An unforgettable 5-month exchange experience in Japan
Spending five months in Japan as an exchange student was one of the most transformative and unforgettable experiences of my life. Coming from India, I was stepping into a completely different world—one rich in tradition, technology, discipline, and deep-rooted cultural values. While I knew it would be a challenge, I never expected how much it would shape me as a person.
✨ Fun Times & Beautiful Moments
Some of my best memories were made while exploring Japan with my Japanese friend. From hidden temples to bustling markets, we discovered both the traditional and modern sides of Japan together. These outings gave me a real taste of Japanese daily life and helped me feel connected to the country beyond textbooks or maps.
One of the most special memories was celebrating my birthday in Japan. My host family and friends planned a small surprise party with decorations, cake, and even some hand-made gifts. It was heartwarming to see how much love and effort they put into making me feel at home, even thousands of kilometers away from India. That day reminded me that kindness and connection truly have no borders.
Another highlight was visiting Universal Studios Japan (USJ). It was like stepping into a dream world—from the magical Harry Potter World to thrilling rides and fun-filled shows. It was a perfect break from daily routine and a chance to experience the entertainment side of Japanese culture. I laughed, screamed, and made unforgettable memories with friends that I will cherish forever.
Living with my host family was a beautiful experience in itself. They welcomed me with open arms, helped me adjust to local customs, and patiently taught me about their culture. I felt truly part of the family, and the small moments—like cooking dinner together or sharing stories after school—meant the world to me.
Japanese school life was another highlight. Wearing the uniform, joining classroom discussions, participating in club activities, and eating lunch with classmates made every day feel exciting. I even got involved in cultural and sports clubs, which helped me form close bonds and understand the value of teamwork and dedication. And of course, I fell in love with Japanese food culture—from bento boxes to sweets like mochi and dorayaki, every bite was a new adventure.
🌧️ Difficult Moments & How I Overcame Them
Despite the many highs, the journey wasn’t without its struggles. One of the biggest challenges I faced was finding vegetarian food. Japanese cuisine is rich and delicious, but many dishes contain fish or meat by default. In the beginning, this made eating out or even shopping quite confusing and frustrating.
But instead of letting this overwhelm me, I began researching vegetarian options, learning how to ask for meatless meals in Japanese, and discovering hidden gems like tofu-based dishes, vegetable tempura, onigiri with umeboshi (pickled plum), and more. Over time, I became more confident and even introduced my host family and friends to Indian vegetarian recipes—which they loved!
Another challenge was the language barrier. Although I had studied some Japanese before going, it was still difficult to keep up with conversations in school or daily life. I often found myself pausing, unsure of how to express myself. But I didn’t give up. I made it a point to practice Japanese every single day—whether through talking with my host family, watching anime with subtitles, or reading children’s books. Gradually, my confidence grew, and I could see the difference in how smoothly I could connect with people around me.
💡 What I Learned
This exchange taught me patience, adaptability, and resilience. It taught me how to ask questions, how to keep going even when I didn’t have all the answers, and how to find joy in the little victories—like ordering food confidently or understanding a joke in Japanese.
More than that, I learned how to appreciate the diversity of the world. I saw how beautifully different people can live and still share the same human values—kindness, respect, and curiosity. And I grew a deep appreciation for both my Indian roots and the Japanese culture that welcomed me so warmly.
🌱 Advice for Future Exchange Students
- Learn some of the local language before you go—it will open doors and hearts.
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions or make mistakes. Everyone appreciates the effort.
- For Vegetarians: Do your research early! Carry some snacks, learn food terms, and don’t be shy about explaining your dietary needs.
- Say yes to new experiences—you’ll grow in ways you never imagined.
- And most importantly: Be curious, be willing to help, and above all, be kind.
❤️ Final Thoughts
This exchange wasn’t just a trip—it was a journey of becoming. I returned home with more than just souvenirs; I came back with confidence, cultural understanding, and friendships that will last a lifetime.
To anyone considering an exchange: take the leap. Yes, there will be challenges, but there will also be growth, joy, and memories you’ll carry with you forever.
Maanyata Sharma
