WTNY 8-26-2007 07:50
Some Insights from Scott, a Canadian, on What It Takes to Live in Kumamoto-Japan
[img]http://expatinterviews.com/files/imagecache/thumb/files/scottbradley.jpg[/img]
Scott thinks it’s important to participate in every culture and to learn something new about it. This Harley Davidson-riding Canuck’s willingness to earn has earned him the friendship of the usually reticent locals. See how Scott relishes his freedom to be what he is and to do whatever he wants in the Forest City of Kumamoto on Kyushu Island.
Scott Bradley
July 2 2006
-Where were you born?
Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
-Are you living alone or with your family?
I am living with my son.
-In which country and city are you living in now?
Japan, Kumamoto
-How long have you been living in Japan?
I have been living here for six years.
-What is your age?
I am 43.
-When did you come up with the idea of living in another country and what
factors helped your decision?
I first thought about it when I was about four years old. I have since lived
in many countries. I grew tired of the political scene and where my own
country was headed.
-Was it hard to get a visa or a working permit?
No, it wasn't.
-How do you make your living in Japan? Do you have any type of income
generated there?
I teach English and electrical engineering. I also do some contractual work.
-Do you speak Japanese and do you think it's important to speak the
language?
Yes, I do. It helps a lot if you learn the language. Japan is rated as
having one of the lowest percentile of people in Asia who actually speak
English.
-Do you observe local customs and do you think it's important for experts to
observe such customs?
I think it is important to participate, and learn something new, about every
culture.
-Do you miss home and family sometimes?
Sometimes. But I visit often. And I indulge in my hobbies, which are too
many to mention. I go camping and fishing. I ride my Harley.
-Do you have other plans for the future?
I take it a day at a time. I'm always open to new opportunities.
-What about housing, have you bought, or are you renting a home? How much do
you pay for it?
I am an apartment building owner. I'd rather not say the cost, but I can
tell you it was plenty.
-What is the cost of living in Japan?
It's high. You could get by on about US$2000 if you lead a simple lifestyle.
It also depends on the area where you live. The more rural places, of
course, have the lowest cost. Living in the major cities could indeed be
tight due to the price of housing. But cost of living is really relative,
because you can make a lot also.
-What do you think about the Japanese people?
They are a very reserved people and this reservation would come from
communication barriers; this is an important fact to know. If you want to
break the ice, learn the language a bit and they will open up...at least,
that's my experience.
I have never had a problem with a Japanese person here. I have had some
problems with other foreigners; however, I don’t associate with many here.
All my friends are Japanese.
-What are the positive and negative aspects of living in Japan, in your
opinion?
I appreciate the fact that I can do everything I wish and no one ever says a
damn thing to me. I have total independent freedom.
-Do you have any tips for our readers about living in Japan?
Sure. Everything that you know as real, forget about it. Think the
opposite and you'll be fine.
-Do you have any favorite Japanese Web sites or blogs?
Just some sites pertaining to the city of Kumamoto and the Kyushu area.