Would you visit Japan first, before deciding to move there for two years?

Question

My husband and I are planning to move to Japan next year. But, my uncle who lives there now, invited me to spend a week. Do you think it's a worthwhile trip since I plan to move there anyway?

Answer 1

I would suggest staying there with your uncle for a week. It's best to experience Japan with somebody who lives there because they can show you the things that Japan is great for. Your uncle will likely have many things planned for you, and in a week, you'll get a good taste of what Japan is like.

I think that's especially important because moving there is a big decision. I wouldn't make it without any prior knowledge of what you are getting into. Visiting without your uncle may prove to be frustrating when it comes to finding places, and even staying in hotels. If your uncle is offering a place to stay for a week, then I think he would offer you a look at Japan. It'll save you any grief of getting lost or participating in something you may end up disliking.

Answer 2

It depends...

If you have to move there, why visit? Why not save up for moving? Even though prices are coming down on the most of thing in Japan, the housing is still pretty expensive comparing to other countries.

If you have a choice of moving there or not, it might be a good idea to visit. You might be able to learn a little bit about Japan online - find sites about the country, ask people about the country, etc. - but you might see it differently if you visit.

Whatever you decide, good luck ;-)

Answer 3

Since you have to move there it's a crap shoot, but there is a benefit to visiting in advance. You can do some community investigating, learn a little about neighborhoods, schools (if necessary) commutes and interesting things to do. You might begin corresponding with some people you meet on your little trip.

It is always prudent to reconnoiter a place before you become permanently entrenched somewhere you later discover you did not wish to be.

Consider: before you rented an apartment or bought a house or even before you buy a car, you consider all you options, test drive, do a walk through... Would this be any different?

Answer 4

It depends on whether your plan to move to Japan is a definite plan or is still subject to change. In the latter case, you should visit your uncle and see Japan first-hand to see whether you like the country. But in the former case, may be you should not visit your uncle since a round-trip fare, from wherever your point of origin, is not cheap nowadays.

Answer 5

Yes, as if you move there straight- away you may not like it at all, so this is a good chance to settle- in to your surroundings, and see what you think of the country that could possibly be your home for the next two years.

Answer 6

I think it would be very worthwhile. If you visit and then you absolutely love it you will be more comfortable moving there. If you hate it, maybe you and you husband would reconsider moving there and save yourself 2 years of not being happy with your situation.

Answer 7

Yes if you can afford the trip because it gives you a first hand view and if required an insite in finally making your decision. If you can't afford it don't go and waste you money after all some adventurism is always exciting.

Answer 8

Would you buy a car without test driving it?

Same concept applies before deciding whether or not to live in that country.

Answer 9

Yes, try to see how you would live your daily life there.
I am married with children and I live in Tokyo. You can send me a message if you have particular questions regarding family, children and schooling.

Answer 10

I think you had better go check it out a little first. It will make the culture shock easier to swallow once you are living there ^_^