Asia

From Exchange Student to Software Engineer in Tokyo: My Life in Asia

My journey in Asia has never been about ticking countries off a bucket list or chasing the next Instagram photo. What began as a student exchange quickly evolved into a life-changing adventure that completely reshaped my career, lifestyle, and understanding of the world. Unlike many travel bloggers who experience Asia through short vacations, I have spent years living, studying, and working across the region, giving me a perspective that goes far beyond the typical tourist experience.

I first arrived in Asia as an exchange student in Seoul, South Korea, where I experienced daily life during one of the most challenging periods in recent history. Living abroad during the pandemic taught me how different cultures respond to uncertainty, how local communities adapt, and how important it is to understand a destination beyond its famous landmarks. That experience sparked a deeper curiosity about Asia’s cultures, societies, and ways of life, leading me to continue my journey in Japan.

After South Korea, I moved to Tokyo to pursue a Master’s degree in Computer Science at Waseda University. What was initially planned as an academic chapter soon became something much bigger. During my years in Japan, I explored the country extensively, from the snowy landscapes of Hokkaido and the historic streets of Kyoto to the volcanic scenery of Kyushu and the tropical islands of Okinawa. At the same time, I experienced everyday life as a resident, learning how to navigate Japanese bureaucracy, housing, transportation, work culture, and social customs. These experiences gave me insights that simply cannot be gained during a short holiday.

Today, I work as a Senior Software Engineer in Tokyo’s banking and finance industry, giving me a unique perspective on modern Japan that combines professional life with long-term cultural immersion. I understand what it is like to search for jobs in Japan, adapt to Japanese workplace culture, build a social network as a foreigner, and establish a life in one of the world’s most fascinating countries. This allows me to provide practical advice not only for tourists but also for students, digital professionals, expats, and anyone considering living or working in Asia.

Through this website, I share detailed travel guides, relocation tips, cultural insights, food experiences, and personal observations gathered through years of firsthand experience. Whether you are searching for the best places to visit in Japan, wondering what it is really like to live in Tokyo, planning a trip to South Korea, exploring hidden destinations in Asia, or researching study abroad opportunities, my goal is to provide information that is authentic, practical, and based on real-world experience.

Asia is far more than a collection of famous attractions. It is a region of extraordinary diversity, where ancient traditions coexist with cutting-edge technology, where centuries-old temples stand beside futuristic skyscrapers, and where every destination offers a different perspective on history, culture, and daily life. My guides aim to help travelers move beyond the surface and discover the stories, people, and experiences that make these countries truly unforgettable. Rather than simply showing you where to go, I want to help you understand what it feels like to live there, work there, study there, and become part of the culture, even if only for a short time.

Why You Can Trust My Asia Guides

Academic Experience in Asia

My journey in Asia began as an exchange student at Ewha Womans University in Seoul, South Korea. Living abroad during the pandemic provided a rare opportunity to experience Korean society, university life, and daily culture from an insider’s perspective during a historic period. After South Korea, I moved to Japan to pursue a Master’s degree in Computer Science at Waseda University, one of Japan’s most respected universities. Over two years, I combined academic research with extensive travel throughout the country, gaining a deeper understanding of Japanese society, technology, and culture.

Professional Life in Tokyo

Today, I work as a Senior Software Engineer in Tokyo’s banking and finance industry. Living and working in Japan gives me insights that go far beyond those of a typical visitor. I have experienced Japanese workplace culture, corporate life, job hunting, housing, commuting, and the realities of building a career as a foreign professional in Japan. This perspective allows me to write not only about where to travel, but also about what it is actually like to live, study, and work in one of the world’s most fascinating countries.

This combination of academic experience, professional expertise, and long-term residence enables me to create guides that are practical, authentic, and grounded in real-world experience rather than short-term tourism.

🇯🇵 Japan: Life Beyond the Neon

Having lived in Japan for several years, I have traveled extensively across the country, from Hokkaido’s snowy winters and Sapporo’s food scene to the tropical beaches of Okinawa. My journeys have taken me through Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Hiroshima, Fukuoka, Beppu, Tottori, and many other destinations, allowing me to experience Japan far beyond the typical tourist route. Whether you’re looking for hidden gems in Tokyo, traditional culture in Kyoto, the best food in Osaka, or unique countryside destinations, my guides are based on firsthand experience gained through years of exploring every corner of Japan.

• Tokyo City Guide: As a resident, I skip the tourist traps to show you the best-kept secrets in the world’s largest metropolis.
• The Countryside & Tottori: If you want to escape the crowds, check out my Countryside Guide. I’ll take you to places like the Tottori Sand Dunes, where you’ll see a side of Japan that feels more like the Sahara than the Pacific.
• Living & Culture: From navigating the “Salaryman” life to understanding deep-rooted cultural etiquettes, I share what it’s actually like to build a life here.

🇰🇷 South Korea: Seoul Trends & Dreams

Seoul was my first home in Asia and remains one of the cities I know best. As an exchange student living in South Korea, I spent months exploring the city beyond the usual tourist route, discovering hidden cafés, local restaurants, university districts, cultural attractions, and unique neighborhoods across the capital. The guides I share are based on firsthand experience and years of local exploration, helping travelers discover the best things to do in Seoul, authentic local experiences, and practical tips for studying, living, or traveling in South Korea.

• The SKY Dream: I’ve written extensively on how to fulfill the dream of getting accepted into a SKY University (Seoul National, Korea, and Yonsei) to earn a degree in 2 years and secure long-term residency.
• Local Vibes: Discover the “Icetino” trend (the local twist on iced Americanos) or spend a night at hidden gems like The Naked Tiger, one of the coolest speakeasy spots in the city.
• Incheon’s Magic: When you need a break from Seoul, I recommend the Songwol-dong Fairy Tale Village in Incheon, a colorful, mural-filled escape that feels like walking through a storybook.

🇹🇭 Thailand: The Engagement Journey

Thailand is one of the countries I know best in Southeast Asia and a destination I have returned to multiple times. Over the years, I have explored many of the country’s most popular destinations, including Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Krabi, Koh Samui, and Koh Phangan, while also discovering lesser-known places beyond the typical tourist route. These experiences have given me valuable insights into Thai culture, local transportation, accommodation options, island life, food, and the practical realities of traveling throughout the country.

Whether you are planning your first trip to Thailand, searching for the best Thai islands to visit, comparing Bangkok and Chiang Mai, looking for hidden gems in Thailand, or simply trying to build the perfect Thailand itinerary, my guides are based on firsthand experience gathered across multiple visits. I focus on sharing practical travel advice, honest recommendations, and real experiences that help travelers make the most of their time in one of Asia’s most popular destinations.

Thailand also holds a deeply personal significance in my life. During my most recent visit, I became engaged to my Chinese fiancée, making the country far more than just another travel destination. What was already one of my favorite countries in Asia became the setting for one of the most important moments of my life. As a result, Thailand will always be a special part of our story, and I look forward to continuing to explore its islands, cities, culture, and natural beauty in the years ahead.

I am currently documenting our journey through:

• The island paradise of Koh Phangan and Koh Samui.
• The urban energy of Bangkok.
• The cultural heart of Chiang Mai and the limestone cliffs of Krabi.

🇨🇳 China: Exploring Ancient Traditions and Modern Cities

China is far more than a travel destination. As one of the world’s oldest civilizations and largest countries, it offers an incredible diversity of cultures, landscapes, cuisines, and traditions that can take a lifetime to explore. For me, China is becoming increasingly personal because it is closely connected to my future and my family. Through my Chinese fiancée, I have gained a deeper appreciation for the country’s culture, values, and everyday life, transforming my interest from that of a traveler into something much more meaningful.

As I continue to explore China, my focus extends beyond famous landmarks and tourist attractions. I am interested in understanding local life, regional traditions, family customs, food culture, and the unique differences that exist between China’s many provinces and cities. Future guides will document these experiences firsthand, offering insights into what it is really like to travel through China, visit family, experience Chinese traditions, and navigate the country from a perspective that combines both international curiosity and local connections.

Whether you are planning a trip to China, researching Chinese culture, looking for travel tips, or simply interested in learning more about one of the world’s most influential countries, my goal is to provide authentic experiences and practical advice as I continue this journey. China is not just a destination on my map. It is becoming an important part of my family’s story and a country I expect to explore extensively for many years to come.

• The Beijing Connection: My first introduction to the “Middle Kingdom” was a visit to Beijing to see a close friend working at the Swiss Embassy. This gave me a unique, high-level perspective on the diplomatic pulse of the capital, from the massive scale of the Forbidden City to the hidden life within the ancient hutongs.
• A Personal Future: Because my fiancée is Chinese, China is no longer just a travel destination—it is part of my family story. We are currently planning extensive travels to explore her home and heritage, moving beyond the tourist path.
• Coming Soon: Stay tuned as I document our upcoming “homecoming” journeys, focusing on local life, family traditions, and navigating the nuances of China as an expat with a local perspective.

🇹🇼 Taiwan: The Heart of Tradition and Tech

Taipei is a city that resonates deeply with me—it’s a perfect blend of organized chaos and ancient spiritualism. It feels like the bridge between my life in Tokyo and my travels through the rest of Asia.

• Taipei’s Spiritual Core: I’ve spent time exploring the intricate architecture and deep history of Longshan Temple and the serene Zhinan Temple. These aren’t just photo ops; they are the living pulse of Taiwanese culture.
• The Icons: From the political weight of the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall to the engineering marvel of Taipei 101, I dive into how this city honors its past while sprinting toward the future.
• Local Tip: Skip the standard food courts and find the small stalls near the National Taiwan Museum for a more authentic taste of the city’s culinary heritage.

🇲🇾 Malaysia: Skyscrapers and Wild Frontiers

Malaysia represents the incredible diversity of Southeast Asia, from the hyper-modern skyline of the capital to the raw, untamed nature of the world’s oldest rainforests.

• Kuala Lumpur (KL): The capital is a masterclass in multiculturalism. Whether you’re navigating the shadows of the Petronas Towers or exploring the vibrant food scene, KL is a city of constant contrast that every expat should experience.
• The Borneo Wild (Sabah): My journey through Borneo was a true “boots on the ground” adventure. I took a road trip through Sabah, starting from the coastal history of Sandakan to the wildlife sanctuaries of Sepilok.
• The Kinabatangan River: Staying at the Sukau Rainforest Lodge and exploring the river was a highlight—seeing pygmy elephants and orangutans in the wild is a stark, beautiful reminder of the world beyond the concrete jungle.