DEBORAH – Work in Tokyo Japan – from Indonesia

2024-04-23

Meet Deborah, an Indonesian interior designer thriving in Tokyo. Drawn to Japan’s safety and cultural richness, she immerses herself in Tokyo’s vibrant art scene while cherishing serene countryside picnics. Her dream? To explore Japan’s unique arts and become an artist herself. Deborah advises aspiring expats to learn Japanese for a smoother transition.

STUDY JAPANESE IN JAPAN

Interview – Story in Japan

Q&A

WHERE ARE YOU FROM?: Indonesia
WHAT DO YOU DO IN JAPAN?: Working as Interior Designer in International Company.
WHY ARE YOU INTERESTED IN JAPAN?: I wanted to live somewhere safe yet fun. Japan offers everything: from the modern city of Tokyo to traditional towns like Kyoto, and many peaceful countryside area.
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO STAY IN THIS CITY?: I am currently residing in Tokyo, where it feels like people are more open and there is a diverse international community. It’s fascinating to learn about various cultures. While I still feel very much a part of. I still definitely feel like I’m living in Japan, but not so isolated.
WHERE IS YOUR LOCAL RECOMMENDATION IN THIS CITY?: In Tokyo, I recommend visiting museums like the Modern Art Museum and the Mori Art Museum in Roppongi. For a serene and zen experience, consider the Nezu Museum in Aoyama. When it comes to food, my personal favorites range from the tourist-famous Afuri Ramen and Gyukatsu Motomura to exploring more stylish cafes and restaurants in Daikanyama.
WHAT DID YOU ENJOY THE MOST WHILE STAYING ABROAD?: I enjoy picnicking in Japan and exploring the countryside by bicycle, often feeling like I’ve stepped into a scene from a Ghibli movie.
DID YOU EXPERIENCE ANY CHANGE IN YOUR LIFE AND FUTURE PROSPECTS AFTER YOU START YOUR JOURNEY?: I feel more open-minded. And there’s more to Japan than what you have seen in movies or books. There are many good things in this country, but not all. There are also some bad things. Especially the culture difference if you’re from another country.
WHAT IS YOUR DREAM?: I love arts and design, so I want to explore more unique arts in Japan and hopefully have a chance to collaborate and become an artist myself!
MESSAGE TO OUR FRIENDS WHO WILL GO TO JAPAN.: Making the decision to move to Japan is truly exciting! I would recommend learning Japanese language prior. While there may be some challenges during the first year or two, once you’ve settled in, the experience becomes incredibly enjoyable.
HOW DO YOU LEARN JAPANESE?: I recommend going to Japanese school for easy and structured learning. I studied at a Japanese school for 6 months and I’d say it was very helpful. Now I continued my learning through interactions with Japanese colleagues and writing emails.