12/08/2026
Living in Japan changed more than what I thought about Japan. It also changed the way I live, what I enjoy, and what âhomeâ means to me.
Here are 6 things I see differently now
1. Japan is not as high-tech as I expected.
Before moving here, I imagined Japan would feel much more futuristic and cashless. But I still need cash for surprisingly normal things, like topping up a physical IC card or ordering at some restaurant ticket machines.
2. I donât need to travel to experience Japan.
I used to think âexperiencing Japanâ meant sightseeing or going somewhere special. Now I think buying local groceries, cooking at home, going to the gym, or visiting a salon are all part of experiencing life here too.
3. The seasons make me explore more.
Coming from a tropical country, I wasnât used to life changing so much throughout the year. Hanami in spring, fireworks festivals in summer, hot springs and autumn leaves in fall, snow in winter â knowing each season only lasts for a while makes me want to go out and experience it while I can.
4. I learned to enjoy doing things alone.
On my first solo trip around Kyushu, I felt very conscious of being alone while I saw couples and groups around me. But after a few days, I started appreciating the freedom of choosing my own schedule and doing things at my own pace.
5. I got better at figuring things out on my own.
Living abroad meant there were many everyday things I simply had to learn how to handle myself. Over time, I became more comfortable trying to solve things on my own first instead of immediately waiting for someone else to show me what to do.
6. Home became something I could build, not just the place I came from.
I still think of the Philippines as where Iâm from, but Japan is where I built my adult life, routines, relationships, and now my home with my husband.
When I visit the Philippines, I sometimes experience reverse culture shock. Somewhere along the way, I realized Japan had quietly become the place that feels like home.
Has living somewhere new changed you too?
Comment below: Which one do you relate to most?
Share this with someone building a life abroad too.
