Does anyone have any advice or tips regarding being stationed in Japan and getting accustomed to the culture?

PV2 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 11 Jan 2019 10:10:54 -0500

I’m PCSing out of TRADOC to Kadena as a 92F. It shows I’m going to 1-1 ADA currently. Any advice regarding Japan and getting use to the culture or any helpful tips? I want to make a very good first impression and would love some advice from those that have been there and done that.

Thanks!

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 13 at 2019 10:05 AM

CW2 Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 13 Jan 2019 10:05:18 -0500

Okinawa is great. The unit itself is so-so. Plan on being in the field alot. Get out and explore the island whenever you can. Go to the Garlic House restaurant, eat at Co-Co Curry at least once per week, and get scuba certified. Its relatively cheap to get certified and some of the best diving in the world is off the coast of okinawa. If you're married, Camp Foster has the better grocery store. Kadena has the best PX on the island (or BX I think they call it?). And if I remember, that unit takes yearly trips up to Okuma (resort in the north part of the island).

Otherwise have fun. Okinawa will be the best duty station you'll have in the Army.

Response by MSgt Arthur Stewart made Jan 16 at 2019 4:55 PM

MSgt Arthur Stewart — Wed, 16 Jan 2019 16:55:28 -0500

If you can accept advice from an Air Force member, here it is: go with an open mind and you'll have the best time ever. I was stationed at both Kadena (Okinawa) and Mainland (Misawa) for 9 years. Immerse in the culture. Learn the language. Participate in the festival events. Travel when you can, engage with Japanese or Okinawans as they prefer. The time goes by quicky and soon you'll seek to extend your tour. My 21 year old daughter, born in Okinawa and traveled world went back at eighteen and has professed staying forever. Important, make good friends and you will have a great time. Oh! It would also help if play a little golf. Great travels to you...

Response by LCpl Kenneth Heath made Jan 19 at 2019 2:49 AM

LCpl Kenneth Heath — Sat, 19 Jan 2019 02:49:33 -0500

Don't be "the ugly American"... be polite, be courteous, obey local laws and customs.

Response by SrA Chris Bohler made May 9 at 2019 8:19 AM

SrA Chris Bohler — Thu, 09 May 2019 08:19:51 -0400

Learning the culture is important. You can utilize the resources on base. It's not bad to ask the local nationals you may be working with about do's and don'ts.