Relocating halfway around the world with a 2-year-old and a 7-month-old in tow isn’t for the faint of heart. But for Courtney Richman, the move to Japan was an unexpected adventure, filled with lessons, laughs, and moments of awe as her family embraced life in a new culture. Now, a year after landing in Nagoya, Japan, Courtney reflects on the challenges and joys of raising two young children in a foreign country.
Embracing the Unknown: Adjusting to Life in Japan with Young Kids
When Courtney and her husband, Ryan, moved to Japan, they knew very little about the language, the culture, or even the town they’d be calling home. “We didn’t have Japanese phones, didn’t know how to call for help in an emergency, and I even packed a whole suitcase of American baby formula, only to find out that Japanese formula is like the Rolls-Royce of baby food,” Courtney laughs.
One of the hardest parts has been navigating life without family nearby. “Nothing beats Grandma’s help,” she says. But Courtney quickly made it her mission to build a support system, find friends, and learn enough Japanese to get by. “Anything new can feel like an obstacle at first, but you adapt fast. Japan’s healthcare system for kids is incredible—and free—which was a huge relief for us,” she adds.
Japan’s family-friendly environment has been a welcome surprise. “Japan loves kids, and even though it can be challenging to raise little ones in such a neat and orderly society, you can always count on finding baby rooms and amazing changing stations everywhere,” she notes. “That has been a real game-changer.”
From the NBA to Nagoya: A Journey Shaped by Careers and Adventure
The Richmans’ decision to move to Japan was spurred by Ryan’s career as a professional basketball coach. After coaching in the NBA for 10 years and serving as a head coach in the G League, Ryan’s dream of becoming a head coach drove the family to explore international opportunities. Although they initially passed on a job offer in Italy, it opened their minds to the idea of living abroad. “When the opportunity in Japan came up, with two kids under two, it felt like the perfect adventure,” Courtney explains.
Courtney’s background in life coaching, teaching manifestation, and matchmaking has also prepared her for this journey. “My work taught me to understand people from all over the world, embrace discomfort, and take bold chances,” she says. “When I met Ryan, he actually told me we’d never live overseas. But sometimes life surprises you. Now, we’re here, living out his dream and expanding our own perspectives in ways we never imagined.”
Favorite Adventures in Japan: Exploring a World of Wonders
For Courtney, exploring Japan has been a highlight of their time abroad. “I love packing up the girls, grabbing Japan’s adorable snacks, and heading out for an adventure,” she shares. Whether they’re zooming on the Shinkansen to Fukuoka, taking a day trip to Kyoto, or even visiting the deer in Nara, Courtney embraces every opportunity to explore. And the bathrooms—she’s a fan. “Top-tier bathrooms are a serious perk when you’ve got little ones in tow!”
Living in Japan has also opened the door to other travel opportunities in Southeast Asia. “We’ve been to places like Thailand, Guam, and South Korea, and we’re planning trips to Hong Kong and Vietnam soon. These experiences have made our girls resilient and wise, and given us memories we’ll treasure forever,” Courtney says.
Inspired by the Future Self: Living Fully in the Present
When it comes to inspiration, Courtney looks to her future self—the version of her 10 or 20 years down the line. “I picture that future me, looking back on these incredible experiences, knowing I did my best, lived fully, and made no excuses,” she says. “I didn’t want to spend 18 years waiting to live after kids. This journey pushed us to live big, now, and to embrace every challenge and every joy.”
For Courtney, it’s not about perfection but about showing up, being present, and living authentically. “The memories I’m creating with my family and the stories we’ll carry with us—that’s what drives me to live without limits, no matter where we are.”
Advice for Moms Considering a Move Abroad
Courtney’s biggest advice for moms considering a move overseas? “Embrace the adventure and do the hard things. A three-year contract has pushed me to live big, make plans, and seize every opportunity. Knowing there’s a timeline has helped me let go of the ‘play it safe’ mentality.”
She encourages moms not to let fear hold them back from new experiences. “Book the ticket, try the food, immerse yourself in the culture. Kids are incredibly adaptable, and you’ll figure out the routines, food, and supplies as you go.” For her, the key is to make the most of the time they have in Japan, and to savor every moment of this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
For day-to-day updates on her journey and tips for moms, you can follow Courtney on Instagram at @courtneybrichman.
Instagram Photo Credits: @yossyjkr