I’ve been living in Japan for about a year now, and I must say, there are so many things I absolutely love about life here. From the cleanliness and orderliness to the convenience and safety, Japan has truly won me over. In this post, I’ll share the 7 things that make life in Japan so unique and enjoyable.
Here are 7 things I love about living in Japan:
Cleanliness and Orderliness
One of the first things that struck me when I arrived in Japan was how clean and orderly everything is. I love this about Japan. The streets are spotless, and even in busy urban areas, there’s very little litter. Japan has a deeply ingrained culture of cleanliness, and it’s reflected everywhere—from public spaces to personal habits.
Public transportation is another area where Japan excels. Trains and buses are always on time, and the system is impeccably organized. As someone who comes from a country where public transportation can be chaotic, I can’t overstate how refreshing this is. Japan has built a reputation for efficiency, and it’s evident in everything from the punctual trains to the well-maintained public spaces.
Safety and Quietness
Japan is known for its safety, and it’s one of the main reasons I love living here. It’s incredibly reassuring to know that I can walk around at night without worrying about my safety. In fact, crime rates in Japan are among the lowest in the world, which is a major contrast to some other countries, including my own. While my home country is also relatively safe, it doesn’t compare to the level of security and peace of mind you get here.
In addition to safety, the quietness of Japan is something I appreciate. The noise levels are generally very low, whether you’re in the city or the countryside. People are respectful of each other’s space, and you rarely encounter unnecessary noise, especially in residential areas. This is a big contrast to the noise and hustle I’m used to back home.
Convenience Everywhere
Japan’s level of convenience is second to none, particularly in urban areas. Everything you need is at your fingertips. For example, convenience stores, which are ubiquitous in Japan, stock just about everything—from snacks and drinks to toiletries and basic groceries. They’re open 24/7, making them the perfect stop for anything you might need, whether it’s an emergency or just a quick snack.
Speaking of drinks, Japan’s vending machines are another highlight. They’re everywhere, offering a variety of hot and cold beverages. You can find vending machines for tea, coffee, juice, and even soups. What’s amazing is that some of these vending machines offer hot drinks even in the middle of summer, which is quite refreshing on a hot day.
If you’re looking for something more substantial, Japan has a wide array of supermarkets and department stores. Whether you want to grab fresh ingredients for dinner or pick up electronics, department stores have it all. They also tend to be larger than what you might be used to in other countries, with everything from clothing and food to hobbies and toys.
One of my favorite places to shop is the “100 yen” stores, such as Daiso and Can-Do. You can find almost anything you need for your home—kitchenware, gardening tools, school stationery, snacks, and even pet supplies—all for just 110 yen (100 yen + tax). It’s amazing how affordable and convenient these stores are.
Privacy and Peace
Another thing I love about Japan is how respectful people are of personal space and privacy. Unlike where I’m from, where neighbors often try to get into your business, in Japan, no one bothers you. It’s very rare to have nosy neighbors, and even in apartment buildings, most people tend to keep to themselves. Of course, there may be the occasional “garbage police” (usually older residents) who like to ensure that you’re sorting your waste properly, but that’s about as intrusive as it gets.
This sense of privacy and respect is one of the things that makes living in Japan so peaceful. It’s a stark contrast to my home country, where neighbors can often be overly curious and involved in your personal life. Here in Japan, people mind their own business, and I find that incredibly refreshing.
A Few Areas for Improvement
While I love living in Japan, I’m not blind to the fact that there are areas that could use some improvement. For example, there are still some social norms and expectations that can feel restrictive at times, especially for foreigners. However, one thing I hope never changes is the quiet, respectful atmosphere that makes Japan such a wonderful place to live. I enjoy the peacefulness and would love for it to remain that way.
Final Thoughts: Why You Should Visit Japan
If you ever get the chance to visit Japan, don’t miss it. The country offers a unique combination of modern convenience, ancient traditions, safety, and respect for personal space. Whether you’re traveling for a short trip or considering a longer stay, there’s so much to love about life in Japan.
