I arrived in Japan in September 2021. As a Black individual, I feel that Japan has been treating me extremely well. Identity matters. But despite my identity, I feel comfortable here as a non-native and I identify Osaka as my second home. However, I have still been feeling homesick. At this point, I think my homesickness has become more intense but in shorter waves than before.
Moving to a new country can be exciting and overwhelming. Everything feels new and different, which can be distracting at first. However, once the initial excitement wears off, it's common to start missing home. This is a common experience for people who have moved to a new place and left their old life behind.
I visited Japan three times before I moved here. But during my second and third visits, I started to imagine living here. Japan is quiet, beautiful, and safe - much more safer than Philadelphia. It has many great qualities, but it's hard to give up what you're used to. While I love the Japanese atmosphere, I still think about my hometown. I miss the noise, the variety of food, the old buildings, and my friends. At home, I feel a different kind of freedom. Sometimes, I miss it so much that I cry. But eventually, I stop feeling homesick... how?
"…once the initial excitement wears off, it's common to start missing home."
Dealing with my emotions has been a huge help in getting over homesickness. I take the time to think about what I'm feeling and why. Remembering the good times from back home gives me the energy to make new memories in Japan. I also look at negative memories to help me move forward. Making a list of good and bad things about home and where I am now has been super helpful on tough, emotional nights. This process can help anyone who wants to give it a shot.
When I feel homesick, I often go back and view the photos and videos I've taken back home. If you're planning to move soon, I suggest preparing photos and videos of things and people you love in your hometown. Having something that's my own creation to reference has been very helpful in overcoming homesickness. During my walks in Japan, I take photos of places that remind me of home. I enjoy making connections between Osaka and Philadelphia, and it has greatly helped me get over my homesickness in the moment.
It's not just photos that I look at - I also listen to the music I enjoyed before coming to Japan. I have to admit, Spotify's Wrapped feature is genius! Whenever I miss home, I often listen to my 2020-2021 Spotify Wrapped playlists. They transport me back to moments when I used to listen to specific songs, like when I was taking a night walk and standing in front of Philadelphia's City Hall. Although the feeling of nostalgia can be fleeting, it's still a comforting reminder of home.
This may seem counterintuitive, but talking and sharing about my home has really helped me. I especially love sharing about Philadelphia with Japanese natives and the greater international community here. By sharing my experiences with others, I've been able to connect with people from different backgrounds and cultures. It's also given me a chance to reflect on what I love about my hometown and why it's so special to me.
"By sharing my experiences with others, I've been able to connect with people from different backgrounds and cultures."
Finally, I've also made an effort to explore my new surroundings and try new things. Whether it's visiting a new neighborhood, trying a new food, or attending a cultural event, stepping out of my comfort zone and embracing new experiences has helped me feel more connected to my new home in Japan.
Overall, dealing with homesickness is not an easy process, but there are many strategies that can help. By taking the time to reflect on my emotions, staying connected with loved ones, trying new things, and sharing my experiences with others, I eventually overcome my momentary homesickness and continue to embrace my new life in Japan.
