Japan is a vibrant and interesting country, uniquely combining ancient traditions with the high tech modern world. The land of the rising sun has a lot to offer new residents and there is plenty to explore. Here is our list of five reasons to move to Japan.
1. Cultural Activities
There are many cultural activities taking place across Japan throughout the year, from traditional festivals to seasonal celebrations. Cultural activities are a great way to learn about your new destination and to immerse in your new community making it a definite entry into our five reasons to move to Japan list.
Some popular festivals in Japan include Setsubun which takes place in February. This event is held annually to celebrate the arrival of spring. A traditional custom is to throw roasted soybeans around homes and at temples and shrines. This custom has variations across the countries, with celebrities often found throwing beans at shrines in some parts of the country and geisha dancing in Kyoto.
2. Healthy Living
Japan’s residents have one of the longest life expectancies in the world and for good reason. The country in general has much lower obesity and disease rates than many Western countries. The Japanese diet offers numerous health benefits: less sugar in general is consumed, antioxidant rich green tea is drunk daily and the diet is high in fruit, seafood and sea vegetables such as seaweed. The practice of hara hachi bu (eating to your are 80% full) also encourages healthier habits.
The Japanese way of life includes a lot of physical activity. As public transport is expensive, many residents walk a lot providing health benefits from incidental exercise. Tai chi is also popular, providing exercise and stress reduction benefits.
The country’s government encourage a healthy lifestyle, with national holidays created especially for it such as Health and Sports Day (second Monday in October) and Mountain Day (11th August).
3. Transport Services
Japan is well known for having one of the best transport systems in the world. The Shinkansen or bullet train can help you explore the country in your free time with high speed transfers to all of the main destinations in the country. Although not a typical entry in a list of five reasons to move to Japan, the system is so impressive that we had to include it.
4. Employment Opportunities
There are many thriving industries in Japan. Employment opportunities are available in high tech industries such as robotics and also service industries such as finance and tourism. English speakers and English language teachers are often in demand. Networking can also lead to possible job opportunities. The website Daijob can be a good starting point for expats.
5. Temples and Gardens
The temples, shrines and gardens in Japan offer a perfect place for serenity and tranquillity. Some of the best temples and gardens to visit include the Kotoku-in Temple in the city of Kamakura where you can see The Great Buddha bronze statue, the Ryoan-ji Temple and Rock Garden and the Kenroku-en Garden.
