Written by John Smith, Cambridge (ENG)
Whether it’s the serene snow-capped Mt Fuji, or the hectic neon of Tokyo, there is something in Japan for everyone. It is a land of extreme contrasts, with Buddhist monks in traditional robes sitting next to skater-boy punks on ultra-modern bullet trains, and beautiful zen gardens nestled next to a sea of faceless concrete.
Health issues
Japan is an easy country to go to in terms of health. If you are from the UK, you don’t need any jabs etc (although you should check this out for yourself – Japanese encephalitis is recommended for rural areas). Drinking water is safe throughout the country, and the food hygiene in restaurants is arguably the best in the world.
Safety concerns
Japan is also a very safe country, with a crime rate that is the envy of the western world. Women on their own should be wary at night, as drunk Japanese businessmen have a reputation for being ‘rather forward going’, especially in crowded trains. Other than that, the streets are so safe that I have seen young schoolchildren walking home through dark streets late at night.
There are earthquakes in Japan. Yes, they are dangerous, but 125 million Japanese people cope with them. You need to be clear about what to do in an earthquake. Most earthquakes are harmless (some areas have mild tremors almost every day). Occasionally there are sizeable ones, and very occasionally a colossal one that destroys buildings. Modern buildings are designed to cope with earthquakes (and typhoons, for that matter…). This is something to bear in mind, but don’t let it put you off.
Employment opportunities
This is something to obviously organise before you go. There are some schemes around for volunteer work. However, most opportunities arise through contacts at home (through your school, family, friend’s brother’s wife’s cousin’s daughter…).
Cost of living
Generally high, perhaps comparable with England. Eating out can be cheaper. As with most places in the world, if you are with someone who knows the area, or have a good guide book with you, you can do things cheaply. Otherwise, it will be expensive. Don’t try to barter.
Travel information
There is loads of information online about this. I would recommend the Japan rail pass if you plan to travel around much inside Japan. You have to book it before you go, and you are only eligible if you are not Japanese, and are staying in Japan for less than 3 months. It allows you to ride all you want on the world famous bullet trains for a price that the Japanese themselves would kill for.
Local customs and culture
There are lots of things going on all around Japan all year long. ‘Golden Week’ (late April/early May) is the biggest national holiday, which brings a national exodus to the countryside to visit ancestral homes. It is a time to avoid going on the trains unless you want a chance to practice your sardine impression.
Visa requirements
At the moment, for stays of up to three months you don’t need a visa. Any longer than this and you do need one, which can be difficult for people on Gap Years. The Japanese do not take Gap Years, and as such do not have a Gap Year category for visa applications. In general, for visa applications, your host company/school/volunteer camp has to apply in Japan for a ‘Certificate of Eligibility’ for you. They then send this to you, and you take it to your local Embassy and can apply for your visa. The Japanese Embassy in the UK has a very useful website.
Must see/must do
Everyone will tell you different things. If you only have a week, stick to one area (eg Osaka/Kyoto/Kobe or the Tokyo area) and go deep. In each of these there is masses to do. Get a good guidebook and get reading.
Some of the most fun experiences are not in the guidebooks, however, and you only get to do them if you take your time and are willing to try things. Try staying in a capsule hotel (or even a ‘Love Hotel’), or eating conveyor-belt sushi, or being pushed on a crowded train if you want some things to tell the grandchildren.
Weather conditions
This is very important in Japan. Avoid late summer unless you are brave (I really mean that – 35 0C and 95% humidity at midnight can be uncomfortable). Late winter can be really cold too – you will need hat, gloves and scarf. Spring and Autumn are nice.
Overall experience
With Japan, and especially with Gap Years, this is a case of ‘You get out what you put in’. If you are up for a holiday, you will get a holiday. If you organise a work placement before you go, learn as much Japanese as you can, try and immerse yourself with the culture, go with an open mind and are willing to try anything, you will have one of the best times of your life, and make some amazing friends along the way.