living in Japan

**Erdrick** · 02-16-2009, 08:14 AM

I currently live in Japan. My wife is Japanese. We have no kids (yet). We are in our 26 and 27 years old.

I have lived here for the past three years or so. In that time I spent two years at my wife's family's house and a year at our current apartment. Her parent's house has a couple gardens that I would help take care of. That is what started me down the path of living simply and within my means.

I love saving money on anything and everything, and like to challenge myself to go without, anytime that it is feasible. We make a lot of our own stuff, to a point where most Japanese people that I meet are shocked to hear what I know how to make. Miso usually gets the best responses.

On the topic of money, we have a fairly large nest egg. This was greatly increased due to favorable exchange rates. At our current lifestyle, I could lose my job (my wife doesn't currently work) and support us for 4-5 years. I still feel vulnerable since I rent an apartment though. Not that owning a house would be any better though, thanks to the government (of any country really) loving to collect taxes.

I will end my introduction there, before it becomes a rant.

**VanVivCam** · 02-16-2009, 08:27 AM

Welcome

**thefrug** · 02-16-2009, 08:40 AM

Well Hello! You're so lucky to have the opportunity to live where you do! wow! Do you have a balcony to maybe container garden if you miss the gardening? There are sections here for those who live in other countries. Hope you like it here.

**Darlene** · 02-16-2009, 09:03 AM

:welcometofv: Make yourself at home!

**rosey7415** · 02-16-2009, 09:08 AM

welcome!!!!

**Patty A** · 02-16-2009, 09:23 AM

Just wanted to say welcome to the village!
It sounds like you have been on the "frugal" path for some time now, and that is great. Its always nice to know you have a nest egg to lean on if you need it. You need a pat on the back for doing so great at what you are doing......
People around here will cheer for you on making so much of your own stuff, you won't ever get the "look" for doing wonderful things to help your life around here, people really do cheer for each other and you will blend well at the village. Be sure to share some of your ways to save.......and once again, WELCOME to the village!

**Sara Noel** · 02-16-2009, 09:41 AM

to frugal village.

**cheriede** · 02-16-2009, 10:19 AM

Welcome to FV!

**Monner 1** · 02-16-2009, 11:24 AM

Glad to welcome another frugalist to the Village party and all the way from Japan. Technology is wonderful. Happy you joined.

Monner

Snow on Thursday

**Debbie-cat** · 02-16-2009, 11:49 AM

Hi and welcome!! Sounds like you two are off to a great start in married life!

**ravenmaniac** · 02-16-2009, 11:53 AM

Welcome. Please share your ideas. How does living in Japan differ from living in the US? I assume you plan on staying in Japan. I look forward to hearing more from you!