work-and-life-in-shizuoka

[work-and-life-in-shizuoka]

INTERVIEW_22

Jacky Royer

Ⅽountries & Regions / France

1.JOB DESCRIPTION

I am working as a Land Operator for travel agencies for French speakers, designing bespoke trips and coordinating all on-site logistics. Over time, I’ve expanded my services to the English-speaking market, and I’m currently exploring opportunities with German-speakers as well.

I started my business right after arriving in Japan when tourism was beginning to boom. What excites me most about my job is how it constantly evolves—travel agencies are always seeking fresh and innovative ideas, and Shizuoka has an remarkable ability to deliver unique experiences, through its nature, cuisine, or rich cultural heritage.

2.LIFE IN SHIZUOKA

I live in a mountain village in Yaizu, where I enjoy the fresh air, calmness , and the convenience of living near Yaizu’s port, which is one of Japan’s most significant hubs for fishery. This unique environment is perfect for raising my three children.

Since I am originally from Burgundy, a French region renowned for its countryside, I’ve always valued a balance between urban and rural living. After spending a few years in Tokyo, I moved to the countryside to give my children a natural and fulfilling environment. Shizuoka owns its  perfect balance: whether you’re in a big city or a remote village, you’ll feel the warmth and charm of a close community.

In rural areas, it’s essential to speak Japanese, but that also opens doors to rich cultural exchanges and fascinating local dialects. And as long as you have a car, almost everything is within reach, making life here incredibly convenient.

When it comes to educational environment, it’s true that it’s a challenge, but let’s be realistic—it would be a challenge even in anywhere!

3.TELL ME WHAT YOU CAN BE PROUD OF ABOUT LIVING IN SHIZUOKA

Shizuoka’s diversity makes living here so special. Of course, it’s famous for green tea, but for me, the richness lies in the daily experiences—like enjoying fresh seafood from Yaizu Port or cooking with seasonal groceries from local farms. The local specialties, such as shirasu (whitebait) and strawberries, bring so much variety to meals, making every day a culinary adventure.

What really surprises me is how the people here respect and celebrate their regional products. For example, the wasabi from Utogi is unlike anything you’ll find elsewhere, grown in pure mountain water from Mount Fuji. It’s different from the packaged one most of us know and adds a new level of freshness to meals.

The climate is another big advantage for me. Winters are mild with little snow, but if I want a colder atmosphere, I can just head to the higher mountain areas. This balance between accessibility and isolation allows me to feel connected to nature while still having urban conveniences within reach. Here is an ideal place for raising my kids in a healthy and peaceful environment.

Shizuoka’s sense of community has also been incredibly meaningful for us. Living in a small village in the mountains, I’ve found that people are not only welcoming but genuinely curious and supportive. The local festivals and community events are a highlight for my children, giving them a chance to connect with our neighbors and experience traditions that I never experienced in Burgundy, France.

4.DO YOU HAVE ANY MESSAGES FOR THE READERS

In Shizuoka, you’ll find everything you need. Are you looking for a well-connected area with mild weather and easy access to big cities? It’s here. Do you prefer remote, snowy landscapes with calmness? That’s here too. If you love great food, warm hospitality, and authentic traditions, Shizuoka will exceed your expectations.

In the past, it might have been challenging to live here without speaking Japanese, but with the prefecture becoming increasingly international, there are many chances. Shizuoka is a close and welcoming place, offering a sense of community that’s hard to find big cities.

[work-and-life-in-shizuoka]

INTERVIEW_21

Laura Bruening

Countries & Regions / the United States

1.JOB DESCRIPTION

I originally came to Japan on the JET Programme and afterwards I’ve had the wonderful opportunity to be able to work in a variety of fields. The main bulk of my job is teaching independent English classes as well as teaching a musical theater class where the kids perform an entire musical in English. Alongside those classes I worked at a local coffee shop, have written articles for various technologies and industrial companies, narrated audio for a museum tour, assisted teaching calligraphy and sometimes also help translate and interpret English.

Through these many different opportunities, I’ve had the chance to challenge  myself in new and unique ways that I hadn’t even thought possible. I’ve been able to develop new skills and meet so many fantastic people that have made my life in Shizuoka such an undeniably cool experience.

2.LIFE IN SHIZUOKA：DIFFICULTIES

At the start of my time in Shizuoka, I would say the number one factor I had difficulty with was the language barrier. While I had studied some Japanese in university, actually putting what I had learned into practice was not as easy as I had initially thought. While I was on the JET Programme, my fellow teachers and the admin staff at my assigned school asked me to only speak English with the students and even some of my coworkers, so the amount of Japanese I was speaking or being exposed to was very limited. However through time and my own studies, I managed to get better at Japanese and my career and social circle expanded exponentially.

That’s not to say that while I was having trouble with my Japanese, I found my life in Japan to be particularly difficult. Even with my small vocabulary,everyone was very nice and I received a lot of help navigating through difficult situations. There are a number of different foreign resident support systems throughout the prefecture, and I've found people in Shizuoka to be amazingly accommodating and kind even if there is a language barrier.

3.TELL ME WHAT YOU CAN BE PROUD OF ABOUT LOVING IN SHIZUOKA

Honestly there’s so much that I love about living in Shizuoka that it’s hard to narrow down some reasons.

I would say that Shizuoka, above everything else, is an incredibly easy and relaxing place to live. Since Shizuoka is so big, there are so many different places you can live that fit the lifestyle you want to have. From the cityside to the countryside, there’s definitely a match for anyone looking to live outside the major prefectures. People are so incredibly kind and the local communities are absolutely amazing. There always seem to be festivals or smaller events taking place all over the prefecture, especially those that try to support local shops and restaurants.

4.DO YOU HAVE ANY MESSAGES FOR THE READERS

When I first came to Japan, I had only planned to stay two or three years, tops. I stayed longer as I really enjoyed my teaching job and even after my time on the programme was finished, I continued to try and find employment opportunities in Shizuoka. Seeing as I’m writing this eight years later, I would say that Shizuoka has definitely become my home.

 It’s hard to imagine myself being as happy anywhere else. If you’re scared about the idea of living away from a major metropolitan area, I would say Shizuoka is a great starting point. I could go on about everything I find great about living here, but I would say it’s best for you to see for yourself!

[work-and-life-in-shizuoka]

INTERVIEW_20

Dao Huong Giang

Countries & Regions/Vietnam

1. JOB DESCRIPTION

I work for a local bank in Shizuoka, Shizuoka Bank. I belong to the International Business Support Office. Our work primarily involves supporting the development of overseas sales channels, planning seminars and projects tailored to client needs and market trends.

While studying at Shizuoka University, I naturally became familiar with Shizuoka Bank. During a joint company information session held at my university, I was particularly impressed by Shizuoka Bank's engagement with a wide range of sectors, strong social credibility, and close ties with the local community. I applied to the company, and fortunately, I was accepted.

One of our department’s key projects involves supporting and escorting clients, primarily tea vendors, to participate in overseas exhibitions. As you may know, Shizuoka Prefecture is renowned for its green tea. Shizuoka boasts advanced tea manufacturing technologies, covering everything from cultivation to blending and final processing, and holds the highest production and distribution volumes of green tea in Japan. However, changing consumer trends have led to a decline in green tea consumption. Additionally, the aging population has resulted in a decreasing number of tea farmers, posing a significant challenge to the industry.

To cope with these challenges, our team is working to increase export volumes by expanding distribution channels for Shizuoka tea to international markets.

I have always aspired to pursue an international career that contributes to Shizuoka Prefecture, so I find my current role highly fulfilling.

2.LIFE IN SHIZUOKA

The only inconvenient thing in Shizuoka is that everything is spread out due to its size. Shizuoka Prefecture has both mountains and the sea. There are a lot of places that you can enjoy the nature. However, those places are mostly far from the center so sometimes it is difficult to reach. You will have to transfer between train and bus or must walk for a while. Other modes of transportation such as bicycles or cars may be necessary.

Even so, compared to Tokyo, the sky in Shizuoka is vast, the climate is mild, the air is clean, so much so that I enjoy walking and cycling here. Like a treasure hunt, if you are lucky, you may find unmanned stands selling seasonal, delicious fruits and vegetables with low prices.

3.TELL ME WHAT YOU CAN BE PROUD OF ABOUT LIVING IN SHIZUOKA

Seeing Mt. Fuji every day is an amazing experience for me. Now I am living in the center region of the prefecture, I can observe the changes in it depending on the time and season during my commute or at my office. You can see Mt. Fuji with the blue sky in the early morning, with orange and purple sky in the sunset, wearing a cloud hat, with no snow. Every scene is beautiful, like Ukiyoe.

Shizuoka Prefecture is a livable place that has a good balance between urban and rural areas. In my opinion, in exchange for the convenience of an urban place such as Tokyo and Osaka, which are crowded with people, high-rise buildings, fast-paced and cramped, Shizuoka is a great place to live. Shizuoka has enough shopping malls that have many major brands. You can live without feeling any inadequacy. Shizuoka has made me feel peaceful since I came here. The sky in Shizuoka is vast, and at night, the stars are clearly visible. It is a place where I can truly relax. People in Shizuoka are calm and warm, which makes my heart feel warm as well.

The food in Shizuoka is outstanding. As you may already know, Shizuoka is famous for its green tea and fruits like mandarin oranges, strawberries, and melons. Regarding green tea, the prefecture boasts excellent tea manufacturing technologies.

The taste and aroma of tea made with spring water from Mt. Fuji and the Southern Alps are truly exceptional. I particularly love the seafood here. It’s so fresh that even the fish that you buy at the supermarket retains its natural sweetness. The experience will be even better when you visit the Shimizu Fish Market. If you ever come to Shizuoka, please don’t miss the chance to try it.

4.DO YOU HAVE ANY MESSAGES FOR THE READERS

It has been 6 years since I came to Shizuoka, and I realized that my attachment to this prefecture grows stronger day by day because of its food, weather, and people.

Shizuoka is a peaceful and ideal place to live for the long term. If you ever feel tired of city life and wish to enjoy a slower-paced lifestyle, I highly recommend visiting Shizuoka. You are sure to love it.

[work-and-life-in-shizuoka]

INTERVIEW_19

RICHARD SWEET

Countries & Regions / the United States

1. JOB DESCRIPTION

My primary job is translation, but it goes far deeper than that. Using not only my language skills, but also my knowledge of my culture and the international market, I translate stories in a way that makes sense to the English-speaking market and get them excited to read more, or in other words－localization.

On top of that, I am a liaison in between the international market and the Japanese team, so I communicate user feedback back to the team and do market research on the latest news and trends and give presentations on my finding so that they can stay up-to-date. I even get to create my own proposals for new content!

My workplace is one where I don’t just do translations, but am able to challenge myself in a wide variety of different tasks and projects!

2. CHARMS OF SHIZUOKA

I think it all begins with Mt. Fuji. As someone who lives in the central region of the prefecture, being up to wake up in the morning, get on my bicycle, and have one of the first places I can see being the mountain that is the center of Japan is still breathtaking to me.

Shizuoka is an undeniably varied prefecture with a near perfect balance between urban and rural areas that allow for comfortable living and sufficient access to the countryside. Compared to sprawling urban centers like Tokyo and Osaka where you can easily feel trapped within the concrete jungle, here in Shizuoka, you can get your errands done easily and then escape from the city with ease and find an experience that suits you. Go hiking up in the Southern Japanese Alps, take a boat ride out on Suruga Bay, meet with local craftsmen and learn about the tradition arts. There’s so much to do that is hiding in plain sight throughout the prefecture.

And then, of course, there is the most important question of all: how do you feel about green tea?

Shizuoka is one of the three major producers of green tea in the country, and while it is incredibly easy to write green tea off as that stuff you get at the convenience stores or the matcha you can get in a cafe, there’s far more than meets the eye. There are many farmers, artisans, and organizations who are trying to maintain the tea industry and evolve it past just being a beverage. For example, there’s a farm who is heavily invested in making black tea (wakocha) from tea leaves and then using those leaves to make various types of desserts. Another example involves a dyer who takes tea leaves that typically would be sent to the compost pile, and he uses that as the base for his own dye.

3. LIVING ENVIRONMENT IN SHIZUOKA : NO INCONVENIENCE?

No place in the world is perfect, but Shizuoka is as close as it comes for me. One minor inconvenience I can point out is that Shizuoka is quite spread out due to its size. This, however, is countered by the fact that as long as you have a car, you’ll be able to take in some breathtaking scenic views that are only available within the region. Currently, I am experiencing life as a new father in the prefecture. At the beginning, I was quite worried about raising the child and how the community would take us in. Those worries were quickly put to rest by the kindness I see on a daily basis when I take my baby for a walk. You can truly feel the concept of “it takes a village to raise a child” on full display in my neighborhood when the locals approach us and interact with my child. I cannot express fully in words how welcome, safe, and peaceful it is to raise a family here in Shizuoka, but I am truly grateful that I have chosen to call this place my home. And while I still have a long way to go on my journey into fatherhood, I know that we will be supported every step of the way by our local community.

4. MESSAGES

When I arrived in Shizuoka as an English teacher, I found a prefecture that was able to match the kind of slow-ish pace I wanted to live at. Eight years later, I consider Shizuoka to be my second hometown and a location that is worth putting roots down in.

The international community in Shizuoka is surprisingly robust with various support systems already in place, so in this regard, there is very little you’ll ever find yourself lacking regardless of your nationality.

I do find myself sometimes pining for a trip to the metropolitan areas, which is easily doable due to the six different bullet train stations we have available. That being said, however, if you are looking for that perfect balance between urban and rural locations with an abundance of natural resources and friendly people, I can’t think of any place better than Shizuoka.

[work-and-life-in-shizuoka]

INTERVIEW_18

JU YEONGJUN

Countries & Regions / South Korea

1. JOB DESCRIPTION

I have lived in Shizuoka Prefecture for 10 years. When I moved to Japan, I only knew a few Japanese words. So I found my first job as a construction worker through Hello Work, the Japanese employment security office. After that, I worked for a town development organization for 6 years with a local connection. Since then, I have been running my own private business, including supporting tourism to South Korea inbound and outbound, and marketing for online shopping.

2. CHARMS OF SHIZUOKA

Shizuoka Prefecture has both mountains and the sea, and offers a variety of foods such   as vegetables, meat, and seafood, but in my case, rice is the best. The prefecture is also famous for Japanese green tea, and Kawanehoncho town, where I live, is especially famous for its tea, so I always miss Shizuoka green tea when I visit other prefectures.

Kawanehoncho Town has a stunningly wonderful nature where recently lots of travelers from other prefectures come.  One of my favorite destination is Oku-oi Kojo Station (a station on a dam lake).  There is nothing but mountains, the lake, red railway bridges and hikers.  By facing the great nature, you are sure to forget unpleasant things, escape from your busy life, and rediscover yourself. The rich nature and the many hot springs also heal me. Each area in Shizuoka Prefecture has a variety of hot springs. Since Shizuoka is located between Tokyo and Osaka, it is easy to travel by Shinkansen (bullet trains) or expressways. It takes about one hour from Shizuoka Station to Tokyo and two hours to Osaka by Shinkansen.

3. LIVING ENVIRONMENT IN SHIZUOKA : HOUSING

I came to Japan after marrying a Japanese woman, so I had no trouble finding a house. However, most of the immigrants from abroad that I know live in dormitories or apartments provided by their companies, so it is best to consult with the company instead of trying to find one on your own. If you are a foreign national, it would be difficult to sign a contract, so I recommend that you ask the company or agency for assistance.  It happens not only in Shizuoka but all over Japan. I hope you find a good assistance when you start your life in Japan!!

Sometimes, I dare say, local regions like Shizuoka is difficult to find information about jobs and daily lives. However, with the recent increase in information for foreigners, such as this article, and real information of experiences of foreign residents, such as blogs and SNS, if you continue your efforts to find information, your efforts will be rewarded and all will be well!

4. LIVING ENVIRONMENT IN SHIZUOKA : NO INCONVENIENCE?

I live in a countryside, so a car is essential. Compared to other countries, driving schools in Japan are quite expensive and you will be required to study hard to learn Japanese traffic rules for safety drive.  My advice is that if you are young and do not have a driver's license, it is one of the ways to get it in your home country and practice driving before coming to Japan to get your license. Not to mention, please drive safely in Japan. Incidentally, some companies may provide transportation or a dormitory near the office. In that case, there is no need to rush to get it.

As for shopping, I am glad that QR payment Apps such as PayPay have been increased and made it more convenient. For foreigners, it is difficult to open a bank account or credit card and before those technologies became popular, I had to ask my wife whenever I wanted to buy something online.  We can buy anything online, so even if living in the countryside, I don't have much trouble with shopping.

5. MESSAGES

It depends on what kind of lifestyle you desire, but in genrral, Shizuoka is the most livable region in Japan. Though Kawanehoncho, where I live, is in the countryside, I honestly say that I have found my life here and am fully content with my wife and a child. Life here is not so inconvenient in terms of work, shopping, schools, doctors, etc., but is always embraced by beautiful nature, the ocean with fresh seafood, and needless to say, Mt.Fuji!　My dream for the future is to make my business bigger and to revitalize this area so that it is crowded with many tourists!

[work-and-life-in-shizuoka]

INTERVIEW_17

JONATHAN BARNABE

Countries & Regions / Canada

1. JOB DESCRIPTION

I work for a company called Mizutori that has been making Geta in Shizuoka. I am a managing director and mostly in charge of a main sales person. I also own a little local store on a wonderful street called Sengen street.

The way I found my job was lucky for me.  The reason I came to Japan is because I got married with a Japanese lady, and my wife is now the owner/president of the Mizutori geta company.

2. LIVING ENVIRONMENT IN SHIZUOKA：HOUSING

With regard to finding a home, my situation was easy. But after I arrived and lived at the family house for a while, we decided to get our own apartment. I think Shizuoka has plenty of beautiful apartments from traditional to modern. Even my Canadian friends was able to find a fully furnished apartment at very reasonable price. The most difficult thing is the language; everything is in Japanese. Because you need to understand the rental agreement and rental system in Japan, the best advice would be to find a real estate company with English speaking staff or get some help with a local person a friend that speaks Japanese.

3. LIVING ENVIRONMENT IN SHIZUOKA ：NO INCONVENIENCE?

Well, of course, moving into a new country with differences in culture, languages etc., will bring some excitements and also sometimes inconveniences. As far as shopping goes, Shizuoka is quite a small friendly city. You will not find as much English speakers as in Tokyo or Osaka but in Shizuoka, I found people are most friendly and they are usually excited to see a foreigner and will try their best to communicate with you. Of course, during a busy rush hour at the restaurant, it’s not the time to try to start a conversation. :)

At the clinic, most hospital nurses and doctors have some English basics and even print out in English. The gesture game is always fun too! If you are not too much in pain, you can point with your finger where it hurts. In case you get really sick, please try to go with someone that can translate for you.

For school as a teacher, you will notice a big difference in work ethic and culture. The Japanese (teachers and students) work and study very hard during long hours that might not be easy at first for a foreigner. My son was born in Japan, so he has features of mixed culture. He is now in first year of elementary school and so far, so good. He has many friends and he is quite popular. Luckily, Shizuoka has an international kindergarten where my son was able to learn English for 3 years before joining the normal Japanese elementary school. At the elementary school I am always well welcomed and I even help with school task sometimes.

In my 8 years in Japan, most of the inconveniences were not “serious”.  It usually always a language barrier. My wife always helps me! And a big advice is no matter what your age is, you must try to learn Japanese. It will really make thing easier.

4. CHARMS OF SHIZUOKA

For me, the best thing of living in Shizuoka is Fuji -san! In all my life, I dreamed about seeing mount Fuji at least one time. I didn’t even know that Fuji was in Shizuoka so I was very happy when I realized. Even after 8 years, if it’s not cloudy I want to see Fuji and I am always so happy to see it. Mount Fuji is so special and it has great power, I think. In Shizuoka we are very well situated, on one side we have the Pacific and the other side beautiful mountains. Shizuoka is well known for the strawberries, green tea, wasabi, shirasu(whitebait), maguro(tuna), craft beer and sake and many other delicious foods, especially, beef is surprisingly tasty.

So, Shizuoka is big! Big in nature and history too. I live near Sengen shrine. My store is between the blessed tori on Sengen street (shopping street) and the shrine. This is such a beautiful and charming area. Shizuoka has plenty of little shopping street like this and I recommend all to visit them, just take a day to walk around, enter the stores and say hello! Everyone has such a nice story to say! Sengen shrine is just so beautiful and you can hike and see from the top the beauty of Shizuoka.

I could go for hours saying how beautiful is Shizuoka but I will leave it up to you and come and see! Hey! If you come to Shizuoka, I’ll show you around!

[work-and-life-in-shizuoka]

INTERVIEW_16

LIN FAN

Countries & Regions / Taiwan

1. Job Description

I work remotely as an engineer for a partner company of Salesforce in Tokyo. We undertake system issues for domestic and foreign companies and consult with companies to come up with the best solution with our team members.  We also support them by having a weekly meeting, suggesting better ideas, buidling clear visions, new systems when necessary. Even after the contract period, we are sometimes asked for maintenance supports such as system stability and system recovery. Also, we provide translation service.My job may seem to repeat the same service through the year but in reality, as we care varieties of clients for diverse issues and as IT improves every day, I am very encouraged to learn something new.

2. Why do you work in Shizuoka ?

When I was a university student in Shizuoka, I had an opportunity to join a training program conducted by a company, and it was truly destined to bring Shizuoka and me together. At that time, my assignment was to deal with inbound travelers and thanks to the two-month training program, I learned how the society in Japan works. In addition to work, after-work dinners or drinks were unforgettable.

On my days off, I enjoyed exploring downtown Shizuoka and its suburbs, which made me want to live and work in Shizuoka after graduation.

3. Charms of Shizuoka

Shizuoka is half urban and half rural, and I often think it has the best of both worlds. In addition, since Shizuoka is located in central Japan, it is very convenient to visit anywhere in Japan. The climate is blessedly mild, neither too hot in summer nor too cold in winter. People of Shizuoka are very relaxed and easy to live with, just like the characters in Chibimaruko-chan, Japanese popular anime for kids. Moreover, you can see the symbol of Japan, Mt. Fuji, every day. I can say that living in Shizuoka is like having a ticket to VIP seats all year round to see Mt. Fuji!

Also, rent is much cheaper than Tokyo, which improves my quality of life. I changed a job once and actually considered moving to Tokyo, but I ended up settling  in Shizuoka, and now I can say with certainty that living in Shizuoka is a better way of life!

Recently, due to COVID-19, here has been a trend to move from urban areas to rural areas. I am proud of my decision to stay in Shizuoka where being selected as the best prefecture people would like to move to in Japan for three consecutive years from 2020 to 2022.

4. Messages

Shizuoka has mountains and the ocean.  When you need to refresh yourself, you can easily plan a one -day trip to enjoy the great nature, fresh foods, and talking to local people. When you want to exercise, you can enjoy hiking, cycling, marine sports, and many other activities. Personally, I recommend that you climb Mt. Fuji at least once in your lifetime to feel the great sprit of nature.  Actually, I have climbed it by myself, and though it was a difficult walk to the top, I feel that it gave me a new outlook for my life.

Furthermore, Shizuoka has lots of hidden gems that you can only discover if you live in Shizuoka, such as the port town of Mochimune and  the deep mountains of Oku-shizu area. Unlike Tokyo, you might not see foreign people in Shizuoka, but that gives you more opportunities to interact with the locals and enjoy Japanese life more!!  I really hope you will live in Shizuoka as your second hometown!

[work-and-life-in-shizuoka]

INTERVIEW_15

LIOE DE XING

Countries & Regions / Malaysia

1. Job Description

I am currently a Specially Appointed Associate Professor at the Research Institute of Electronics (RIE), Shizuoka University, Hamamatsu Campus. RIE is originated from the research laboratory of Kenjiro Takayanagi, who developed the world’s first all-electronic television and known as “the father of Japanese television”. I started working at Shizuoka University in 2016 upon graduation from my doctoral course here. I am involved in the research and development of CMOS image sensors, which are the chip in cameras to convert light into digital signals, which can then be processed and stored as images. The opportunity to collaborate with people from different countries and backgrounds makes the work much more enjoyable.

Working as a researcher is exciting, especially since the feeling of accomplishment that comes with achieving a breakthrough is exceptional. Seeing a project that developed from an idea to working in real life is so satisfying. Working in a university gives me a chance to work with students, which is a fun and rewarding experience. They are full of energy and enthusiasm, and I am inspired by their creativity and curiosity.

I am proud to be involved in the continuous development of imaging technology here and look forward to continuing to make a positive impact. It is one of the most fulfilling and satisfying experiences of my life.

2. Reasons for coming to Shizuoka

One of my hobbies is photography, and naturally, I have an interest in understanding the core of a camera, which is an image sensor. When I was completing my master’s degree in Malaysia, I came across the Japanese government scholarship (MEXT) and decided to apply. Eventually, I was accepted to attach to the laboratory of Professor Shoji Kawahito, who is an expert in CMOS image sensor technology. I came to Shizuoka University, Hamamatsu campus in 2013 for my doctoral course study, and have been staying in Hamamatsu ever since.

Being born and raised near the equator, I used to live in hot and humid conditions. I first experience living in four seasons in Japan, and to be honest, I can’t stand coldness. The weather in Hamamatsu is just nice for me, not too cold in winter, although the windy weather during winter can be quite cold sometimes.

During my time as a student, I joined a homestay program and travel from Hamamatsu city to Shizuoka city to meet my host family, and that is the start of our family relationship. Over the past 10 years, we have formed a close bond and have shared many unforgettable experiences.

We often visit each other and many beautiful places in Shizuoka. The warmth of my homestay family truly makes the experience unforgettable. They took me to delicious local food restaurants, share with me about Japanese customs and traditions, and talk about the local history. We’ve visited Miho-no-Matsubara, the world heritage site in Shizuoka, Nihon-daira, where we can see the panoramic view of Mt. Fuji, Hamamatsu Flower Park, explored temples and shrines, festivals, and many other places. They have taught me so much about Japanese culture and have broadened my understanding of Japan. I feel incredibly grateful for the special connections I have made with my host family.

3. Attractive qualities of living in Shizuoka

I have been living in Shizuoka prefecture, specifically Hamamatsu city for 10 years and I feel like it is a comfortable and convenient place to live in. The population here is about 800,000, so it does not feel too crowded as in major cities, especially during the rush hour. Public transportation is very convenient for traveling around Hamamatsu, either by train, which is widely known as “Akaden” or by bus that covers most of the city. Hamamatsu is roughly at the center between Osaka and Tokyo, and easily accessible through the Tokaido Shinkansen (bullet train) which runs between the two cities. For those who own a car, both Tomei Expressway and Shin-Tomei Expressway are also easily accessible.

Shizuoka has a lot of natural scenic spots, which is perfect for a nature lover like me. The main attraction is of course the World Heritage Site of Mount Fuji. I am proud that I have climbed up Mount Fuji, the tallest peak in Japan, at 3,776 meters. Determination is more important than physical strength to reach the peak, and the view at the top, especially the sunrise is stunning. Looking down at the magical sea of clouds makes you forget all the tiredness.

Facing the Pacific Ocean, the Nakatajima sand dune is one of the three largest sand dunes in Japan with a beautiful sand pattern created by the wind. The sand dunes have a length of four kilometers, and a place for loggerhead sea turtles laying their legs. We experienced releasing baby turtles into the ocean and that was an unforgettable experience. When the baby turtles leave the sand dunes, the males will never be back, but you may be able to see the female turtle coming back 20 years later to lay eggs.

Hamamatsu is famous for its gyoza, which is a dumpling filled with ground meat and abundant locally grown cabbages. People in Hamamatsu also love gyoza, which frequently tops the national ranking of gyoza consumption per household, making Hamamatsu a gyoza capital. Apart from gyoza, Hamamatsu is also famous for its unagi (eel), raised and produced in Lake Hamana in western Hamamatsu.

I find that Hamamatsu has a lot of parks that are suitable for children of different ages. My son loves playing in the parks and we always do park hopping on weekends. I can say that I have visited most of the parks in Hamamatsu! As a parent, we always think about caring for the child, and I think child-raising facilities such as medicals, kindergartens, etc. are very well prepared.

4. Message

If you do not prefer a bustling metropolitan lifestyle, there is a high chance that Shizuoka should check all the boxes for you. There are larger cities such as Shizuoka and Hamamatsu, and other smaller cities in between the nature of mountains, rivers, and lakes in Shizuoka prefecture.

A large foreign community is available here, and in my opinion very foreigners friendly. Many international students enroll to study in Shizuoka and continue to work and live here upon graduation. With the abundance of natural beauty, a large selection of local delicacies, and ease of living, I highly recommend Shizuoka as a place to call home.  

[work-and-life-in-shizuoka]

INTERVIEW_14

NATTAPAT PROMPHET

Countries & Regions / Thailand

1. Job Description

I came to Shizuoka two years ago and has worked for Koito Manufacturing CO.,Ltd. as an engineer for the car head lamps.  My main tasks are to design the electronic circuit (PCB) of the headlight, to check the PCB, and to test the switch function for high-beam and low-beam.  I also investigate detailed facts such as whether or not the lamp can bear low and high temperatures to prevent fire or other serious damages to customers.

The electronic design of our products is carried out only in Shizuoka and USA.  After the finalizng designs, headlights are manufactured in other factories to send our customers (automobile manufacturers).  When any problem is found, products are sent from all over the world to the Shizuoka office, where I inspect the products to determine the cause of the trouble so that we can make improvements.

2. Why do you work in Shizuoka？

Oh, it’s just because I love Mt. Fuji !!  In Shizuoka, I can see Mt. Fuji every day when the weather is good.  So I chose Shizuoka as the base of my work. Now I can see Mt. Fuji even from my apartment. I also like Shizuoka because it is not as crowded as Tokyo. In Tokyo, trains and buses are jam-packed, but that is not the case here in Shizuoka. And the cost of living is cheaper, especially rent is only about 40,000 yen in Shizuoka, whereas it would cost about 100,000 yen in Tokyo.

Furthermore, there are many jobs available, especially for engineers , because many leading Japanese companies such as Yamaha and Suzuki have their headquarters in Shizuoka.  It is about an hour from Tokyo, so it is very convenient.

Now that I live near the ocean, I can relax with a cup of coffee when I am tired from work. I can even take a walk along the beach without thinking about anything .

3. About the charms of Shizuoka

On weekends, I often take short trips around Mt. Fuji.  Shiraito Waterfalls, Lake Tanuki, and Animal Farm are my refreshment destinations. I sometimes cycle there for hours, seeing Mt. Fuji and other beautiful sceneries. Shizuoka Prefecture has a well-maintained cycling road called the Pacific Cycling Road, which is always fun and safe and I have fun riding there. Regarding seafood, everything is super fresh !!

In spring, cherry blossoms bloom everywhere.  Especially, Kawazu-zakura cherry blossom can be seen from February and I know lots of tourists from my country come there every year.

4. Message to readers

If you are tired of urban life and miss nature and the ocean, I would strongly recommend living in Shizuoka. I am stress-free and very relaxed with a daily view of Mt. Fuji, fresh seafood and wonderful local vegetables, a good job and a good weekend. You have nothing to worry about.

Online remote work system enables us to live wherever you want. If your work permits you to live anywhere in Japan, Shizuoka is definitely one option for your living base !!

[work-and-life-in-shizuoka]

INTERVIEW_13

DO HA PHUONG

Countries & Regions / Vietnam

1. Job description

I'm currently working in PR and Marketing department at a local IT company located in Yaizu, Shizuoka Prefecture and am in charge of brand promotion through newsletters, videos, SNS, etc. Additionally, I participate in the "Yaizu Machikado Reporter" program, in which I write articles to promote the charm of the local area. I also serve as a translator during meetings with our Vietnamese team and an ICT supporter for some activities, like Zoom broadcasting.

I graduated from Shizuoka University Department of Literature. I've always had a passion for writing and creating contents. I wanted to incorporate my native language, Vietnamese, into my work, so I actively searched for a company with partnerships in Vietnam and eventually found my current employer.   

I regularly communicate with my seniors to ensure that our content accurately reflects the mantra of Sunloft. I believe that working at a local IT company has many benefits. One is that not only have I gained valuable knowledge in the field, but I've also had the opportunity to connect with many members of the community through my work. I'm grateful for the warm support I've received both professionally and personally.    

Internship staff

Operating an event at local community (Yaizu)

2. Reason for moving to Shizuoka Prefecture

I always wanted to study abroad in Japan and after passing the entrance exam for university, I finally had the chance to do so at Shizuoka University. During my time in Shizuoka, I was embraced by the warm community and formed close bonds with the people here, making them feel like a second family to me. I also fell in love with the peaceful atmosphere and warm climate of Shizuoka, as well as the low cost of living. These factors, combined with my strong desire to continue living in this special place, led me to ultimately choose to stay in Shizuoka after graduating from the university.

Vietnamese food party with host family

3. Attractive qualities of living in Shizuoka

Living in Shizuoka is truly a special experience, and the blessing of nature is its most alluring aspect. From the majestic mountains to the breathtaking ocean, Shizuoka truly offers the best of both worlds. The weather is always nice and warm, with little to no snow to worry about. On clear days, you can even catch a glimpse of Mt. Fuji.  

One of my favorite things to do on the weekends is to drive around the prefecture and explore new places.  There are many outdoor adventures waiting for you, like camping in the open nature or paragliding in front of Mt. Fuji. The Izu Peninsula, in particular, is one of my favorite spots where you can experience the beauty of the four seasons, for it is the beautiful cherry blossom in spring or the sunset at the breezing sea in summer. I also love going hiking in the nearby mountains, even if it's just for a short hike. It is a great way to get some exercise and escape the hustle and bustle of city life.  

Another highlight of living in Shizuoka is the cuisine, with its famous wasabi from Utogi, fresh Sakura Shrimp from Suruga Bay, and delicious green tea from plantations across the Prefecture. The fruits here are also top-notch, with sweet and juicy mandarin oranges, strawberries, and peaches available year-round. The cost of living here is not expensive, so I can afford to eat healthy fresh food every day.

Finally, people of Shizuoka are what really make this place special. Unlike in big cities where people can be distant and cold, the people here are warm and welcoming. The community is tight-knit, and it's easy to ask for help if you ever need it. This sense of community combined with the beautiful nature and delicious food make Shizuoka a place where you can achieve a truly balanced work and life. 

Go paragliding in Asagiri

4. Message

As a young person who works for an IT company, I find working and living in Shizuoka to be very attractive. Shizuoka is surrounded by nature and has good transportation to urban areas, making it easy to balance work and personal life. In addition, Shizuoka's IT companies have a unique friendly atmosphere that is characteristic of local businesses, making it easy to communicate with colleagues and superiors. Many companies are committed to teamwork and actively work on new ideas and technologies, creating an environment that fosters growth. Working in Shizuoka provides the opportunity to be in a relaxed local environment, while also having the chance to gain expertise and advance one's career. I hope you come to Shizuoka and enjoy working and living here.

[work-and-life-in-shizuoka]

INTERVIEW_12

KHINE MON YEE

Countries & Regions / Myanmar

1. Job Description

I am working for SIBA (Shizuoka International Business Association). SIBA is a public interest incorporated association, which supports the foreign business of enterprises in Shizuoka Prefecture. We support businesses abroad like international trade transactions and establishments of company branches and factories.  We also help international students and Japanese students who are bi/multiligual with job hunting. In addition, we subsidize companies for expanding oversea businesses,  providing trade information, business seminars and so on.

I am in charge of helping international students finding jobs in Shizuoka.  I also support both Japanese and foreign companies to set up their operations in Shizuoka Prefecture. am also assisting foreign companies (both foreign and domestic) to start a business in Shizuoka Prefecture.

I majored in International Relations at Shizuoka University and my current job allows me to use the knowledge that I studied in college. Moreover, I really happy to help foreign students with job hunting in Japan. I would be happy to share my own job-hunting experiences and to give advice to students how to find a right job for them. I always welcome all of you at SIBA.

2. Why did I choose Shizuoka?

I have lived in Shizuoka city for 12 years since I came to Japan. I really like Shizuoka Prefecture so I have never ever thought of moving out from Shizuoka. Shizuoka Prefecture is located in central Japan with easy access to the big markets of Tokyo, Nagoya and Osaka. Mt. Fuji which was resigstered as the World Cultural Heritage is also located in Shizuoka. Besides, Shizuoka Prefecture is very rich in nature and has plenty of tourist attractions.

When I first came to Shizuoka, I thought “Finally I could come to Japan but why am I living in the countryside?". But after few months, I become fall in love with this city. Compared to a big city like Tokyo, Shizuoka is not too busy but convenient enough to live in. I can go to the nearest mountain in 20-min on foot, a 30-min bike ride to the sea. That is completely different from my hometown, Yangon (second capital of Myanmar) where you do not have easy access to moutains or  beaches. This may be one of the reasons why I fell in love with Shizuoka.

After two years of learning at Japanese language school, I decieded to major in International Relations at Shizuoka University. Shizuoka University was the best place for me because I wanted to stay in Shizuoka and also to study International Relations. At the university, I participated in a lot of extra curricular activities and learnt about Shizuoka Prefecture. Shizuoka offers a lot of support for foreigners who plan to live in or visit to Shizuoka. Also, another reason why I decided to stay in Shizuoka is the people. They are very kind and warm-hearted. I think it is because they always have nature around them which let them live happliy without much stress.

3. Attractive qualities of Living in Shizuoka

As I mentioned above, Shizuoka Prefecture is located in the center of Japan, so it only takes about an hour to Tokyo and Nagoya by bullet train. Shizuoka has a lot of famous spots to visit. I can assure that you would not get bored. Even though I have lived in Shizuoka for 12 years, there are still several places I have never been to.

There are absolute best palces to visit in Shizuoka. First is Nippondaira Hotel. The view from the hotel is awesome, you can see Mt.Fuji and Suruga bay from top of the Nihondaira Hill. It is also nearby the Nihondaira Rope-way gate, where you can go Kunozan Toshogu by cable car. Kunozan Toshogu is the original burial place of Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu.You can enjoy nature and learn about the history of Japan.

Secondly, Shuzenji  in Izu Peninsula is another great place to visit. Shuzenji is the one of the oldest and most famous hot spring resort towns in Japan. I love hot spring so I go to Shuzenji from time to time. You can enjoy the beautiful scenery, Japanese culture, and cuisine there. If you experience Japanese hot springs, I believe that you can relieve stress and tiredness. Whenever I am stressed or tired, I go to a hot spring for relaxing my mind and body. Besides Shuzenji, there are many more famous hot springs in Shizuoka such as Atami Onsen, Umegashima Onsen, Sumatakyo Onsen, and so on.

Lastly, Yui in Shizuoka city is famous for Sakura-shrimp, which is my favorite food in Shizuoka. You can eat fresh and raw Sakura-shrimp but I enjoyed eating tempura Sakura-shrimp called Sakura-ebi Kakiage. Shizuoka is also well known for canned tuna manufacturing. Almost all of the canned tuna you see at grocery stores are produced by Hagoromo Foods, Hotei Foods, Inaba etc, whose headquaters are located in this prefecture. Also, you can eat fresh and delicious seafoods and sashimi at Shimizu Fish market, Yaizu Fish Center and Omaezaki Fish market.So, please come and enjoy these amazing places and foods.

4. Message

My dream is to open a small café in Shizuoka one day, surrounded by nature and serving delicious food made with local ingredients. If you also have a dream like mine, I really recommend to come to Shizuoka and experience the life here. Since Shizuoka already has become my second home town, I am thinking about spending the rest of my life here. Shizuoka Prefecture is a place where I can relax and enjoy my time with my lovely friends and my Japanese family.

Please come and visit to Shizuoka if you are tired of urban life. I can guarantee that “you will never regret”.The climate is perfect. People are kind. So, if you are thinking of living in a country side, I recommend Shizuoka Prefecture.

[work-and-life-in-shizuoka]

INTERVIEW_11

YOU KA

  Countries & Regions /China

 1.   Job description

I am currently a sole proprietor and run a photography business as a freelancer. I used to work for Shizuoka Association for International Relations and shared useful information in Shizuoka Prefecture, such as disaster prevention. However, most of the requests I receive now are from production companies in Tokyo to work on TV programs and movies & shows. My clients would invite me if there are programs related to mountain climbing , since I enjoy mountain climbing as my hobby. I realize my strength is that I can provide the quality of work that NHK requires, besides being relied upon for my physical strength. For example, the most recent big project was shooting for NHK's program, "Challenging Japan's Greatest Cascade 'The First Solo Climb Record of Tateyama Mountain Range Hannoki Falls.'” I have been drawing pictures since I was a child, and it has been my great joy to let people see what I create. Now, my desire is to create videos, share them, and show them to the world.

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, although Shizuoka Prefecture was my base, I often went to Tokyo to have meetings. In contrast, we now have more meetings utilizing online tools. I used to meet staff in person to work on editing pre-COVID 19. However, most of the meetings recently have been online. I believe my work style will continue to change even after the COVID-19 pandemic, such as a transition to online editing work.  

 2．Reason for coming to Shizuoka

I lived in Hunan Province, China, until I came to Japan in March 2002. When I was preparing to go to Japan to become a manga artist as I liked manga, a staff from a Japanese language school in Shizuoka Prefecture came to Hunan province to give a presentation. Although I was initially thinking about going to school in Hokkaido because I had an acquaintance there, when the person who gave the presentation showed a picture of Mt. Fuji in the school album that he had brought, I was moved. I made up my mind and decided to go to Shizuoka. Although Mt. Fuji is very famous in China, I believe that few people know that it is in Shizuoka. After coming to Japan, I studied at a Japanese language school in Shizuoka Prefecture for two years. Although I had the chance to go to Tokyo when I went to university, I felt that Shizuoka Prefecture was rich in nature and more suitable for me. Consequently, I decided to go on to higher education in Shizuoka City. After graduating from university, I worked at Shizuoka Telecasting and experienced different kinds of work. In March 2008, I became independent as a photographer. My desire and passion have remained the same since that time. When my work in Tokyo is occasionally prolonged, I feel that I want to return to Shizuoka as soon as possible because of the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. This may also have been influenced by the fact that I had grown up in a natural environment since childhood.

 3．Attractive qualities of living in Shizuoka

I love outdoor activities that I own my own canoe and 15 sets of camping gear. This is why Shizuoka Prefecture, surrounded by the sea and mountains, is an exceptionally appealing place for me. I enjoy diving or canoeing in the ocean and paragliding and camping in the mountains on holidays. I also climbed Mt. Fuji in the first year of coming to Shizuoka. I have shared about these recreational activities to my friends in China, my home country. I have shared the information on social media platforms such as Instagram and have received responses from various people. I would like to take advantage of these activities and try new kinds of work, such as being a mountain climbing guide.

Another attractive quality about Shizuoka Prefecture is that it is close to Tokyo. You can go to Tokyo in less than an hour by bullet train. If you are in Shizuoka, you can take advantage of what Tokyo offers without living there. For example, even when you compare Shizuoka with other areas rich in nature, like Hokkaido, I don't think there are other areas that offer both convenience and nature. Just before the COVID-19 pandemic took place, I had observed how more and more young people have been returning to Shizuoka and starting things like private lodging. I think these are why Shizuoka Prefecture is chosen as the best place to move to by many people.

 4．Message; What I want to share with people who want to live here

I would like many people to come to Shizuoka Prefecture. Shizuoka Prefecture has an organization (Shizuoka Association for International Relations) that supports foreigners. In this environment, foreigners in Shizuoka can exchange information and help each other.

Generally, many people think of Tokyo or Osaka when it comes to Japan, but I think Shizuoka Prefecture is like a "phantasmagoria" city. If you want to live like a Tokyoite, you can go to Tokyo from Shizuoka within a short time, and if you want to get in touch with nature, the ocean and mountains are nearby. In that way, you can live a “slow life.”

Shizuoka Prefecture also treasures culture and art, so there are many opportunities to enjoy cultural events that enrich your mind. It is said that in this prefecture, the “health expectancy” is the longest due to the abundance of nature.

Shizuoka Prefecture is famous for its tea fields, the ocean, and mountains, so you can live stress-free without the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, and enjoy your own lifestyle depending on the occasion or season. Don't you want to experience such a life?

After all, there is only one Mt. Fuji in the world, and you will develop a sense of pride living in this special place, Shizuoka.

[work-and-life-in-shizuoka]

INTERVIEW_10

K.T.A.MANJU MEDHA KASTHURIRATHNE

Countries & Regions /Sri Lanka

1. Job description

I am from Sri Lanka and joined FDK Lanka (Fujitsu local subsidiary) in Sri Lanka after graduating from a vocational school. At that time, I was assigned a job in the International Trade and Business Department. However, because of my expertise in OS software for computers, I wanted to utilize my knowledge in this field in Japan, which led me to start my own computer-related business company in Shizuoka Prefecture in 2007. At first, most of the work involved computer hardware, but gradually I received many requests to shoot and edit videos. I now create content for YouTube and produce programs for foreigners at the request of the Shizuoka Association for International Relations and Shizuoka University in Shizuoka Prefecture. I was also engaged in international exchange work sponsored by Shizuoka City and shot and edited news programs for foreigners for five years until 2018. People using online tools, such as YouTube, have increased due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For instance, I was in charge of filming and editing online theater screenings of Koizumi Yakumo's works during this period. My acquaintances often recommend my work, so thanks to them, I could work on video production, such as videos on screenings, hospital treatment, and teaching materials. The news is spreading by word of mouth, “If you ask Mr. Manju, he will do it.” I also run a café bar that serves Sri Lankan cuisine two or three evenings a week. It is called SPICE CAFE modhaju. I run it to create a place for people who want to visit Sri Lanka so that more people can get to know Sri Lankan cuisine. I also use my strengths as a Sri Lankan to help interpret for the Shizuoka Prefectural Police and medical care providers. I feel that there is a high demand in this field because few people can speak Sinhala, the native language of Sri Lanka.

2．Reason for relocating to Shizuoka Prefecture When I became a junior high school student, I became interested in Japanese. I took up a course held at the Japanese Embassy in Sri Lanka to learn Japanese. I became interested in Japanese because when considering to learn a language from scratch, Japanese was ideal as the grammar and pronunciation are similar to Sinhala, Sri Lanka's native language. I continued to study Japanese for six years, from high school to vocational school. I obtained Level 3 of the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test and improved my Japanese to the level where I placed 10th place in Sri Lanka. With this track record, I joined Fujitsu in Sri Lanka after graduating from a vocational school. I have felt a close connection to Shizuoka Prefecture since that time. Coincidentally, the teacher who taught Japanese was from Hamamatsu, and the boss of Fujitsu (FDK Lanka), a local subsidiary of the company, was also from Shizuoka Prefecture, so Shizuoka Prefecture became a familiar place to me. After I started working in Sri Lanka, I heard that a Japanese language school in Shizuoka Prefecture wanted to have a Sri Lankan international student, so I came to Shizuoka in 1997. Then, I studied at a Japanese language school for two years, got an N1, took the entrance examination for the University of Shizuoka, and started working in Shizuoka Prefecture after graduating. At that time, there were only two Sri Lankans in Shizuoka City, and I was the first Sri Lankan international student who came to Shizuoka City. I was also the first Sri Lankan to enter the University of Shizuoka. The number of Sri Lankans has now increased to about 400. Looking back on that time, I am thrilled that many people from my country live in Shizuoka City now and that we are gradually creating an environment where foreigners can easily work. I actually had the opportunity to leave Shizuoka Prefecture when I went on to university and also after I graduated from university. However, I decided to stay in Shizuoka Prefecture. The reason was I was attracted by the ease of working and living in Shizuoka Prefecture.

3．Attractive qualities of living in Shizuoka

As I mentioned earlier, I believe that one of the attractive qualities of Shizuoka Prefecture is the ease of working and living here. I believe that the ease of working here is due to the fact that I am a sole proprietor, and also, people in Shizuoka can easily form good relationships. One of the characteristics of the people of Shizuoka is that once you gain their trust, the relationship becomes stronger. This quality is very attractive to me personally because relationships are really important to me, as an acquaintance would often introduce work to me.

Although it is true that whether people feel that a place is comfortable depends on the individual, in my case, I feel calm and relaxed whenever I see the tea fields in Shizuoka. They are similar to the tea fields in my home country, Sri Lanka. The warm climate also suits me, and the warmth of the people here is similar to the atmosphere of Sri Lanka. It is difficult to describe in words, but there are many foreigners around me who think of Shizuoka Prefecture as their second home. Because of the ease of living in Shizuoka Prefecture, many of them are employed in Shizuoka Prefecture, as they have been there since they were students.

Although there are times I think Tokyo and Osaka have more business opportunities, I am happy to be living in Shizuoka Prefecture at a leisurely pace. I think that having good access, as it is easy to go to Tokyo and Osaka, while being comfortable living here, is also a benefit for those who are thinking about moving from the Tokyo metropolitan area and the Kansai area to Shizuoka. I am busy these days and I don't have holidays, but I have always loved taking photos. That being the case, I go to the sea to shoot and take pictures and think about how to promote the countryside. I like to take photos of the moon, so I am obsessed with taking pictures of the moon together with iconic Shizuoka symbols, such as Mt. Fuji. Regrettably, although I have tried many times, so far, I have not been able to take good photos of that particular scene. Some of my other favorite places are Miho no Matsubara, Tagonoura, and Yaizu. From these places, Mt. Fuji looks beautiful, and I enjoy taking photos of the sea and Mt. Fuji at these places. I think that being able to see Mt. Fuji and other beautiful views are quintessential qualities of Shizuoka Prefecture.

4． Message

I came to Shizuoka Prefecture as an international student. I have found Shizuoka Prefecture to be a very attractive place to study as an international student because there are many universities to choose from, and a wide range of options, such as automobile maintenance vocational schools.

 The number of companies that want to employ foreigners, even after graduation, is also increasing and the environment in which foreigners can play an active role at work is being created. For instance, in Atami and Izu, many foreigners are actively involved in the tourism industry.

More than anything else, I would like to mention again that it is easy to live in Shizuoka. At present, we have people of various nationalities. Shizuoka provides an environment where foreigners are easily accepted. I personally don’t feel it is hard to live here. You can also make friends with various kinds of people at the international exchange festivals held by Shizuoka City. I often participate in such events when I want to meet old friends. I enjoy meeting everyone when I go to such places. I would be happy if my story could be of use to anyone in the future. I would be thrilled if I could help foreigners who are in a similar situation.

[work-and-life-in-shizuoka]

INTERVIEW_09

EKA KURNIYATI

Countries & Regions / INDONESIA

1. Job description

I worked for four years in my previous work at a Japanese style inn, which had refurbished a traditional Japanese style wooden house. Since I had always liked talking and interacting with people, I enjoyed seeing the customers who visited the inn and became happy as I conversed with them and provided services that met their requests. I am now working at a nursing and medical care facility and provide meals to the elderly. I serve the food, which is what my previous work at the Japanese style inn and my current job have in common. I usually try to make what I eat since I am a Muslim. I try to utilize the knowledge and recipes of Japanese cuisine that I learned through my work in my daily cooking. I am glad that my Japanese and foreign friends are satisfied with the dishes I serve using those recipes.

I also teach Japanese at SAME (https://samenet.jp/) and AICEL21(https://aicel21.jp/) in Shizuoka and share about Indonesian culture and Islam. The target age group is wide, ranging from elementary school students to working adults. It is exceptionally fun to meet all kinds of people. I also give advice and practical information about daily living to Indonesians new to Shizuoka as a consultant at SAME. It is worthwhile to help my fellow countrymen, taking advantage of my living experience in Shizuoka of over 15 years.

2. Reason for moving to Shizuoka Prefecture

I came to Japan in 2003, about 20 years ago. My interest in Japan was triggered when I came across a book about Japanese handcrafts at a bookstore in Indonesia. The handcrafts introduced in the book were very intricate and completely fascinating. At that time, I could not read Japanese. However, each process was so carefully written that I became totally absorbed in the book and went over it again and again. Thanks to that first encounter with Japanese culture, I studied Japanese at a local junior college in Indonesia and eventually came to Shizuoka after being recommended by my teacher.

I came back to Shizuoka after returning to Indonesia once. I actually considered living in different areas like Nara and tried visiting those places. However, I found it challenging to live in other areas because it had too many slopes. By contrast, Shizuoka is pretty flat, making it quite easy because I go shopping and commute by bicycle. For your information, many people in Shizuoka Prefecture have cars. Personally, I can find everything I need for daily living around where I live without having a car. Until recently, I did not have a car, but I did not find it inconvenient. Even if you want to go somewhere far, it is easy to go anywhere by train, to places like Tokyo, Nagoya, and Osaka. The excellent location of Shizuoka makes this possible since it is in the middle of Japan and is accessible to many places.

After returning to Japan and attending university, I did different kinds of work. When it comes to finding a job, you may be worried that you are not in a metropolitan area such as Tokyo. However, you can choose different occupations and diverse work styles in Shizuoka. When looking for jobs, public support systems, such as HelloWork and

SIBA(http://www.siba.or.jp/), are well developed, in addition to private matching services. The counselor was very kind, and introduced me to specific work even though I was a foreigner.

I currently choose a work style that suits my lifestyle by reducing my work time and increasing the time for taking care of my child after marrying my Indonesian husband and having a child. Since my workplace is only a 10-minute walk away, I don’t have a long commute. Also, if there is an emergency, I can go pick up my child immediately. I am thankful that I have a fulfilling life and enjoy peace of mind.

3. Attractive qualities of Shizuoka

First and foremost, Mt. Fuji comes to mind when I think of the attractive qualities of Shizuoka. It always shows its different side even when I look at it every day. I never get tired of looking at it even after nearly 20 years since my first visit to Japan. I feel sad when it is cloudy and I cannot see it. I feel the incredible power of Mt. Fuji every day whenever I look at it, on a sunny day or at dusk when it is about to be surrounded by darkness.

I also love the people of Shizuoka. There are times I feel scared when I bump into people in the city when I go to Tokyo or Osaka. In contrast, people in Shizuoka are very laid-back and warmhearted. It might be because of the warm climate. I come from a tropical region, so I like it that it doesn’t snow in Shizuoka.

On top of that, I believe the fresh and abundant food ingredients make Shizuoka attractive. I was born in the inland area of Indonesia, so when my parents came to Japan, they were surprised to see all kinds of fish dazzling in the supermarket. 20 years ago, when I came to Japan, it was difficult as a Muslim to find ingredients that I could eat with peace of mind. Happily, there is a now large supermarket nearby, and I can buy almost everything I want at local shops. I no longer have to ask my parents to send over certain ingredients.

One of our family’s favorite ways to spend a holiday these days is to go to the local beach in Mochimune, which is very close to our home. I play with my child at the beach during the day on Saturdays. When the sun goes down, we have a barbecue on the beach. At night, we spend time together gazing at the starry sky.

Since I bought a car recently, my family and I can spend the night in the car at a parking lot. After a good night's sleep, we can hear the sound of the waves and see Mt. Fuji under the morning sun as we eat breakfast. The beach is close to my house, so I can have peace of mind even if my child becomes fussy or feels sick. Another great quality of Shizuoka is that hot springs are nearby, so we can easily go there anytime. In fact, my husband often goes to the hot springs by himself, besides taking short trips.

4. Message

A mosque opened in 2019 in Mochimune, where I live. It is convenient because it is only about 10 minutes from my house. I used to go to Hamamatsu or even as far as Tokyo or Kobe, depending on the situation before this mosque opened. It welcomes to women and children, and you can go there anytime easily. I go there and develop relationships with people from different countries.

I also believe Shizuoka has an ideal environment for raising children. As for medical care, you can receive strong support from the health center and have a regular monthly check-up. I especially like the system called “my midwife.” Among the midwives who have a lot of work experience in hospitals, the system pairs me up with a midwife who lives the closest. In addition to the cost subsidies, there is also a service that allows doctors to see patients in their homes. This is very helpful for someone like me with a small child. I feel blessed because the midwife who sees me is a very friendly person. The midwife has also recently become my friend on Facebook, allowing me to easily consult her about anything.

As for choosing a daycare, there are tryout classes before entering the facility. I went to several local daycares and participated in study sessions and social gatherings for parents, which helped me choose a kindergarten suitable for my child. I still have a good relationship with a mother I met during that time, even though our children go to different kindergartens.

Looking back, I realized it was by chance I came to Shizuoka, but I feel blessed to live in such a wonderful city. It is my hope that anyone reading about my experiences in Shizuoka will also feel blessed. Please try visiting Shizuoka.

[work-and-life-in-shizuoka]

INTERVIEW_08

ARTHUR KATO

Countries & Regions / Taiwan

1. JOB DESCRIPTION

Although I’m involved in various jobs right now, I was actively working as a graphic designer for about 34 years. I was an office worker in Tokyo and Yokohama in my 20s. Since 2006, I’ve been designing website banners, logos, business cards, flyers, and menus as a sole proprietor. About four years ago, I began guiding tourists to different sites in Shizuoka Prefecture as a guide for Taiwanese people visiting the prefecture. It started when Fujinokuni Shizuoka Prefecture Taiwan Office created a tour for Shizuoka Prefecture and asked me to find a Taiwanese tour guide. I couldn’t find a suitable candidate, so I offered to do it myself. Most tourists who come to Shizuoka Prefecture have already been to various other places in Japan. This is why they want to see and experience things they’ve never seen or done before. To do that, I took them on local buses and trains to blend in with the locals and their lifestyles. I took them around Shizuoka City and on steam engine trains for a fun tour. With COVID-19 impacting the demand geared towards inbound tourists, my current work is centered on graphic design and interpretation work online. Once COVID-19 settles down, I’d like to get back to work related to inbound tourists.

2. REASON FOR RELOCATING IN SHIZUOKA PREFECTURE

Although I majored in graphic design in Taiwan, I liked Japanese design. In fact, most of the reference books that I used were from Japan. I wanted to study Japanese graphic design, so I came to Japan after graduating from high school in Taiwan. I first studied Japanese at a language school. I then found a job in Japan and spent my time in Tokyo and Yokohama. I met my wife in Yokohama and moved to Shizuoka Prefecture, my wife’s hometown, after my child was born. I decided to move to Shizuoka because it offers a relaxing and stress-free environment for raising children. I had visited Shizuoka Prefecture several times before moving there, and even then, I had a very nice impression of the locals, who were kind and friendly.

After moving to Shizuoka Prefecture, I commuted to Tokyo about once a week and worked from home the rest of the time (I believe working remotely back in 1997 was quite advanced.). There were also times I would live in Tokyo alone and return to Shizuoka Prefecture once a week. While many people feel that Shizuoka Prefecture is a rural area, the area I live in called Kusanagi is only 2 stops from Shizuoka Station, meaning the commute from Tokyo is just over an hour.

3. ATTRACTIVE QUALITIES OF LIVING IN SHIZUOKA

I like taking photographs, so I like going for a drive with my wife and going around temples on my own. If I find appealing places, I take a photograph of them. Now I take photographs of potential tourist locations in Shizuoka Prefecture and upload them onto my Instagram to convey their appeal to the Taiwanese people who can’t to visit Japan because of COVID-19. Shizuoka Prefecture is filled with natural attractions that I want to share.

One of the appealing points of Shizuoka Prefecture is that it’s stress-free. There’s plenty of space for each person. If you watch Chibi Maruko-chan, you’ll know that the people of this prefecture are very laid back. It’s a great place to step back from the busy city and is a wonderful place for those who dislike crowded areas. Although Shizuoka is the place I’ve lived the longest, I’ve never thought about moving anywhere else. Similarly, there are a lot of people who are transferred to Shizuoka Prefecture for work reasons and end up staying here because they like it so much. In my case, I found that the warm climate here is similar to that of my hometown in Taiwan. I also think that the ease of raising children and the fact that the area is easy to live in even when you’re old (the water and air are spectacular, and the area has a long life expectancy) is what makes it appealing.

4. MESSAGE

The area is famous for its long life expectancy, delicious tea, and clean air and water. Many people think about retiring here. There are also a lot of hot springs, making it the ideal place for those who want to enjoy a rich lifestyle.

With direct flights to Taiwan, China, and South Korea, inhabitants can easily return to their home country. With convenient access to the Tokyo metropolitan area, there are cases of Taiwanese people purchasing a house in Shizuoka Prefecture, working in Tokyo, and bringing their parents to Shizuoka Prefecture when they visit from Taiwan. With the expansion of inbound visitors and growing acceptance of foreigners, people with spouses from abroad are becoming uncommon. There are also Taiwanese communities on social media, allowing you to connect with people from your home country anytime online. I myself feel that  Shizuoka Prefecture and Japan are my home, and whenever I go to Taiwan, I feel like a tourist there. Shizuoka Prefecture is very comfortable, and I don’t plan on living anywhere else.

※International flights of Mt. Fuji Shizuoka Airport are currently cancelled or suspended.

[work-and-life-in-shizuoka]

INTERVIEW_07

Mr. Akash Talole

Countries & Regions /   India   

I. Job description

I joined Somic Ishikawa Inc (Somic Ishikawa) in April 2020. When I first joined, I was assigned to the Global Advanced Technology Development Department, where I was in charge of developing a system to detect machine failures. Although I had no work experience and my Japanese was not fluent enough then, I still remember the people in my department welcoming me with open arms.

In July 2021, I volunteered to be transferred to the Design Department. I am involved in design and development of ball joints (main business) domestically and internationally.  I find it fulfilling to work utilizing my forte, language skills, since I often communicate with people in the joint venture company. We also use Japanese when communicating among teammates, and I have many opportunities to talk to Japanese customers. I find it appealing that I can acquire high business-level Japanese language skills along with technical skills.

 II. Reason for relocating in Shizuoka Prefecture

Before coming to Japan, I lived in Pune, India. My father, who works at an automobile company, told me that Japan is the best in the technology and automobile fields. When I was studying mechanical engineering in college, I began to develop a desire to start my career in Japan, partly influenced by my father’s words.  

I studied Japanese for a year after graduating college. At that time, a friend of mine told me that there were many headquarters related to automobile industry in Shizuoka Prefecture, and those were proactively involved in developing the latest IoT and AI technology. I found Somic Ishikawa when I was searching for a company where I could leverage my skills. The interview was held online while I was in India. Finally, I was hired, and came to Hamamatsu, Shizuoka.

I was familiar with Japanese culture because I had watched anime when I was in India. My friend also told me about Shizuoka's excellent climate and nature, including the ocean, forests, and Mt. Fuji, which influenced my decision.

III. Attractive qualities of living in Shizuoka

One of the features of Shizuoka that makes it a great place is the fact that beaches and other natural sites are easily accessible. This includes places like Miho no Matsubara, Shirahama Shrine, Shiraito Falls, lakes near Mt. Fuji, and Kisami Ohama Beach. I have also taken an hour-long boat ride from Shimizu Port to the Izu Peninsula. I really enjoy the rich nature of Shizuoka.

I like visiting beaches, and I especially like the beaches in Izu. Hamamatsu, where I currently live, also has beautiful beaches, so I often go there on the weekends. Hamamatsu also has many restaurants that serve delicious Indian food, sushi, which I love, and eel. The food is varied and satisfying, making it a very comfortable place.

I stayed in Tokyo for around a week in August 2019, but the cost of living in Tokyo felt high. In contrast, the cost of living in Shizuoka feels lower than in Tokyo. The climate is mild throughout the year and it is comfortable to live in.

IV. Message; What I want to share with people who want to live here

Shizuoka is home to many automobile-related companies. Because of that, if you have background of mechanical, IT, or E&TC-related fields, or if you are a student majoring in AI and IoT-related fields, you have a lot of potential in Shizuoka for employment. You will need the basic Japanese communication skills (equivalent to JLPT N3), but there is not much you need to worry about as long as you have that level.

As for the nature, both Mt. Fuji and the Izu Peninsula are breathtaking. The climate is also warm. There are many Indians who live here. Temples and other places serve as areas where Indian and japanese cultural exchanges happen. When I recently gave an online guest lecture at the University of Pune, my alma mater, I introduced many job opportunities and explained about favorable environment for foreigners in Shizuoka Prefecture, as mentioned above.

Finally, Hamamatsu, where I currently live, has many active communities for foreigners. I believe that those  will allow you to expand your network of friends, regardless of nationality. For example, Indians here use social media like Facebook and WhatsApp to share information on events, so you can find your favorite activities easily. Aside from social media, there is a popular badminton community among Japanese and foreign people. Participating in the HICE (Hamamatsu Foundation for International Communication and Exchange) exchange events hosted by Hamamatsu City about once a month will also help you meet Japanese people, other foreigners, and also to learn Japanese culture through some activities. This is why I believe that Hamamatsu is a remarkably comfortable place to live in and a city where people of various nationalities can coexist and prosper together.

[work-and-life-in-shizuoka]

INTERVIEW_06

Lee　Weiying

Countries & Regions / Taiwan

1. JOB DESCRIPTION

I contribute to improve people’s health around the world in a diverse environment

I work in the export department of a medical equipment and pharmaceutical manufacturer, where I am responsible for export procedures, inventory management, and handling trade-related expenses. Our clients are from all over the world, such as the U.S., the Netherlands, China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Australia, India, and South Africa. It’s so enjoyable to communicate with people from various countries. As a foreign-affiliated company, we also have employees of various nationalities. There is an atmosphere of mutual respect　regardless of gender or culture. Each person’s results and contributions are also properly evaluated during personnel evaluation. The company also proactively supports the development of our skills. For example, we can take free online lessons if we wish. While the whole world is suffering from the COVID-19 pandemic, we can contribute to the health of people around the world by delivering our products. This is why I try to deliver our products accurately and swiftly. It's an extremely rewarding job, and I enjoy my job as I can feel my growth daily.

2. REASON FOR RELOCATING IN SHIZUOKA PREFECTURE

The extraordinary of Tokyo life becomes part of everyday life here. Shopping is convenient, and there are plenty of opportunities to flourish at your job.

I have always loved Japanese anime and studied Japanese in my home country. I came to Tokyo on a working holiday visa because I wanted to talk to many Japanese people. I met my husband during this period, and we both moved to Shizuoka Prefecture. I had visited Shizuoka a few times, but I never thought I would live here one day. When I first moved to Shizuoka, I was always excited because I could see Mt. Fuji from anywhere. Now that I'm used to it, I greet it every day just like my family. It has become a part of my daily life.

Although I used to think that Shizuoka was a countryside, my impression of Shizuoka has changed drastically after settling here. There are many large commercial buildings near our house, and the Gotemba Premium Outlet is only a 30-minute drive away, so we have nothing to worry about.

As for job searching, I registered with several major recruiting companies and was introduced to my current company. Many manufacturers in the prefecture are operating their business globally. This was something I was oblivious about until I came to Shizuoka. I believe there are many opportunities for people who are not Japanese to use our language and communication skills in the business world in Shizuoka.

3. ATTRACTIVE QUALITIES OF LIVING IN SHIZUOKA

You can easily enjoy Shizuoka in various ways depending on your mood of the day

One of the attractive points of Shizuoka is that there are so many ways to enjoy the prefecture. It has all the conveniences of a city but is also close to the mountains and the ocean, with many outdoor activities offering rich experiences. There are many places where you can try horseback riding, diving, camping, or taking a tandem paragliding flight to see Mt. Fuji and the city of Shizuoka from the sky. The seafood is delicious because of its proximity to the sea and is especially renowned for its eel. Each season offers you a different way to enjoy the area. My favorite places to visit are the Kawazu cherry blossoms in the spring, the sea in Atami in the summer, the autumn foliage in Sumata Gorge, and hot spring in Izu in the winter. When I lived in Tokyo, I had to prepare any outdoor activities by checking traffic information and making reservations well in advance. However, since moving to Shizuoka, I can talk with my family over breakfast, asking, "Where should we go today?" We decide where to go depending on the weather and how we feel that day. This is only possible if you think about it because there are so many places to enjoy nearby. The fact that you can go to these places so easily without much hassle might also be one of Shizuoka’s attractive qualities.

4. MESSAGE

If you desire to live at your own pace, please start by visiting Shizuoka to have fun

Access to the capital city of Tokyo is very convenient. It takes only an hour by bullet train from our house to go to Tokyo. The pace of life is relaxed, and the people are kind and helpful. I don't think there are many foreign nationals in the area where I live, but maybe that's why there are so many people interested in me. We often have fun "international exchange" conversations as people are interested in many different things, everything from the climate of my home country, Taiwan, to the latest trends such as tapioca milk tea and castella sponge cake. I’m enjoying my daily life here as I keep making more friends.

I recommend living in Shizuoka if you're tired of the fast pace and stress of the city, or if you'd like to live in a city that is like in the middle of a city and nature. I am reminded again that to see Mt. Fuji every day is a great luxury. I feel rejuvenated daily having untouched nature close to my life. If you have even a slight interest in living here, please start by visiting Shizuoka to have fun. If you see me on the street, please say hello.