Even after living in Japan for so many years, entering university felt like starting from zero. I hope that by sharing what I’ve learned, I can help new international students feel a little more prepared and a little less alone. If you’re planning to join GSEP or are just curious about what a Japanese university is like, here are some things I wish I knew when I was starting my own journey.
For students coming from abroad, life in Japan can feel both exciting and confusing at the same time. It’s one of the safest, cleanest, and most organized countries you’ll ever live in, but it also has its own silent rules and rhythms that take you time to understand.
The first thing you’ll probably notice is how structured and polite everything is, from how people line up at train stations to how they avoid talking loudly on public transport. It can seem strict at first, but after a while, you’ll appreciate the calm order in everyday life.
That said, adjusting to Japan’s pace takes patience. Simple things like paying rent, setting up a bank account, or going to the ward office might feel overwhelming because of the language barrier. Once you learn a few key Japanese phrases and get used to how things work, though, everything becomes much smoother.
My biggest advice is to start learning Japanese as early as possible; even basic conversational phrases will make your daily life easier and help you connect with locals. Japanese people are generally kind and patient, and they truly appreciate it when you make an effort to speak their language, even if it’s just a few words.
Science Tokyo itself is a special place because of its international programs like the Global Scientists and Engineers Program (GSEP). You’ll meet people from all over the world who share the same curiosity and passion. It’s easy to form friendships with your classmates because you’re all going through the same experience of adjusting to Japanese university life together.
At the same time, it’s worth stepping outside the international bubble. Try joining a Japanese student circle or volunteering at campus events. You might feel shy at first, but you’ll be surprised how much you learn, not only about Japanese culture, but also about yourself.
University life in Japan is different from what many international students expect. Professors give you a lot of independence, so you’ll need to manage your time well. No one will chase you for deadlines or attendance, so self-discipline becomes crucial. Fortunately, professors at Science Tokyo are approachable and open to questions, and they respect initiative and curiosity. If you ever feel lost, don’t hesitate to ask; it’s much better than quietly struggling.
Another thing to keep in mind is how different the lifestyle might be from your home country. Japanese apartments are small, transportation is reliable but sometimes crowded, and convenience stores will quickly become your best friend. You’ll probably find yourself eating more onigiri and instant noodles than you planned, but that’s part of the fun.
Tokyo might seem expensive, but students can live comfortably with good budgeting, cooking at home, taking advantage of student discounts, and buying second-hand whenever you can. The dorms provided by the Institute are a great starting point because they help you adjust to student life before moving out on your own. Also, prepare yourself for seasonal changes: summers are humid, winters are dry, and you’ll quickly learn the importance of owning both a good umbrella and a humidifier.
Social life in Japan might feel a bit quieter than in other countries. People are polite but often reserved, so building deep friendships takes time. Don’t be discouraged if things move slowly – it’s completely normal. The best way to connect is through shared activities, like studying together, joining a club, or attending campus events. Over time, you’ll find your group and create a support network that feels like family. For students aspiring to attend GSEP: the community is small, but that’s what makes it great. You’ll always have someone to talk to, whether you’re struggling with classes or just need a break from studying.
The decision that changed everything for me was to start attending events that pushed me out of my comfort zone. One of my most memorable experiences was going to an English camp in Nasu, where I volunteered to help Japanese middle and high school students practice English. I was nervous because I had never taken on a teaching role before, and I worried about whether I could communicate well enough or whether the students would respond to me.
But the moment the first group activity started, all that anxiety disappeared. The students were shy at first, but slowly opened up, laughing during simple vocabulary games and trying their best to express themselves. I remember one student who barely spoke during the first session walked up to me on the last day and said, “Thank you for teaching me. I want to speak English more now.” That moment genuinely made me realize the power of connecting across language and culture. Experiences like that camp taught me that taking action, even if you feel unsure, creates opportunities that can shape you deeply.
Most importantly, remember to explore beyond campus. Tokyo is full of hidden gems, cozy cafés, shrines tucked between skyscrapers, and parks that look completely different in each season. Japan’s train system makes it easy to travel on weekends, and visiting places like Kamakura, Hakone, or Kyoto gives you a whole new appreciation for the country’s beauty. It’s easy to get caught up in classes, but make time for adventures; they’ll become your best memories.
Life here can be challenging at first, especially with the language barrier and cultural differences, but it’s incredibly rewarding once you find your rhythm. You’ll grow more independent, patient, and adaptable than you ever imagined. Science Tokyo and Japan will shape you not just as a student, but as a person, and that’s something truly special.
So, if you’re about to move here, make sure to bring an open mind, a willingness to learn, and maybe a stash of your favorite snacks from home. You’ll thank yourself later! ☺
