Welcome to Japan: My Tips

Sophia Fanning 

Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy, Economics  

2024 Semester 2, Exchange at Tokyo University of Foreign Studies 

Moving to Japan for my exchange has been an eye opening experience. The culture, language, and daily routines are so different from what I’m used to back in Australia, but that’s what makes it exciting. Over time, I’ve picked up some tips that have made my life here easier. So, for anyone who’s just arrived or is planning to go to Japan, I hope these tips help make your transition smoother, giving you more time to enjoy all the country offers!  

1. Language  

One of the first hurdles I encountered upon arriving in Japan was the language barrier. While I had studied Japanese for several years, I quickly realised that everyday conversations and interactions often require more than just textbook knowledge. Although many road signs in major cities feature English translations, it can still be hard to get around without knowing some degree of Japanese. This is especially the case when eating in smaller shops or when asking for directions. Simple greetings like 'konnichiwa' (hello) or 'arigatou gozaimasu' (thank you) go a long way in showing respect and willingness to engage with the local culture. Moreover, during moments when I struggle to communicate, tools like Google Translate helped me navigate everything from restaurant menus to train station signs. Overall, I would greatly recommend memorising some basic phrases before your arrival, and get familiar with translation apps.  

2. Food  

Aside from language, another of my obstacles was figuring out food in Japan. When it comes to grocery shopping, Japanese staples like eggs and tofu can be quite affordable. Yet, I quickly learned that fresh fruit and vegetables are generally very pricey, with apples and tomatoes going for up to $3 AUD each! These high grocery prices made eating out a cheaper alternative at times. Many local restaurants sell filling meals for under $8 AUD, so eating out can save you money and allow you to sample traditional Japanese food. Additionally, the university cafeteria is a must for grabbing lunch in between classes. Japanese universities usually offer a variety of cheap, nutritious options, such as ramen, udon or rice, as well as side dishes such as salads or desserts for under a dollar. Most days, I can eat a full meal for less than $7 AUD. So, if you find that cooking is too tiresome, and fresh groceries are too expensive, the cafeteria or local restaurants are a great way to eat healthy without breaking the bank. 

3. Transportation  

After figuring out where to eat and shop for groceries, the next tip is to get a handle on transportation. Japan’s public transportation is well organised and efficient, and it is a popular option for many people. After arriving, I would recommend purchasing a Suica or Pasmo card to make moving around easier. These transportation cards are rechargeable at all train stations, and allow you to travel on both trains and buses all across Japan. And, it can also be used like a credit card at convenience stores or vending machines.  

4. Travel  

Furthermore, one of the specialties of living in Japan is being able to travel the country easily. Studying in Tokyo has given me the convenience of being able to visit nearby places such as Yokohama, Kakmura or Mount Fuji as a day trip. Places a bit further away such as Kyoto or Osaka, would require a couple nights stay. So, the best time to go is during the term breaks. My key takeaway from planning these travels is to book in advance. Sometimes, highly popular places like Kyoto requires plane tickets and hotels to be booked months in advance. Even when I was booking 3 weeks in advance, the majority of hotels were all completely sold out, so I would really recommend planning ahead.  

Overall, my exchange in Japan has been a wonderful experience that I will cherish. That said, my final tip for you is to stay positive, enjoy, and have an amazing time!