Additional Coverage:
- I moved to a tiny ski town in Japan. I make $8 an hour, but life is cheap so I’m saving for my future travels. (businessinsider.com)
23-year-old Vitus Stenhøj Schiøtz, originally from Denmark, traded the familiar for an adventure in Japan. Armed with a working holiday visa, he initially found the hustle of Tokyo overwhelming. He sought a quieter life and discovered it in Nozawaonsen, a small ski town northwest of the bustling capital.
Schiøtz’s journey began with a summer surf camp in Portugal. That experience ignited a desire to combine work and travel. After a three-week trip to Japan, he was captivated by the culture but unsettled by Tokyo’s frenetic energy.
He felt like an outsider in the crowded city, despite the polite greetings. The experience solidified his desire for a smaller, more welcoming community.
A working holiday visa offered the perfect solution. His research, aided by tips from social media, led him to Nozawaonsen, a village nestled in the mountains and renowned for its exceptional snow.
Now working as a chef, Schiøtz earns around $8 an hour. He and his girlfriend, who works as a housekeeper, share affordable company housing. He’s found the cost of living significantly lower than in Denmark, allowing him to save money for future travels.
Schiøtz enjoys the slower pace of life in Nozawaonsen. He appreciates the friendly locals and the unique ski culture, which he describes as more relaxed than European resorts. Evenings are often spent at the onsen, a traditional Japanese public bath.
He feels a sense of belonging in this close-knit community, a stark contrast to his experience in Tokyo. His advice to others?
Find a way to combine work and travel. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in a new culture, build connections, and grow, all while exploring the world.
Schiøtz and his girlfriend are planning to continue their adventure with a trip through Asia in the spring.