The Mistakes I Made in Japan
When I first moved to Japan, I made a ton of mistakes. Some were harmless, others were awkward, and a few were honestly embarrassing. 😅 But each one taught me something about the culture, the language, and myself.
Today, I want to share my biggest mistakes in Japan so that you can avoid them (whether you’re traveling, working, or just curious about life here).
❌ Mistake #1 – Thinking English would be enough
I assumed basic English would get me through everyday situations.
Spoiler: it didn’t. 😬 Even simple questions like “for here or to go?” or “do you want it heated?” completely confused me the first time.
🎁 That’s why I created a free guide:
👉 5 Real Japanese Phrases to Survive in Japan
It’ll save you from looking lost at the convenience store or train station.
❌ Mistake #2 – Misreading silence
In Japan, silence isn’t just silence, it can mean disagreement, hesitation, or “no” without saying “no.”
I once agreed to something in a meeting while my Japanese colleague stayed silent… and I later realized it meant he didn’t agree at all.
🧠 In my upcoming ebook “Working in Japan”, I’ll share more cultural tips to help you avoid misunderstandings in the Japanese workplace (join waitlist)
❌ Mistake #3 – Staying in my comfort zone
I stuck to the same shops and familiar places for months. I missed out on so many hidden gems and local spots just because I was nervous.
🗺️ I eventually explored, and now I’ve collected 10 amazing places you won’t find in most guidebooks:
👉 Get my ebook – 10 Unique Places in Japan
❌ Mistake #4 – Avoiding questions at work
I was afraid asking questions would make me look incompetent. In reality, asking politely shows you’re engaged and careful. Not asking? That’s how real mistakes happen.
💼 If you’re planning to work in Japan, stay tuned for my ebook full of real-life tips and job-specific phrases.
❌ Mistake #5 – Waiting to “Be Fluent” before speaking
I waited too long to speak Japanese out loud because I wanted to be “ready.”
But you don’t need to be perfect to start, you just need the right phrases.
💡 What I have learned
Japan is a beautiful, fascinating country but it’s also very different. These small cultural and language gaps can become big challenges if you’re not prepared.
If you want to avoid the same mistakes in Japan, download my free guide, explore new places, and don’t be afraid to make small errors it’s part of the journey.
