I recently moved to Toyama for my masters and I don’t speak Japanese yet. I’m starting lessons, but for now communication is pretty limited. The city is beautiful and very calm, but it also feels extremely quiet and, to be honest, kind of boring at times. I’m struggling to figure out what people actually do here day to day outside of work or study.
I’m used to a more casual social life like tea, sports, or just meeting people naturally, and here it feels like everyone already has their routine and friend group. Most days I end up just going back to my room because I don’t really know where to go or what to do.
I wanted to ask if there are any social spots, activities, or communities in Toyama where it’s possible to meet people, especially as a foreigner. Is it realistic to make friends here without Japanese, or does everything open up only after your language improves? Or is Toyama more of a place where people keep to themselves and focus on work and nature?
Not complaining, just trying to adjust and hear real experiences from others who live here or have lived in smaller Japanese cities.
by B1little