Moving to Japan as an OFW is exciting, but it has its own unique set of challenges. These include adjusting to a new culture and navigating workplace expectations. When an OFW is not prepared, these challenges can be overwhelming.
You’re going to be ways ahead when it comes to being prepared when you know beforehand what unexpected challenges you might encounter in Japan. Here are some of them.
Adapting to Life in Japan
Here are some of the unexpected challenges you might encounter when you work and live in Japan as an OFW.
Complex Recycling System
Japan has one of the strictest waste management systems in the world. It’s not as simple as separating trash into recyclables and non-recyclables. In fact, there are multiple categories such as burnable, non-burnable, plastics, cans, glass, and more. Each of these categories of trash have their designated disposal days and collection areas.
To overcome this challenge, you should:
- Learn the local system – get the local recycling guide and study it.
- Use translation apps – many Japanese waste bins and collection schedules are only labeled in Japanese. You can use Google Lens to translate on the fly.
- Ask for help – your neighbors can help you handle waste properly. You can even join Facebook pages of foreigners living in Japan where this topic gets brought up in the feed.
- Set reminders for trash days – it’s best to utilize calendar apps because it can get confusing at times, especially since each type of waste is collected at different days.
Extreme Weather and Natural Disasters
Japan is a country frequently affected by natural disasters, such as earthquakes, typhoons, and even volcanic activity. This can be an unsettling experience, especially for newcomers from regions less prone to these events. Earthquakes, in particular, can happen unexpectedly and vary in intensity, which can be stressful for anyone not used to them.
- Stay Informed with Apps and Websites: The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) provides real-time updates on earthquakes, typhoons, and other natural events. Apps like NHK World and Yurekuru Call (for earthquake warnings) can send you timely alerts.
- Prepare an Emergency Kit: Keep an accessible kit with essentials like bottled water, canned food, a flashlight, batteries, a portable phone charger, and copies of important documents. This ensures you’re prepared in case of prolonged disruptions.
- Learn Safety Protocols: Familiarize yourself with your building’s evacuation route and the location of emergency shelters. Many communities in Japan conduct regular disaster preparedness drills, which can be valuable in helping you respond calmly during an emergency.
High Expectations for Customer Service and Workplace Etiquette
Japan is known for its incredibly high standards of customer service, where politeness and respect are embedded in every interaction.
For OFWs working in jobs where they need to face customers, this can be a surprising challenge. Japanese expectations are that service etiquette is highly detailed; that is, there are specific ways to greet customers and present items.
- Learn Key Phrases and Gestures: Taking the time to learn polite Japanese phrases and gestures, such as the proper bow or phrases like “Irasshaimase” (welcome), can make a strong impression.
- Observe Workplace Norms: Japanese workplaces often have unspoken rules, from dressing conservatively to participating in after-work gatherings called “nomikai.” Observing coworkers and adapting to these practices gradually helps you fit into the work environment more comfortably.
- Be Patient with Cultural Differences: Embracing the differences, even if they seem unusual at first, can help make the adjustment smoother and foster respect among
Seasonal Allergies and Environmental Adjustments
Japan’s pollen seasons, particularly in spring when cedar and cypress trees release large amounts of pollen, can trigger severe allergies—even for those who have never experienced allergies before. Additionally, the summer’s humidity and winter’s dryness can also require some adjustment.
- Use Masks and Eye Protection: Masks, already common in Japan, are widely available and can significantly reduce pollen intake. Wearing sunglasses during pollen season can also help protect your eyes.
- Take Over-the-Counter Medications: Japanese pharmacies carry allergy medications, though they may differ from those in the Philippines. If you have known allergies, bringing familiar medications or consulting a pharmacist about local options can be helpful.
- Monitor Allergy Forecasts: Many Japanese weather websites and apps provide pollen forecasts, which can help you plan and limit your exposure during high pollen days.
- Use a Humidifier or Air Purifier: To cope with dry winters or alleviate pollen exposure indoors, a humidifier or air purifier can improve air quality and reduce irritation.
Unwritten Social Rules in Public Spaces
Japan’s social etiquette is subtle yet important, especially in public spaces. Actions that might seem normal elsewhere, such as talking on the phone in public transit, are often discouraged. Additionally, there’s an emphasis on queuing and showing respect in shared spaces, which can take some getting used to.
- Observe Before Acting: When unsure, observe what others are doing. For example, on escalators, people generally stand on the left and walk on the right (or vice versa depending on the region).
- Research Common Etiquette: Learning some basic social rules, like removing shoes before entering someone’s home or avoiding loud conversations in public, can help avoid misunderstandings.
- Apologize When Needed: In Japan, a simple apology, like a slight bow or saying “Sumimasen” (excuse me), is a polite way to acknowledge and smooth over small mistakes.
Limited Access to Medical Information in English
While Japan has an excellent healthcare system, finding English-speaking doctors or medical facilities can be difficult, especially outside major urban centers. Medical visits can be challenging if language barriers prevent you from understanding diagnosis and treatment options fully.
- Find International Clinics: Larger cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya have international clinics with English-speaking staff who cater specifically to foreign residents.
- Use Translation Tools During Visits: Apps like Google Translate can help bridge communication gaps, especially with less common or complex terminology.
- Learn Basic Medical Terms: Familiarizing yourself with words for common ailments or allergies (like “kaze” for cold or “zutsuu” for headache) can help ensure you convey your symptoms accurately.
You can overcome all obstacles when it comes to living in Japan as an OFW. It just requires patience and the right approach. These new habits will take time, but if you are planning to work and live long term in Japan, then time is all you have.