewatched it after deciding to go to university again to get a degree I can do stuff with and that maybe enables me to move to Japan easier. Feel very validated and even though it's going to take me a while, I'll be happier than if I were to hastily move right now. Great vid!
I dreamed to move to japan for a few years and didn't know what i wanted to do for a job. I changed my fields of study every year for 5 years but now in my early 20's i have decided to make my dream true and enrolled to night highschool and have clear plans to go to the university, meanwhile i'm learning japanese online. This video has helped a lot to make my fiiling of "i want to move to japan right now!" Subside.
I am currently working my butt off to become a midwife in Japan. It's my dream and my Japanese is not at N1 level yet so just working on language at the moment. I'm looking to transfer into vocational nursing school in three years. I've wanted to live in Japan since I was 4 so I'm well aware of how long it takes to get there. Thank you for this video! Long term, when it's your goal, can be frustrating to achieve and requires patience.
Definitely helpful man. I've been thinking about making that move and I had thought about the points you made but being informed directly from someone who is living there is great. Thanks man.
I just need to say thank you for this video Norm. Been trying to tie up some loose ends here in the states so I can move back to Japan long-term. I can get pretty depressed missing Japan and the people I left there. Takes everything not to just hop on a plane. This video really cheered me up, lot of encouragement here.
Great advise, friend. Impatience is a beast. Even though I'm not actively working/saving towards moving to another country, it's nice to have such a calm reminder to take my time and to do the things i need to do correctly, even if it will take me a little longer.
I actually really needed this. I love currently studying masters, and there are basically no good options in English in Japan for what I do. I've been planning on moving to Tokyo (even if just for a year) for over six years now, but kinda felt that it wasn't the right time yet. This has encouraged me the I'm actually on a good path, so thanks for the perspective!
Interesting video, from personal experience I did my studies then work experience in countries I was familiar with (and could speak the language) after some years working around Europe I was offered a job in Japan without ever having been there, so I agree that acquiring strong skills is important and I was in a good position then to move. It's trickier now as I am in the UK wanting to go back to Japan but I have children and they don't speak Japanese, so taking it slowly is what I am doing again, we go once a year, for as long as we can, I am looking for location independent work and we'll see what happens, it pays to be smart I think even if you don't see a result immediately.
This is important but for students, you can also gain skills while in school if you choose to attend university in Japan. Part of school IS figuring your life out. I think transferable skills are most important to someone who already has a degree and is looking to move because most students don't have real skills. I mean, that's how natives learn skills right hahah. I've been the "I want to move to Japan fast" person for years but never did anything until 2 years ago. I went and finished my associates and got accepted to a university in Tokyo and will be moving there this August. I plan on exploring options while in school and using English teaching as a foot hold after graduation while I gain enough language experience to be at an employable level. While I don't really have a career passion, I do have a passion for the country and culture so my main thing I will be looking at I think is tourism so I can help others experience the country. Even if I'm stuck teaching English, there are many of those jobs that pay quite well and many of my friends actually ended up staying an ALT because they loved it. It's very difficult to get a feel for things while not living somewhere so this may change once I get closer to graduation, but for now I'm focused on my move to Tokyo, finishing my bachelors, then getting a steady teaching job while I learn the language and explore tourism opportunities. Maybe I could even find one right out of uni, we'll never know until we're there!
A lot of really great advice in this video. Not just ‘common sense’ things, but hard truths that people tend to look away from until it’s too late. Definitely something for everyone to watch while they figure out their plan for moving to Japan.
I have so many thoughts on this topic, that I literally can't write anything meaningful. I had been stuck for years in this dream without actually being able to visit this country. It took me so long to actually find out what I really want to do in my life - to work with camera and video editing. I've been learning a lot for a few months already but there's still a lot to be learnt - and I'm almost 27. So I hope, that if I would ever move to Japan, I would be able to do my dream job over there. It would took me hours to say everything, that I'd like to say, so instead, I will just tell: Thank you for clarifying this particular topic. Not many people are telling about this so it's awesome, that you've done that 🥰
So happy u made this video, I feel so reaffirmed!! I graduated from university 2 yrs ago now and studied abroad in Japan while I was in university, that’s what really made me realize I could live there long term, I’ve saved up enough to go, but I’m still paying off the little debt I had from student loans I’m so close this time next year I’ll have my teaching certificate and a whole two years in management, my year lease will have ended, and I’ll finally be living in Japan a goal I’ve had for over 10 yrs now! Started in highschool when I was 17 and I’ll be 27 when I leave it’s taking ALOT of time but I’ve been determined to go and have enjoyed my life experiences so much along the way 🥰
Thank you for making this video. This is something that has been weighing on me personally for a while I think it’s really hard watching others on TH-cam enjoying Japan and not wanting to be there instantly. Kind of like you said in your Kiki video you never want to sacrifice long-term goals for Instant gratification. Thanks for the reminder that the work is always worth it. 💕
This a very good advice which is true for every country and not only Japan. Knowing the language and having the right skill sets will benefit them everywhere but a lot of people are underestimating this often, unfortunately
Your videos keep on being some of the most helpful when dealing with the serious part of making this kind of decision. I went to Japan last November and stayed for a bit more than a month. I wanted to know how I felt there, and while it's obvious that travelling and living are totally different, being there felt so right. Now I'm planning to move, so I can totally relate to this video. Part of me wants to do it right away, mainly due to fear that I'm not getting any younger and time goes by really fast. But I'm trying to hold off on that decision until I'm prepared to actually go through with it, mainly with the language and the professional skills that will help me land a job there (about to start a Master's degree). Thanks again!
I think you're right, Norm. It's crucial to have something to fall back on to at least avoid the anxiety of not only being in a new, unfamiliar place around new people, but also having financial struggles... Still, I think that even though I'd love to live in Japan, having just about any skills and experience won't do. First and foremost, a person should find something they enjoy doing. Sure, not always a hobby can become a job, but if it does, it's a blessing. Then they should study it - whether on their own or through college/university. Never be afraid that it might be too late for starting something. Do things so that you never regret doing them. I regret not opposing being pushed to finish studies in engineering and science. I didn't finish, because I broke mentally, because I couldn't see myself or any sense in what I was doing. The pressure was too much and only made my health worse and worse... And although I don't regret getting knowledge from that experience and learning a lot about myself... It definitely would have been better for both my physical and mental health if I followed my intuition instead of trying to please my family and live up to their expectations - which, by the way, seemed to be quite short-term: expectations of succeeding soon and showing results at every step instead of slowly and steadily building the foundation. My point being: I agree that it takes time to be able to meet your goals, but a person shouldn't see only the goals, they should be able to appreciate the journey, too. Because if moving to Japan would mean I would have to sacrifice something valuable (health/ truly valuable relationships/etc) on the way, then I'd say the goal isn't worth the sacrifice.
I went to Tokyo three times as vacation, loved every second of it, then I had to find out the hard way that I will more than likely never be able to move there, even though it would help me physically and mentally. I have lived with anxiety and depression for over 22 years, Japan and especially Tokyo would help me greatly to live a decently normal life, problem is that I won't be able to because of my depression and anxiety... or more on the note the lack of education and degrees. When I left school(I was bullied) I left it without any grades, not even from junior high school, and it sucks. However, to those that can work and save money and that, I hope you guys all the best and hope you have an amazing experience in Japan.
This is soooooo accurate. Thank god I didn’t fall in that trap. I’m good but I got a few friends that are stuck in 英会話 and Covid didn’t help them. I got to Japan stayed a 1year, went home finished my degree and went back and now have a 100K + job while my friends are scraping by on 30K or less.
Wow, nice video! First time I listen at someone speaking abut this topic in such accurate terms. That's exactly what happened to me. I came to Japan in 2017 with a Working Holiday Visa, and even though I LOVED the country, I realised I had to go back to Spain, study something that could be considered a highly valuable professional skill in Japan, and then come back (nowadays I'm a Back End Engineer).
Hey Norm, thanks for making this video on a topic that I don’t see other j-youtubers talk about. I have observed that many people do want to move to Japan when they’re quite young, sometimes I find myself in that mindset and your video really helps, like a wake up call. Thanks for sharing!
I'm 31 now, but I'll be visiting Japan for the first time in a few months. Living in Japan, even for a short time, has been an interest of mine for quite a while. I should've taken more of an initiative in this regard over a decade ago, but I don't feel it's out of my reach even now. If I can't manage it, and I find that I like visiting, I'll just do that as often as I can justify it and finances will allow. I'll have a hard go of it choosing to move there even if I can, since I have a good job here in the states as it is. Anyway, I'm saying if you're young you shouldn't be too concerned about getting there as fast as possible. That is, as long as you figure out what I have only just now realized -- start your journey with any small step you can. Learn the language, work on your credentials, just do something at whatever pace you can and you'll get there in one way or another.
Thank you so much Norm, sharing this side of the coin (expecially from someone who has experienced the situation) is so important! The "here and now" problem is so undervalued nowadays, paradoxically is kinda a giult not doing something without thinking. Just thank you for this video ❤️
Love the videos Norm! Will be moving to Tokyo at the end of June. Already settled my visa, my accommodation etc. Will be documenting my whole year trip! # Excited and Nervous lol
Tokyo Lens Thank you Norm! This whole TH-camJapan community really feels like a backbone to me. Makes me feel like I’m not alone on this one! And trust me I’ll be personally DM’ing you the videos I put out starting in July! 😂 Anyways keep doing what you’re doing man. Always puts a smile on my face when I see a Tokyo Lens video!
I agree 100%. It's why I'm studying my diploma of TESOL, studying Japanese in Tokyo, and then doing a Bachelor's degree specific for teaching English in order to get to Japan. It'll take me 5 years but it'll be worth the wait and the effort.
Love this video! I would have loved to see this in 2009 as that time I went around the end of November to Gunma Prefecture and stayed at my sister+brother in law’s place in Ota (太田) and after being there for 2 weeks, wanted to sell everything I had, teach English, and move to Japan. I studied Japanese for the university in Ohio and studied abroad in Japan for 2 summers. I even emailed someone in Japan for the Japanese branch that for the company that I work for to see what opportunities might be available but there was never any response. My dad said our family would not be treated as other Japanese people and our kids would be bullied for not being fully Japanese (I am half Chinese and half Thai). While my plan was only the rosy side of Japan as I have been there already 3 times prior, in the end, I didn’t make the move. My wife wanted to stay and learn in the US and I would have struggled as well I terms of while I was in IT, I provided desktop support already for 9 years already. 10 years later, I have been with the same company for 19 years now and have gone to Japan 4 more times and see Japan as more as a place to visit. Since I live in LA, Japan is just 10-11 hours away! Wishing you a safe trip back to the US!
Great message Norm. Patience is a virtue. Planning is really important as most people would be completely alone in Japan or any country. Navigation of finding a place to live, opening a bank account, getting a license, etc can be frustrating without help, in another language that you don't understand.
Helpful video! I am currently heavily considering moving to Japan and you're videos like this are very helpful in preparing to make the move. You have given me more things to consider. So thank you!
The flip side of the enthusiasm rush is the delay down turn. Hard to find an energy balance between 'it has to happen now' and 'it is taking so long it is never going to happen' but it helps if you know they are both to be expected.
Awesome, it's the best first step, but what do you want to do with your life. What interests you most? Find a career that you want to do then when you're working here in Japan you can then do some language schools and then transfer the degree you focused on, like IT for example, which you can then use to do what you love in Japan. My Japanese financé speaks decent English and works in a international company using English a lot of the day, but Japanese mainly as a IT Engineer. If you don't look to the long term outside the typical ALT jobs, then if you hate it, you have nothing to fall back on. IT is a big field here, and if you research what jobs are in high demand here in Japan, especially for bilinguals, you're going to have so much options outside being an Assistant Teacher your whole life. I'd say while you're in school take a Japanese course along with it. Then you have the language to open up so many possibilities in Japan.
Kat in Japan I know it’s sounds like it came from shallow thought but I’ve wanted to be an English language teacher. I wanted to go to Japan to be an ALT and get some experience teaching at an international level. After which I will go back to the UK and try to gain a teaching qualification from TEFL and maybe gain some experience within the UK. I’d hope to go back to Japan and work more but I’d depending on how long it will take me to grasp the language , that will determine the level of teaching I will look for.
@@Its-Kat_ I know your comment was a while ago but I needed to express my hate for this IT example that everyone seems to offer, especially now during a pandemic. Oh, so easy let's work in IT, really? not everyone is made for IT, for example I have been a cabin crew for the last 4 years of my life and I love the customer service industry which is now DEAD, how can I go to IT? My career is dead for the moment. Maybe I am lashing out at your example but I see more and more people offering this IT example. And customer service skill is not transferable to anything I would say, we just have to start from zero with other skills, which sucks, I'm not getting any younger.
I've been wanting to go to Japan for a pretty long time now. Went to university and am actively studying the language. The issue is mainly money (third world problems) and finding work that side from here. Hell, I can scarcely find work in my own country... I tried JET a couple of years ago but failed. I don't really have any teaching experience and I wasn't at university anymore when I tried so... It's not an easy goal, but one that will hopefully be worth it in the long term.
It’s totally me! I’m graduating this year and thought about going to Japan and work as an English Teacher, but I don’t want to be a teacher long term. So learning skills of work that I’d love to do is truly important. Oh I guess I’d gain more experience in my country first then
So useful! And excellent point about the visas... thousands of people have obtained and struggled with visas so the information is out there. Just because you think you should get a visa because you really want one, doesn't mean you will. And we have to respect the regulations that countries put in place to manage their immigration. Saying that... I don't know how many success stories I have seen of people living their dreams in Japan, yourself included Norm. If you want it, go for it and just be reasonable about your planning then you can have a more amazing time in Japan than you ever expected.
You make great informative videos and talk about a lot of great things. I’ve wanted to live there for so long, it’s the reason I decided on a Linguistics degree in college. Unfortunately, the college did not properly inform on certain things and I was too young to ask or search for myself. Never even thought about it, because I assumed they would. Never assume!! Now, I have kids and it looks pretty bleak for my dream, BUT I finally worked through some anxieties (whole other story and problems) and bought my first plane ticket to visit my sister in Japan! I’m so excited to visit. :)
Very good advice for anyone who is thinking of building a career at home or in another country. Lots of things to weigh. Immediate opportunity vs. more preparation, etc. It is always wise to have funds. Thanks for the video!
I wanted to live in Japan, but I think my want to get out of where I am currently was escapism. Not that I would not want to live there, but given my situation and health situation (don't worry I am health... just information on my disease is not commonly treated the same from city to city in my on state. Let alone state to state, or country to country. I have a good standing on it now I don't want to risk.). Ivthink Japan is a vacation spot for me. I will continue reseach on aybe moving there in the future, but moving is too much risk in that area. So 2 week visits will be my adventure for now. Will return in 2021 for sure. You two have fun in NC, and we want twitter photos... lol
I think it’s always important to have “your” vacation spot as well~ It’s good that you have the self awareness though. Always solid respect for you mate!
This is the first video of yours that I’ve seen, and it was really positive and helpful-and overall more than what I expected from just the title (and the numerous vlogs by disillusioned ALTs and some very bitter, jaded expats). I’m in my mid 30s and am seriously considering moving back to Japan long term. Right now I’m in the middle of completing degrees, building skills, and paying off debts, and that takes up most of my life. sometimes I’m scared I’m wasting my younger years in needless pursuit of being able to move back very close to age 40. This video is valuable in helping me remember that I’m taking a longer term approach for my personal growth and goals.
Having a degree is probably the most difficult issue to getting to Japan. Most people don’t like to study or don’t want to commit to graduate. With money you can save up slowly but surely.
Honestly, I’m on exchange right now in Tokyo and I’m reaching the end of it. I’ve been thinking about my future and if Japan is right for me and this video really just brought light to all my doubts and honestly, I think it really helped reassure me that this is what I want to do. It’s such a huge decision and I’m not entirely sure about all the details, but this is where I want to be and I think the effort is worth it. I really needed this message and I genuinely thank you for making this.
If u have the time, please share on your experience on living in Tokyo and how it has motivated you to want to live there if that's what you want. I'm an American and am playing with the idea of studying abroad but not sure how or when but i love Japan so much and want to take initiative but plan ahead. I hope you read this thank you
@@emmanuelledaavila8321 Honestly, the decision to come here was very spontaneous. I'd decided in 2017 to finish my degree and do the JET program, but then I learnt about my school's study abroad program and decided to apply. While it's not exactly what I expected, remembering that I'm here (which is something I would have never expected of me tbh), really pushes me through tough days. I think it's important to realize that you WILL always be an outsider in Japan, but that doesn't mean people are rushing to avoid you. While here, I've only really experienced people wanting to share their culture with me and be patient when I fumble over Japanese. Overall, going on exchange, for me, was one of the best decisions I've made and I do highly recommend it. Coming into it with an open mind and being willing to adapt is key to living here, but overall, I really would recommend it. I've made not only Japanese friends but friends all over the world and irreplaceable ones at that. Ultimately, your exchange is what you make it. If you love Japan, you've probably done research on the culture and what's appropriate so you'll be solid on that. I'm sorry if this is vague! You're welcome to send me a message on social media if you have any specific questions and I can answer to the best of my ability. (My social media is on my youtube channel.)
I got a long term plan about my dream of living in Japan but it involves getting a business manager visa and ofc learning the language. And getting my business together here so I can do the same in Japan.
Very good advice dude. I took a couple of years to get everything ready for my move to Hawaii including saving as much as I could so that I would have a good head start and not feel obligated to compramise. I had years of experience working in the hospitality industry so I knew I could get a good job and didn't just leap at the first thing offerred. These two things were a big help in setting up a new life here.
Love this video! My family is working on moving to Japan and the options because of having a degree and a marketable job changes a lot of things. It's more work, but I think it'll pay off. This video is encouraging to me that we made the right choice. Thanks for all you do!
My wife is a Japanese national, and once we get a spouse visa, we're moving out there to help her family with their business. They own a bakery chain with 5 stores, the original being in Bizen from over 100 years ago, and they'll be opening their newest on in Osaka station at the end of October. They want us to manage that shop, and (eventually) have my wife take over the company since they're about 9 years from retirement. I'm super excited, and your videos have been a great help.
Very well said. I'm preparing to move in a few years. Although I have been doing a lot of work and research to prepare, there are some things that I have been trying to rush through. This is the hard truth that I needed to hear to slow down a little. Great channel, great videos!
When you said about people watching the video like "that's me!" I actually got a little emotional 😂 as it is me. I know the video is 4 years old and some Visa stuff has changed since, but I literally have 68 tabs open on my phone researching the best way myself, my husband and our 10 year old can move to Japan. And it looks like the good old time, patience and money are what we'll have to deal with now after our amazing Japan adventure just last month. Also, researching if we need to get a degree 😅 Hoping that Japan does bring out a digital nomad visa soon 🤞 Thank you for the amazing content, you actually kept me going when I was planning our Japan holiday this year, and now for our desire to move.
Thank you so much Norm! This video was so helpful. I m always stressed about getting to japan before my thirthies but this motivated me to stick to my plan and do things right even if that takes much more effort and time. Love from Belgium x
Thanks for making this video and every other video too (so amazing to see that you quit your job and went full time :D). Wish this video was available 3/4 years ago. Congrats on 40k+ subscribers :D I think that the Working Holiday Visa is probably the best way to see what Japan is like without actually committing to Japan. Ie treat it like a long holiday (what is actually supposed to be :D ) That is why its better to become a "specialist" in a work field that one enjoys and have strong financial position to be able to move anywhere whenever possible :) I really agree that moving to Japan (or any country) is in most cases a long term plan. Plus being in Japan (or any dream country) will not be a magic solution (there will be problems there too hehe)
I would say I can definitely relate. I've been interested in moving to and working in Japan for a little while now. I've been looking into the JET and other programs, though the difficult thing is definitely the Bachelor's Degree. When I was in school I finished my Associates but then found an amazing job, teaching circus skills to students from elementary to high school, with just that 2 year degree. I've been talking on and off to ALT recruiting programs to see if I can use my Associates along with my teaching experience to see if that would count towards eligibility as I've been out of school for so long, the idea of going back for another 2 years to finish a degree seems daunting to say the least. I'm doing research though and seeing what other skills I can build that can help accomplish my goals of moving, working, and successfully living in Japan (including learning Japanese of course). I hope everyone out there can find some success and motivation/help from this and other videos like it. Thanks, from Rhode Island, keep up the amazing videos. ^_^
Thank you so much for the kind and detailed comment. Means a lot and I’m really grateful that you feel that way about this vid~ Wishing you all the best of luck!
Just watched this video for the first time even though I've been following for a while now. Just before watching I decided against just going to Japan for 1 year on working holiday to learn the language and see where that takes me. Instead I'll now be going back to university to finally get my degree and learn Japanese here so I'm fully prepared to some day move to Japan. This video just convinced me that that was the right decision after all, thanks you!
Thank you for the valuable, wise words. As you say, on the surface it seems to be fairly simple, straight forward advice but it is so important to know. It's O.K. to have stars in your eyes as long as you also have your feet on the ground. Be prepared, take a rational approach and that will give you a strong foundation so that you can concentrate on making your long-term life in Japan the best it can be. Definitely worth watching more than once.
Wow, thank you so much for this. And it's so timely too. I was just considering changing fields in order to move to Japan asap but what you're saying makes so much sense. Since I do want to live there long term I will take the long road and develope more skills in the industry I love. I am a park ranger (wildlife resource management) in the US and I will just have to do more research on what areas in Japan my skill set would apply to, rather than teaching English which I know I would hate!
Thank you for making videos addressing these topics! I‘m sure this will help some people and when it’s my time to maybe think about moving to Japan I will definitely come back to this! But first i gotta pass my final exams this month lol
There's only one comment I can add to what you've said in this excellent video: in order to play the long game and plan ahead properly, it's really important to have a strong clear vision of where you want to end up. It's really really difficult to stick to a plan for the future that's vague and nebulous.
this was actually very helpful because i only have a vague idea rn of what i want to do when it comes to moving/working in japan and i don't want to make a mistake just because i'm anxious to be there
Rewatched this again after having set achievable steps for living in Japan within the next 10 years. A lot of what you said has sunk in more than the first time - maybe because of a more open mindset.. I also have a bunch of questions so I will ask you through DMs sometime Anyway, thanks a bunch for making this video Norm!
Literally the video I needed right now, I'm pretty much in the exact situation your describing wanting to go to Japan as soon as I'm out of college... Long term goals are extremely hard for me, I go on and off working on them every other week, even though I may not stop give up on them entirely it's really really hard for me to work on them each day because of video games and TH-cam and etc. How were you able to drop Netflix and etc. to work on video editing day in and day out Norm? Because it seems no matter what I do right now I keep falling back into my short term pleasures again and again.
Excellent. Thanks, I agree, as a multiple visit backpacker in the 1980s- the solitude in Tokyo, especially, was intense. For me, the then Hong Kong was the best "longer term" fit. I was there briefly a 3rd time in 2019, and it was a very similar vibe, felt familiar. I admire your work very much. Cheers1
The music sounded quite a bit like 5CPS Norm, great choice to accompany this topic. Thanks a lot for you're insight into this matter. I am looking to move to Japan long term within the next 8 years and from the small amount of financial research I have done, I cannot stress that money seems like a large factor in the whole process. Enjoy the rest of your day
Thank you SO much for this video! It really has helped put into perspective the benefits of not rushing! We would LOVE to live in Japan, but as of right now there's no way for us to get a Visa but maybe one day! Until then we'll keep traveling and working toward our goals!
Thanks for the video Norm.. I’m not sure if I want to live long term in Japan mostly due to having a family with young children. But I have always wanted to do more than just visit Japan, so we have decided that because I’m returning to school to become a teacher that once I graduate I will get an English teaching job in Japan. We believe this will help us decide if we want to make the move permanent or I can always return to the States and tech. It’s just feels odd considering such a change in my early 40’s.
I'm living here on the JET program. I'm going to work hard to improve my japanese, and study marketable skills here. I got a long way to go, but I'll try my best.
You hit it! Top quality. Here’s proof that you can come to Japan and be a CEO of a Japanese firm ... with the right skills and the right passion. You’ve energized people to EMPOWER themselves!!!
Even though there's alot of hard details to take care of, I think the thing I'm most scared of is for sure feeling lonely after a while. I think I'm a decently social guy but making an actual friendship is hard and I'm sure it would be even harder over there. This is for sure the thing that really keeps me at bay.
Thanks for the motivating video^^ I'm dreaming about someday going to Japan and hopefully stay there longterm, ofc I want to go right now and my plan was to go right after i graduate. But this video really made me rethink. I mean, it wouldn't hurt to work a extra year in my home country, and save up some extra money. Japan isn't going anywhere afterall, so there's no need for me to rush^^
I am really wanting to get a job in design. I got a degree in illustration, photography and Japanese. For now I am enjoying teaching in Japan and using my free time to develop my art. This video was good to see to make sure I stay on track because it's easy to get swept away.
Tradind long term for short term is Decadent vs Decent choices. It means, regardless of decadent or decent choices, for short term or for long term, there is a pleasure and a price. The difference is O³. Order of Operation. short-term price then long-term pleasure = Decent choice short-term pleasure then long-term price = Decadent choice. Physiologically, decency is pain before pleasure, decadence is comfort without pain. Philosophically, Decency is sensation inducing. Decadence is sensation reducing.
I've been thinking to move to Japan at some point and I'm grateful you made that video it reminded me that you need to put some extra work in something sometimes for it to really worth it! Thanks :D
I'd like to be in Japan right now, but I realised I needed to be more realistic. What I'm planning on doing is spending the next two years saving money and paying off my debts, then the three years after that will be spent at university doing a Bachelor of Arts with a double major in Japanese and Game Design - while I'm hoping to get into the JET program, this double major will hopefully allow me to get a foot in the door into the games industry (either localising games into English or actually working on games) after my time teaching is up. That's my current plan anyway, which is subject to change, but I think it's pretty solid. Just wish I had started years ago (I'm nearly 29 and have been majorly depressed and coasting on life for over 6 years), I could have been there by now.
I am already here and despite spending 3 years figuring out how to get here I still feel like I rushed it. I have long term goals and can see opportunities with paths forward but the biggest hurdle I am finding over here is maintaining the energy to be constantly swimming upstream; Days I don't do something significantly productive feel like I am sliding backwards. I have developed skills and experience without which I think I would have been flushed away by now. Anyways, time to keep swimming...:)
I lived in Japan for 2 years teaching English, and fell in love with the country and the teaching profession. But I didn’t want to be a an English conversationalist teacher there forever. The Japanese eikaiwa industry notoriously treats its employees like an infinite supply chain of expendable stock, that can be constantly renewed. Therefore, it’s an industry that lacks basic employee rights and benefits. I returned to England to gain experience in national curriculum schools and to fully qualify as a teacher at university (PGCE+QTS+NQT ). That is a long road. But when qualified, I hope to return to Japan as an international school teacher, a profession that treats you like a real professional without the low ceiling of opportunity you usually find in eikaiwas. I could then possibly hop around Asia doing serial contracts in secure and rewarding teaching employment (covid-19 pending). I haven’t stopped studying Japanese, and I continue to do my research in preparation for my return.
![PASULOL รามเกียรติ์ ตอนที่ 4 นนทกพบรัก [Ramakien Ep.4: Nonthok in love]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/tMUQgmZzf_A/mqdefault.jpg)
Hey Guys~ Thank you so much for joining today.
I hope that you get some value out of this one and I will see you again real soon (from North Carolina!)
Hey norm I may have missed this. But does Kiki have a website and will you guys ever come to Tampa FL would love to see a show
NORTH CAROLINA!!!!!😯
Tokyo Lens Thanks for the the upload!! Definitely going to think about this!...
@@jasonbaessell1207 from Twitter you might want to try www.shamisenkiki.com/
Interesting video ... I think the basic point of not going for a quick, easy, option and hoping that things will work out rather than saving and thinking things through, is true for a lot of things in life not just moving to Japan.
Personally what made me not consider moving to Japan is far simpler and impossible to do anything about ... age. Didn't really get interested in Japan till I was 30 and now I'm north of 40 I don't really have the energy to start again in a new country ... doesn't stop me visiting though 😋
Not just moving to Japan this covers life in general
Glad you caught that 😊 ❤️
1. Don't/Try to incur debt in your home country so you do not have to worry about paying it off when you are in Japan.
2. A way to save money for your trip. open another account at a bank/credit union that you have to physically go to(you do not have a bank card)have the money direct deposit to that account.
Spot on~
For me it was worth it to move to Japan right away. I was afraid of getting stuck in in my home country, and I was right. What happens to a dream deferred? If you really want to be here and are capable of building your skills here, don't hold yourself back out of fear!
i think people should save money and max out a 90 day tourist stay, to get a better feel for deciding if they will gain permanent residence and work later. even one month would help.
its better than going all out and being overwhelmed unable to find work because you didn't scope the place out for potentials first. plus you get an awesome vacation.
Very well said! Couldn’t agree more
lol I did it all by the book after falling in love with Japan after volunteering in Japan years ago. I went to University to gain a degree merely for the visa as I had the skills already from working in the design industry for many years, but I saved up, learnt the language and did so much research on where to live and work, but it took so long I got married and had a baby in that time lol. It's not so easy then to just up sticks and emigrate now with a whole family, but the dream is still there. At least they all love Japan too!
I was the "I want to go to Japan right now" girl; slacked 3 years of my life only dreaming of going to Japan while being a shut-in in my room, waiting for a miracle prize or a winner lottery ticket to get there.
Luckily, I woke up one day and said "you know what? that's not gonna happen" and now I am in my fourth year in my Engineer course :) I still feel like "ugh I want to go to Japan right now, living a good life etc etc" sometimes, but this is teaching me how to be patient and not to rush things... now I just need to stop thinking "I will be so old when I get to Japan" hahaha :)
Thanks for the reasuring video :)
I’m really glad you feel that way about the video
And I’m also really glad you shared this story~
Thank you 😊
This is exactly how I am now😂😂😂😂😂💔
How is it going?? I will go to Japan in October 2022 to study Japanese. I am also an Engineer I am doing an online master's degree in Informatics Engineering. Are you there in Japan or still planning to go?
@@Arekusuu_ how are your preparations going?
this is so motivating and demotivating at the same time
im also that same type of girl and ive been rotting away for two years now lmao
Cannot agree more! I just got my 5 year work visa to Japan, and I want to stress the fact that I am well prepared for it. What I see is Japan always welcomes highly skilled labors. So if you are serious about long term in Japan, go for the high skill route (college degree, 10+ yrs exp in your field, language skills). Working holiday is great but you might get stuck in low paying foreigner jobs. Or go for the work visa specifically for labor shortage areas like healthcare or constructions. Another route is visa thru establishing a business/investment in Japan. Good luck!
This video reminds me of a saying my mom always tells me, “ lo barato siempre sale caro” it means the cheap always turns out expensive. Doing something cheaply or half heartedly will turn bad in the end. It’s always stuck with me.
Lessons for life, really. Very nice. I lived in Japan for 5 years and totally agree with everything you said.
I've considered the idea of moving to Japan since I was in my early 20s...and now, at 37 and with nearly 10 years of business management experience, I believe I'm closer than ever to making it happen. Though I still have a ways to go (learning Japanese to at least a reasonable level of proficiency, actually visiting Japan for the first time, losing weight (while I've dropped from 309.4 lbs/140.3 kg to 262.8 lbs/119.2 kg, I still have about 78 lbs/35 kg to go to reach my goal), making sure my business can take care of itself without as much of my intervention, etc.)...but I know if I'd moved there at, say, 25 or 26, I'd probably have been back here in the States before I was out of my 20s, likely for some combination of the reasons you listed. I'm also working on getting into photography and videography...looking at buying a nice camera rather soon (a Canon R5C), and putting in the time and practice to learn what I need to know (and maybe a few things I don't necessarily need to know, but should probably know anyway). I always enjoy watching your videos...your insight is much appreciated :) .
This video made me feel a lot more confident. I'm attempting to teach English in Japan very soon and going through the interview process. Watching this has assured me that I"m going about things in a responsible way, though I am a lot older than the typical person trying to move there long term. I'm hoping to bolster my Japanese language skills and eventually transition into a job in my field. I've been a professional designer and illustrator for over 9 years now and I"m hoping that will carry some weight once I get my Japanese in tip-top shape! When I was younger I was anxious to hurry up and go, but I'm kind of glad I took my time in hindsight. I've gained a lot of skills that will help me in teaching and in my career path! Fingers crossed anyway.
Thanks for making this video! I think it's pretty important to have reality checks from time to time with regard to this whole concept.
so true, i went to japan without developing my skills to the level that allows me to earn enough to live for long term and here i am back in my country after 3 years..... time to work on those SKILLS!
The videos where you talk from experience and give advice are my favorites. Thanks a ton!
I really appreciated your video! I'm currently planing and thinking about working and living in Japan and I now feel more clam and relaxed about waiting that little bit longer to go to Japan. Have an awesome day!
Definitely true. I did opt to come to Japan earlier by coming to college in Japan, but now my life kind of revolves around planning what jobs experience I need to get to work in a field that I would like once I graduate. I still have a few years before I graduate, but I want to be ready and prepared to obtain that working visa with as little complications as possible. Its true that its hard to work at something that isn't guaranteed but if its something you want to truely do, I think its a risk you have to be prepared to take and invest in the long-run
Just rewatched it after deciding to go to university again to get a degree I can do stuff with and that maybe enables me to move to Japan easier. Feel very validated and even though it's going to take me a while, I'll be happier than if I were to hastily move right now. Great vid!
I dreamed to move to japan for a few years and didn't know what i wanted to do for a job. I changed my fields of study every year for 5 years but now in my early 20's i have decided to make my dream true and enrolled to night highschool and have clear plans to go to the university, meanwhile i'm learning japanese online. This video has helped a lot to make my fiiling of "i want to move to japan right now!" Subside.
I am currently working my butt off to become a midwife in Japan. It's my dream and my Japanese is not at N1 level yet so just working on language at the moment. I'm looking to transfer into vocational nursing school in three years.
I've wanted to live in Japan since I was 4 so I'm well aware of how long it takes to get there.
Thank you for this video! Long term, when it's your goal, can be frustrating to achieve and requires patience.
Definitely helpful man. I've been thinking about making that move and I had thought about the points you made but being informed directly from someone who is living there is great. Thanks man.
I don't know why but your videos makes me a little bit emotional, I can feel your passion through the video.
Thank you very much for inspiring us!☺️
I just need to say thank you for this video Norm. Been trying to tie up some loose ends here in the states so I can move back to Japan long-term. I can get pretty depressed missing Japan and the people I left there. Takes everything not to just hop on a plane. This video really cheered me up, lot of encouragement here.
Great advise, friend. Impatience is a beast. Even though I'm not actively working/saving towards moving to another country, it's nice to have such a calm reminder to take my time and to do the things i need to do correctly, even if it will take me a little longer.
I actually really needed this. I love currently studying masters, and there are basically no good options in English in Japan for what I do. I've been planning on moving to Tokyo (even if just for a year) for over six years now, but kinda felt that it wasn't the right time yet. This has encouraged me the I'm actually on a good path, so thanks for the perspective!
Interesting video, from personal experience I did my studies then work experience in countries I was familiar with (and could speak the language) after some years working around Europe I was offered a job in Japan without ever having been there, so I agree that acquiring strong skills is important and I was in a good position then to move. It's trickier now as I am in the UK wanting to go back to Japan but I have children and they don't speak Japanese, so taking it slowly is what I am doing again, we go once a year, for as long as we can, I am looking for location independent work and we'll see what happens, it pays to be smart I think even if you don't see a result immediately.
@Francesca Rao What kind of experience did you have when you received a job opportunity in Japan?
Definitely needed this video, I can't stop thinking about Japan but if I want to live there long term I need to think of the bigger picture.
This is important but for students, you can also gain skills while in school if you choose to attend university in Japan. Part of school IS figuring your life out. I think transferable skills are most important to someone who already has a degree and is looking to move because most students don't have real skills. I mean, that's how natives learn skills right hahah. I've been the "I want to move to Japan fast" person for years but never did anything until 2 years ago. I went and finished my associates and got accepted to a university in Tokyo and will be moving there this August. I plan on exploring options while in school and using English teaching as a foot hold after graduation while I gain enough language experience to be at an employable level. While I don't really have a career passion, I do have a passion for the country and culture so my main thing I will be looking at I think is tourism so I can help others experience the country. Even if I'm stuck teaching English, there are many of those jobs that pay quite well and many of my friends actually ended up staying an ALT because they loved it.
It's very difficult to get a feel for things while not living somewhere so this may change once I get closer to graduation, but for now I'm focused on my move to Tokyo, finishing my bachelors, then getting a steady teaching job while I learn the language and explore tourism opportunities. Maybe I could even find one right out of uni, we'll never know until we're there!
A lot of really great advice in this video. Not just ‘common sense’ things, but hard truths that people tend to look away from until it’s too late. Definitely something for everyone to watch while they figure out their plan for moving to Japan.
I have so many thoughts on this topic, that I literally can't write anything meaningful. I had been stuck for years in this dream without actually being able to visit this country. It took me so long to actually find out what I really want to do in my life - to work with camera and video editing. I've been learning a lot for a few months already but there's still a lot to be learnt - and I'm almost 27. So I hope, that if I would ever move to Japan, I would be able to do my dream job over there. It would took me hours to say everything, that I'd like to say, so instead, I will just tell: Thank you for clarifying this particular topic. Not many people are telling about this so it's awesome, that you've done that 🥰
So happy u made this video, I feel so reaffirmed!! I graduated from university 2 yrs ago now and studied abroad in Japan while I was in university, that’s what really made me realize I could live there long term, I’ve saved up enough to go, but I’m still paying off the little debt I had from student loans I’m so close this time next year I’ll have my teaching certificate and a whole two years in management, my year lease will have ended, and I’ll finally be living in Japan a goal I’ve had for over 10 yrs now! Started in highschool when I was 17 and I’ll be 27 when I leave it’s taking ALOT of time but I’ve been determined to go and have enjoyed my life experiences so much along the way 🥰
Did you go?
Thank you for making this video. This is something that has been weighing on me personally for a while I think it’s really hard watching others on TH-cam enjoying Japan and not wanting to be there instantly. Kind of like you said in your Kiki video you never want to sacrifice long-term goals for Instant gratification. Thanks for the reminder that the work is always worth it. 💕
This a very good advice which is true for every country and not only Japan. Knowing the language and having the right skill sets will benefit them everywhere but a lot of people are underestimating this often, unfortunately
Your videos keep on being some of the most helpful when dealing with the serious part of making this kind of decision. I went to Japan last November and stayed for a bit more than a month. I wanted to know how I felt there, and while it's obvious that travelling and living are totally different, being there felt so right. Now I'm planning to move, so I can totally relate to this video. Part of me wants to do it right away, mainly due to fear that I'm not getting any younger and time goes by really fast. But I'm trying to hold off on that decision until I'm prepared to actually go through with it, mainly with the language and the professional skills that will help me land a job there (about to start a Master's degree). Thanks again!
I think you're right, Norm. It's crucial to have something to fall back on to at least avoid the anxiety of not only being in a new, unfamiliar place around new people, but also having financial struggles...
Still, I think that even though I'd love to live in Japan, having just about any skills and experience won't do. First and foremost, a person should find something they enjoy doing. Sure, not always a hobby can become a job, but if it does, it's a blessing. Then they should study it - whether on their own or through college/university. Never be afraid that it might be too late for starting something. Do things so that you never regret doing them. I regret not opposing being pushed to finish studies in engineering and science. I didn't finish, because I broke mentally, because I couldn't see myself or any sense in what I was doing. The pressure was too much and only made my health worse and worse... And although I don't regret getting knowledge from that experience and learning a lot about myself... It definitely would have been better for both my physical and mental health if I followed my intuition instead of trying to please my family and live up to their expectations - which, by the way, seemed to be quite short-term: expectations of succeeding soon and showing results at every step instead of slowly and steadily building the foundation.
My point being: I agree that it takes time to be able to meet your goals, but a person shouldn't see only the goals, they should be able to appreciate the journey, too. Because if moving to Japan would mean I would have to sacrifice something valuable (health/ truly valuable relationships/etc) on the way, then I'd say the goal isn't worth the sacrifice.
I went to Tokyo three times as vacation, loved every second of it, then I had to find out the hard way that I will more than likely never be able to move there, even though it would help me physically and mentally.
I have lived with anxiety and depression for over 22 years, Japan and especially Tokyo would help me greatly to live a decently normal life, problem is that I won't be able to because of my depression and anxiety... or more on the note the lack of education and degrees.
When I left school(I was bullied) I left it without any grades, not even from junior high school, and it sucks.
However, to those that can work and save money and that, I hope you guys all the best and hope you have an amazing experience in Japan.
You ever get into mindfulness meditation? That's helped me a lot with anxiety and depression. I'm not crippled by those things anymore.
@@Ziggy9000 I've tried and it hasnt worked :(
This is soooooo accurate. Thank god I didn’t fall in that trap. I’m good but I got a few friends that are stuck in 英会話 and Covid didn’t help them. I got to Japan stayed a 1year, went home finished my degree and went back and now have a 100K + job while my friends are scraping by on 30K or less.
what kind of job is the 100K job you have if you dont mind me asking?
Wow, nice video! First time I listen at someone speaking abut this topic in such accurate terms.
That's exactly what happened to me. I came to Japan in 2017 with a Working Holiday Visa, and even though I LOVED the country, I realised I had to go back to Spain, study something that could be considered a highly valuable professional skill in Japan, and then come back (nowadays I'm a Back End Engineer).
Hey Norm, thanks for making this video on a topic that I don’t see other j-youtubers talk about. I have observed that many people do want to move to Japan when they’re quite young, sometimes I find myself in that mindset and your video really helps, like a wake up call. Thanks for sharing!
I'm 31 now, but I'll be visiting Japan for the first time in a few months. Living in Japan, even for a short time, has been an interest of mine for quite a while. I should've taken more of an initiative in this regard over a decade ago, but I don't feel it's out of my reach even now. If I can't manage it, and I find that I like visiting, I'll just do that as often as I can justify it and finances will allow. I'll have a hard go of it choosing to move there even if I can, since I have a good job here in the states as it is.
Anyway, I'm saying if you're young you shouldn't be too concerned about getting there as fast as possible. That is, as long as you figure out what I have only just now realized -- start your journey with any small step you can. Learn the language, work on your credentials, just do something at whatever pace you can and you'll get there in one way or another.
Thank you so much Norm, sharing this side of the coin (expecially from someone who has experienced the situation) is so important! The "here and now" problem is so undervalued nowadays, paradoxically is kinda a giult not doing something without thinking. Just thank you for this video ❤️
Love the videos Norm! Will be moving to Tokyo at the end of June. Already settled my visa, my accommodation etc. Will be documenting my whole year trip! # Excited and Nervous lol
I will be subbing!
Yes No Thanks for the support! It really means a lot !
Please share the series with me!
I can’t wait to see how the journey goes!!
Tokyo Lens Thank you Norm! This whole TH-camJapan community really feels like a backbone to me. Makes me feel like I’m not alone on this one! And trust me I’ll be personally DM’ing you the videos I put out starting in July! 😂 Anyways keep doing what you’re doing man. Always puts a smile on my face when I see a Tokyo Lens video!
I agree 100%. It's why I'm studying my diploma of TESOL, studying Japanese in Tokyo, and then doing a Bachelor's degree specific for teaching English in order to get to Japan. It'll take me 5 years but it'll be worth the wait and the effort.
Love this video! I would have loved to see this in 2009 as that time I went around the end of November to Gunma Prefecture and stayed at my sister+brother in law’s place in Ota (太田) and after being there for 2 weeks, wanted to sell everything I had, teach English, and move to Japan. I studied Japanese for the university in Ohio and studied abroad in Japan for 2 summers.
I even emailed someone in Japan for the Japanese branch that for the company that I work for to see what opportunities might be available but there was never any response.
My dad said our family would not be treated as other Japanese people and our kids would be bullied for not being fully Japanese (I am half Chinese and half Thai).
While my plan was only the rosy side of Japan as I have been there already 3 times prior, in the end, I didn’t make the move. My wife wanted to stay and learn in the US and I would have struggled as well I terms of while I was in IT, I provided desktop support already for 9 years already.
10 years later, I have been with the same company for 19 years now and have gone to Japan 4 more times and see Japan as more as a place to visit. Since I live in LA, Japan is just 10-11 hours away! Wishing you a safe trip back to the US!
Great message Norm. Patience is a virtue. Planning is really important as most people would be completely alone in Japan or any country. Navigation of finding a place to live, opening a bank account, getting a license, etc can be frustrating without help, in another language that you don't understand.
Helpful video! I am currently heavily considering moving to Japan and you're videos like this are very helpful in preparing to make the move. You have given me more things to consider. So thank you!
The flip side of the enthusiasm rush is the delay down turn. Hard to find an energy balance between 'it has to happen now' and 'it is taking so long it is never going to happen' but it helps if you know they are both to be expected.
I’m thinking of applying to be an ALT after I finish collage/university in a few years so these sorts of things are really helpful. Thanks Norm ❤️
Awesome, it's the best first step, but what do you want to do with your life. What interests you most?
Find a career that you want to do then when you're working here in Japan you can then do some language schools and then transfer the degree you focused on, like IT for example, which you can then use to do what you love in Japan.
My Japanese financé speaks decent English and works in a international company using English a lot of the day, but Japanese mainly as a IT Engineer.
If you don't look to the long term outside the typical ALT jobs, then if you hate it, you have nothing to fall back on.
IT is a big field here, and if you research what jobs are in high demand here in Japan, especially for bilinguals, you're going to have so much options outside being an Assistant Teacher your whole life.
I'd say while you're in school take a Japanese course along with it. Then you have the language to open up so many possibilities in Japan.
Good luck!
Kat in Japan I know it’s sounds like it came from shallow thought but I’ve wanted to be an English language teacher. I wanted to go to Japan to be an ALT and get some experience teaching at an international level. After which I will go back to the UK and try to gain a teaching qualification from TEFL and maybe gain some experience within the UK. I’d hope to go back to Japan and work more but I’d depending on how long it will take me to grasp the language , that will determine the level of teaching I will look for.
@@Its-Kat_ I know your comment was a while ago but I needed to express my hate for this IT example that everyone seems to offer, especially now during a pandemic. Oh, so easy let's work in IT, really? not everyone is made for IT, for example I have been a cabin crew for the last 4 years of my life and I love the customer service industry which is now DEAD, how can I go to IT? My career is dead for the moment. Maybe I am lashing out at your example but I see more and more people offering this IT example. And customer service skill is not transferable to anything I would say, we just have to start from zero with other skills, which sucks, I'm not getting any younger.
I've been wanting to go to Japan for a pretty long time now. Went to university and am actively studying the language. The issue is mainly money (third world problems) and finding work that side from here. Hell, I can scarcely find work in my own country... I tried JET a couple of years ago but failed. I don't really have any teaching experience and I wasn't at university anymore when I tried so... It's not an easy goal, but one that will hopefully be worth it in the long term.
It’s totally me! I’m graduating this year and thought about going to Japan and work as an English Teacher, but I don’t want to be a teacher long term. So learning skills of work that I’d love to do is truly important. Oh I guess I’d gain more experience in my country first then
So useful! And excellent point about the visas... thousands of people have obtained and struggled with visas so the information is out there. Just because you think you should get a visa because you really want one, doesn't mean you will. And we have to respect the regulations that countries put in place to manage their immigration. Saying that... I don't know how many success stories I have seen of people living their dreams in Japan, yourself included Norm.
If you want it, go for it and just be reasonable about your planning then you can have a more amazing time in Japan than you ever expected.
You make great informative videos and talk about a lot of great things. I’ve wanted to live there for so long, it’s the reason I decided on a Linguistics degree in college. Unfortunately, the college did not properly inform on certain things and I was too young to ask or search for myself. Never even thought about it, because I assumed they would. Never assume!! Now, I have kids and it looks pretty bleak for my dream, BUT I finally worked through some anxieties (whole other story and problems) and bought my first plane ticket to visit my sister in Japan! I’m so excited to visit. :)
Very good advice for anyone who is thinking of building a career at home or in another country. Lots of things to weigh. Immediate opportunity vs. more preparation, etc. It is always wise to have funds. Thanks for the video!
Wow. Thanks alot Norm. Thanks for taking your timer to share this valuable information with us.🙏
And thank you for taking the time to always watch and comment
Means the world to me, mate~
I wanted to live in Japan, but I think my want to get out of where I am currently was escapism. Not that I would not want to live there, but given my situation and health situation (don't worry I am health... just information on my disease is not commonly treated the same from city to city in my on state. Let alone state to state, or country to country. I have a good standing on it now I don't want to risk.). Ivthink Japan is a vacation spot for me. I will continue reseach on aybe moving there in the future, but moving is too much risk in that area. So 2 week visits will be my adventure for now. Will return in 2021 for sure. You two have fun in NC, and we want twitter photos... lol
I think it’s always important to have “your” vacation spot as well~
It’s good that you have the self awareness though. Always solid respect for you mate!
This is the first video of yours that I’ve seen, and it was really positive and helpful-and overall more than what I expected from just the title (and the numerous vlogs by disillusioned ALTs and some very bitter, jaded expats). I’m in my mid 30s and am seriously considering moving back to Japan long term. Right now I’m in the middle of completing degrees, building skills, and paying off debts, and that takes up most of my life. sometimes I’m scared I’m wasting my younger years in needless pursuit of being able to move back very close to age 40. This video is valuable in helping me remember that I’m taking a longer term approach for my personal growth and goals.
Having a degree is probably the most difficult issue to getting to Japan. Most people don’t like to study or don’t want to commit to graduate. With money you can save up slowly but surely.
Honestly, I’m on exchange right now in Tokyo and I’m reaching the end of it. I’ve been thinking about my future and if Japan is right for me and this video really just brought light to all my doubts and honestly, I think it really helped reassure me that this is what I want to do. It’s such a huge decision and I’m not entirely sure about all the details, but this is where I want to be and I think the effort is worth it. I really needed this message and I genuinely thank you for making this.
If u have the time, please share on your experience on living in Tokyo and how it has motivated you to want to live there if that's what you want. I'm an American and am playing with the idea of studying abroad but not sure how or when but i love Japan so much and want to take initiative but plan ahead. I hope you read this thank you
@@emmanuelledaavila8321 Honestly, the decision to come here was very spontaneous. I'd decided in 2017 to finish my degree and do the JET program, but then I learnt about my school's study abroad program and decided to apply.
While it's not exactly what I expected, remembering that I'm here (which is something I would have never expected of me tbh), really pushes me through tough days. I think it's important to realize that you WILL always be an outsider in Japan, but that doesn't mean people are rushing to avoid you. While here, I've only really experienced people wanting to share their culture with me and be patient when I fumble over Japanese.
Overall, going on exchange, for me, was one of the best decisions I've made and I do highly recommend it. Coming into it with an open mind and being willing to adapt is key to living here, but overall, I really would recommend it. I've made not only Japanese friends but friends all over the world and irreplaceable ones at that.
Ultimately, your exchange is what you make it. If you love Japan, you've probably done research on the culture and what's appropriate so you'll be solid on that.
I'm sorry if this is vague! You're welcome to send me a message on social media if you have any specific questions and I can answer to the best of my ability. (My social media is on my youtube channel.)
I got a long term plan about my dream of living in Japan but it involves getting a business manager visa and ofc learning the language. And getting my business together here so I can do the same in Japan.
Very good advice dude. I took a couple of years to get everything ready for my move to Hawaii including saving as much as I could so that I would have a good head start and not feel obligated to compramise. I had years of experience working in the hospitality industry so I knew I could get a good job and didn't just leap at the first thing offerred. These two things were a big help in setting up a new life here.
Love this video! My family is working on moving to Japan and the options because of having a degree and a marketable job changes a lot of things. It's more work, but I think it'll pay off. This video is encouraging to me that we made the right choice. Thanks for all you do!
My wife is a Japanese national, and once we get a spouse visa, we're moving out there to help her family with their business. They own a bakery chain with 5 stores, the original being in Bizen from over 100 years ago, and they'll be opening their newest on in Osaka station at the end of October. They want us to manage that shop, and (eventually) have my wife take over the company since they're about 9 years from retirement. I'm super excited, and your videos have been a great help.
Very well said. I'm preparing to move in a few years. Although I have been doing a lot of work and research to prepare, there are some things that I have been trying to rush through. This is the hard truth that I needed to hear to slow down a little. Great channel, great videos!
Thanks Norm needed to hear this 😊 made me feel so much better that I don’t need to rush and you’re right thank you 👍🏼
This is a great point and at the same time a really heavy one. Amazing advice !
When you said about people watching the video like "that's me!" I actually got a little emotional 😂 as it is me.
I know the video is 4 years old and some Visa stuff has changed since, but I literally have 68 tabs open on my phone researching the best way myself, my husband and our 10 year old can move to Japan. And it looks like the good old time, patience and money are what we'll have to deal with now after our amazing Japan adventure just last month. Also, researching if we need to get a degree 😅 Hoping that Japan does bring out a digital nomad visa soon 🤞
Thank you for the amazing content, you actually kept me going when I was planning our Japan holiday this year, and now for our desire to move.
Thank you so much Norm! This video was so helpful. I m always stressed about getting to japan before my thirthies but this motivated me to stick to my plan and do things right even if that takes much more effort and time. Love from Belgium x
Thanks for making this video and every other video too (so amazing to see that you quit your job and went full time :D). Wish this video was available 3/4 years ago. Congrats on 40k+ subscribers :D
I think that the Working Holiday Visa is probably the best way to see what Japan is like without actually committing to Japan. Ie treat it like a long holiday (what is actually supposed to be :D )
That is why its better to become a "specialist" in a work field that one enjoys and have strong financial position to be able to move anywhere whenever possible :)
I really agree that moving to Japan (or any country) is in most cases a long term plan. Plus being in Japan (or any dream country) will not be a magic solution (there will be problems there too hehe)
I would say I can definitely relate. I've been interested in moving to and working in Japan for a little while now. I've been looking into the JET and other programs, though the difficult thing is definitely the Bachelor's Degree. When I was in school I finished my Associates but then found an amazing job, teaching circus skills to students from elementary to high school, with just that 2 year degree. I've been talking on and off to ALT recruiting programs to see if I can use my Associates along with my teaching experience to see if that would count towards eligibility as I've been out of school for so long, the idea of going back for another 2 years to finish a degree seems daunting to say the least. I'm doing research though and seeing what other skills I can build that can help accomplish my goals of moving, working, and successfully living in Japan (including learning Japanese of course).
I hope everyone out there can find some success and motivation/help from this and other videos like it.
Thanks, from Rhode Island, keep up the amazing videos. ^_^
Thank you so much for the kind and detailed comment. Means a lot and I’m really grateful that you feel that way about this vid~
Wishing you all the best of luck!
Just watched this video for the first time even though I've been following for a while now.
Just before watching I decided against just going to Japan for 1 year on working holiday to learn the language and see where that takes me. Instead I'll now be going back to university to finally get my degree and learn Japanese here so I'm fully prepared to some day move to Japan. This video just convinced me that that was the right decision after all, thanks you!
Thank you for the valuable, wise words.
As you say, on the surface it seems to be fairly simple, straight forward advice but it is so important to know.
It's O.K. to have stars in your eyes as long as you also have your feet on the ground.
Be prepared, take a rational approach and that will give you a strong foundation so that you can concentrate on making your long-term life in Japan the best it can be.
Definitely worth watching more than once.
Wow, thank you so much for this. And it's so timely too. I was just considering changing fields in order to move to Japan asap but what you're saying makes so much sense. Since I do want to live there long term I will take the long road and develope more skills in the industry I love. I am a park ranger (wildlife resource management) in the US and I will just have to do more research on what areas in Japan my skill set would apply to, rather than teaching English which I know I would hate!
Thank you so much for this video😢. You really helped me get on the RIGHT track to Japan because living there long-term is something I want.
Thank you for making videos addressing these topics! I‘m sure this will help some people and when it’s my time to maybe think about moving to Japan I will definitely come back to this! But first i gotta pass my final exams this month lol
Best of luck in your exams!!
There's only one comment I can add to what you've said in this excellent video: in order to play the long game and plan ahead properly, it's really important to have a strong clear vision of where you want to end up. It's really really difficult to stick to a plan for the future that's vague and nebulous.
For me I feel like it's the reverse. I keep waiting and fretting and over planning. But not actually going.
this was actually very helpful because i only have a vague idea rn of what i want to do when it comes to moving/working in japan and i don't want to make a mistake just because i'm anxious to be there
Rewatched this again after having set achievable steps for living in Japan within the next 10 years. A lot of what you said has sunk in more than the first time - maybe because of a more open mindset..
I also have a bunch of questions so I will ask you through DMs sometime
Anyway, thanks a bunch for making this video Norm!
This was inspirational. Thank you.
Literally the video I needed right now, I'm pretty much in the exact situation your describing wanting to go to Japan as soon as I'm out of college... Long term goals are extremely hard for me, I go on and off working on them every other week, even though I may not stop give up on them entirely it's really really hard for me to work on them each day because of video games and TH-cam and etc. How were you able to drop Netflix and etc. to work on video editing day in and day out Norm? Because it seems no matter what I do right now I keep falling back into my short term pleasures again and again.
Excellent. Thanks, I agree, as a multiple visit backpacker in the 1980s- the solitude in Tokyo, especially, was intense. For me, the then Hong Kong was the best "longer term" fit. I was there briefly a 3rd time in 2019, and it was a very similar vibe, felt familiar. I admire your work very much. Cheers1
The music sounded quite a bit like 5CPS Norm, great choice to accompany this topic. Thanks a lot for you're insight into this matter. I am looking to move to Japan long term within the next 8 years and from the small amount of financial research I have done, I cannot stress that money seems like a large factor in the whole process. Enjoy the rest of your day
Thank you SO much for this video! It really has helped put into perspective the benefits of not rushing! We would LOVE to live in Japan, but as of right now there's no way for us to get a Visa but maybe one day! Until then we'll keep traveling and working toward our goals!
Thanks for the video Norm.. I’m not sure if I want to live long term in Japan mostly due to having a family with young children. But I have always wanted to do more than just visit Japan, so we have decided that because I’m returning to school to become a teacher that once I graduate I will get an English teaching job in Japan. We believe this will help us decide if we want to make the move permanent or I can always return to the States and tech. It’s just feels odd considering such a change in my early 40’s.
Bookmarked. I really needed this
A life lesson that applies to everything. Thanks Norm.
Really Good Advice , thought .. I think that the biggest problem for me would be getting comfortable before going to Japan .
I'm living here on the JET program. I'm going to work hard to improve my japanese, and study marketable skills here. I got a long way to go, but I'll try my best.
You hit it! Top quality. Here’s proof that you can come to Japan and be a CEO of a Japanese firm ... with the right skills and the right passion. You’ve energized people to EMPOWER themselves!!!
Even though there's alot of hard details to take care of, I think the thing I'm most scared of is for sure feeling lonely after a while. I think I'm a decently social guy but making an actual friendship is hard and I'm sure it would be even harder over there. This is for sure the thing that really keeps me at bay.
The words of this video came in the right time for me, thank you for creating content like this
Thank you for taking the time to watch
Thanks for the motivating video^^ I'm dreaming about someday going to Japan and hopefully stay there longterm, ofc I want to go right now and my plan was to go right after i graduate. But this video really made me rethink. I mean, it wouldn't hurt to work a extra year in my home country, and save up some extra money. Japan isn't going anywhere afterall, so there's no need for me to rush^^
I am really wanting to get a job in design. I got a degree in illustration, photography and Japanese. For now I am enjoying teaching in Japan and using my free time to develop my art. This video was good to see to make sure I stay on track because it's easy to get swept away.
Tradind long term for short term is Decadent vs Decent choices.
It means, regardless of decadent or decent choices, for short term or for long term, there is a pleasure and a price.
The difference is O³. Order of Operation.
short-term price then long-term pleasure = Decent choice
short-term pleasure then long-term price = Decadent choice.
Physiologically, decency is pain before pleasure, decadence is comfort without pain.
Philosophically,
Decency is sensation inducing.
Decadence is sensation reducing.
I've been thinking to move to Japan at some point and I'm grateful you made that video it reminded me that you need to put some extra work in something sometimes for it to really worth it! Thanks :D
I'd like to be in Japan right now, but I realised I needed to be more realistic. What I'm planning on doing is spending the next two years saving money and paying off my debts, then the three years after that will be spent at university doing a Bachelor of Arts with a double major in Japanese and Game Design - while I'm hoping to get into the JET program, this double major will hopefully allow me to get a foot in the door into the games industry (either localising games into English or actually working on games) after my time teaching is up.
That's my current plan anyway, which is subject to change, but I think it's pretty solid. Just wish I had started years ago (I'm nearly 29 and have been majorly depressed and coasting on life for over 6 years), I could have been there by now.
I am already here and despite spending 3 years figuring out how to get here I still feel like I rushed it. I have long term goals and can see opportunities with paths forward but the biggest hurdle I am finding over here is maintaining the energy to be constantly swimming upstream; Days I don't do something significantly productive feel like I am sliding backwards. I have developed skills and experience without which I think I would have been flushed away by now. Anyways, time to keep swimming...:)
I just liked the video cuz for your honesty..
and just experiencing the truth ,
What you described....
it was raining heavily but it didn't stop me from visiting asakusa and tsukiji.
Niiiiice
Both great areas in the rain though~
@@TokyoLens yeah. but i did manage to go for sanja matsuri on the last day. sadly didn't have much time to look around for heavily tattooed yakuzas.
I lived in Japan for 2 years teaching English, and fell in love with the country and the teaching profession. But I didn’t want to be a an English conversationalist teacher there forever. The Japanese eikaiwa industry notoriously treats its employees like an infinite supply chain of expendable stock, that can be constantly renewed. Therefore, it’s an industry that lacks basic employee rights and benefits. I returned to England to gain experience in national curriculum schools and to fully qualify as a teacher at university (PGCE+QTS+NQT ). That is a long road. But when qualified, I hope to return to Japan as an international school teacher, a profession that treats you like a real professional without the low ceiling of opportunity you usually find in eikaiwas. I could then possibly hop around Asia doing serial contracts in secure and rewarding teaching employment (covid-19 pending). I haven’t stopped studying Japanese, and I continue to do my research in preparation for my return.
Thank you! this really motivates me, no 🧢