Japan is a big place. It’s slightly smaller than California in landmass.
California is approximately 403,882 sq km, while Japan is approximately 377,915 sq km.
As you look over big colorful maps of Japan, you’ll have to decide on three destinations to pick from to put into your form.
Your top 3 locations can be just about anywhere. Remote cities, large cities, small towns, and so on.
You could easily write down Kyoto, Osaka, and Tokyo.
However…
The chances of you getting your first pick are pretty slim.
From my experience and others, don’t hold your breath unless it’s a not-so-well-known prefecture.
The best locations to pick are the ones you know nothing about.
Honestly, small prefectures and regions are usually where JETs are placed. I picked everything in Kansai and got Kumamoto.
Kumamoto was an unknown place to me, but I am so grateful to have lived there that I would return.
Given the chance to re-apply to JET in the future, I would select Kumamoto again or another neighboring area in Kyushu.
Kyushu is an amazing region in Japan.
Even though it far south, there are plenty of things to do. It’s also one of the most relaxing places in all of Japan. Everyone is humble and proud to see foreigners residing there.
Unlike Tokyo or Osaka, you’ll get the “real” Japan experience in places that aren’t major cities. Don’t worry, it’s easy enough to go to those big tourist destinations on holiday or whenever you decide to use your 20 days of vacation.
Take Away About Your Choice
- If you want your location, choose something that doesn’t stand out.
- Avoid major cities.
- Don’t get upset if you don’t get your first pick.
- Be thankful if you land a JET position anywhere in Japan.
- Japanese people will be glad to have you in their rural area.
- In small towns and regions, you will make the best grassroots ties in Japan and represent why you are supposed to be there.
