Anyone been to japan?

Spent 10 days in Tokyo, April this year. Well... I literally got robbed at Kabukicho. I know bad people are everywhere, guess I'm just unlucky. I have this hatred going on inside but... my love for anime is too strong so... (T_T)

I lived there for a year in college back in 2003 and then moved back for nearly five years from Jan. 2009 ~ Dec. 2013 to teach English. As for what it's like? Work life can be hellish due to social norms dictating that you spend the vast majority of your time at the office and there aren't a lot of systems to help the little guy fight back if he finds himself taken advantage of. Yes, there are certain labor unions, but their bargaining power and influence is miniscule compared to those in other countries. This isn't the case for all businesses, of course; but there is a very widespread mindset in Japan that work should come before all else, even at the expense of your health and mental well-being. There are groups trying to change this, but it's a slow process. The upside is that private life is incredible. Almost everything is made as convenient as possible, and service is exceptional. Cities are typically kept very clean and there is a great sense of respect for public order. You are expected to put others first in order to preserve the "wa," or the general pervasive sense of harmony within the community. Police are generally helpful and friendly, and it feels very safe to walk around almost anywhere in the country; even at night.

I studied at Osaka University for a few months and sometimes play with the idea of returning their under the mongukagakusho or fulbright fellowships for a graduate degree later in my life. I haven't had the chance to experience work life there, but school life was so relaxing and nice. Another 2 years there as a visiting scholar would be the dream

I just got back from my 3rd vacation there. I think all I do now is stand in front of a konbini and pound back suntory highball in front of the store. As a brutally shy hermit solo white American with no Japanese language skills it is very enjoyable. Though it kinda blows when the person speaks a lot of Japanese and I can just shrug and hand them money lol. Like they did it all for nothing.

If you go to Japan make sure to rent a pocket wifi from the airport for the duration of your visit. You can then switch your phone to airplane mode and use data only. Google maps and translate is good for English users for getting around. Google maps will show you what trains to ride and how much it will cost you. You can find lots of cheap hotels in any town around 35 dollars a night. Check prices on line.

Most Japanese can speak English, they are mostly shy to use what they know. Best way to get them talking in English is to let them hear some poor attempt at Japanese. It will break the ice for them making them feel more comfortable butchering each others language.