Moving to Japan is an exciting adventure, but like any big life change, it can come with waves of homesickness. Navigating life in a new country can feel daunting, but Japan offers plenty of ways to make it feel like home—from cozy community spaces to vibrant festivals that invite connection and discovery. In this post, we’ll share effective tips for staying grounded and connected, even when far from loved ones. From finding familiar comforts to immersing yourself in Japanese culture, you’ll learn how to embrace the adventure while keeping homesickness at bay.
For many people, the initial excitement of moving to Japan can make everything feel like a grand adventure. The new sights, sounds, and even the simple joy of figuring out everyday life in a different language can keep homesickness at bay. But as the months go by, particularly around the holiday season, the distance from home can feel sharper. I remember my first Christmas in Japan—it was both enchanting and a little lonely. The beautiful illuminations and festive markets were a treat, but nothing quite replaced the warmth of familiar holiday traditions with family. This is often the time when many expats feel a pang of homesickness, missing the comforts of home and the loved ones who make those traditions special.
Recreate the Holidays
Recreating holidays abroad can be a joyful and effective way to ease homesickness, allowing you to celebrate cherished traditions while also forging new memories in your new home. One of my best Christmases was spent in a tiny flat in Nagasaki with two close friends, where we celebrated in a way that couldn’t have been more different from home—and yet, it felt perfect. Instead of the usual roast and trimmings, we splurged on wagyu, cooked up a feast, and drank together, laughing and sharing stories late into the night. Those friendships, forged in a foreign country, felt uniquely close; we were all navigating life in Japan, feeling a similar longing for family and familiarity, and that common ground brought us together in a way that friends back home rarely could. Recreating the holidays with my new “family” in Japan reminded me that home isn’t always a place—it’s the connections we build and the moments we share, no matter where we are.
No Shame
Video calling can be a powerful tool for overcoming homesickness, offering a lifeline to the familiar faces and voices that remind you of home. It’s important to remember that you don’t have to appear strong all the time; reaching out as much as you need is completely okay. I vividly recall a beach party I attended just three months into my time in Japan. While everyone was enjoying the sun and laughter, I felt a wave of longing for my friends back home. Without hesitation, I shamelessly stepped aside and called a close friend. Some might argue I was being antisocial, but in that moment, I knew I needed that connection to feel grounded. Embracing the vulnerability of needing support can be incredibly comforting, reminding you that even when you’re far from home, you’re never truly alone.
Eat Like Home
Buying home comforts in Japan can be a delightful way to ease feelings of homesickness, especially when it comes to food. Familiar flavours can provide a sense of connection to home, and fortunately, there are several shops where you can find foreign goods. Kaldi Coffee Farm is a popular spot, offering a variety of international snacks, ingredients, and beverages that can remind you of home cooking. Additionally, online retailers like britsuperstore.com make it easy to order your favourite British treats and other international products, delivering them right to your door. Whether it’s indulging in a beloved snack or recreating a family recipe, stocking up on home comforts can transform your kitchen into a cozy reminder of home and make living in Japan feel just a little more familiar.
Talk About It
Being open with your foreign friends about feeling homesick can be incredibly beneficial, as they are likely experiencing similar emotions and can offer understanding and support. Sharing your feelings allows you to bond over your shared experiences, and more often than not, your friends will want to help by taking you out and distracting you with new adventures. It’s easy to fall into the trap of being reclusive when you’re feeling down, but isolating can often exacerbate feelings of loneliness. If you find it difficult to cope on your own, and it’s within your financial means, consider exploring online counselling services that cater to expats. These resources can provide valuable tools and support, helping you navigate the challenges of living abroad while fostering connections with those who understand your journey.
Lay Your Roots
Making meaningful connections in Japan can significantly enhance your experience while living there, providing a support network that helps combat homesickness and enriches your daily life. Personally, I made it a point to say “yes” to every lunch invitation I could, regardless of age gaps or the typical social norms I might have adhered to in the UK. I befriended people in bands and didn’t shy away from being the one to reach out first, even if it meant risking coming across as too eager. Many of my friends hesitated to be forward about asking others to hang out, worried it wasn’t very “Japanese” to do so, but I found that by taking that initiative, I forged lasting friendships. As a result, I left Japan with a rich tapestry of connections and memories that began with my willingness to step out of my comfort zone and embrace the opportunities to meet new people.
Learn the Lingo
Learning some Japanese can be one of the best ways to overcome the initial overwhelming feelings that come with living in a new country. I remember how frustrating it was to navigate everyday tasks, like going to the post office, when I was completely illiterate. Simple interactions felt daunting, and I often left feeling defeated and isolated. Fast forward four years, and that same post office became as familiar and comfortable to me as the one back in England. Gaining even a basic understanding of the language not only eased my daily challenges but also opened up opportunities for connection and friendship with locals, making my time in Japan all the more enriching. Embracing the language journey is an empowering step that can significantly enhance your experience abroad.
In Conclusion: Be Open
In conclusion, the key to overcoming homesickness lies in getting over yourself and acknowledging that it’s a feeling everyone experiences when living abroad. Don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it—there’s no shame in reaching out for support or indulging in the home comforts that remind you of where you come from. Additionally, embrace the opportunity to make new Japanese friends without the fear of coming across as too eager; these connections can be incredibly rewarding. By approaching your experience with maturity and openness, you’ll find that you can navigate the challenges of living in Japan and truly have the time of your life, filled with new friendships, experiences, and cherished memories.
