Hello all,
I’ve begun looking into the steps to move to Japan. I have a Bachelor’s degree and the appropriate funds to support myself should I choose to study the Japanese language on a student visa before seeking employment. My biggest concern is my age. Is 40 too old? I’m also not sure whether to apply for an eikawa or alt position first or to maybe help with employment opportunities by spending a year in Japan at a language school first. I’m very diligent about networking but I worry that my age will be a big obstacle. Any advice or stories from others who’ve made the move later in life would be much appreciated. Thank you!
9 comments
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**40 Years Old**
Hello all,
I’ve begun looking into the steps to move to Japan. I have a Bachelor’s degree and the appropriate funds to support myself should I choose to study the Japanese language on a student visa before seeking employment. My biggest concern is my age. Is 40 too old? I’m also not sure whether to apply for an eikawa or alt position first or to maybe help with employment opportunities by spending a year in Japan at a language school first. I’m very diligent about networking but I worry that my age will be a big obstacle. Any advice or stories from others who’ve made the move later in life would be much appreciated. Thank you!
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What skills/experience do you bring to the table?
No – There are plenty of people in their 40’s, heck even 50’s who study in Japan.
I would recommend studying in a language school first, depending on your current Japanese ability.
It’s still possible for people in their 40s to find a job as an English teacher at an Eikaiwa without a teaching certificate, so yes, it’s possible to find such a job.
I think it’s really hard to make new friends or even acquaintances around your age, which is a bigger concern, in my opinion.
The older you are, the harder it is to get to know someone new, and this applies to every country, especially in Asia.
Confucianism is still a significant factor here, and even though Japanese people don’t mind age gaps among us and people from abroad, we still care about these gaps and take them seriously.
Also, your classmates are mainly Chinese-speaking people, Koreans, or Vietnamese, where Confucianism is also a factor, and they are hesitant to make friends with older individuals in general.
Maybe, this struck a nerve with some older people here.
Nearly half of the population of Tokyo is above 50 so you’re still a young buck.
Good luck! I think you are never too old to chase your dreams 😀
If there’s nothing holding you back and you’ve got the means, go for it. I’ve been in education for 35+ years and have seen plenty of people you age and older just staring out in education. The right attitude makes all the difference. Good luck.
It’s only too old if you think it is.
Getting a job in Japan as a foreigner is a challenge no matter what age you are. Don’t discourage yourself and think it’s age related.
If you have the means, then live in Japan for a little while and study Japanese. Japan is a wonderful place to live, but it’s not for everyone. Making friends is a challenge, but again, that’s for any age.
I’ll be 40 when I’m planning on moving next year. No work plans. Will see how it goes!