This week’s guest post comes from Felicity, an Australian JET living in Fukushima. She writes about her romance with a Japanese man. Just before I got on a plane to Japan to join the JET Programme in July, 2012, my mother told me, “You won’t come back again now. You’ll marry a Japanese boy and […] Read more…
How to Prepare for Typhoons in Japan
Japan is very prone to natural disasters like earthquakes, tsunamis, and typhoons. While most of us in affected areas keep calm like the Japanese do, we still need to be prepared. Okinawa is very typhoon prone and I know a few things about coasting through them gracefully. Luckily, the buildings in Okinawa are made of concrete and built […] Read more…
How to Survive Winter in Japan
Let’s get down to the nitty gritty shall we? Japan lacks proper insulation. Some of us may come from colder climates (like me, who comes from Chicago and our winters are no joke) so we think, “I’m a trooper! I’ll be fine.” No, really, it’s not a joke. I have JET friends in Hokkaido who keep […] Read more…
JET Program: Tokyo Orientation FAQ
Going to Japan for the first or [insert number here] time can be a wonderful, exciting and joyous time. If you’re reading this post, you’re most likely new to the rodeo so Gina Bear is here to help answer your questions and make your transition to the Land of the Rising Sun easier. Like you, […] Read more…
Advice for Moving to Japan
I think as someone who lived in Japan for three years, there are some things I wish I knew before arrival. A new country means lots of changes, but we also shouldn’t forget some of our own values in the process. This guide is to help you as you prepare to move to Japan and […] Read more…
How To Apply to Teach in Korea from Overseas
This blog post is dedicated to on how to apply to teach in Korea from overseas and how to do the paperwork in a timely and headache free manner. Doing this process from overseas can be frustrating and may end up making you give up. I want you to know you’re not alone. I went […] Read more…
Why is Dating Hard for Foreign Women in Japan?
Dating is hard anywhere. Why is dating hard for foreign women in Japan? Throw in a new culture, language, and country and BAM. You’ve got a recipe for confusion. In my experience, dating in Japan is hard. Don’t get me wrong, I’m definitely attracted to Japanese guys! I think they’ve got great hair and eyes, […] Read more…
How to Prepare to Leave JET
For JETs that are choosing to leave Japan and venture into their next step, I have compiled a list of things to make your transition easier. Leaving is a hard decision and the leaving process is even harder. The transition out is a sad one and Japan will forever be a part of you. The […] Read more…
The Southeast Botanical Gardens in Okinawa
Okinawa is so full of pretties and wonderful things to do. Sometimes the most underrated places are the best. The Southeast Botanical Gardens are a hidden gem in the middle of the island. If you like nature, petting animals, and organic food, then this awesome outdoor park is for you. Check out this site and […] Read more…
Cheating in Japan
The divorce rate in Japan is low, but why? While it is a social taboo, there’s still some underlying factors. Social outings in Japan are a very important part of making connections. It’s a way to become friends with your workmates and foster a good workplace ethic. Most of these parties start with the first party […] Read more…