This week, we’re featuring an interview with Becky Gillespie, a Cincinnati native who has embraced life in Japan for over a decade. I had the pleasure of meeting her in Laos just before my trip to Japan, and she graciously invited me to stay in Tokyo. Becky reveals everything from budget travel tips to job-hunting advice and lesser-known destinations in Japan. No one knows Japan quite like her!
Becky resides in Shimokitazawa, known for its quaint cafés like Bear Pond Expresso.
Name: Becky Gillespie
Age: 34
Current Residence: Tokyo, Japan (originally from Cincinnati, Ohio)
Countries Visited: 45 Countries (46 by next month)
Website: www.TokyoBecky.com
Instagram: @TokyoBecky
1. What sparked your passion for travel?
During my last year in college, I took out loans to participate in a two-month study abroad program across Western Europe. This independent trip involved classes in hotel conference rooms while we traveled freely from Wednesday to Sunday. I can still recall the excitement of traveling from London to Paris on the Eurostar, only for our professors to say, “See you in four days!” This opportunity allowed me to explore 12 countries, and I've never regretted those loans; it transformed my perspective on travel forever.
2. How did you find yourself in Japan?
In my final months of college, I was interviewing for finance jobs but felt unfulfilled and reluctant to settle down. A sign at a career fair caught my eye, advertising “A Year of Adventure Abroad” for teaching English in Japan. Intrigued by the film “Lost in Translation” and Japan’s reputation for safety, I decided to take the plunge without knowing Japanese or anyone there. Four months later, I landed in Tokyo, and it’s been my home for 12 years.
Tokyo has endless opportunities for native English speakers, especially if you fit the expected image. I’ve taught at various levels, worked in business English, and even handled taxes for a global accounting firm. There's a unique opportunity here where you can sing to children over the phone in English for pay.
The private English teaching market is thriving. Many tutors meet in cafés, charging around $30 USD per hour. I once taught seven children in a private home, earning $140 USD in just one hour. With the right connections and effort, the potential is limitless.
Naoshima, famous for its art museums and sculptures, is an hour from Okayama.
3. What advice would you give to aspiring English teachers in Japan?
I suggest starting with a major conversation school. This guarantees income while you decide if teaching suits you. While working, network through meetup groups and local community centers offering Japanese lessons. These environments are great for making friends and learning about the culture. Engaging in regular activities, like judo or calligraphy, also fosters connections. With new apps and websites, living in Tokyo has become much easier over the last five years.
[For insights on working in Japan, visit Becky’s blog for posts on moving to Japan and 10 essential tips before relocating.
Becky outside the iconic Meiji Shrine, where she recently obtained permanent residency.
4. What are your top tips for budget travel in Japan?
Buy a Japan Rail Pass before arriving to save significantly on bullet train fares. As a resident, I can't purchase it, but a round trip to Kyoto from Tokyo costs more than seven days of unlimited travel. Bring a reusable water bottle since vending machine drinks cost about $1.40-1.60, while tap water is safe to drink and readily available. Opt for trains over taxis, as Tokyo's taxis are notoriously pricey. Don't miss the last train home (around 11:30 PM-midnight) to avoid costly taxi rides. For meals, ramen shops and noodle chains offer delicious options under $10. Explore 100 yen stores for affordable essentials. Also, consider budget-friendly Airbnb accommodations instead of expensive hotels.
Becky recommends the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage hike in Wakayama for a peaceful retreat.
5. What are your three favorite hidden gems in Japan?
Japan is full of hidden treasures! My top pick is the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage hike in Wakayama, which I recently completed over Thanksgiving. I encountered only seven others during the four-day trek, enjoying its rich history, stunning shrines, and soothing hot springs. Another must-visit is Okayama, paired with a trip to Kurashiki, a charming town reminiscent of Kyoto. Okayama boasts a beautiful castle and one of Japan’s top three gardens, while Naoshima, known for its art, is just an hour away. Lastly, Yakushima, accessible by ferry from Kagoshima, is a gorgeous island filled with ancient cedar trees, perfect for hiking and summer beaches.
6. What challenges did you face living abroad, and how did you overcome them?
The language barrier posed the biggest challenge, especially during complicated situations like renting and medical issues. I’ve been learning Japanese gradually and leaning on friends for support. Being open about my struggles often leads to unexpected help.
7. What advice do you have for budding travelers?
Friends you meet here can be invaluable resources. Seek out those with experience, as they can guide you. Stay curious! This will lead you to new places and connections. When unsure about a destination, I book my flight first to commit myself, knowing it becomes more complicated to change plans later. Keep your hotel’s contact details handy; it’s comforting to know help is close by. Taking that first step is often the hardest, but you’ll learn as you go.
Becky heads to Nagano for snowboarding once or twice each year, a city that hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics.
8. What’s a common myth about solo travel or living in Japan?
People often think it’s dangerous, prohibitively expensive, or that you’ll be stuck working all the time. This isn’t the case! While work can be demanding, I manage to carve out time for travel. Surprisingly, I find living in Tokyo cheaper than in Cincinnati since I don’t need a car. I keep my rent under $800 and teach private students for extra income.
9. What are three essentials you always pack for a trip?
- My running shoes, which double as hiking shoes.
- A compact purse that I can wear crossbody for evenings out but is also practical for daytime use.
- My Kindle; finding specific books while traveling can be challenging.
10. What’s your next adventure?
After a short weekend trip snowboarding to see the “Snow Monsters” in Zao, I’m off to Myanmar for my first solo adventure. I can’t wait to ride in a hot-air balloon and finally cross that off my bucket list!
For more tips on traveling or living in Japan, check out my Where to Go in Japan post and visit Becky’s blog at TokyoBecky.com.
