Hello! I’ve been assigned to Okinawa for a one-year exchange program. I don’t know much about Japan or its culture (I want to learn). Anyway, I have an N5 in Japanese, and my main goal is to improve my language skills. I’m a bit nervous about missing the “typical Japanese experience.” I’ve seen a few photos of Okinawa, and it looks quite different from other places in Japan (this doesn’t mean I don’t like it!). I’m from Europe, and I’ve never been this far from home, so I’m feeling a bit anxious.
Can I expect a similar experience to other cities in Japan?
Will I be able to speak and learn Japanese, or will I end up using English most of the time?
Are locals open to foreigners?
Can I really learn about Japanese culture there?
Is it easy to find a job with only basic Japanese?
Do people speak any other language similar to Japanese?
Are the other islands worth visiting?
Thanks <3
by jester_clwn