Ukrainians in Japan feel isolated, struggle to put down new roots

Oct 21, 2022 | News On Japan

TOKYO - More than 2,000 Ukrainians had entered Japan as of mid-October, according to the Immigration Services Agency, living in prefectures across the nation as they worked to build a new life.

However, staying for a prolonged period in a new environment has brought difficulties. Some people have suffered from depression as a result of language barriers; others have changed their residence in search of connections with other Ukrainians.

According to the Immigration Services Agency, 2,012 people had fled from Ukraine to Japan as of Oct. 10, after the Russian invasion began on Feb. 24. Figures as of Oct. 5 showed them living in 45 prefectures, though mainly in the Tokyo metropolitan area, having found people who could act as guarantors or using the agency’s service to match displaced Ukrainians with employers, such as local governments.

However, some people have changed residences quickly, unable to put down new roots. ...continue reading

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