“Japan Life with Seibu” is a collaboration between Seibu Railway and GTN, where we ask foreign residents along the Seibu Line to share what they love most about their neighborhoods.
This year’s theme is “Encounters and Connections Along the Seibu Line.“
In this series, we explore the unique connections that foreign residents feel within their communities and uncover the hidden gems they’ve discovered in their daily lives.
In this article, we dive into the charms of Higashi-Yamatoshi Station!
Building Connections with Japan: My Journey through the JET Program
First, tell us what brought you to Japan and how long you’ve lived here.
I originally came to Japan in 2007 on the JET Program. Sixteen years have passed since then, and I now live in Higashi-Yamato City, Tokyo. I actually only started living near Higashi-Yamatoshi Station about six months ago.
Who was the first Japanese person you became friends with?
Back in 2006, while I was still in the U.S., I discovered an indie band from Tokyo made up of five guys and girls, and I connected with the members online.
When I visited Japan later, they showed me around Tokyo, and we’ve been best friends ever since. They’re still irreplaceable friends to this day.
Do you have any memorable experiences of being helped by someone while living in Japan?
I’ve been living in Japan for a long time, so I’ve received help from so many people. But one experience that stands out is from 2019. I was invited to present my master’s thesis on Ishigaki Island, and the local cultural association there generously supported me. Thanks to their help, around 80 community members came to hear my lecture. It was truly a rewarding and valuable experience.
A Harmonious Life Where City Meets Nature: Living near Seibu Railway’s Higashi-Yamatoshi Station
Out of all the options in Tokyo, why did you choose to live along the Seibu Line?
I chose the Seibu Line because it’s convenient for commuting, and the rent is affordable. It’s a comfortable, pleasant place to live, and I really enjoy it here.
Do you have any memorable experiences in Higashiyamato City?
One weekend, feeling drained from working on a paper, I decided to take a break and watch the sunset at Lake Tama. Although I live in Tokyo, the tranquil scenery of fields, shrubs, and homes around the lake made me feel as if I were out in the countryside. The contrast was surprising and incredibly refreshing.
Have you ever made friends with any locals in Higashiyamato City?
Yes, there’s an older man at a nearby dry cleaner who is always so friendly. These casual interactions add enjoyment to my daily life and give me a sense of community connection.
Do you have a favorite place or spot around Higashi-Yamatoshi Station that you’d recommend?
I love nature, so my favorite spot is the area around Lake Tama. It’s perfect for a walk or bike ride and a great place to recharge.
What do you find most convenient about living near Higashi-Yamatoshi Station?
Shopping is very convenient. Within a 10-minute bike ride from my house, there are 100-yen stores, large supermarkets like Ito-Yokado, Yaoko, and SEIYU, plus Big-A, a discount store, and Gyomu Super, which offers bulk groceries at low prices. It’s incredibly handy to have so many options nearby.
To All Foreigners Coming to Live in Japan
What is the most important piece of advice or message you would like to give to someone coming to Japan from abroad?
For foreigners who want to live in Japan, it’s essential to understand that Japan has a collectivist culture. The best way to make genuine, trustworthy friends is by joining a local sports team, club, or community group and staying involved over time.
“Japan Life with Seibu” will continue to share the best of the local area through the eyes of foreign residents living along the Seibu Line.
