Last day camping at Kawaihae. Will go boat diving early tomorrow then stay in Kona. I meet Paul B on Wed before I leave at 6pm
Monday, December 25, 2006
Thursday, October 05, 2006
Sunday, July 30, 2006
Normally, the first thing in the morning Bati, our Toy Manchester
Terrier, is pounding away on the piano keys. It's his way of asking
for food, a special treat. or sometimes to go outside. It's late
afternoon and he's not really in to the piano now. Earlier, when some
friends were over, whom he'd never seen before, he played a very long
piano composition - more than two minutes long. Sorry I did not get it
on video.
Terrier, is pounding away on the piano keys. It's his way of asking
for food, a special treat. or sometimes to go outside. It's late
afternoon and he's not really in to the piano now. Earlier, when some
friends were over, whom he'd never seen before, he played a very long
piano composition - more than two minutes long. Sorry I did not get it
on video.
Sunday, July 09, 2006
Domestic Travel in Japan: University Schedules Part 2
I said I was going to give it a rest - but I was too curious not to check out Yahoo Travel, Orbitz, ANA and UAL sites.
By putzing aroun, it will really be just wasting time until we know your exact date and the parameters - such as when are you expected to be in Matsuyama, where will you be met exactly, when (date/time) you can you actually depart the US and from where, and whether you will be planning to go home for Xmas/NewYears or will stay until the next big break.
Academic Calendars and Holidays
Typically most Japanese universities do not have classes in March and most (except perhaps only medical school) do not have anyclasses for most of January and February either. My classes for next semester are from Sept 11 - Dec 18. Often I don't arrive back in Japan until the day or two before classes begin and I typically head off for Hawaii on Dec 19/20/21.
Ticket prices start skyrocketing just around these dates (preXmas rush) and then quickly increase until and through NewYears. The New Year's holidays are officially Dec 31-Jan 1,2, and 3 but often companies (and certainly schools) are closed or employees are given longer holidays since many people travel during this time -- especially to return to their native hometowns to visit family (and friends). New Years is a special time in Japan and one that you should NOT miss, but after over 25 years, the experience is not quite the same as it once was. Moreover, since our children (and my wife's sisters' children are grown now, we don't find it as cozy and inviting to all crowd into a small house to eat homemade sweets and tiny ceremonial cups of rice wine.
In fact, these New Year's holidays unofficially continuedto as late as January 9 (the 8th is another National Holiday (Coming-Of-Age-Day) no school that day). It seems that getting - what's called an 'open jaw' --arrive Tokyo (NRT) and depart Osaka (Kansai Intl Airport (KIX) tends to be more expensive than asimple round-trip to NRT, KIX or NGO (Nagoya) might be your best fare --- because the trade-off will be the savings in time and domestic transport cost may make it worth it.
I found the sample tickets below on United.com but there are somewhat cheaper variations on different airlines (or combinations of airlines) on Orbitz. That is one of Orbitz specialities that no other online travels ervice has - -offering multiple carrier fares. American Airlines had the cheapest tickets for open jaw (just over $900), but if you really want to earn mileage on Star Alliance (and it can really be worth it since the transpacific flights will add up miles pretty quickly), then stick with a Star Alliance carrier (or combination).
For example, there was a choice for a Singapore Airlines flight from LAX to NRT Aug25, returning in Dec from KIX to LAX on Dec 20 at about $1344. If you try to add in the domestic flights booked online, the price zooms up. For example -- booking directly with ANA the price for such an itinerary soars to $1800 - $3000. To get to both Tokyo and depart from KIX cheaply, youcan buy online the international portion online at Orbitz or United (or Yahoo or Expedia) and then pay for the trains about $240 (one way) from Tokyo to Matsuyama -- provided I am going to be there to help you do that.
If you're on your own, then you'd probably be better off to make all intl/domestic connections safe, secure, and easy for you to manage. Japan is NOT like Europe (Czech) where there are people who will easily assist you when you speak to them on the street; while there are some Special Service desks / Tourist bureaus where people speak English, these are few and far between and tend to have strict hours (10am-5pm) - not very helpful when your flight arrives at the airport 60km away.
Extra Duties for foreign teacheres at Japanese Universities: Entrance Exams
So I suggest these options but you need to decide IFand WHEN you are stopping in Tokyo or not. If not on the way, then you might do so when going back. I have not yet made my December plans -- partly because I on FIVE English entrance exams committees (something that I suspect you might be asked to help out at EMU too.) 'Help out' means correcting/edit somebody else's testof English so that it has no proofreading, grammatical/syntax errors but also equally important -so that there are no ambiguous questions with multiple answers, or no correct answers.
The October-January season is the busiest time towork on entrance exams (creating / editing (bycommittee), proofing and then the actual exams are admininstered mainly Jan/Feb/March. It is unimaginable to us educated in North America, but students can take a major university entrance examin early or mid March and STILL be accepted forentrance to that school on April 1st - less than a month later. Unreal! The competition BETWEEN colleges to get students is as cut-throat and high-energy as the competition among the students themselves just to pass these exams. So many univ/colleges have two or even three rounds of their own specific locally produced exams to try to scrap together enough eligilbe students to offer them a 'place'. It is really -- really an antiquated system and I cannot begin to tell you how it affects the entire educational process right down to how parents treat their new born infants -much less its (mostly deleterious) affects on secondary and primary education.
OFF topic.... [ Don't mind my ranting. I'm justprocrastinating... I have too many things to do andjust don't want to do them - my body clock tells me it is mid-summer -- time to play and think abouttravelling, seeing Japan, etc, -- not for work.]
Back on the topic of getting travel arranged for Japan...
United had these fares listed below:
Again, I had no idea exactly what dates to choose so I arbitrarily choose Aug 25 - Dec 20 with the presumptions that:
a) you would stop by Tokyo and visit us for a few days in late Aug and
b) you'd be going back home (I don't knowif LAX or SFO or wherever you'll actually be leaving from) in December.
Obviously, if you get a direct roundtrip LAX-NRT or SFO-KIX flight, the fare will be much cheaper, but you'll have to do without seeing Tokyo or make your own way back here-- paying domestic costs (train or air fares) between Tokyo (and KIX) and Matsuyama at another time.
Consider Other Places to Visit (upon arrival or later on)
If you have time, the ferry from Hiroshima to Matsuyama is pretty cheap (takes 3 hours) but doing it alone your first time in Japan may be a big challenge.
Taking the train from Okayama direct to Matsuyama is a less traumatic undertaking by far. Okayama has a wonderful traditional restored town near by called Kurashiki, which is worth a visit.
Kobe just south ofOsaka/Kyoto has Himeji Castle -- one of the mostoutstanding castle in Japan and a UN World Heritagesite, but Matsuyama has its own castle too.
Hiroshima's Peace Memorial that I mentioned earlier is a sobering experience but the city itself is interesting and quite different from Tokyo (it still uses streetcars - whereas Tokyo's have all but disappeared, for example.
Near Hiroshima is Miyajima - an island withone of the most famous Shinto shrines in Japan,reported by many Japanese to be one of the mostbeautiful building/locations in the country.
All great and sites you should see but you can't do everything in a few days.. if you do come to Tokyo, plan to stay 2-3 days so we can see the city and we'll have time to go to Nikko - it gets my vote as the most outstanding cultural and nature sightseeing location in the country. It's a three hour train ride or two hours by car - I highly recommend it. So even if I am not in Tokyo when you visit it, you should-- by all means -- take a day (or overnight) tour to Nikko - it is outstanding in all seasons - though it is most well-known for its autumn foilage - it is equally beautiful in all seasons. Cross-country skiiing in winter; hiking by cool mountain streams in summer, full of new grasses and wildflowers in spring.
On the other hand, Mt. Fuji is just NOT worth the trip.. it's beauty is most easily viewed and at its most inspiring (if you ask me) from a distance. The summer is just not the best time to see Mt Fuji either - although the summer is the ONLY time you can actually climb it. I have only climbed up partly up -- about about 1 km from the starting point -and have no intention of every going all the way up -it is mainly just a symbolic gesture to climb it since it is more like hiking than mountain climbing. What'smore, there is more danger in getting hit by a falling Japanese tourist (and subsequently killed with insurance bureaucracy and medical bills) than any other natural danger on Mt. Fuji. I am notjust joking about this point.
Back to fares..By the way, most universities have classes to approximately Dec 20 (some earlier -- some later),then there is about 2 weeks off for New Year's -- Christmas is NOT an official holiday at all in Japan, but it happens to be the Monday (?) after most schools have started winter break. Actually Dec 23 is a national holiday since it is the current emperor'sbirthday.
------------------------------------------------
SAMPLE OPEN JAW fares
==========================
United.com Quoted fare (NRT - in, KIX - out) Aug 25- Dec 20
$1148.11 USD per person
Leg Flight info Date Depart Arrive Stops
1 United Airlines 979 Aug 25 9:59 am SFO 11:28 am LAX Non-stop
United Airlines 899 Aug 25 12:33 pm LAX 3:55 pm (Nextday) NRT Non-stop
2 United Airlines 886 Dec 20 4:55 pm KIX 9:20 am SFO Non-stop
$1266.11 USD per person
Leg Flight info Date Depart Arrive Stops
1 United Airlines 9689(Operated by All Nippon Airways) Aug 25 12:00pm SFO 3:00 pm (Next day) NRT Non-stop
2 United Airlines 886 Dec 20 4:55 pm KIX 9:20 am SFO Non-stop =====================================
Hey, darn it, I have done it again --- rambled on and on page after page. After all my travel advice via e-mail, you won't have much left to learn on your own [grin]... so I'd best shut up now and hope to hear from you soon.
By putzing aroun, it will really be just wasting time until we know your exact date and the parameters - such as when are you expected to be in Matsuyama, where will you be met exactly, when (date/time) you can you actually depart the US and from where, and whether you will be planning to go home for Xmas/NewYears or will stay until the next big break.
Academic Calendars and Holidays
Typically most Japanese universities do not have classes in March and most (except perhaps only medical school) do not have anyclasses for most of January and February either. My classes for next semester are from Sept 11 - Dec 18. Often I don't arrive back in Japan until the day or two before classes begin and I typically head off for Hawaii on Dec 19/20/21.
Ticket prices start skyrocketing just around these dates (preXmas rush) and then quickly increase until and through NewYears. The New Year's holidays are officially Dec 31-Jan 1,2, and 3 but often companies (and certainly schools) are closed or employees are given longer holidays since many people travel during this time -- especially to return to their native hometowns to visit family (and friends). New Years is a special time in Japan and one that you should NOT miss, but after over 25 years, the experience is not quite the same as it once was. Moreover, since our children (and my wife's sisters' children are grown now, we don't find it as cozy and inviting to all crowd into a small house to eat homemade sweets and tiny ceremonial cups of rice wine.
In fact, these New Year's holidays unofficially continuedto as late as January 9 (the 8th is another National Holiday (Coming-Of-Age-Day) no school that day). It seems that getting - what's called an 'open jaw' --arrive Tokyo (NRT) and depart Osaka (Kansai Intl Airport (KIX) tends to be more expensive than asimple round-trip to NRT, KIX or NGO (Nagoya) might be your best fare --- because the trade-off will be the savings in time and domestic transport cost may make it worth it.
I found the sample tickets below on United.com but there are somewhat cheaper variations on different airlines (or combinations of airlines) on Orbitz. That is one of Orbitz specialities that no other online travels ervice has - -offering multiple carrier fares. American Airlines had the cheapest tickets for open jaw (just over $900), but if you really want to earn mileage on Star Alliance (and it can really be worth it since the transpacific flights will add up miles pretty quickly), then stick with a Star Alliance carrier (or combination).
For example, there was a choice for a Singapore Airlines flight from LAX to NRT Aug25, returning in Dec from KIX to LAX on Dec 20 at about $1344. If you try to add in the domestic flights booked online, the price zooms up. For example -- booking directly with ANA the price for such an itinerary soars to $1800 - $3000. To get to both Tokyo and depart from KIX cheaply, youcan buy online the international portion online at Orbitz or United (or Yahoo or Expedia) and then pay for the trains about $240 (one way) from Tokyo to Matsuyama -- provided I am going to be there to help you do that.
If you're on your own, then you'd probably be better off to make all intl/domestic connections safe, secure, and easy for you to manage. Japan is NOT like Europe (Czech) where there are people who will easily assist you when you speak to them on the street; while there are some Special Service desks / Tourist bureaus where people speak English, these are few and far between and tend to have strict hours (10am-5pm) - not very helpful when your flight arrives at the airport 60km away.
Extra Duties for foreign teacheres at Japanese Universities: Entrance Exams
So I suggest these options but you need to decide IFand WHEN you are stopping in Tokyo or not. If not on the way, then you might do so when going back. I have not yet made my December plans -- partly because I on FIVE English entrance exams committees (something that I suspect you might be asked to help out at EMU too.) 'Help out' means correcting/edit somebody else's testof English so that it has no proofreading, grammatical/syntax errors but also equally important -so that there are no ambiguous questions with multiple answers, or no correct answers.
The October-January season is the busiest time towork on entrance exams (creating / editing (bycommittee), proofing and then the actual exams are admininstered mainly Jan/Feb/March. It is unimaginable to us educated in North America, but students can take a major university entrance examin early or mid March and STILL be accepted forentrance to that school on April 1st - less than a month later. Unreal! The competition BETWEEN colleges to get students is as cut-throat and high-energy as the competition among the students themselves just to pass these exams. So many univ/colleges have two or even three rounds of their own specific locally produced exams to try to scrap together enough eligilbe students to offer them a 'place'. It is really -- really an antiquated system and I cannot begin to tell you how it affects the entire educational process right down to how parents treat their new born infants -much less its (mostly deleterious) affects on secondary and primary education.
OFF topic.... [ Don't mind my ranting. I'm justprocrastinating... I have too many things to do andjust don't want to do them - my body clock tells me it is mid-summer -- time to play and think abouttravelling, seeing Japan, etc, -- not for work.]
Back on the topic of getting travel arranged for Japan...
United had these fares listed below:
Again, I had no idea exactly what dates to choose so I arbitrarily choose Aug 25 - Dec 20 with the presumptions that:
a) you would stop by Tokyo and visit us for a few days in late Aug and
b) you'd be going back home (I don't knowif LAX or SFO or wherever you'll actually be leaving from) in December.
Obviously, if you get a direct roundtrip LAX-NRT or SFO-KIX flight, the fare will be much cheaper, but you'll have to do without seeing Tokyo or make your own way back here-- paying domestic costs (train or air fares) between Tokyo (and KIX) and Matsuyama at another time.
Consider Other Places to Visit (upon arrival or later on)
If you have time, the ferry from Hiroshima to Matsuyama is pretty cheap (takes 3 hours) but doing it alone your first time in Japan may be a big challenge.
Taking the train from Okayama direct to Matsuyama is a less traumatic undertaking by far. Okayama has a wonderful traditional restored town near by called Kurashiki, which is worth a visit.
Kobe just south ofOsaka/Kyoto has Himeji Castle -- one of the mostoutstanding castle in Japan and a UN World Heritagesite, but Matsuyama has its own castle too.
Hiroshima's Peace Memorial that I mentioned earlier is a sobering experience but the city itself is interesting and quite different from Tokyo (it still uses streetcars - whereas Tokyo's have all but disappeared, for example.
Near Hiroshima is Miyajima - an island withone of the most famous Shinto shrines in Japan,reported by many Japanese to be one of the mostbeautiful building/locations in the country.
All great and sites you should see but you can't do everything in a few days.. if you do come to Tokyo, plan to stay 2-3 days so we can see the city and we'll have time to go to Nikko - it gets my vote as the most outstanding cultural and nature sightseeing location in the country. It's a three hour train ride or two hours by car - I highly recommend it. So even if I am not in Tokyo when you visit it, you should-- by all means -- take a day (or overnight) tour to Nikko - it is outstanding in all seasons - though it is most well-known for its autumn foilage - it is equally beautiful in all seasons. Cross-country skiiing in winter; hiking by cool mountain streams in summer, full of new grasses and wildflowers in spring.
On the other hand, Mt. Fuji is just NOT worth the trip.. it's beauty is most easily viewed and at its most inspiring (if you ask me) from a distance. The summer is just not the best time to see Mt Fuji either - although the summer is the ONLY time you can actually climb it. I have only climbed up partly up -- about about 1 km from the starting point -and have no intention of every going all the way up -it is mainly just a symbolic gesture to climb it since it is more like hiking than mountain climbing. What'smore, there is more danger in getting hit by a falling Japanese tourist (and subsequently killed with insurance bureaucracy and medical bills) than any other natural danger on Mt. Fuji. I am notjust joking about this point.
Back to fares..By the way, most universities have classes to approximately Dec 20 (some earlier -- some later),then there is about 2 weeks off for New Year's -- Christmas is NOT an official holiday at all in Japan, but it happens to be the Monday (?) after most schools have started winter break. Actually Dec 23 is a national holiday since it is the current emperor'sbirthday.
------------------------------------------------
SAMPLE OPEN JAW fares
==========================
United.com Quoted fare (NRT - in, KIX - out) Aug 25- Dec 20
$1148.11 USD per person
Leg Flight info Date Depart Arrive Stops
1 United Airlines 979 Aug 25 9:59 am SFO 11:28 am LAX Non-stop
United Airlines 899 Aug 25 12:33 pm LAX 3:55 pm (Nextday) NRT Non-stop
2 United Airlines 886 Dec 20 4:55 pm KIX 9:20 am SFO Non-stop
$1266.11 USD per person
Leg Flight info Date Depart Arrive Stops
1 United Airlines 9689(Operated by All Nippon Airways) Aug 25 12:00pm SFO 3:00 pm (Next day) NRT Non-stop
2 United Airlines 886 Dec 20 4:55 pm KIX 9:20 am SFO Non-stop =====================================
Hey, darn it, I have done it again --- rambled on and on page after page. After all my travel advice via e-mail, you won't have much left to learn on your own [grin]... so I'd best shut up now and hope to hear from you soon.
Domestic Travel in Japan - Part 1
Getting from Tokyo (or Kansai Intl Airport) to Matsuyama
I got some more detailed travel info on domestic travel in Japan.
However,until you decide on actual intended arrival dates,which airports (departing US and arriving Japan), howyou want to get to your destination in Matsuyama, andhow much time you will or won't have to spend intransit, the fares and schedules here are stillinexact at best.
If you are not going to be arriving in Tokyo when I'm here (Aug 26-29), then you may or may not be wantingto stopover in Tokyo on your way to Matsuyama. In thatcase, KIX might be a better arrival airport since itsaves your time and money to end up closer toMatsuyama. However, it is not impossible to see theBig Turnip (Tokyo) on your own, of course. With a good map in English (and with Japanese too sothat you can match up places names), buying a subwaycard or JR day pass/tourist card, you can get aroundthe city on your own. Believe me that will be easilyto do in Tokyo than most any other cities in Japan --except -- of course -- for the small towns where thereis only one major train station and one majorattraction (like Matsuyama for instance).
Paul (the friend in Kochi) wrote back. He's alwaysvery terse so I did not get much info, but he saysusually flies ANA or JAL from Tokyo to Kochi. His reason is that ANA offers advanced purchase faresso that you can get a one-way ticket from Tokyo forabout 10,000 - 18,000 yen (about half of the typicalfare). They are probably purchase and daterestrictions so you'd need to work on that prettysoon. JAL does too but since ANA is Star Alliance(both he and I use them). In fact, you may be able to get a flight to NRT fromyour US departure city that stops over (in Tokyo) andthen continues forward to Matsuyama directly (oranother city, such as Hiroshima, Kobe, Osaka (KIX)).
ANA (All Nippon Airlines) US site
http://www.anaskyweb.com/us/e/index.html
Link on above page to their summer travel deals(although the dates seem to be for flights from Sept 1and there is a 90 day limit). However, if you are thinking of flying back home for Xmas/New Years then a90 day ticket may work out for you.
http://rs1.aspwb.com/ana/global/us/ssf/en/detail.php?id=3489
Re-Entry Permit
Remember that once you are admitted to Japan as on awork visa (6 months or year), then you must also getan Alien Registration card (easy enough to do at thelocal city office) and you must also get a re-entrypermit (stamped permission in your passport to be ableto leave and re-enter the country using your currentvisa status). This can be a pain to get especially outin the hinterlands where there is no Japaneseimmigration office close by.
So...if at all possible, applyfor a re-entry permit at the same time you get yourvisa (especially if you know you are going to leaveJapan at Xmas-NewYears). You might call ANA US and inquire about other flightoptions. ANA Customer Service Contact Center at 1-800-235-9262 TRAIN I also checked into the train schedule on the localMSN network:
The link below (if it works) will show you three options for travel for one-way travel from Tokyo toMatsuyama. (in Japanese only)
Well, I'll close for now and also put my search torest until you know something more definite about yourdates and preferences. Also, Ehime Medical should be forthcoming about travel logistics (and hopefully support) too.
I got some more detailed travel info on domestic travel in Japan.
However,until you decide on actual intended arrival dates,which airports (departing US and arriving Japan), howyou want to get to your destination in Matsuyama, andhow much time you will or won't have to spend intransit, the fares and schedules here are stillinexact at best.
If you are not going to be arriving in Tokyo when I'm here (Aug 26-29), then you may or may not be wantingto stopover in Tokyo on your way to Matsuyama. In thatcase, KIX might be a better arrival airport since itsaves your time and money to end up closer toMatsuyama. However, it is not impossible to see theBig Turnip (Tokyo) on your own, of course. With a good map in English (and with Japanese too sothat you can match up places names), buying a subwaycard or JR day pass/tourist card, you can get aroundthe city on your own. Believe me that will be easilyto do in Tokyo than most any other cities in Japan --except -- of course -- for the small towns where thereis only one major train station and one majorattraction (like Matsuyama for instance).
Paul (the friend in Kochi) wrote back. He's alwaysvery terse so I did not get much info, but he saysusually flies ANA or JAL from Tokyo to Kochi. His reason is that ANA offers advanced purchase faresso that you can get a one-way ticket from Tokyo forabout 10,000 - 18,000 yen (about half of the typicalfare). They are probably purchase and daterestrictions so you'd need to work on that prettysoon. JAL does too but since ANA is Star Alliance(both he and I use them). In fact, you may be able to get a flight to NRT fromyour US departure city that stops over (in Tokyo) andthen continues forward to Matsuyama directly (oranother city, such as Hiroshima, Kobe, Osaka (KIX)).
ANA (All Nippon Airlines) US site
http://www.anaskyweb.com/us/e/index.html
Link on above page to their summer travel deals(although the dates seem to be for flights from Sept 1and there is a 90 day limit). However, if you are thinking of flying back home for Xmas/New Years then a90 day ticket may work out for you.
http://rs1.aspwb.com/ana/global/us/ssf/en/detail.php?id=3489
Re-Entry Permit
Remember that once you are admitted to Japan as on awork visa (6 months or year), then you must also getan Alien Registration card (easy enough to do at thelocal city office) and you must also get a re-entrypermit (stamped permission in your passport to be ableto leave and re-enter the country using your currentvisa status). This can be a pain to get especially outin the hinterlands where there is no Japaneseimmigration office close by.
So...if at all possible, applyfor a re-entry permit at the same time you get yourvisa (especially if you know you are going to leaveJapan at Xmas-NewYears). You might call ANA US and inquire about other flightoptions. ANA Customer Service Contact Center at 1-800-235-9262 TRAIN I also checked into the train schedule on the localMSN network:
The link below (if it works) will show you three options for travel for one-way travel from Tokyo toMatsuyama. (in Japanese only)
- The first two were by airplane from Haneda Airportdirectly to Matsuyama (cost about 30,000 yen(undiscounted).
- The third option costs was about20,000 yen and was by Shinkansen (high-speed bullettrain) from Tokyo to Okayama Station (about half waybetween Osaka and Hiroshima), changing there for anexpress train (3 hours) to Matsuyma and then you mayneed to transfer to a local line and go a stop or two (depending on where you are actually meeting the reps from Ehime Medical U.).
http://transit.msn.co.jp/
Well, I'll close for now and also put my search torest until you know something more definite about yourdates and preferences. Also, Ehime Medical should be forthcoming about travel logistics (and hopefully support) too.
Friday, July 07, 2006
Moving to Japan: Getting to Matsuyama
Tyler, I am glad that your dream is coming true, although I have to be pragmatic and honest to say that things are not always what they seem -- at least not until you've fully had time to appreciate them. I know you'll have some disappointments but you'll also have some amazing experiences too.
I hope we'll be able to meet up some day while you are living in Japan. I'll be away from Tokyo from July 31 - Aug 26 and then I'll come back to Tokyo for a 5 days before heading off again Aug 30-Sept 9. But if your flight allows you to stop in Tokyo the last week of August, it would be great to see you, show you something of Tokyo, and put you on the train/flight to Matsuyama.
I really don't know much about Ehime Prefecture or the island of Shikoku where it is located. A friend of mine, Paul, lives and works in Kochi -- not too far from Matsuyama, so I'll ask him about what details he can supply. In the meantime, I'll tell you what I know and what advice I have.
First of all, are you sure that Ehime University is not going to be at all helpful or even forthcoming with any logistical and also financial assistance for the transportation arrangements -- either the transpacific flights (probably not) or at least the domestic connections? You could / should at least ask. While their buying your CA-NRT ticket would probably not be included, I don't know why you can't ask them -- innocently about airfare reservations or train tickets from Tokyo International Airport (Narita, Chiba) NRT to Matsuyama or from KIX (Osaka Intl Airport) to the university. Perhaps they will be reimburse you later but I would imagine that a university that recruits new faculty from abroad has dealt with such requests before. While you may have been reluctant to appear to be pushy before, it wouldn't hurt to at least make an inquiry.
That being said (or already either worked out or refused), I'll give you some options.
I think it would be good to figure in your travel planning - if you'll have time, money and the adventure spirit to get out around much in Japan (or even elsewhere in Asia) before, during and after your semester of work/teaching at Ehime Univ. For example, if you are hoping to see Tokyo (including Kamakura, Nikko, and other places here in central east Honshu,or plan to visit Kyoto, Nara, Osaka (not too far from Matsuyama) or even points further south (Hiroshima, Kyushu (including Nagasaki, etc) then you might plan accordingly since it may be both cheaper and more convenient to make travel arrangements before you get here. I cannot speak for certainly about Matsuyama but if it is anything like a lot of non-metro areas I know - there are not a whole lot of people who speak English all that well - in the service industry. It's is NOT a huge problem but it does take time to get things done when people can't understand you easily (or at all) or you cannot make yourself understood well enough to get things done without a lot of assistance and depending on other English speaking Japanese (or others) to help out.
If you planning to stay for a year or two and also plan to return to the US or another place during first 6 months in Japan, I recommend getting a round trip ticket from the US to NRT and back. US carriers are generally quite a bit cheaper -- especially at peak travel times when the travel originates in the US. Tickets purchased inside Japan will likely suffer from the typical cost-raising tactics - such as doubling fares for departing for anywhere (domestic or abroad) during peak holiday periods and also actually charging people with foreign passports more for the same class seats -- There was a recent disclosure by one of the largest travel agencies catering to foreign residents that they had to 'cover' losses if the person did not use the remaining portion of a discounted airfare ticket by deciding not to return to Japan.
You could also look into your original US-Japan ticket that would go on to another Asia destination - such a Korea, China, Hong Kong, Thailand, Singapore, etc. If you already know your holiday schedule (Xmas-NewYear's) then you may want to travel in Japan -- or you may even want to get away from Japan for a change -- at least that's a typical pattern for those of us who reside here permanently).
Therefore, you might consider buying a ticket that continues on to another Asian country or continues on to a different destination in Japan. Thus you might be able travel during your next long holidays for not much more than a few dollars more (to buy a ticket later just to return to the States or to go to another country could be quite expensive in peak seasons (Xmas/New Years have some of the highest airfares, followed by Golden Week (April 29-May 5 - just before and after included), and summer peak travel season (July 25-Aug 20). Of course, if you have the time and money, you could also visit another country before your arrival in Japan and when coming back to Tokyo (NRT) or Osaka (KIX) on your way home - travelling to Korea, China or Thailand, etc.
I choose my flights/airlines based on earning airline mileage - not totally on pricing or favorite destinations - although Star Alliance carriers have some of the most competitive fares - you'll probably find a slightly cheaper one on American, Northwest or Korean Airlines. It's not worth losing the mileage for me -but you may not be so invested the mileage rat-race.
Since we first met sitting togehter on a United flight, you may also be collecting United Miles (Star Alliance) so I recommend doing so unless that does not matter to you. There are multiple Star Alliance carrier that fly into (and beyond) Narita from the US: United, US Airways, Singapore, Thai, ANA, etc.
While it won't hurt to get a quote from a travel agent, nowadays, the airlines themselves generally offer the cheapest fares for their own flights. Be sure to get a ticket that could account for such problems as date/flight changes or even refunds/cancellations (although the latter are less likely to be necessary and tend to raise the price). Look at tickets on Orbitz, Yahoo Travel and directly at each airline.
You have two choice of airports (actually 3): NRT (Tokyo), KIX (Kansai Intl near Osaka) and Nagoya (has a few intl carriers - closer to Matsuyama than Tokyo but only by an hour or so).
ADDED: [Kobe, Okayama or Hiroshima may actually be physically closer to Matsuyama, but I'm not sure of train/bus or domestic flight connections.]
I am hoping you'll be able to stop by Tokyo - while I am actually here, but they may or may not work out so I've tried to describe a NRT-Matsuyama itinerary, as well as one that has you flying directly to Kansai Intl Airport (KIX) instead.
Once you decide on an arrival airport (based also on whether you have time to sightsee in Tokyo or Osaka (Kyoto-Nara) before you go to Matsuyama, you will then need to take a plane or train to Matsuyama (there are actually several routes including a ferry from either Kobe or Hiroshima - although mixing up trains, bus, ferries and taxi upon your arrival may be a bit overwhelming.
There may also be boats or ferries from the Osaka area (KIX) since Matsuyama is located on the northwestern shore of Shikoku Island (facing the Inland Sea - Seto-nai-kai). Inf act, there is a ferry to Awaji Island (from KIX ) to see High Speed Ferry (on the left hand menu on the KIX site:
http://www.kansai-airport.or.jp/english/index.htm
From KIX, there is a high speed ferry (48 min) to Sumoto, from there you have to catch a train or bus across Awaji Island (Awajima) to Shikuko (Island) and transverse it to reach Matsuyama.
http://www.atc.ne.jp/pearlline/dia.htm
Evidently, there is also a ferry from Hiroshima to the harbor just 20 minutes outside of Matsuyama is another possible way to arrrive at the city. It seems there is also a ferry from Kobe to Matsuyama. Again, this info is only in Japanese but, as best as I can tell, there is a 3-hour trip passenger ferry available several times a day. So if you wanted to first visit Hiroshima (site of the first atomic bomb attack in 1945 (Peace Memorial Park) then you might consider going to Hiroshima. There are bullet trains from both Tokyo and Osaka/Kyoto/Kobe.
http://www.yajyu.com/kankou/koutuu2.htm
If you are definitely NOT going to stop over in Tokyo to visit us, then your most direct route is to fly to KIX and then take a bus ( express) or a train from a major station not far from KIX.
There is express bus service from Kyoto Station or JR Osaka Station (and or OCAT2 = I think this is Osaka City Air Terminal (so this might be the best connection from KIX ). The timetable is only in Japanese but I included it here just in case (and for me to locate later if you ask).
Express Bus from Kyoto-Osaka area station to Matsuyama:
http://www.kakuyasubus.jp/kansai_shikoku/matsuyama_express/index.html
There are overnight express busses from Tokyo to Matsuyama too, but unless you stay over in Tokyo for a day or two after arrival, you'd probably not want to take such a bus and arrive completely exhausted. You'll arrive one day later and typically in the mid to late afternoon of the next day after you leave the US. So you'll need to account for your tiredness and the amount luggage you have.
By the way, you can have luggage forwarded to your domestica destination when you arrive at either NRT or KIX. It is fairly inexpensive - just $12 or $15 per bag and they will deliver it the next day or later (typically you can choose the day and approx delivery time). Since you might be coming with a year's supply of stuff - You won't need most it unless you have some very specific fashion or dietary needs but it could save you time and energy NOT to have to drag several heavy suitcases across the country if you are stopping over along the way. I frequently use these services - -they are several competing companies that are lined up as you exit customs / immigration after you have collected your suitcases in the airport arrival terminal.
Of course, be sure to find out your complete address or that of a person who can receive your luggage including a phone number (contact). Have them also write out for you in Japanese so that you can show it to various people/transportation staff, etc as you make your way to Matsuama and your new accommodations.
Domestic airline are mainly just two: ANA (All Nippon Airways) and JAL (Japan Airlines) both of which have both domestic and international routes and they both have affiliated regional carriers but I think you'd best try them first, if you'd prefer to fly.
There are a few separate discount air carriers, but so few in fact, that they only really serve top tourist destinations (Okinawa, Hokkaido) and not Ehime Prefecture. I have to tell you that probably most people who fly in to go to Ehime are probably going to prefer to use KIX (Osaka International Airport) -- I have not used it myself but there are flights -- although less often and few airlines to serve it - -than Tokyo's Narita (NRT) aiport. NRT is about 60 km from downtown Tokyo so it take time and some cash (or credit card) to get from the airport to Tokyo, but the same is pretty much true for KIX too.
NRT (Tokyo Intl Airport)
http://www.narita-airport.jp/en/index.html
KIX (Osaka Intl Airprot)
http://www.kansai-airport.or.jp/english/index.htm
There is a domestic-flight-only airport in Tokyo called Haneda (a 20 min. monorail ride to central Tokyo or by airport express bus from Narita to Haneda)
You can find ANA ANA (Domestic) - see their Intl tab too .
http://www.ana.co.jp/eng/index.html
I prefer ANA -- only because it is a Star Alliance member.
JAL (also has an English site)
I just checked ANA for Aug 26 (for example) from NRT to Matsuyama there were not flight. But there were several flights from Haneda to Matsuyama - it appears that the cheaper airfares are not much more than the bullet train (Shinkansen -express, high speed reserved seat trains) IF you buy enough in advance.
Japan National Tourist Organization
http://www.seejapan.co.uk/index.html
Specific info on transport
http://www.seejapan.co.uk/ftransport.html
Trains from AirportsTokyo Intl Airport (NRT)Narita Airport Express (NEX)
Kansai International Airport (Osaka) KIX http://www.westjr.co.jp/english/travel/kix/index.html
The country's national network of trains a complex conglomerationof both semi-govt and private train lines but JR is the oldest and formerly THE Japan national rail service (before its being semi-privatized:
So Japan is divided into East (and North) Tokyo and northJR EAST:
http://www.jreast.co.jp/e/
and JR WEST: Osaka area and south are known as West Japan:
http://www.westjr.co.jp/english/global.html
World Eki-Net which is mentioned on the JNTO pages no longer accepts reservations so you would need to use the JR East or JR West sites to pre-book.
http://www.world.eki-net.com
I hope we'll be able to meet up some day while you are living in Japan. I'll be away from Tokyo from July 31 - Aug 26 and then I'll come back to Tokyo for a 5 days before heading off again Aug 30-Sept 9. But if your flight allows you to stop in Tokyo the last week of August, it would be great to see you, show you something of Tokyo, and put you on the train/flight to Matsuyama.
I really don't know much about Ehime Prefecture or the island of Shikoku where it is located. A friend of mine, Paul, lives and works in Kochi -- not too far from Matsuyama, so I'll ask him about what details he can supply. In the meantime, I'll tell you what I know and what advice I have.
First of all, are you sure that Ehime University is not going to be at all helpful or even forthcoming with any logistical and also financial assistance for the transportation arrangements -- either the transpacific flights (probably not) or at least the domestic connections? You could / should at least ask. While their buying your CA-NRT ticket would probably not be included, I don't know why you can't ask them -- innocently about airfare reservations or train tickets from Tokyo International Airport (Narita, Chiba) NRT to Matsuyama or from KIX (Osaka Intl Airport) to the university. Perhaps they will be reimburse you later but I would imagine that a university that recruits new faculty from abroad has dealt with such requests before. While you may have been reluctant to appear to be pushy before, it wouldn't hurt to at least make an inquiry.
That being said (or already either worked out or refused), I'll give you some options.
I think it would be good to figure in your travel planning - if you'll have time, money and the adventure spirit to get out around much in Japan (or even elsewhere in Asia) before, during and after your semester of work/teaching at Ehime Univ. For example, if you are hoping to see Tokyo (including Kamakura, Nikko, and other places here in central east Honshu,or plan to visit Kyoto, Nara, Osaka (not too far from Matsuyama) or even points further south (Hiroshima, Kyushu (including Nagasaki, etc) then you might plan accordingly since it may be both cheaper and more convenient to make travel arrangements before you get here. I cannot speak for certainly about Matsuyama but if it is anything like a lot of non-metro areas I know - there are not a whole lot of people who speak English all that well - in the service industry. It's is NOT a huge problem but it does take time to get things done when people can't understand you easily (or at all) or you cannot make yourself understood well enough to get things done without a lot of assistance and depending on other English speaking Japanese (or others) to help out.
If you planning to stay for a year or two and also plan to return to the US or another place during first 6 months in Japan, I recommend getting a round trip ticket from the US to NRT and back. US carriers are generally quite a bit cheaper -- especially at peak travel times when the travel originates in the US. Tickets purchased inside Japan will likely suffer from the typical cost-raising tactics - such as doubling fares for departing for anywhere (domestic or abroad) during peak holiday periods and also actually charging people with foreign passports more for the same class seats -- There was a recent disclosure by one of the largest travel agencies catering to foreign residents that they had to 'cover' losses if the person did not use the remaining portion of a discounted airfare ticket by deciding not to return to Japan.
You could also look into your original US-Japan ticket that would go on to another Asia destination - such a Korea, China, Hong Kong, Thailand, Singapore, etc. If you already know your holiday schedule (Xmas-NewYear's) then you may want to travel in Japan -- or you may even want to get away from Japan for a change -- at least that's a typical pattern for those of us who reside here permanently).
Therefore, you might consider buying a ticket that continues on to another Asian country or continues on to a different destination in Japan. Thus you might be able travel during your next long holidays for not much more than a few dollars more (to buy a ticket later just to return to the States or to go to another country could be quite expensive in peak seasons (Xmas/New Years have some of the highest airfares, followed by Golden Week (April 29-May 5 - just before and after included), and summer peak travel season (July 25-Aug 20). Of course, if you have the time and money, you could also visit another country before your arrival in Japan and when coming back to Tokyo (NRT) or Osaka (KIX) on your way home - travelling to Korea, China or Thailand, etc.
I choose my flights/airlines based on earning airline mileage - not totally on pricing or favorite destinations - although Star Alliance carriers have some of the most competitive fares - you'll probably find a slightly cheaper one on American, Northwest or Korean Airlines. It's not worth losing the mileage for me -but you may not be so invested the mileage rat-race.
Since we first met sitting togehter on a United flight, you may also be collecting United Miles (Star Alliance) so I recommend doing so unless that does not matter to you. There are multiple Star Alliance carrier that fly into (and beyond) Narita from the US: United, US Airways, Singapore, Thai, ANA, etc.
While it won't hurt to get a quote from a travel agent, nowadays, the airlines themselves generally offer the cheapest fares for their own flights. Be sure to get a ticket that could account for such problems as date/flight changes or even refunds/cancellations (although the latter are less likely to be necessary and tend to raise the price). Look at tickets on Orbitz, Yahoo Travel and directly at each airline.
You have two choice of airports (actually 3): NRT (Tokyo), KIX (Kansai Intl near Osaka) and Nagoya (has a few intl carriers - closer to Matsuyama than Tokyo but only by an hour or so).
ADDED: [Kobe, Okayama or Hiroshima may actually be physically closer to Matsuyama, but I'm not sure of train/bus or domestic flight connections.]
I am hoping you'll be able to stop by Tokyo - while I am actually here, but they may or may not work out so I've tried to describe a NRT-Matsuyama itinerary, as well as one that has you flying directly to Kansai Intl Airport (KIX) instead.
Once you decide on an arrival airport (based also on whether you have time to sightsee in Tokyo or Osaka (Kyoto-Nara) before you go to Matsuyama, you will then need to take a plane or train to Matsuyama (there are actually several routes including a ferry from either Kobe or Hiroshima - although mixing up trains, bus, ferries and taxi upon your arrival may be a bit overwhelming.
There may also be boats or ferries from the Osaka area (KIX) since Matsuyama is located on the northwestern shore of Shikoku Island (facing the Inland Sea - Seto-nai-kai). Inf act, there is a ferry to Awaji Island (from KIX ) to see High Speed Ferry (on the left hand menu on the KIX site:
http://www.kansai-airport.or.jp/english/index.htm
From KIX, there is a high speed ferry (48 min) to Sumoto, from there you have to catch a train or bus across Awaji Island (Awajima) to Shikuko (Island) and transverse it to reach Matsuyama.
http://www.atc.ne.jp/pearlline/dia.htm
Evidently, there is also a ferry from Hiroshima to the harbor just 20 minutes outside of Matsuyama is another possible way to arrrive at the city. It seems there is also a ferry from Kobe to Matsuyama. Again, this info is only in Japanese but, as best as I can tell, there is a 3-hour trip passenger ferry available several times a day. So if you wanted to first visit Hiroshima (site of the first atomic bomb attack in 1945 (Peace Memorial Park) then you might consider going to Hiroshima. There are bullet trains from both Tokyo and Osaka/Kyoto/Kobe.
http://www.yajyu.com/kankou/koutuu2.htm
If you are definitely NOT going to stop over in Tokyo to visit us, then your most direct route is to fly to KIX and then take a bus ( express) or a train from a major station not far from KIX.
There is express bus service from Kyoto Station or JR Osaka Station (and or OCAT2 = I think this is Osaka City Air Terminal (so this might be the best connection from KIX ). The timetable is only in Japanese but I included it here just in case (and for me to locate later if you ask).
Express Bus from Kyoto-Osaka area station to Matsuyama:
http://www.kakuyasubus.jp/kansai_shikoku/matsuyama_express/index.html
There are overnight express busses from Tokyo to Matsuyama too, but unless you stay over in Tokyo for a day or two after arrival, you'd probably not want to take such a bus and arrive completely exhausted. You'll arrive one day later and typically in the mid to late afternoon of the next day after you leave the US. So you'll need to account for your tiredness and the amount luggage you have.
By the way, you can have luggage forwarded to your domestica destination when you arrive at either NRT or KIX. It is fairly inexpensive - just $12 or $15 per bag and they will deliver it the next day or later (typically you can choose the day and approx delivery time). Since you might be coming with a year's supply of stuff - You won't need most it unless you have some very specific fashion or dietary needs but it could save you time and energy NOT to have to drag several heavy suitcases across the country if you are stopping over along the way. I frequently use these services - -they are several competing companies that are lined up as you exit customs / immigration after you have collected your suitcases in the airport arrival terminal.
Of course, be sure to find out your complete address or that of a person who can receive your luggage including a phone number (contact). Have them also write out for you in Japanese so that you can show it to various people/transportation staff, etc as you make your way to Matsuama and your new accommodations.
Domestic airline are mainly just two: ANA (All Nippon Airways) and JAL (Japan Airlines) both of which have both domestic and international routes and they both have affiliated regional carriers but I think you'd best try them first, if you'd prefer to fly.
There are a few separate discount air carriers, but so few in fact, that they only really serve top tourist destinations (Okinawa, Hokkaido) and not Ehime Prefecture. I have to tell you that probably most people who fly in to go to Ehime are probably going to prefer to use KIX (Osaka International Airport) -- I have not used it myself but there are flights -- although less often and few airlines to serve it - -than Tokyo's Narita (NRT) aiport. NRT is about 60 km from downtown Tokyo so it take time and some cash (or credit card) to get from the airport to Tokyo, but the same is pretty much true for KIX too.
NRT (Tokyo Intl Airport)
http://www.narita-airport.jp/en/index.html
KIX (Osaka Intl Airprot)
http://www.kansai-airport.or.jp/english/index.htm
There is a domestic-flight-only airport in Tokyo called Haneda (a 20 min. monorail ride to central Tokyo or by airport express bus from Narita to Haneda)
You can find ANA ANA (Domestic) - see their Intl tab too .
http://www.ana.co.jp/eng/index.html
I prefer ANA -- only because it is a Star Alliance member.
JAL (also has an English site)
I just checked ANA for Aug 26 (for example) from NRT to Matsuyama there were not flight. But there were several flights from Haneda to Matsuyama - it appears that the cheaper airfares are not much more than the bullet train (Shinkansen -express, high speed reserved seat trains) IF you buy enough in advance.
Japan National Tourist Organization
http://www.seejapan.co.uk/index.html
Specific info on transport
http://www.seejapan.co.uk/ftransport.html
Trains from AirportsTokyo Intl Airport (NRT)Narita Airport Express (NEX)
Kansai International Airport (Osaka) KIX http://www.westjr.co.jp/english/travel/kix/index.html
The country's national network of trains a complex conglomerationof both semi-govt and private train lines but JR is the oldest and formerly THE Japan national rail service (before its being semi-privatized:
So Japan is divided into East (and North) Tokyo and northJR EAST:
http://www.jreast.co.jp/e/
and JR WEST: Osaka area and south are known as West Japan:
http://www.westjr.co.jp/english/global.html
World Eki-Net which is mentioned on the JNTO pages no longer accepts reservations so you would need to use the JR East or JR West sites to pre-book.
http://www.world.eki-net.com
Hope this gets you started. I'll let you know what esle I find out from my friend Paul, who lives on Shikoku.
David
----- Original Message -----
Date: Thu, 6 Jul 2006 19:17:29 -0700
----- Original Message -----
Date: Thu, 6 Jul 2006 19:17:29 -0700
From: Tyler To: David Subject: japan update
David,
My year in Japan is approaching fast, and I am excited to be thrust into a new culture. As I mentioned before I will be teaching at Ehime University in Matsuyama City. I will be leaving the states at the end of August.
I was planning on flying into Narita and probably catching a flight toMatsuyama. I don't know much about the train system or ferries down south. Any advice on travel/either of the flights? Any opinions on best/cheapestfares both international or domestic? I only know what I've found onlineand don't know anyone else who travels there frequently.
On another note I just spent 2 weeks in Hawaii with my girlfriend as a kindof post-graduation relaxation. And I finally made it to the Big Island fora few days. I was blown away. The variety of landscapes and mini-climateswas astounding. And Volcanoes National Park was like nothing I'd seenbefore. We saw a lot of the island, and I really enjoyed Waimea. It's soverdant and much cooler. I can see why you are there so much.
I hope all is well. And I really want to thank you for all of your help. Ican't believe that the idea of living in Japan I spoke to you about 2 yearsago on a plane is actually happening.
Best,
Tyler
David,
My year in Japan is approaching fast, and I am excited to be thrust into a new culture. As I mentioned before I will be teaching at Ehime University in Matsuyama City. I will be leaving the states at the end of August.
I was planning on flying into Narita and probably catching a flight toMatsuyama. I don't know much about the train system or ferries down south. Any advice on travel/either of the flights? Any opinions on best/cheapestfares both international or domestic? I only know what I've found onlineand don't know anyone else who travels there frequently.
On another note I just spent 2 weeks in Hawaii with my girlfriend as a kindof post-graduation relaxation. And I finally made it to the Big Island fora few days. I was blown away. The variety of landscapes and mini-climateswas astounding. And Volcanoes National Park was like nothing I'd seenbefore. We saw a lot of the island, and I really enjoyed Waimea. It's soverdant and much cooler. I can see why you are there so much.
I hope all is well. And I really want to thank you for all of your help. Ican't believe that the idea of living in Japan I spoke to you about 2 yearsago on a plane is actually happening.
Best,
Tyler
Saturday, June 17, 2006
Integration of CALL in course curriculum and teaching
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Saturday, May 27, 2006
Our condo at Makaha Valley (now sold)
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We recently sold our Makaha condo. Having purchased it just after 9/11, it a great investment and we enjoyed it a lot. But the debt (small) and HOA fees were not worth enduring for the equity we could get out of the it. Next I'll use our vacant land on the Big Island. | ||||
Sunday, May 21, 2006
Monday, March 27, 2006
Back in Barcelona March 27
Back in Barcelona March 27
Originally uploaded by dbrooks_tokyo.
Sunday, March 19, 2006
Wednesday, March 15, 2006
Saturday, February 25, 2006
Hilo Bay Hotel
The last day on Hawaii I did not camp since I had to be at the airport so early. Uncle Billy's is nicely located, and had large rooms with this view.
Friday, February 24, 2006
Today is the last day in Pahoa. I visited Kalani last night, after having grilled lamb at my lot in Kalapana. I saw John out walking this morning with his son Joshua. Unfortunately, he said his wife had left him, but they agreed to share custody of their young son- sad news. I got to swim near a pod of dolphins here yesterday.
Wednesday, February 22, 2006
North Kohala BOAT Diving
I had some great dives this morning. We got to see whales on the way to the second dive site, dolphins circled us underwater at the end of our spectacular journey through a hilly coral forest.
Tuesday, February 21, 2006
Puako, dive and snorkeling site
Sea turtles abound here. I made two shallow dives this afternoon.- saw many many hawks bill sea turtles tons of tropical fish.
Spencer Beach Park camp site
It is my first morning after arriving yesterday afternoon. I got air tanks and weights at Kohala Divers and am planning two shallow dives after breakfast.
Monday, February 20, 2006
Sunday, February 19, 2006
Tuesday, February 14, 2006
A Beautiful Day in Tokyo
SETSUBUN 節分 passed on Feb.3, signalIing the traditional end of winter. We were.delightedto〓hear today from Patsy, a friend and former colleague. On CHUO train now to Shinjuku.
Sunday, February 12, 2006
Thursday, January 19, 2006
Getting Work in Japan
(Excepted from email dialogue in January 2006 with T.J. G..., a Stanford student soon to graduate with a B.A. in art (photography) and who is interested in working in Japan)
On the subject of working in Japan.... I have written what I know below– some from what I have heard and some from the few resources I have near by. If there is a certain employer that you might want more specific info about, then I might be able to help. It is likely that I’ll be away from Japan from Feb 16-April 1 (in Malaysia, Hawaii, the US mainland and Europe).
Actually, my classes are finished now (Spring semester April-late July), Fall semester is mid-Sept to Mid January(including final exams for 10 days at the end of each ) so now I only have committee work, entrance exams (our university has 7 different exam dates for prospective applicants) and my own research and preparation for next year's classes, so now is my least busy time of year.
In fact, I’ll be traveling for all of March and probably after Feb 15 (if things go as planned).
Work in Japan: Info and advice
There are some facts that you should be aware of in thinking about working in Japan. (Just randomly organized - -off the top my head). Please be aware that I have NOT looked myself for a job in many years; my own sons are Japanese citizens and read/write it fluently so they have not had the experience of coming to live in Japan as a foreigner.
1)a To stay in Japan longer than 60 days (a tourist) you will need a work visa (or other type such a student visa or spouse visa). A work visa is required for gainful employment and only an employer can provide you with the necessary documentation to support your application for one. Normally, you would obtain a work visa at a Japanese embassy or consulate in the US after your employment contract is signed (you have been hired either by mail or in interview by phone or live). Yes, in fact, some people are hired sight unseen which can be sometimes be very unfortunate for both the employee or even the employer.
If you enter the country on a tourist or student visit, you cannot work legally more than a few hours weekly. Consequently, you are typically obliged to actually leave the country (temporary) to re-enter it on a work visit (6 months, 1 year).
That is an additional expense – which your future employer might pay if they really wanted you. Typically, they would send you (or you have to fly to Seoul) for a few days in order to visit the Japanese embassy there).
b. The academic school year is April 1 – March 31 – very few schools would hire from September -- although it may be possible since the second semester begins in Sept (after the summer break).
c) IMPORTANT- Because the school year starts in April, you would have to apply immediately to start then or you may end up waiting until application are again received or advertised next fall (Sept-Feb). Most hirings probably happened in Nov/Dec for the following April. However, there are always exceptions – with the less well-paid (and crummier) schools trying to hire later (as late as March 1). Other types of jobs (even some teaching jobs are open year round or especially just after summer and winter breaks (HINT: I am presuming that some teachers skip out of the country and fail to fulfill their contracts).
2) Teaching is probably the easiest types of job to get but it may not be the best. It will really depend of who and what type of school / institution you work for. There are several major ELT employers – one of the biggest is the JET program – sponsored by the national government, local school districts are given grant money to hire foreign assistant English teachers.
By the way, if you also speak Spanish too, this could be an asset if your job search goes toward language teaching.
3) Other types of jobs do exist, but generally if the employer is a foreign corporation, they have their own internal practices for filling vacancies so mostly these jobs are completely inaccessible to the average person. Japanese corporations, of course, do hire but generally do so locally from either an employment agency or nowadays they tend to outsource openings with temp staff agencies – such as Adecco, etc.
4) Not being able to speak, read/write Japanese is not a major handicap, but it will tend to severely limit the type of jobs you can apply for (or even have access to). Therefore, English teaching is one of the ways that people cannot speak or read/write any Japanese can work here.
5) Tokyo is the biggest city but it is not necessarily the best place to live and work. If you are willing to live in the countryside or less urban areas of Japan, there may be a chance to actually have a better job and better working and living conditions.
English Teaching Jobs
Actually, there are plenty of lower paying, longer hour jobs where employers will give you a contract for the minimum salary. I think the Japan Immigration Office requires someone to have a contract (or multiple contracts in the case of several part-time jobs) for a monthly gross salary of approx 250,000 yen ( see http://www.xe.com/ for the exchange rates).
Since there are many private languages schools for children through adults who run through young teachers (some who are fresh out of college and looking for a cross-cultural adventure - of sorts and who would like to make enough to survive in Japan for a year or no), it is probably fairly easy to get such a job but I cannot really say there would be much future in it. You could get lucky and get a job at a decent private school or as a teaching assistant for a public school or get hired for adjunct teaching work (outsourced by a private language school as a part-time university instructor). The latter method is way some people without Master's degrees are able to get "credit" [or at least experience for one's resume] for working as a university instructor (sometimes called 'lecturer').
NOVA, GABA, GEOS,
6. Check the JAPAN TIMES or other English language newspapers for the classified ads (some or all of the ads may be online at:
http://classified.japantimes.com/ (click English – small button at the topi). There seems to be another site – I cannot see what the difference it),which it is also mainly in Japanese language, but there is a similar button to click to see at least some of the jobs and info in English: http://job.japantimes.com/
The JT Monday edition is the main Want Ads (Classified Ads for Employment) (and Sunday has fewer but also has some too; if Monday is a holiday (National or just a news holiday, then the Classifieds might be in Tuesdays paper (such was the case on January 10). There is also the Asahi Evening New, and the Yomiuri Daily news which also have ads for jobs – I am not sure exactly what day or days these papers have their job ads. You should be able to find one or all of these in the Stanford libraries. Or these English dailies or even Japanese newspapers might be on sale in the Japanese communities of San Jose or elsewhere.
A few private and large commercial language schools (or other employers) may put ads into US newspaper and on some US Internet-based recruiting sites, such as HotJobs, Monster, etc. So you can check there too.
Here was a sampling of ads in the January 10 Japan Times classifieds:
1. Native English Instructor wanted to teach English conversation at Fukushima High School in Fukushima City. 1 year contract, must be a college grad with Jap conversation ability Age up to 30, Salary 280,000 yen/month incl tax.
Accommodation provided. Please mail resume/photo for interview appointment to Fukushima High School 9-1, Oyamacho, Fukushima City, Fukushima Postal Code: 960-8012
2. US Embassy Tokyo is seeking a temporary administrative assistant for the Financial Attache office. Details on the US Embassy Tokyo website:
http://japan.usembassy.gov/
Address: 10-4, Akasaka 1-chome, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-8420
3. Kurashiki Board of Education (not far from Okuyama – a hour or more away from Hiroshima) is hiring native English teachers. Deadline in January 25
Download application: www.city.kurashiki.okayama.jp/hiring/hiring_jt.htm
Or request directly by mail at: 640 Nishi-nakashinden, Kurashi, Okayama 710-8565.
NOTE* There were a few other jobs – but many were for part-time work only (it’s harder to get a successful work visa application through Japan immigration unless a part-time employer is willing to guarantee your wages (as in a signed contract). Still I don’t have experience in these matters so you ask the Embassy or seek out help from people who have.
7.a) Check out other professional organizations – relating to your own major(s), professional fields of interests, private foundations, Japanese corporate sponsors/employers with connections to Stanford or Silicon Valley, etc.
b) Who knows may be your photography skills and English ability might be just the thing that a Japanese wine importer would love to make good use of. Don’t let your need to just ‘get a job’ keep you from looking for or working creatively toward your own professional goals. You may be able to find an internship from a Japanese or foreign company in Japan or you might be able to convince a company or organization or research or marketing group in the US (or Europe) to pay for your to stay and take photos in Japan, working on their project as a freelancer, etc.
c) You could try to get a connection to work as a student (apprentice is called a “desshi” for an artist, writer, photographer or other person in the arts/media, journalism, etc (TV director, film-maker).
d) Use Stanford’s employment services and their myriad of university and corporation connections to help you find a relationship for a job, internship or apprenticeship in Japan.
8. See the link at JALT (Japan Association for Language Teaching) Links Page – Employment
http://jalt.org/links/
Below are copied links – just in case -- It was hard to find this page –since it seems only to to the Japanese language version of the jalt.org page.
Ohayosensei gives the most up-to-date info since it is published twice monthly (or used to be). However, most of the jobs are for entry-level type jobs. It is not slave labor, but you would probably have to work 5-6 days a week (full or part-time those days with not much time off).
Employment
Link/Description
Clicks
121sensei.com - Language teacher and student matching service for Japan based instructors. Teachers can set their own rates/schedule/workplace. Free service for teachers Japan wide.
549
English Job Maze - A wonderful new ESL/EFL job & info site for teachers and employers. Contains one of the most comprehensive guides to ESL pay, taxes, visas in 50 countries (including Japan). Check it out!
1382
ESL Employment - Free ESL/ EFL jobs posting and employment opportunities. Search for the latest teaching jobs and career opportunities abroad in the field of ESL / EFL.
1136
Hokkaido Insider - Hokkaido News and Insider Teaching Job Information broadcast via email to subscribers. Profile of the teacher conducting this service is provided.
607
http://jalt.org/links/linkster.php?LID=235&URL=http://www.englishjobmaze.com/cg-main-jpn.htm - A 6-page guide to teaching EFL/ESL in Japan. Contains information about ESL pay, taxes, visas and the best times to look for work. Also has links to other useful websites for ESL teachers in Japan.
923
Jobs in Japan - The Motherload of Japan Job Information
2819
O-Hayo Sensei - is a free, bi-weekly newsletter that collects and lists currently available teaching positions (at all levels) across Japan.
1273
SearchESL.com - Internet resources for ESL teachers and employers: search jobs, find employees, post resumes and use ESL directory for ESL information.
863
TLT's Job Information Center - Teaching positions in Japan
4309
8. There are international schools (where children of diplomats, foreign business people and even affluent Japanese sent their children). You may be able to get a job – although without a teaching certification you may have to work as an assistant teacher, administrative assistant/clerical work, assistant coach.
9. Have you considered going to school? If you have money to spend, then you also get a student visa or research visa. For example, you could study Japanese or study in a field which is related to your own fields of professional preparation. If you did that for 3-6 months, you could look for jobs while studying and also getting a better idea of where and what in Japan you like to be working at.
There are also graduate and post-graduate programs at some Japanese universities – scholarship may be available for them from either the institution itself or from Mombusho (The Ministry of Education). Japanese language is not always a pre-requisite for some of these Master’s and PhD programs (although there are too many like that).
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