Raymond Shares Harsh Realities of Life in Japan for Foreign Workers
Raymond describes living in Japan as a tough experience, likening it to “Obonsam gyamu” — a local term for hellfire. According to him, things have worsened since sanctions were placed on the American president, and Japan’s yen has stopped depreciating against the U.S. dollar. This has led to high inflation, making life increasingly expensive.
While Japan urgently needs foreign workers — especially skilled laborers like drivers and bus operators — the government is cautious about allowing too many immigrants. Officials fear that foreigners often fail to respect Japanese culture and traditions. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has made it clear: any foreigner who breaks the law will be deported, and the government prioritizes its citizens over foreigners.
Crime concerns have also risen. In areas like Kawaguchi, some Turkish immigrants have reportedly been involved in violent acts, contributing to higher crime rates. As a result, Japan is tightening entry requirements, focusing only on bringing in skilled workers.
Raymond points out that while the government offers generous incentives to support childbirth — including financial aid if a woman needs to return to her village to give birth — many couples are still hesitant because of the high cost of raising children in Japan.
Japan generally favors Indians, Vietnamese, and Filipinos through exchange programs. For example, many Filipinos learn the Japanese language before migrating. In contrast, Africans are rarely considered, and securing a visa is extremely difficult. Some people exploit loopholes through expos like the one held in Osaka to enter the country. Marriage is another way in — but Raymond warns it comes with challenges.
He explains that Japanese women are strong and sometimes abusive toward their foreign husbands. If a man retaliates, he risks arrest. Japanese men often refuse to marry their own women, prompting the government to offer financial incentives through taxes to encourage marriages. However, this often leaves foreign men paying double.
Culturally, there are stark differences. Raymond notes that in Japan, bathing twice a day is considered wasteful because water is expensive. He also claims that if you’re not receiving money from an uncle abroad, it’s likely because his wife is withholding it.
According to Raymond, many foreigners once found success in Japan, but the country is no longer what it used to be. Food prices are high, and the overall cost of living is unbearable. He advises Ghanaians to consider America or Europe instead — unless they want to endure hardships like being slapped by their Japanese wives or forced to wash their underwear. In his words, “By the time you return home, you’ll be a changed — even foolish — man.”
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