Moving to Japan

*The day I left! See you soon Cebu~ * :no_mouth: :no_mouth: :no_mouth:

We all have that chapter of our lives that we need to step out from our comfort zone and discovering a new phase on our own. In my previous blog, I've mentioned that I was working as an ESL teacher for quiet long time. It was fun, and has given me a lot of experience, exposure to different culture and gave me a deeper understanding the need of communication.

Months ago, I left Philippines to do a different job which is far different from what I used to have, hence, I am quiet familiar to since I studied it in college. I can say that I am lucky because I met someone who trusted me and believed on me when I don't have much confidence. Gave me a job and supported me all the way to come here (Japan).

Honestly, it is really hard OFWing (if it is a word). Before, I never thought that Japan is way different from Philippines when it comes to traits and culture but I was totally wrong. They are very particular, serious and when they trust they trust you wholeheartedly. I never mean Filipinos doesn't have these but I wanted to say it is very crucial for Japanese people.

Living
Living in Japan is not difficult (so far) if you familiarized the lifestyle and living system here. But for me, I never did that so aside from not being able to communicate well I don't have much knowledge on everything which is sucks. I regret being unprepared, well I was working day and night when I was still in Cebu to save up my pocket money before flying here so never got a chance to study Japan.
Now, I got a support system from my co-workers, whenever I have to deal with bills and failed delivery I asked their help. Luckily, I got a very patient and kind co-workers who are very understanding amidst language barrier.
Yes! They can't speak English and I can't speak Nihonggo for now but I try my best to catch up by studying on my own everyday.

Work
Before coming here, I got an overview about the company's industry and this is the reason also I accepted the job because I love working in this industry. It has something related to my major which is marketing. The work so far is quiet easy sometimes what makes me stress is misunderstanding and it takes time for me to understand what they wanted to say also for them. Working schedule is from 9:30 am to 6:30 pm, but I always get to work around 9am since it is very important in Japanese culture being on time and early.
People, were very friendly and talkative for sure if I am only fluent on speaking Japanese I could make a closer relationship to everyone. It is true that Japanese people are very reserved and shy. As a Filipino myself I am totally the opposite one, talkative and loves smiling and laughing. One thing that I also noticed in Japanese working environment is women are inferior to men and women are given lighter jobs than men also which is a bit different from my culture.

Environment
Japan is known to have the cleanliest and advanced technology in Asia. Indeed, it is. I think what makes them developed are the people themselves. The most highlighted values Japanese are nature lover, polite, don't want to caused trouble,embrace culture and dedicated. These probably keeps them developed, although there are still more for me to learn but so far these are the things that I noticed.

Back in 2016, the first time I've been here as a tourist was also surprised me on how cleaned their environment. It shocked me to see big fishes on water channels and no dried leaves left on the ground nor cigarettes' filter. Indeed, it is noticeably how disciplined they are to follow strict rules of their country.

• I forgot this place, but this is also a good example how their buildings' shops are and how cleaned it is even in the middle of the city.* :scream: :clap: :raised_hands:

• I got lucky to see the beautiful Cherry blossoms in Japan. *
  

famous sakura sightseeing spot in Nihonbashi, Tokyo a 30-minutes on foot from my office. Foreigners are gathered around and taking photos at that time

Needless to say, this new era of my life is unbelievable and needs so much courage to face every challenges that awaits me. Still there are so much things that I need to learn and experienced here so wish me luck ! I will continue to post a blog from time to time to share more about Japan and how am I dealing with it. See ya around~