Job Discussion Forums

fluffyhamster · Posted: Wed Feb 25, 2009 7:18 pm Post subject:

I haven't bought cigarettes for ages, but I guess the average packet of 20 is still nearer 300 than 400 yen. As for beer or beer-like drinkies, depends on what you want, but around 200 yen per can should buy you something reasonably decent.

elkarlo · Joined: 08 Dec 2008 Posts: 240 Location: Maryland

fluffyhamster · Posted: Wed Feb 25, 2009 9:31 pm Post subject:

I'll know how much the crazy Brit prices are once I've sold the other kidney and raised enough money to again fill a shopping basket.

But seriously, quality cigars are at least twice as much in the UK compared to Japan, and cigarettes seem to be around three times as much. Booze seems to range from similar prices to almost twice as much, depending on what you buy.

seklarwia · Posted: Wed Feb 25, 2009 9:32 pm Post subject:

I already gave crazy Brit ones... apparently I got in a couple of secs before you so you have to go back to page 2.

But 300-400 is still crazy cheap despite the fall in sterling value.

flyer · Joined: 16 May 2003 Posts: 539 Location: Sapporo Japan

why waste money on cigs?

anne_o · Joined: 30 Nov 2005 Posts: 172 Location: Tokyo

this is from the link elkarlo posted about young, post-bubble, japanese men:

"They aren't obsessed about being manly and accept sexual equality as something natural

part of the reason i like japanese men!!! and believe me, when they need to be manly, they CAN!
Wink

fluffyhamster · Posted: Thu Feb 26, 2009 3:19 am Post subject:

seklarwia · Posted: Thu Feb 26, 2009 4:06 am Post subject:

Sour Grape · Joined: 10 May 2005 Posts: 241

Surprised to see beer is considered cheaper in Japan than the UK. A pint of most beers in Dubliners is about 900 yen, which even at normal exchange rates is more than any pub in London that I have been to. I know there are cheaper places to drink, but if you factor in the 30% or so head that a Japanese barman fobs you off with, I think it's hard to make a case that Japan is better value. Nomihoudai places apart, of course.

waterboy · Joined: 12 Dec 2008 Posts: 5 Location: Hokkaido

Living in Hokkaido, I love the nature and 50km speed limits which make for great cycling all year round.

In addition, I find that being part of a small group of native English speakers means you get to know people that you probably usually wouldn't. That's generally cool.

Things that are challenging include finding an appropriate response to 'wow, you are so good at using chopsticks'. Any suggestions?

And a niggling feeling that as much as I love being here, there are those little reminders that I am still a foreigner (gaijin card, fingerprints etc).

Sour Grape · Joined: 10 May 2005 Posts: 241

Ryu Hayabusa · Joined: 08 Jan 2008 Posts: 182

steki47 · Joined: 20 Apr 2008 Posts: 1029 Location: BFE Inaka

All this talk of money reminded me of something else I liked about Japan. Despite the stereotype, I generally found the cost of living to range from "normal" to a bit cheaper. Granted, I was living in NYC before moving to rural Japan. Even rent was much more affordable on an eikaiwa salary.
Yes, the "hashi jouzu" comment can be irritating to long-term expats. Say "arigatou" and laugh it off. If it really burns your butt, see if you find the opportunity to complement One Of Them on their skills with a fork. "Fouku jouzu desu ne!" 99% of them won't get it, but you can have a private chuckle.

flyer · Joined: 16 May 2003 Posts: 539 Location: Sapporo Japan