My goal today is to use my example to show what can happen when you're a foreign worker in Japan, what signs you can look for to avoid ending up in a very bad situation, and how to get out of it.

My story

This happened during my first year in Japan. I had come from France on a work visa sponsored by a French-owned company in Japan. My first visa was valid for one year. After about nine months at the company, I wanted to prepare for the following year, so I went to my boss and asked if we could talk about my visa. I didn't ask him to sponsor me again right there and then, I just wanted to talk about it. That's when it started. 

The immediate answer was "not yet". He simply refused to discuss it. At first, he said there was still time before the end of my visa, but he seemed to deliberately keep things vague, to keep me uncertain about whether I'd be sponsored or not. This was very stressful. 

When I asked a second time, his answer shifted: "we'll talk about it when all projects are done", then "If you want to talk about it, you should put in extra time to finish the projects, and then we'll talk". 

I was very lucky to have my girlfriend with me at the time. She immediately recognized this for what it was: blackmail. I started looking for another job to sponsor my visa extension, and luckily, I quickly found one. I began the paperwork, but I still needed some documents from my old company. Since I was still serving my one-month notice period, I was still working there,  and once again, my boss tried to demand extra time in exchange for handing over the documents. 

Fortunately, I had noticed a few months earlier that the neighborhood association where I was taking Japanese classes also offered legal assistance. I reached out for help, and everything started getting better from there.

Key Takeaways

• Not talking about your visa is a red flag.

I can't say exactly what obligations companies have, but refusing to even discuss your visa is at least suspicious. Even before this, my boss had often said that employees (myself included) didn't show him enough gratitude for sponsoring their visa. While it's natural to feel grateful to a company that helps you get a visa, having a boss who repeatedly insists that you owe them for it is a major red flag.

• Don't assume safety just because of nationality.

Working under someone from your home country can feel reassuring and does come with advantages, but it doesn't make you immune to exploitation. Similarly, coming from a "rich country" with a strong passport doesn't guarantee you won't face problems. Of course, having a strong passport made my situation less risky. We have to acknowledge the fact that for people from countries with weaker passports, the same kind of blackmail can be far more dangerous, since their options for changing jobs or staying in Japan legally are much more limited. 

• Plan visa renewals in advance.

Especially for your first renewal, start early. That way, if a problem arises, you have time to react. If I had less time left on my visa, I would have been in a weaker and far more stressful position, potentially forced to comply with an abusive situation just to stay in Japan.

• Look for local associations.

From the start of your life in Japan, find local groups and associations. Whether for language learning or legal support, they're full of people willing to help.

Final thoughts

I don't want to scare anyone, far from it. Since then, I've had multiple good experiences, and so have almost all of the people I know here. But I still think it's important to raise awareness. These situations are extremely tricky, and a lot hangs in the balance. 

The important thing to remember is this: no matter which country you're from, you still carry a vulnerability some people might try to exploit. Keep that in the back of your mind, not to become paranoid, but so you can recognize the signs if you ever find yourself in an exploitative company.

PS

By the way, here’s a piece of information that some bosses in Japan seem to ignore (or pretend to ignore) about Visa sponsorship. Once you have a work visa, it is dependent on you being employed in your field, but it is not tied to the specific employer who sponsored you. There is no legally required minimum period you must work for that employer, beyond the regular resignation notice in your contract (30 days by default if not specified). 

If you quit or lose your job, your visa remains valid for three months, giving you time to find another compatible position. And on the same topic of changing jobs: you are under no obligation to tell your employer that you are job hunting, even if they originally sponsored your visa. These are matters that Japanese law keeps separate. 

If you’re unsure about your specific case, I once again recommend reaching out to a local association for advice, there are plenty, and happy to help.

If you're interested in Japanese culture, chances are you're also interested in learning the language. Today, I want to share how I use Netflix to learn Japanese. For full disclosure, I'm fully convinced that watching any type of media in another language is one of the best ways to learn it. That's actually how I learned English. 

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Of course, academic lessons or language schools are almost unavoidable stepping stones that can give you a strong start in your language journey, and that I think you should not skip. But I believe that media is one of the best ways to build vocabulary, learn natural expressions, and get used to fluent, unfiltered speech.

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I've often heard people, including teachers, say that fiction isn't good for learning languages, because the characters don't usually speak in a "natural" way. And yes, conversations in fiction often feel artificial. But here is my counterpoint: if you could speak Japanese as smoothly as characters in movies or TV shows, wouldn't you be satisfied with your level? Wouldn't you feel ready to live your life, connect with people and refine your skills just by talking with others and adapting to their phrasing?

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Plus, if you've ever looked at teaching materials, you've probably noticed how unnatural they can be. Your Japanese book might even teach you "watashi no namae wa Thomas desu", a sentence you'll never hear a native speaker use...

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Find a show you love

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Now that we're on the same page, here's what I consider the most important factor in learning through TV shows and movies: having fun. 

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First, find a series that appeals to you. Personally, I love slice-of-life shows, and I think they're the best genre for learning, but any genre works as long as you enjoy it. 

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Then, try watching in Japanese. If you need to watch an episode or two with subtitles in your native language to get familiar with the characters and the story, go ahead, don't be ashamed. After that, switch to Japanese subtitles. This is an important step, if you never switch subtitles, you're going to rely on your native language and your brain is not going to do the work.

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Don't worry about how much you understand, there's no "minimal percentage" you need to hit for learning to happen. Even if you only catch a few words here and there and have to guess the rest, and if lots of things still are a complete mystery, you're still making progress. The only real question is: Am I enjoying this show? If the answer is yes, keep watching and let the vocabulary and phrasing sink in naturally. If not, try another series, or look online for recommendations of easy-to-understand shows.

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Don't stop for every word

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My next tip depends on your personality, so take it with a grain of salt. I recommend not pausing every time you encounter a new word. Doing so breaks the rhythm of the show and kills the fun. 

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Instead, wait until you hear the word several times. The next situation might be clearer, or the sentence simpler, and you'll then be able to guess its meaning from context. If, after a while, you recognize the word when it's spoken but still don't understand it, that's the perfect moment to look it up. By then, you'll already know the pronunciation, which makes it much easier to remember and reuse.

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Learning takes time

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Even a single show contains thousands of different words and phrases, and you don't need to understand or memorize every one of them. You'll pick up a few from each show, and over time, you'll build a solid foundation. 

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Afterall, even in your native language, you didn't learn and remember every single word the first time you heard it, did you?

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To wrap it up

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The key to learning any language through media isn't understanding everything or being perfect from the start. It's about enjoying the process, exposing yourself to real language, and letting your brain absorb it naturally. Progress happens little by little, episode by episode. So don't stress if you don't understand every word, don't worry about it not working, and don't pressure yourself to be perfect. Keep watching, keep enjoying, and over time, you'll be amazed at how much you've learned.

While Tokyo is undoubtedly an exciting and vibrant city, there are times when you may crave a break from its hustle and bustle. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or simply a change of scenery, there are plenty of nearby destinations that offer a more relaxed pace. Here are the top five day trips from Tokyo that promise a refreshing escape.

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Kamakura: Step into Japan’s Rich History and Natural Beauty

Located just an hour south of Tokyo, Kamakura offers a captivating mix of history and natural beauty. Often referred to as the "Kyoto of Eastern Japan," this coastal town is home to ancient temples, shrines, and historical landmarks. Hike scenic trails through lush hills, take a peaceful stroll through the bamboo forest at Hokokuji Temple, or visit the iconic Great Buddha (Daibutsu)—one of Japan’s most famous landmarks. Kamakura is the perfect place to connect with both Japan’s cultural heritage and its serene natural landscapes.

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Hakone: Escape to Tranquil Hot Springs and Scenic Mountain Views

About 90 minutes from Tokyo, Hakone is the ultimate destination for a peaceful getaway. Nestled in the mountains, this renowned hot spring resort town offers breathtaking views of Mount Fuji and tranquil Lake Ashi. Whether you're unwinding in a traditional onsen (hot spring) at a cozy ryokan (Japanese inn) or enjoying a scenic boat cruise on the lake, Hakone delivers a day of relaxation and natural beauty. If you're looking to experience Japan’s famous hot springs, Hakone is an ideal choice.

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Nikko: Journey Through Culture, Nature, and Majestic Temples

Approximately two hours from Tokyo, Nikko is a must-visit for those seeking cultural heritage and natural beauty. The town is home to the Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate. Surrounded by deep forests, Nikko offers outdoor activities like hiking around the stunning Kegon Falls and peaceful Lake Chuzenji, which is especially beautiful in autumn when the foliage is vibrant. Whether you're exploring ornate temples or immersing yourself in nature, Nikko provides a serene and enriching experience.

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Enoshima: Immerse Yourself in This Beautiful and Mythical Island

Just an hour from Tokyo, Enoshima is a coastal gem that blends mythology, history, and stunning scenery. The island is home to the Enoshima Shrine, dedicated to Benzaiten, the goddess of music, entertainment, and good fortune. Stroll through charming streets lined with shops offering local crafts and seafood treats. Nature lovers will enjoy a hike to the top of the island for panoramic ocean views, with Mount Fuji visible on clear days. Don’t miss the Enoshima Sea Candle, a lighthouse offering breathtaking 360-degree views of the coastline. Whether you're exploring caves, relaxing on the beach, or diving into local myths, Enoshima is the perfect coastal retreat.

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Kawagoe: Discover the Charm of Old Japan

Under an hour from Tokyo, Kawagoe offers a step back in time with its well-preserved Edo-period streets. Known as "Little Edo," this charming town features historical buildings, traditional warehouses, and quaint canals. Visit the iconic Kawagoe Bell Tower, explore the merchant district, or enjoy the atmosphere of the beautiful Kita-in Temple, home to several ancient statues. With its mix of old-world charm and modern-day convenience, Kawagoe offers a unique glimpse into Japan's past while still being easily accessible from Tokyo.

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These day trips from Tokyo offer something for everyone. Each destination provides a unique escape from the city’s fast pace, giving you the chance to experience a different side of Japan. No matter which adventure you choose, you'll return to Tokyo refreshed, inspired, and with memories to last a lifetime.

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If you ask me, a French expat living in Japan since August 2022, I've never felt so little stress in my life.

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Let me give you an example of the kind of situation that always reminds me how much pressure Japan takes off your shoulders. I love going on hikes or small trips. If you're into these activities, you know how much planning (and worrying) is usually involved: What if the train is delayed? Do I need a plan B? Did I pack enough food? Do I need spare change for the toilet? How will I find a decent restaurant? Will there be transport all the way to my destination? And what about the return trip? and so much more...

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In Japan, these questions either don't come up at all, or they're solved with a simple one-time check on a single source. Indeed, in Japan, any reasonable source is reliable. Whether it's the official train app, a timetable on a station wall, a sign on the hiking trail, or a website for a restaurant, you don't need to double-check: it's accurate, up-to-date, and trustworthy (although for restaurants, google map isn't that good on national holidays). In France, I would even have to check the internet to see if the restaurant in front of me is a scam, but in Japan you can just trust everything's going to be fine, and it usually is. 

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When I first arrived in Japan three years ago, I visited a museum called TeamLab Planet. One of its features is that you have to walk through water and then across mirrored floors. How surprised I was to see that they offered free shorts you could borrow if your clothes weren't suitable. It made me feel safe and cared for, knowing that everything had been thought of. Maybe that example doesn't sound too extraordinary to you, as it probably exists elsewhere in the world, but in Japan, this kind of foresight is everywhere. Living here, you slowly get used to not worrying, because you know every company, every public office, and every tourist site has already thought about potential problems and prepared solutions for you, without cutting corners.

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This is the main reason why I feel day-to-day stress is much lower in Japan, at least compared to France.

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Now, many people will tell you that paperwork in Japan is stressful because it's so demanding. And I get that. Yes, paperwork here requires you to be in the right place, at the right time, with all the right documents. And if your situation is unusual, things can get complicated quickly. But honestly, in most cases, your situation isn't exceptional. 

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So where's the good side? Well, because the Japanese system is so strict and consistent, it's also very predictable, efficient, and reliable. If the clerk accepts your application, you don't need to worry anymore; everything will usually go smoothly from there. 

France is particularly bad in this area, so maybe I speak with a bit of trauma. However, since moving to Japan, I feel significantly less stress about paperwork, including renewing my visa. I know that applying automatically extends my current visa while it's processed, and since I've already renewed it twice, I also know the process will be exactly the same with the same result. Isn't that reassuring?

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Of course, I should mention that my experience doesn't cover every side of life in Japan. I don't work in a traditional Japanese company, so I'm not exposed to the work culture that many Japanese people (and fully integrated expats) often find stressful. My point of view comes from daily life outside of that environment, where the reliability I've described really shines. I would hate for my words to be used to deny the stress that others may, or do, feel living here. I just want to convey that, for me, Japan has been a place where most everyday worries simply melt away.

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The land of the rising sun is often held in high regard in some circles in the Western world, others not so much. Depending on who you ask, one can often get many different descriptions of someone's views on Japan. It is a well-known place for Anime and Anime culture and has many places that cater to these wishes. To many people, Japan is a land of beauty and historical significance. Many temples and shrines dot the landscape and if you know where to look, you can find some real hidden gems all over the country. Japan has so much history dating back to the popular feudal era and the warring states period, to the more recent WWII if you go to places like Nagasaki. Everyone has a different reason to visit Japan and some even decide to stay for longer than just a quick visit. This is what I decided to do without ever having visited the country before. My reason is rather simple: I simply wanted to see what the “real” Japan is like. The image of Japan that is depicted to the rest of the world through media like games and anime is obviously going to be romanticized but the core elements should still be the same. So was it? Kinda… 

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I have been living in Japan for 5 months at the time of writing so the struggles and difficulties are still relatively fresh. As someone who does not speak a significant level of Japanese, I expected to have many difficulties adjusting to life in a foreign country. Translation apps can get you farther than you think when it comes to everyday needs like finding things at stores and communicating with store clerks. So much so that you don’t really NEED to learn Japanese, especially if you are only staying for a very short length of time. Most people in Japan have to study some level of English at some point in their school lives but the focus is usually only on reading and writing. If you speak slowly enough and use very simple words, even people who say they don’t know English can usually figure out what you’re saying. This is usually only true with younger people however because like every skill, if you don’t use it often, you lose it. Anyone over 40 will most likely not be able to talk with you. 

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The Glitz and Glamour of Japan can bring in a lot of people from around the world but there are negatives like anywhere else that are not discovered if you only stay for a short time. Japan has an almost obsession with order and keeping track of everything. Any paperwork you do with the government usually takes a long time and you often find yourself needing to go to government offices more than you would in most other countries. The same meticulous nature is also true with the legal system. Most petty crimes won’t have a lot of follow up and police are usually pretty understanding. However, if you do get arrested, the legal system is not kind and you can find yourself in hot water even if you are innocent of the crime. There are not a lot of defense lawyers and most of them are not very successful. There is also a big problem with the work culture in Japan. Respect for your elders and seniors at work is strictly followed to a fault. Most employees are often overworked and usually taken advantage of because they are lower on the hierarchy. A lot of work time is unpaid and employees are still expected to work and this is considered normal in Japan. 

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Alternatively, because of all of this, there are a lot of good things that come from it. People are very respectful in Japan and even the less desirable thugs and degenerates still treat regular people with respect and apologize if they do something wrong. Most people are usually very sheltered and shy so talking to people on the street is usually seen as very strange. However, if you go to most bars or other social places where they expect to be talked to they are usually very open to talking with strangers. Everything is very clean and most of the roadwork and any construction is done with everyone else in mind, so they will try to cover up any ugly construction with tarps and get it done as fast as possible. Japan is also one of the safest places in the world to the point where most children, even as young as 5 or 6 are able to go to school alone, even in a place as busy as Tokyo.

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I still have a lot to learn about Japan during my stay, so I don’t know if I can say that my question has truly been answered yet. I wanted to see how most people go about their daily lives and learn what living in Japan is truly like and I can mostly answer that for myself. There is one other aspect of the people of Japan I still want to learn and that will mostly just take more time to learn. I want to see what the people's morals and values are like here in Japan. In time, I hope to be able to answer that question as well. In time…

Does Japan celebrate Thanksgiving? Well, the short answer is, yes. The long answer, however, is a lot more complicated. Unlike in the US and Canada, on Labor Thanksgiving Day ([勤労感謝の日 or Kinrō Kansha no Hi)], Japanese people express gratitude not only for the fruits of the land but also for the hard work and dedication of all workers, including farmers, laborers, educators, and healthcare professionals. On the 23rd of November, the importance of these professions for the betterment of society is emphasized on a national scale. The spirit of gratitude and acknowledgment of labor is an important aspect of Japanese culture. Therefore, Labor Thanksgiving Day is an opportunity for everyone to pause and reflect on the collective effort that goes into building and maintaining a prosperous nation.

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How did this holiday come about? Labor Thanksgiving Day is rooted in the ancient Japanese harvest festival known as Niiname-sai ([新嘗祭). The emperor would make offerings to the deities in hope of a good harvest. Over time, this tradition evolved to recognize the importance of hard work, productivity, and gratitude for the fruits of labor. In 1948, the modern-day holiday was officially established as a national holiday to honor and thank the citizens who contribute to the nation's prosperity. It is an annual reminder of the value of labor and its impact on the well-being of Japanese society.

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Several activities and events are held to celebrate Labor Thanksgiving Day. Commemorative ceremonies are held in schools and workplaces across Japan in which outstanding individuals are recognized for their contributions. Employers acknowledge employees who have excelled in their work, and schools honor students for their achievements. Charitable activities and volunteer work are undertaken by citizens and various organizations to express a sense of gratitude. Museums, cultural centers, and educational institutions organize events and exhibitions that are related to labor and Japanese culture in order to educate the public on the historical and cultural significance of labor in Japan. Labor unions and workers’ associations organize demonstrations or gatherings to raise awareness of labor-related issues, such as fair wages and worker’s rights. Workers can share their concerns and advocate for improved labor conditions. On a personal level, some citizens use Labor Thanksgiving Day to highlight the work and contributions of their loved ones, strengthening the bonds that tie them together.

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This tradition goes beyond the mere observance of a holiday. It's more of a reflection of the cultural ethos that values the efforts and contributions of the individual members of a society. It’s a specified day when Japanese people express their gratitude and acknowledge the importance of labor, productivity, and hard work. In a world where the value of work can be often overshadowed by other concerns, Labor Thanksgiving Day serves as a reminder of the enduring importance of labor.

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When we celebrate this day, whether in Japan or from abroad, we remember the beauty of gratitude and togetherness. In a world where the labor force is the backbone of every nation, taking a moment to recognize and reward the efforts of those who make it all possible is a lesson we can all learn from Labor Thanksgiving Day.

In our current global economy, foreign language learning is becoming an increasingly desired skill, and being able to speak multiple languages is a great way to spruce up your resume and impress your family, colleagues, and friends. However, learning languages comes more easily to some than others, and disillusionment or unrealistic expectations can cause more harm than good if goals are not met. If this applies to you as it does to me, I have some tips that can help you set realistic and achievable goals for language learning and any other hobbies or skills to which this may apply.

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Tip 1: Be as specific as possible. Clearly define and write your language goals. For example, instead of a vague goal like "learn Japanese," aim for "master basic Japanese greetings" or "hold a 5-minute conversation in Japanese." If your current knowledge and conversation skills are more advanced, you can definitely aim higher but do so within reasonable limits. Burnout can happen at any stage of the language learning process, so even a simple goal such as "maintain my current level of Japanese" is perfectly fine.

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Tip 2: Break down your language learning into smaller, manageable tasks. Try focusing on mastering one task at a time, like learning hiragana or practicing common phrases, to build a strong foundation. Check off these tasks as you complete them to track your progress. Having a visual representation of your goal and the tasks involved is a good motivator, so display it in your room or on your electronic device where you can see it. On my Android phone, I use a free app called Tasks that lets me set a customized alarm and use a widget on my home screen to remind me of tasks such as meetings and appointments. Try it! 

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Tip 3: Be consistent as possible by setting a study schedule. Doing regular, shorter study sessions are often more effective than random, long sessions. This way, learning becomes a habit. Habits are the hardest to make and the easiest to break, so don't beat yourself up if you miss a session or two. Life is unpredictable so be as fluid as possible if things happen outside of your control, like a meteor hitting the earth or a surprise karaoke party with your friends. 

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Tip 4: Utilize the language learning resources available such as combining textbooks, language apps, online courses, and perhaps even language exchange partners to keep your learning engaging and diverse. If you are into music, get a Spotify or YouTube Music account and explore the pre-made playlists available. Go to events such as art exhibitions, live performances, and festivals where you can encounter content or materials in your language of interest, even if you won't be able to completely understand. Immersion is always the best way to learn, so any chance to do so should be taken.

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Tip 5: Celebrate your progress by acknowledging the small victories you make along the way. Whether it's correctly using a new phrase (思い出した!) or understanding a complex concept (分かった!), recognizing progress keeps you motivated.  It does not matter if it's simply recognizing a kanji character that you recently learned or having a phone conversation without any issues, celebrate your win!

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I hope these tips will help you as much as they will help me. If they work, let me know! If they didn't, no worries. There is no one way to accomplish something, just find what works for you. がんばって!

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