Travelling In and Out of Japan › Newcomer's Guide

Travelling In and Out of Japan


 


 

Because the majority of JETs are keen on traveling around Japan and other countries as well, I'm assuming that many of you are also interested in this subject. This article will hopefully give you an idea of the travel opportunities that you have while on JET. First, I want to preface this article with the ever-repeated phrase "every situation is different - it depends on your particular placement." But, that being said, regardless of where you're at, you will have plenty of opportunities to venture to new places.

Holidays

There are many holidays throughout the year. The more extended ones are: Winter holiday (usually from Dec. 23rd - Jan. 3); Spring holiday (most people have at least a week, many manage to get more; it falls around the end of March); Golden Week (at the end of April, beginning of May - a week holiday may be possible with little nenkyu); and the summer holiday (you'll be arriving at the beginning of the summer holiday which lasts from July 29 - August 31; in most cases, you will be required to go into your office for most of these days , but some people get to do their own thing).

Nenkyu

This is the paid leave days that are allotted to you in your contract. The amount of nenkyu that you receive is probably anywhere between 12 and 20 days per year. These days are in addition to the National Holidays (and often regular school holidays) that you already get to have off. Most people use their nenkyu to extend their holidays.

Traveling within Japan

Traveling around the country is often appreciated and well looked upon by the Japanese that you are in contact with. They are often impressed and happy that you interested in seeing more of their country. (And, the more you see of Japan, the easier it is to escape to other countries for the longer breaks without causing offense).

The summer, winter, and spring holidays are the cheapest times to utilize the local trains. At these times, you can purchase a 5-day pass for the local trains which allows you unlimited travel over a 24 hour period for only 12,000 yen. Of course, since it's only valid on local trains, it may take you awhile to reach your desired destination. (The more convenient Japan Rail passes are only sold outside Japan and are technically not an option for JETs - you are not supposed to use them as a resident of Japan).

You can save money on accommodation by utilizing AJET's Tatami Timeshare. Tatami Timeshare is a benefit available to AJET members. If you opt to sign up for it, you will receive a listing of other AJET members in each prefecture willing to share their futons. It works out nicely, for not only do you get to stay somewhere for free (a big bonus in an expensive country), but you can meet some fun people and often get an inside edge on the best places to go in the area, etc.

Outside of Japan

Travel in Japan is nice, but it's really good to get a break from here, too. Most of us take off during at least one of the major holidays. You can get flights to other Asian countries for relatively good prices. I have been to Vietnam, Hong Kong, Taiwan, the Philippines, and Korea in my first year here. There aren't too many Asian countries that I can think of that at least one Yamaguchi JET hasn't been to. In addition, several North Americans and Europeans go to Australia and New Zealand over the breaks. Many people return home for the holidays as well. So, whatever your desired destinations may be, you can probably make it work sometime during your stay here.

Travel Guides

A majority of us have the Lonely Planet Japan guidebook. If you don't buy it before you come, you can buy it here as well. As for guidebooks to other countries: Lonely Planet guidebooks are available for a reduced price for AJET members on a mail order basis; in addition, bookstores in Hiroshima, Kokura, etc. also carry a variety of guidebooks. An alternative to buying your own book is to just ask around, you may find someone has a guidebook you can borrow.

Our best advice to you is to question your predecessor about your individual situation. If helps to know what feelings your office has on leaving the country and taking nenkyu, and, to find out if you're one of the lucky ones to be allowed "cultural leave" for travel within Japan. Happy Travels!

Contributor: Bethany Ericson