About

I focus on helping people begin, explore and enjoy their life in Japan. Whether it’s tips on getting hired or discovering what a city or area has to offer, I hope everyone can take away something useful or entertaining when visiting Will of Japan.

Everyone has their own journey and story to tell. Mine might be different from some others living in Japan, but that’s good. After all, the world would be pretty boring if everyone did and said the same thing. 

My descriptions usually draw comparisons to the US. It’s just what I know. Japan offers two very different experiences when you’re living alone downtown, with your family in a suburb or experiencing local customs in the countryside. I can tell you about each.

I originally came to Kobe to teach eikaiwa English, only to experience my company’s bankruptcy, and restructuring shortly after. It was a stressful time, but I decided to stick around. Since then, I’ve studied and taught in a wide range of contexts. I’ve experienced life in the middle of Osaka and also out in the rice fields. I’ve been the guy in a tiny downtown apartment but now drive my kids around to their various activities.

And I’ve also had plenty of those awkward and embarrassing moments that we always hear about. Sometimes you just can’t help messing things up. We just have to embrace the awkwardness!

Coming from the Pacific Northwest (Oregon), Japan presents a really interesting contrast to where I grew up and spent most of my life. I love other cultures, but I don’t sensationalize life in Japan. I also try not to be unfairly critical or satirical about it. There really are some great aspects to living here, and then there are others that are not. And some things take some getting used to. 

If you’re considering living or visiting Japan, I wish you a great and memorable experience. It’s great to have you here!