[Raz]

Hi, im going on exchange to somewhere else than HK for a semester. I havent really decided where yet...thinking about Tokyo. Anyone who's been there, could u tell me if it's like possible to move around and survive in the city with english only? I mean...not being able to read signs or anything, isn't it a real challange?

[big 5]

Hi,

I was in Tokyo 3 weeks ago... There is some English spoken but you're right in thinking it's sporadic. Basically if you mean 'getting around' as in tube, then that's really easy. Also taxi drivers understand/ recognise 'landmarks,' but taxis a bit pricey. Tokyo was a truly amazing experience.....

[Raz]

Wow, tell me more. Could you see yourself live there for 6months?

[big 5]

Actually the irony was that we said we could live there (Tokyo). To start with we stayed in Ebisu, really cool, but quite expensive (accomodation), then went to Niseko, another island where you can ski........... I loved it, in tourist areas there is clearly unsderstanding and a upmarket bars, restaurants etc there is English.

It is a bit chilly there, much colder than here. My friend lives there, the nightlife is also different. Knowing meeting people through work, course would lead to English speaking mates....

[Katanga]

dude

lived there for over 3 years and survived just fine with english, sign language and a little bit of Japanese.

You will be surprised how quickly you pick up survival japanese once you are there.

It's a blast - go there and enjoy.

[nation]

Yeah I agree. I lived in Tokyo for a while and it was great. Not many people on the streets speak English but you'll get by if you're adventurous. Think of it like Hong Kong times 10 in terms of size, excitement and what's going on. But it is very expensive. Getting around is easy but trains are very expensive compared to HK.

[Raz]

Okay...I'll hand in the form later today, Tokyo it is!

[big 5]

Good luck and enjoy!!!!