Hokousha wrote:

> PS An intermediate option if you have the cash is to sign up as a
> full-time Japanese language student. Then you could start you life in
> Japan on a student visa, though you won't be able to work during the
> first six months (unless the rules have changed... it's been a while).

It has changed. If you are at a school where the initial period of stay 
for a shugakusei visa is 12 months (ie the top tier schools) then you 
are eligible to work up to 28 hours per week from as soon as you obtain the

"permission-to-engage-in-activities-other-than-those-designated-by-your-current-visa-status"

thingee. In other words if he was at Yamasa.org for instance he could 
start work about 10-14 days after arrival.

> Also, I'm not sure what the top age is for a working holiday visa. If
> you qualify, that's an excellent way to come to Japan. Check with the
> nearest Japanese embassy or consulate.

Differs from nationality to nationality. For most countries it is 
apparently 25. The age limit is strictly enforced in the case of 
Koreans, almost entirely unenforced in the case of Australians - up to 
30 years old is OK in the case of the latter, married couples are OK, 
and the period of stay (max. 18 months) longer than for the other 
countries.

-- 
I am not who I think I am
I am not who you think I am
I am who I think you think I am

...or some such shite.