Roni's message

I am a member of a network of Asian regional scholars, the `Asian Youth Fellowship` (AYF) since 2007. During my first 7-month stay in Kansai, Japan, in addition to Japanese language studies, I also learnt and acquired many aspects of Japanese culture through various educational programs such as study trips to places of historical significance, cultural tours and host-family programs.

I recently completed my Master`s degree (International Politics) from the Graduate School for International Development and Cooperation (IDEC), Hiroshima University. During my two-year stint in Hiroshima University, while doing my Master`s degree, I also engaged myself in various university academically-related activities such as Research Assistant and Teaching Assistant for the Faculty of Law and the Graduate School for International Development and Cooperation.


If you have any question, please do not hesitate to contact me to bynjapan@gmail.com (^^)

Aziman's message

Tips for living in Japan:

1. Learn the Language.
2. Buy the train card (1000yen [rechargeable]) Pasmo..or the other one. Better than buying tickets from each station. Meaning you don't need to know how to read Kanji and find out how much it costs.
3. Uniqlo sells cheap seasonal clothings. So, during winter, you may not need to bring your thick jackets from home, you can buy it there cheaply. Well its up to you ;)
4. Akihabara has a halal kebab shop.
5. If you run out of $$ or train stations are closed, find an internet cafe (Mangga kisa). It opens 24hours and provides a resting spot at a cheap rate.
6. Get ready to shower naked with other people in public bathroom. Its a cool experience. 
7. Do everything, go everywhere, as much as you can. Definitely worth it. For e.g. Climb Mt. Fuji. You'll regret climbing it. But once you reach the top, and climb down from there: "Mt.Fuji? Been there. Climbed it." check.

Anita's message

Some advice:

1. Before you go, you will find it helpful to research about Japan and learn some useful basic Japanese phrases to get you by when you first arrive in Japan. 
2. Bring materials related to your study, especially if it involves Brunei, as the materials about Brunei are very limited in Japan.
3. Bring some ‘Brunei’ products such as key chains, postcards, etc. These can also be souvenirs to exchange with friends in Japan.
4. If you have time, try to join some co-curricular activities or clubs in your university. You can make more friends to practice your Japanese and to get information. This is also a good way to explore Japan as these activities might involve educational and cultural trips and visits.
5. Try not to complain too much about Japan, especially if you have problems accepting the ways of Japan and its society (The ATMs in Japan are only open until 6.00pm!). It is very frustrating, but try to understand and accept it. After all, it was your decision to come to study in Japan.