Seek out older Western correspondents.That’s difficult these days because American news organizations have cut back on the number of correspondents in Japan. But some, like Don Jameson, Bob Neff and Bradley Martin, are still around. They carry with them vast wisdom about the country, and can guide a younger, newly arrived correspondent.
The Foreign Correspondents’ Club of Japan, located in the Yurakacho Denki Building, near the Imperial Palace, is a pale imitation of what it once was because there are so few Western correspondents there, but it still has a library and workspace. When I’m in Tokyo, I frequent the FCCJ because it is one of the cheapest and best places to eat and drink. Inquire about membership if you’re going to stay in Japan, or join the Overseas Press Club — we have reciprocal privileges.
You might consider teaching English for a while because that would create a stream of income and allow you to extend your stay. It would be possible to combine journalism with teaching, if you’re smart about it.
To reduce living costs, there is an International House in Tokyo, and there are modest, small hotels. Ask around. You don’t have to stay at the Okura. And eating costs can be reduced by eating at the yakatori shops underneath train stations. Don’t eat in the major hotels.
Some language familiarity is good, but it’s difficult to become fluent, and not completely necessary. If you understand the culture of the place, that’s worth as much as the language.
No single book can capture the complexity of Japan, but try these: The Japanese Power Game: What it Means to America Chrysanthemum and The Sword is the classic by Ruth Benedict The Asian Mystique by Sheridan Prasso is a useful insight Anything by Herbert Bix is great; he’s a specialist on Hirohito. Steve Vogel, son of Ezra Vogel, is a true expert on Japan. His book, Japan Remodeled, shows how Japan evolves its economic model in quiet but effective ways.
