Hey everyone,
I've been living in Japan for a while now, and I thought I’d share some observations about everyday life here. Nothing too extreme—just the real deal about what I've experienced.
1. Smart Energy Use
Japan uses a 200V electrical system, which was a bit different from the 220V I was used to back in Korea. My Korean hair dryer didn’t work properly here, so I switched to the dorm’s dryer made for 200V. And the streetlights here are pretty cool—they stay off all night and only light up when someone walks by, because they have sensors that detect movement. It’s a simple idea, but it works well.
2. Pricing That Feels Like a Second America
One thing that caught my eye is how prices are set up. Every product clearly shows the tax on its package, so what you see is what you pay—kind of like in America. Sometimes you can even see the original price before tax, which makes it all very transparent.
3. Organized Waste Management
Garbage disposal in Japan is surprisingly detailed. In my area, trash is sorted into five different categories, and you need to use specific bags for each type. At first, it was a bit of a hassle to figure out, but it really shows how seriously they take recycling and keeping things tidy.
4. Modern, Comfortable Restrooms
Japanese restrooms are on another level—clean, modern, and comfortable. They often come with heated seats and automatic washing features, and are designed to be accessible for everyone, including people with disabilities. It’s a refreshing change from the old-style toilets I was used to.
5. Nothing’s Free—Things Can Be Pricey
One downside is that a lot of things can be expensive here. Take parking, for example—finding a spot near the city center is tough, and if you do, it might cost around $15 an hour. It’s just one of those realities of living in a busy city.
6. High-Quality Food
The food in Japan is really good. Even everyday items like eggs are top quality—the yolks have a rich, vibrant color. I’ve heard that Japanese beef is among the best in the world, though I’m still on the lookout for a decent halal beef BBQ spot.
7. Adjusting to a Different Driving Style
Driving in Japan has its quirks too. The driver’s seat is on the right side and people drive on the left, which took a little getting used to. I even once waited for a bus on the wrong side of the road until I caught on—it’s a small adjustment that makes a big difference.
8. Privacy and Internet Access
When it comes to staying connected, Japan has its own rules. You can’t just hop on free Wi-Fi in public places without a little extra step—most places require you to use your email address to access the network. A lot of the Wi-Fi here is private and password-protected. Also, downloading files or articles through unauthorized channels is taken seriously—it’s illegal and could get you in trouble. On the other hand, accessing magazines or adult content is legal if you’re over 20.
These are just some of the everyday realities I’ve experienced in Japan. It’s been a mix of practical surprises and small adjustments, and overall, it’s given me a new perspective on how things can work so differently in another country.
@theabu_usa
