DREW – Work in Aichi Japan – from United States

Meet Drew, an American living and working in Nagoya, Japan. Drew’s passion for Japanese culture sparked from childhood anime interests. Now, embracing life in Nagoya, Drew enjoys cosplaying and exploring local gems like Oasis 21. Confidence blossomed in Japan, shaping Drew’s dream of entrepreneurship or media work. Advice? Be genuine and embrace yourself!

Interview – Story in Japan

WHERE ARE YOU FROM?

United States

WHAT DO YOU DO IN JAPAN?

Work

WHY ARE YOU INTERESTED IN JAPAN?

My interest in Japan started when I was a young child back home in the States.

I was interested in anime such as Pokémon, Sailor Moon, and Naruto. My interest in anime expanded beyond pop culture and I decided to study the language and move here.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO STAY IN THIS CITY?

I live in Nagoya! Although it is a major city, Nagoya isn’t as busy or crowded as other big cities. It is convenient, inexpensive, livable, and boasts a lot of sightseeing areas.

WHERE IS YOUR LOCAL RECOMMENDATION IN THIS CITY?

Oasis 21 and Hisaya Odori Park. They are in the area of Sakae and have beautiful scenery as well as a lot of nice cafes, restaurants, and shops. There are frequent events, festivals, and street performances in the area, so there is always something fun to do.

WHAT DID YOU ENJOY THE MOST WHILE STAYING ABROAD?

I loved cosplaying at the World Cosplay Summit and other events! In 2022, I decided to break out of my shell and cosplay in public for the first time in my life. I was nervous, but it was a good experience.

DID YOU EXPERIENCE ANY CHANGE IN YOUR LIFE AND FUTURE PROSPECTS AFTER YOU START YOUR JOURNEY?

I think since coming to Japan, I have learned how to be more confident and more like myself. Back home, I dealt with low self-confidence and especially felt self-conscious about my interests in anime and characters such as Sanrio.

Here in Japan, I can express myself through fashion and cosplay and no one will outwardly judge. I’ve become more confident and I am always ready for a new challenge.

WHAT IS YOUR DREAM?

I didn’t have a concrete answer right now but I am planning on staying in Japan long term. Hopefully, I can start my own business or work in media.

MESSAGE TO OUR FRIENDS WHO WILL GO TO JAPAN.

Don’t be afraid to be yourself! You will meet some of the best friends of your life here. Just be genuine and authentic.

HOW DO YOU LEARN JAPANESE?

I studied at university using the Genki and Tobira books. Currently, I am self-studying using the Duolingo and Bunpo apps.

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