Life After Landing
10 Japanese Customs People Appreciate in Okinawa
Living in Okinawa means discovering the small gestures that make a big difference. From flashing hazard lights to say thank you to learning local customs, explore 10 simple ways to show respect and connect with the community.
Taking Out the Trash in Okinawa: A Guide to Japan’s Garbage System
Living off base in Okinawa means learning a few new routines, and figuring out the trash system is one of them. From burnable and nonburnable waste to recycling, designated bags and collection schedules, this guide explains the basics of sorting and disposing of household garbage in Japan.
Waze vs. Google Maps: The Best Way to Navigate Kadena Air Base
Learn why Waze may be a better option than Google Maps for navigating Kadena Air Base and finding locations on Okinawa.
Finding a Federal Job in Okinawa
If you’ve been on Okinawa for more than five minutes, you’ve probably heard someone say, “You should get a government job.” Easier said than done, right? The good news is that landing a civilian position on base isn’t some mysterious insider process. Once you...
Island Hopping in Okinawa!
Summer has arrived in full force, and one of the must-do experiences in Okinawa is island-hopping. If you’ve just arrived, you’ve probably already heard people rave about their trips to the Kerama Islands and may be eager to hop on a ferry and see them for yourself....
Had a Few Drinks? Here’s How to Get Home Safely in Okinawa
If you’ve ever ended up outside a bar doing the classic “OK … how am I getting home?” routine, you already know this is where the night can either end smoothly or turn into a mild crisis. Let’s keep it smooth. We all know about the Drink and Dash program. It’ll hook...
Tired of the Toll Booth? Why it’s Finally Time to Set Up ETC in Japan
Let’s talk about ETC card. At some point, you’re going to find yourself on the Okinawa Expressway. Whether you’re heading across the island for a summer festival or making one of those legendary Costco runs, it’s inevitable. For an embarrassingly long time, I avoided...