Digital Nomad Life in Kamogawa, Japan

"Expats in Kamogawa, appreciate the local culture for its deep-rooted traditions and customs that are still practiced today. They admire the sense of community and the warm hospitality of the locals. The peaceful and serene environment, coupled with the beautiful natural landscapes, is also highly appreciated. Expats enjoy the local festivals and events that showcase the rich history and culture of Kamogawa. They also value the local cuisine, which is fresh, healthy, and diverse. The respect for nature and the environment, as well as the cleanliness of the city, are also aspects of the local culture that expats appreciate. Lastly, the safety and low crime rate in Kamogawa make it a comfortable place for expats to live," explained one person living in Kamogawa, Japan.

"Expats in Kamogawa may find the language barrier to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture, as not everyone speaks English and Japanese can be a difficult language to learn. They may also struggle with the complex social etiquette, which includes specific rules for gift-giving, dining, and addressing others. The work culture in Japan can also be intense, with long hours and a strong emphasis on loyalty and dedication to one's job. Additionally, expats may find it difficult to integrate into the local community, as Japanese society can be quite homogeneous and reserved. The difference in food habits can also be a challenge for some, as Japanese cuisine is quite distinct and may not suit everyone's palate. Lastly, the high cost of living, particularly in terms of housing, can also pose a challenge for expats living in Kamogawa," explained one person living in Kamogawa, Japan.

"If you are planning to stay in Kamogawa for an extended period, you will need to obtain a visa. The type of visa you need will depend on the purpose of your stay. For example, if you are going to work, you will need a working visa. If you are going to study, you will need a student visa. In addition to the visa, you will also need a valid passport. Your passport should be valid for the entire duration of your stay in Japan. Once you arrive in Japan, if you are staying for more than 90 days, you will need to apply for a Residence Card. This card is issued upon arrival at Narita, Haneda, Chubu, and Kansai Airports. If you enter Japan from other airports, you need to apply for the card at your local municipal office in Japan. You will also need to register your address with the local municipal office within 14 days of finding a place to live. Please note that visa requirements can change, so it's important to check with the nearest Japanese embassy or consulate before you travel," explained one expat living in Kamogawa, Japan.

"When visiting Kamogawa, it's important to respect the local customs and traditions to avoid any cultural faux pas. Firstly, never wear shoes inside homes, temples, and traditional restaurants. There will usually be a place to store your shoes at the entrance. When eating, never stick your chopsticks vertically into your rice as this is a ritual performed at funerals. Also, avoid passing food from chopstick to chopstick as this is another funeral rite. In Japan, it's considered rude to blow your nose in public, so try to avoid doing this. If you're visiting any temples or shrines, be respectful and quiet. Don't take pictures where it's not allowed and follow any other rules posted. Tipping is not customary in Japan and can sometimes be seen as insulting, so avoid leaving extra money at restaurants or for services. When meeting someone, bowing is the traditional form of greeting. Handshakes are not common and can sometimes be seen as too forward. Finally, remember that personal space is highly valued in Japan. Avoid touching people, especially those of the opposite sex, unless absolutely necessary," said one expat who made the move to Kamogawa.