10 Reasons To Study And Live In Japan

During the 17th and 19th centuries, Japan was cut off from the rest of the world. Perhaps this is the reason for the country’s intriguing uniqueness and why it still continues to fascinate many people today. Despite being isolated for so long, this highly sophisticated and innovative nation retains its rich and traditional heritage.

If you are looking to study or work in Japan, here are some well-known and not-so-known things to do while you’re there.

Have a bento box on a bullet train

Pick up a bento box and board a bullet train – or Shinkansen. Experience this delectably compact and convenient lunch while travelling over 200 mph.

Reasonably priced and available throughout Japan, you can choose from a huge range of delicious combinations. The main staples include: rice, vegetables, pickles, meat and fish. However, the creations and possibilities are endless.

Take the overnight train

Why not take the bento box one step further and invest in a rail pass. Hop onto an overnight train to experience the bento box in every region! You can wake up in a new and exciting place every morning and enjoy the local delights.

Visit Kyoto and Hiroshima

If you fancy a break from the stress of deadlines and the bright lights of Tokyo, Kyoko and Hiroshima can be an antidote. Kyoto’s famous for its beautiful historical buildings from the period between the 10^th century and the 19^th century, and Hiroshima as the first place in history to bear the brunt of atomic devastation in 1945. You can feel reflective in these cities among the blossom trees and parks, soaking up the warmth of the people and their deep sense of history.

Cycle through Tokyo

If you’re fresh off the plane and you want to get to know a place, an alternative to exploring on foot is to get on two wheels. There are tour guides all over who can point out the sights; all you have to do is sit back, pedal and wander through thoroughfares familiarising yourself with the city.

Join the hipsters

Get an insight into the eclectic Tokyo art world of basement bars and clubs. You might come across some run by whisky fanatics, jazz and silent film, eccentrics hosting improv gigs or abstract electronic pop, and experimental art – to name a few! And if you’re into exploring trendy and hipster hot spots in Tokyo, the districts to checkout are Shibuya-ku, Shinjuku-ku and Minato-ku.

Experience the Capsule hotel

Famously described as ‘The Coffin’, a night in a capsule hotel may make you re-evaluate life. Despite the lack of space, it’s a cosy stay with everything at your fingertips, literally. This relatively inexpensive hotel is a uniquely ultra-modern experience that leaves you thinking of the cult films Blade Runner or The Fifth Element.

Relax with the Reclining Buddha

There are a number of Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines scattered throughout Japan. If you’re in need of a spiritual impact visit, one of the least common meditation poses aside (from the sitting and standing poses) is displayed in the statue, The Reclining Buddha. Situated in Fukuoka, south-west Japan, and weighing over 300 tons, it’s a sight to behold.

Head outside the city

Hop on a train to a remote village outside the city or aim for the mountains. You could even hire a bicycle along the way or bring a fishing rod.

Once settled in the depths of the countryside or beside a pond, you might get out your watercolours and paint a bamboo forest, or the misty mountains overlooking the rice fields… Or just, you know, enjoy the view!

Stay in a monastery

Stay at a local Buddhist temple in one of the monastery towns such as Mount Koya in Wakayama, south of Osaka. Immerse yourself in spiritual well-being and natural beauty. If you’re in the mood, participate in a zazen Buddhist meditation session and complete your ‘zen’ experience.

Slurp ramen

Are you a noisy eater? You’re welcome in Japan! Ramen is unassumingly tasty, healthy and reasonably inexpensive too – and if you’re not slurping it, you’re considered rude! One of the nation’s favourite dishes, stroll up to a ramen bar, hop on a stool and let the one-staffed establishment conjure up a meal for you in minutes. Sit back and relax, preferably with an Asahi beer, and you’ll be in ramen nirvana.

Inspiring Interns is an internship and graduate recruitment agency. To browse graduate jobs, click here.