Discovering Japan’s Hidden Gems: Teaching English in Rural Hiroshima During Japan’s ‘Lost Decade’

When I first arrived in Japan, the country was in the midst of its third Lost Decade. The gloom that hung over the country in 2003 seemed never-ending, despite efforts to recover from the economic downturn. Despite this, I found Japan to be a sophisticated and technologically advanced country. Having been exposed to Japanese culture since my childhood in Ireland, I felt like a good fit for someone fresh out of college, offering a unique sense of adventure being far away from home.

The economy had peaked in 1989, but since then, Japan had been unable to shake off the effects of the recession. It was similar to the stifling low-pressure front that seemed to linger over Tokyo during my arrival in the bustling city. However, despite these challenges, I was able to appreciate Japan’s rich culture and history.

Despite my initial excitement about teaching English in rural Hiroshima, I soon realized that there were significant differences between Japan and Ireland. For example, Japanese society placed a strong emphasis on group harmony and seniority over individualism and personal achievement. This made it challenging for me to adapt at first but also gave me an opportunity to learn about Japanese culture and traditions.

Overall, my experience teaching English in rural Hiroshima taught me valuable lessons about resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity. Despite facing numerous challenges due to Japan’s economic struggles, I was able to find joy and beauty in this fascinating country.

In conclusion, while Japan may have faced significant economic challenges during my time there, it is essential not to let these obstacles define one’s experience of this beautiful country. Instead of focusing on hardship, we can focus on learning from our experiences and finding ways to appreciate what makes each place unique.