Reflecting on One Year of Living and Working in Tokyo, Japan as an Expat

It’s been a couple of years since this blog has been active, but trust me, life has been anything but quiet! So much has changed, including my exciting move to Tokyo, Japan, in August 2023. As of September 1, 2023, I officially began my journey working in Tokyo Japan (the most populated city in the world). At that time, I had visited over 60 countries, yet Japan had never been one of them. It was on my radar, but in a way, it wasn’t. Does that even make sense?

Interestingly, I have a unique connection to Japan that dates back to my childhood. Born and raised in Nigeria, I grew up with Japanese neighbors who regularly came and went to help build and maintain the power plant where my parents worked. As a child, I learned to greet in Japanese, gained insight into the culture and cuisine, and cherished the toys they brought for me.

I always assumed Japan would one day be part of my journey—perhaps a bit presumptively! However, I never actually explored the idea of visiting Japan. That changed one Friday afternoon in December 2022. Just six months after moving into my first home, I received what I thought was a routine call from my boss. To my surprise, he presented me with an opportunity to transfer to our Tokyo office for 3 years. I was shocked! My first thought? “Um, I don’t think so!” Can you blame me? I hadn’t even finished furnishing my new home and was just starting to feel settled in my community after returning from Scotland in 2018. Life was great in my comfort zone.

Fast forward to now, I’m writing this from my apartment in Tokyo, so yes—I made the leap! Life has a way of throwing unexpected twists and turns our way, and this move ranks high on that list. Even for someone like me, who’s navigated moves before, relocating abroad as an adult is challenging. Yet, on both the good days and the tough ones, I feel an undeniable sense that I’m exactly where I’m meant to be right now, and I’m starting to feel more settled. Yet, time flies—I’m nearly halfway through my time here, and it’s both exciting and alarming!

One primary motivation for returning to this blog is to document this incredible season of my life. During my last international stint, I captured my travels outside Scotland but regret not sharing my Scottish experience. Living and working in Tokyo presents a unique opportunity, and it’s pushing me to grow in ways I never expected. Now that I’m finding my footing, I want to share my adventures living, working, and exploring Japan and the surrounding region—with you!

As a Black Nigerian woman with predominantly American work experience, I stand out like a unicorn in Corporate Japan. I’ve decided to embrace it and make the most of this experience, as I always do. I feel a sense that I’m here for something more significant than myself.

Shortly after my move, I shared my decision to live in Japan. Now, a year later, I’ve reflected on my experiences living and working in Tokyo Japan so far on my podcast, The Rich Immigrant. If you’re interested in hearing about this journey in my own voice, I invite you to check out three episodes linked below. Based on the feedback I’ve received on these popular episode, they’re thorough and real, and I hope you’ll find them insightful!

1. Season 8 Episode 86: I moved to Tokyo, Japan – Apple Podcasts; Spotify
2. Season 10 Episode 104: One Year Living in Japan  – Apple Podcasts; Spotify
3. Season 10 Episode 105: One Year of Working In Tokyo Japan as a Foreigner – Apple Podcasts; Spotify

As I reflect on my journey, I hope my story resonates with you. Here’s a girl from Ikorodu, a humble suburb in Lagos, Nigeria, who has ventured to 70 countries on a Nigerian passport. I’ve had the privilege of working on four continents and now stand as an expat Senior Executive living in Tokyo Japan.

It’s incredible to look back and see how far I’ve come, with my worn heels telling tales of adventure and growth. Let my journey remind you that your starting point doesn’t define your destination.

Wherever life takes you, remember that you belong. Sometimes, all it takes is that first courageous step, even when the path ahead is uncertain. Here’s to embracing adventure and living a fulfilling life inspired by Joshua 1:3!

Thank you for (still) being a part of this journey with me!

Arigato Gozaimasu (Thank you very much), 

Dee (Ms. Heels)