This is not my video, but I believe it is worth sharing. It will be most useful to those either already living in Japan or on their way soon.

http://www.nihongojouzu.com/2007/02/good...er_ba.html

The blog seems to have a lot of other useful info too. (Just try to keep in mind the point of the video while browsing though.) ; )

I like this video.

Although, I can see it bringing up the whole introvert/extrovert discussion again.

I don't think you need to sit next to random strangers, or go hitch hiking, etc, to get better at Japanese, but sticking inside your comforting English-bubble is something to avoid. Even as an introvert, you can probably find some sort of interaction if you know what you're looking for.
I especially liked the bit where they were watching comedy on TV.

Couldn't agree more.

Even if you don't become friends with Japanese people straightaway you can join international friendship type groups that are made up of so many different nationalities. You can guarantee that not everyone will speak English so it is still a good opportunity to practice your Japanese (and use English if you need to) until you feel more comfortable going out and meeting Japanese people.

Also, whatever your hobbies may be, there's a pretty good chance that you can do them in Japan. Sports? Models/games? Hiking? Music? Ballroom dancing? Of course. So join a club or two and watch your motivation to effectively communicate soar. And to the introverts; join in on these sorts of activities and start making commitments to the group or to individuals. These commitments will get you out the door on those days you'd rather stay home, because you know that you'll almost always be glad that you did go out. (semi-autobiographical)

On the other hand, as long as you're seeking out opportunities I don't think you have to literally avoid every English speaker. Culture shock and depression can be problems for people living in foreign countries, and having some interaction with native speakers of your own language and culture can help.

Well...there are some people who doesn't like to talk to others. What can you do.

Doesn't matter though...you can still learn Japanese by being introvert.

At first I doubted whether I wanna spend my time on wathcing this but it's a really good video!

yudantaiteki Wrote:On the other hand, as long as you're seeking out opportunities I don't think you have to literally avoid every English speaker. Culture shock and depression can be problems for people living in foreign countries, and having some interaction with native speakers of your own language and culture can help.

Yeah I think that there's no reason to avoid them. But there is a reason for searching for ways how you can make yourself speak Japanese more.