How to Explore Your New City as an Intern: Tokyo

Japan is the world’s third largest economy. Today, it boasts numerous cultural and technological achievements and is a world leader in technology.

But it has long been a source of inspiration and awe. In fact, Van Gogh took every chance to adore the Japanese prints which gave a head start of the 19^th-century Japanese craze known as Japonisme. In addition, Japanese Zen-Buddhism exploded in the West with the teachings of Alan Watts. 

And in the present day, huge companies like Apple are inspired by and use Sony’s industry-shaping camera technology and optics.

Without realising it, Japan has touched your life in one way or another. Whether it’s a dusty Walkman stored in the attic or a kimono you once donned for karate lessons. If you’re a Star Wars fan, you might know that George Lucas claims that the work of Japanese film director Akira Kurosawa was the reason he got into filmmaking. 

However, actually dipping head to toe into the heart of Japanese society is a whole other business.

So instead of getting bombarded with information on the web the second you Google “Japan”, why not have a look at this quick rundown of a day in the life of a Japanese expat!

From the moment the airplane’s wheels touch the landing track you are met with Japanese efficiency. Staff approach you on all sides and are ready to assist with your inauguration into Japanese lifestyle.

It’s common knowledge that the Japanese put an enormous emphasis on punctuality, and it is best exhibited in their high-end transportation system.

After you breeze through the customary check-ups at the airport it’s time to choose your commute. Your options include the super fast Shinkansen bullet trains, the vast JR (Japanese Railway) trainline, a web of 280 subway stations, and a hyper-efficient taxi service. 

Ever since its genesis in the mid-1960s, the Shinkansen (bullet-train), has been the core of every first-visit impression. The aerodynamic trunks of the Shinkansen accelerate to up to 320 km/h and seamlessly bridge long distances.

A common symptom of jet lag is the intense hunger that hits you out of nowhere. Which is a good excuse to put off unpacking for later and to take to Tokyo’s street food vendors and numerous restaurants.

The Japanese are praised for their pristine rules on social behaviour and mutual respect. A quick tip on how not to fail Japanese street etiquette is to walk on the left side of the sidewalk, keep your distance (or at least try your best in this metropolis) and don’t rest too long in public areas – it’s viewed as impolite.   

Follow this guide until you reach your first culinary venue. Let your nose guide you. For most newcomers, you will find the typical tourist-friendly restaurants with bilingual signs and menus, and tunes of a shamisen (Japanese lute). But even these places will be chock full of delicious Japanese cuisine. Locals normally scoff in private at the sight of such restaurants as they believe tourists are missing out on genuine Japanese eating-out culture.

What locals don’t know, however, is that these experiences can help you ease into Japanese life. So eat guiltlessly and try as many different restaurants as you like! In fact, even a Japanese Sando (sandwich) or rice ball from a convenience store is prepared with care and can be enjoyed guilt-free.  

Hopefully, you got a chance to ask around for recommendations. But if not, exploring Tokyo’s back alleys and side streets can lead you on an adventure. So, as you empty your bowl of ramen or finish up your yakitori (grilled chicken on a stick) you can check for the nearest train station on your smartphone or laptop.

However, while hotels and most restaurants provide Wi-Fi, you’ll most likely need to rely on a pocket Wi-Fi router or tourist sim-card to access the web. Despite being a leader in tech, there is a serious lack of Wi-Fi and you don’t want to try loading up Google Maps only to find yourself lost! If you do get caught out, keep an eye out for American-branded stores such as McDonald’s or Starbucks and use their Wi-Fi! 

Looks like Google suggests you take a stroll in Yoyogi park – the perfect place to catch your breath and gather your thoughts on what follows ahead. Hop on the next train on the Chiyoda line and off you go!

Yoyogi is amongst Japan’s greatest open-air natural landmarks. And some even believe Tokyo to be the best city to explore by bicycle. It’s relatively flat, and Yoyogi’s 133 acres of land invite cyclists and BMX enthusiasts to try out its green landscape.  

Japan’s first successful aircraft flight took place here. But today Yoyogi is a scene for international talent. Just to get an idea of the diverse set of events taking place there, you can expect the Tokyo Jazz Festival, the Hokkaido Food Fair (with its array of local specialties), the Caribbean fiesta, and the Latin Music festival to name a few. These attract thousands of spectators on Yoyogi’s meadows.

As you continue to explore Tokyo on your days off, you’ll realise Tokyo has something for everyone, whatever their mood or fancy. For instance, you could take a day trip to the outskirts of Tokyo and explore the Ghibli Museum. Or get up close with an owl in one of Tokyo’s seven Owl Cafes. 

With bars, 24/7 karaoke and all manner of entertainment, Tokyo is a hot-bed of both day-time and night-time fun!

Japanese citizens have nurtured a highly responsible society centered around collaboration and respect to all.  

Unlike elsewhere, Japan enjoys a low crime rate. As well as excellent urban cleanliness and hygiene. Surprisingly, few places actually employ janitors, as most clean their own public or work areas themselves. In fact, after school, students even clean up their classrooms and halls.  

Many consider Japanese longevity to be the result of carefully refined eating customs instilled in folklore. As a result, there is a famous Japanese saying “hara hachi bun me” (eat until you are eight parts full).

Combined with a balanced daily menu consisting of omega-rich fish, rice, soy, miso, whole grains, tofu, seaweed and vegetables – all low in saturated fats and sugars and rich in vitamins and minerals – it’s no wonder Japanese nationals outlive their counterparts in the West.

But to find your Ikigai (or ‘reason to live’), one must comply with the law and order, politeness and cleanliness rules. All of which keep the motor of Japanese society humming harmoniously.

It is a minefield of social codes and rules – but once it’s complete, it’s the most rewarding and character-shaping experience. It’s likely you’ll find that once you’ve left Tokyo, you’ll be hyper aware of all the bad quirks or habits of your own homeland.

Time can pass slowly in Yoyogi Park. But don’t worry, it’s open 24/7.

As are many areas in Tokyo. For instance, thousands flock to the upscale districts at Akasaka and Roppongi nightly. Which are famous for their head-turning nightlife, hypnotic neon lights and exuberant cultural flair.

At Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, art connoisseurs will gaze at abstract art pieces on its 52^nd floor. Before taking in the vast cityscape on the ‘SkyDeck’ up top.

But don’t linger there for too long – there’s plenty to discover. At the other end of the district is the Musee Tomo, which houses staples of calligraphy and ceramic art. As well as the Suntory Museum with its woven fabrics and lacquerware. And for lovers of art in general, the National Art Centre is a great spot.

But if you want to embrace yourself into even more Japanese tradition, pay a visit to the Kabuki-za or Meiji-za theatres. Or grab a seat at one of Tokyo’s endless restaurants for a unique cocktail or a cup of sake and some fried eel or octopus balls. 

If you want to find out more about some of the key quirks of Japanese culture, and how it can differ from the US-influenced culture you may be used to, check out our guide here.

Although Japan feels lightyears ahead, time can pass quickly. And wasting time is perhaps Japan’s biggest pet peeve.

As your first day in Tokyo marches towards its end, each day that follows will be sure to unveil something new. Still, you may need some guidance to help you navigate this megacity successfully.

This is where Beyond Academy can help. If you are considering soaking up both traditional and professional Japanese culture with an internship in Tokyo, Beyond Academy’s Community Team in Tokyo will help you take over the city.  

After all, figuring out how you’ll manage in a city of 10 million people while working out how to navigate opportunities in your dream industry can be a challenge. 

But Beyond Academy can guide you through the entire process. From the CV and application process to helping you get settled. And even visa support. Find out more about our internship program in Tokyo or get in touch with us now to start your Japanese adventure!