Culture Shock is real. Don't believe me? Read on...!

So now you know that culture shock is as real (and annoying) as the common cold, but you're still unsure of what to expect during each stage. Well, let's take a moment and analyze your current emotional state. Have you accustomed nicely to your daily routine? Are you used to what you once thought was weird or strange about Japanese culture? Then you're most likely in Stage Four. Are you thrilled to have the opportunity to live and work so far away from home? Does everyday feel like a vacation? Are you spending more time drinking sake and singing karaoke than showing up at work? Well, my dear little newbie, you're still in Stage One. Are you missing the simple things back home? Feeling exhausted, lonely, depressed? Wishing your Great Aunt Thelma would come down with a serious illness so you'd have a reason to go home? Well, I'm sorry to inform you that you're smack dab in the middle of the infamous Stage Two. Are you finally back home after your emotional roller coaster of a year, only to realize you're not feeling the relief or comfort you had expected? Do you feel alienated from your friends? Are you bowing as thank you at the local convenience store? Looks like you've made it all the way to Stage Five. Are you still finding life difficult but making efforts to fit in? Taking Japanese language classes, making friends with local Japanese people, or getting naked at the onsen? Congratulations, you've been initiated into Stage Three.