Summary of Why he chose Japan over America for life

Summary

In the video titled "Why he chose Japan over America for life," Takashi interviews Dogen, an American who has lived in Japan for nearly 15 years. They discuss Dogen's experiences and insights about living in Japan, particularly in the hot springs capital of Beppu.

Key Lifestyle Tips:

Cultural Adaptation: Dogen emphasizes the importance of understanding cultural differences between Japan and the U.S. He notes that many Americans may struggle to adapt if they view Japanese culture through an ethnocentric lens.
Work Ethic: He points out that the Japanese work culture is very serious, and while it can be demanding, many Japanese people take pride in their jobs. He contrasts this with the more casual approach to work in the U.S.
Fulfillment: Dogen suggests that to be happy in Japan, especially as a foreigner, it’s essential to find work that you are passionate about. Teaching English can be a good entry point, but it’s important to expand skills beyond that.

Travel Highlights:

Beppu: Dogen lives in Beppu, known for having the most hot springs of any city in Japan. He mentions that many homes in the area have access to onsen (hot spring water).
E-SIM Card for Travelers: Dogen recommends getting an e-SIM card upon arrival in Japan for immediate internet access, suggesting Jetpack for fast 5G service.

Health Routines:

Dogen mentions incorporating a workout bike into his routine, indicating the importance of staying active while living abroad.

Recommendations:

JET Program: Dogen recommends the JET Program as a good way for Americans to start their life in Japan, providing a softer landing into the culture.
Learning Japanese: He advises that learning Japanese is crucial for a fulfilling experience in Japan, and encourages learners to focus on practical usage.

Notable Locations and Products:

Beppu: The hot springs capital of Japan.
Jetpack E-SIM Card: Recommended for travelers to ensure connectivity upon arrival in Japan.

Speakers:

Takashi: The host of the video.
Dogen: The guest, an American YouTuber and educator living in Japan for almost 15 years.

Notable Quotes

— 04:18 — « I kind of like fantasized about Japan in my mind Japan kind of like became like a perfect place like with no problems at all. »

— 07:48 — « I think a lot of Japanese people feel like, well I just have to do my best because like this is the opportunity that's given to me. »

— 13:11 — « One of the most difficult things about living in Japan right now is that the Japanese economy isn't doing very well. »

— 15:10 — « If you're teaching English in Japan again and like you're getting like a your salary in Japanese Yen you might not ever be able to take a vacation back to your home country because it might be prohibitively expensive. »

— 17:24 — « The most important thing that I can do is try and be a good citizen and to that effect I was given the benefit of the doubt a lot. »