Anyone have experience with Japan

[Blueneon]

I am doing a degree in English Language with a view to obtaining my TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) Its my intention to teach Japanese adults, English via the internet using videoconferance.

I have done quite a bit of reserch, and have a few friends in Tokyo and Osaka. The culture shock will be massive as soon as you get off the plane, but you will get used to it. The Japanese are very polite and also very shy, get a good guide book that has 'do's and donts' (for example you dont pour your own drink, if you are given a business card, it is terrible bad manners to put it directly in your pocket, you should study it carefully, always bring a small gift when visiting, that sort of thing.
Even bathing is different, you wash outside the tub, then get in! and dont get me started on the toilets! (traditional Japanese ones look like animal troughs!)

Driving will be a challenge, in the city there are signs in english, outside its all Japanese,

I have been wanting to go out there for a while, but I dont have the money, but if you have the oppertunity, then go for it!

Look here for loads of info, and the chance to get a Japanese email-pal (a GREAT idea! you can get a point of reference before you arrive!!)

http://www.japan-guide.com/

they have a section on living too http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e625.html

hope some of this helps you, go for it!