Should Foreigners Continue Living in Japan for Their Lifetimes or Should They Go Back Home?

Deciding whether to continue living in Japan for your entire life or return to your home country is a highly personal choice. For some, it might be a blessing; for others, it might be a struggle beyond their control. Financial constraints often play a significant role in this decision, as illustrated by the story of a 59-year-old friend who, despite being married to a Japanese woman and having savings of 10 million yen, faces difficulties in relocating.

Personal vs. Professional Priorities

Every individual will find their own truth in this decision. For many, the answer lies in a straightforward yet forceful advice: run as fast as you can. While experiencing a different culture and gaining valuable insights are beneficial, there comes a time to seek better opportunities elsewhere.

Professional Priorities often hold a crucial weight in this decision. If one's career is a top priority and they grew up outside of Japan, staying in Japan without a specific narrow skillset and niche market could be considered career suicide. The country’s work environment, characterized by long hours, antiquated social class systems, and a lack of performance-based rewards, can take its toll on expatriates.

Adapting to Japanese Culture

For those committed to making Japan their lifelong residence, it is essential to fully soak in and adapt to the local culture. Many agree that embracing and understanding the nuances of Japanese society is a necessary step to integrate successfully. However, if the goal is to have a normal family life, where one can see their family regularly, enjoy weekends off, and be rewarded for their performance rather than simply advancing in age and experience, staying in Japan for more than 3-5 years might not be optimal.

Optimal Duration for an International Experience

The suggested ideal timeframe for a foreign expatriate living in Japan is 3-5 years. This period provides a valuable international experience while minimizing the negative impacts of prolonged residency. After 3 years, individuals often start to notice the flaws in their previous perceptions of Japan, leading to a more critical and sometimes disheartening view.

Another critical aspect to consider is the value of experience in the global job market. Companies overseas may not fully recognize the worth of experience gained in a Japanese company due to the lack of references, a common practice that is not followed in Japan. This can significantly impact one's career prospects when seeking employment outside the country.

Alternative Paths

Entrepreneurship is another viable option for those who wish to remain in Japan. Starting a business allows for better control over work-life balance and career advancement. Avoiding the traditional salaryman lifestyle is crucial to maintaining mental well-being and achieving personal growth.

Conclusion

The decision to continue living in Japan for your entire life or to return to your home country is multifaceted. Financial considerations, career aspirations, and personal priorities all play a critical role. While there are certainly benefits to experiencing a different culture, there is also a recognition that life is too precious to be spent in a closed, small island. Whether one chooses to stay for a limited time or for life, the key is to make an informed and conscious decision that aligns with their goals and aspirations.