Before looking at options to study abroad as part of my degree program, I had always thought I would head to the heralded Gold Coast of the USA if I was offered the opportunity to take a year to study in another country – my main points of reference being shimmery TV shows such as 90210 and any song with the word ‘California’ contained somewhere inside of it. I thought a year abroad couldn’t be better than taking classes in all-year sun and relaxing on a plethora of beaches, soda and packet of chips always close to hand.
However, when it came time to choose where I wanted to spend my third year, alongside the option of one of the many colleges that make up the University of California I noted a refreshing selection of universities in Asia – a continent to which I had never been. As an international student, I thought that this could be a challenging but exciting new environment to try and adapt to.
That’s when I saw the chance to study at a university in Tokyo, Japan. Only having a limited knowledge of the wonders of Japan, i.e. Anime, Cat Café’s and Cherry Blossom Season, I was fascinated to see what such a future-facing country and city could have in store for a semester’s worth of study. This interest was particularly piqued by the prospect of the 2020 Olympics being located in the city, alongside the 2019 Rugby World Cup.
Having been in Japan for a few days now, I have a clearer idea of some of the best spots for entertainment and eating alongside cool tourist spots that might interest students wanting to study in Japan in the future, or anyone that has a desire to visit for a holiday. I thoroughly recommend it.
Tourist Attractions
Tokyo Tower / Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
Tokyo Tower, is arguably one of the main tourist spots in the city and it’s not hard to see why. Once you reach the top of the tower you can gain a breath taking 360 degree panorama view of the Tokyo metropolitan area. On clear days you can even see the outline of Mt. Fuji in the background. I recommend you visit just before the sun sets, to see day seamlessly fold into night, in a spectacle of light and colour. It is priced at a reasonable 900 yen (around £7) for the main observation deck.
For those who want a similar view but without having to flash the cash, head to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Tokyo where you can get an even higher view than the Tokyo Tower and see an alternative perspective of the city, 45 stories above ground level. For free.
Food
All You Can Eat and All You Can Drink Restaurants
For good food options, students and tourists alike can enjoy all you can eat (Tabehoudai) and all you can drink (Nomihoudai) buffet-style restaurants around Tokyo. Eat or Drink to your heart’s content (a sensible amount of course). Enough said.
Entertainment
Shibuya
When most people see pictures of Tokyo, they really see pictures of Shibuya. Housing the famous painted busy crosswalk right in front of the station, Shibuya is a huge fashion, food and entertainment district. Here, you can find an international friendly area, with familiar global brands such as H&M, Zara and of course the Japanese staple, Uniqlo. There are even a few British and Irish Pubs so you’ll feel right at home, however there is still a brilliant balance with authentic Japanese stores and eateries. It is a true a whirlwind for the senses.
In summary, Japan is magnificent and I now well and truly rate it.