Morning Sirens and Newspaper Bikes:: 30 Years of Living in Japan

When unaccustomed to it, it can be quite a jolt to wake up to an air raid siren at 6:00am. But, in many cities in Japan, this is exactly what people hear. What can also be heard (and seen, if out and about early) as early as 3:00am is elderly men on old motorbikes whizzing around cities delivering newspapers to houses and offices.During the COVID-19 lock down in 2020, I started writing my memories and thoughts of living in Japan with the intention of recalling and remembering the 30 years I have spent in Japan. These years have brought me plenty of joy, a lot of sorrow, quite a bit of self-reflection, and more than one raised eyebrow from passersby on the streets. These thoughts eventually turned into a memoir of my time here.I first came to Japan after the Great Hanshin Earthquake in 1995 and did not intend to stay too long (like many young people who arrive in Japan). However, I am still here and I often find myself wondering why. This memoir attempts to provide some insight into living in Japan and the trials and tribulations that accompany living in this country.Tens of thousands of young people come to Japan to live and work each year. Even more in older age brackets come to Japan to perform professional jobs such as health care workers, companions, to work in the construction industry or on routine business.The book covers my first days in Japan in September of 1995, and continues until the present day (2026). The major events that have happened in Japan throughout this time are included in the book, as well as the numerous experiences I have been through over the years. The book includes many interesting anecdotes about my time in Japan; those about myself, my friends, family, and the people I have met over the years. The book also offers an insight into the Japanese psyche and includes my experience of what makes the country tick. Some other topics in the book include: My initial experiences and impressions of Japan upon arriving here in September of 1995; the various relationships I have had during my time here; gaining and keeping employment in Japan; becoming more successful in the teaching industry in Japan; traveling in Japan; making and keeping friends in Japan; marriage, divorce and having children; buying and selling property; learning the Japanese language; drinking in Japan; and COVID-19 and how it affected life in Japan.As I state in the beginning of the book, I do not pretend to be an expert on Japan. My writing is merely a snapshot of what I have experienced over my time here: the people I have met, the good and bad experiences I have had, the idiosyncrasies of Japanese people, and the beauty of the country, its people, and all it has to offer anyone wanting to visit Japan.I believe the book will have particular interest to anyone who plans to either visit Japan or plans to live in Japan for an extended period of time. Having lived here for thirty years, I do believe my insight will be helpful for those who have interest in Japanese culture and the inner workings of the people and this fascinating country. Read more