Shaun's Third Journey to Japan
Shaun, originally from Australia, is currently in Japan for the third time on a working holiday visa. Unlike other countries that typically offer a 12-month visa option, Australia's working holiday visa requires renewal every 6 months, making it challenging for Shaun to secure housing, as most landlords prefer leases of at least one to two years. Shaun was drawn to Japan for several reasons, including the presence of a few friends already living here. While he hasn't faced many significant difficulties, he acknowledges that the language barrier presents some challenges, which he hopes to overcome in the future.
Positive aspects of Japan
On the other hand, Shaun highlights several positive aspects of Japan, such as the wide range of activities available and the strong emphasis on attention to detail upheld by the Japanese people. He also notes the high standards of efficiency and service, as well as the overall safety, particularly in certain cities.
Shauns living experience in Ikebukuro
Shaun currently resides in a shared house in Ikebukuro with 15 other people. While it is slightly more expensive than typical local housing due to his 6-month visa, which limits his ability to access certain deals, he values the convenience of dealing with management familiar with foreigners. He appreciates the area for its abundance of shops and restaurants, as well as its prime location with easy access to the JR line.
Top destination for settling down
Shaun considers Japan one of the top countries where he would want to settle down, citing its unmatched cleanliness and efficiency. His advice to visitors is to take the time to learn about the culture—whether through language, societal norms, or the country's history—before arriving to fully appreciate all that Japan has to offer.