The special series to put a spotlight on our international staff, “Eyes, JAPAN Employee Interview” is back! Our interviewee this month is Wang Weiyu from China.

She has been working in Eyes, JAPAN for about 4 months and we would like to ask her about her experience in living in Japan and working in Eyes, JAPAN!

(Interviewer: Angie)

Loves the Landscapes and Culinary Culture in China

What is your favorite thing about your home country or home town?

Weiyu: There are many reasons why I love China, with two of the most important being its breathtaking landscapes and its rich and diverse culinary culture. China is a vast country with a wide variety of natural scenery, from the Great Wall in the north to the stunning karst mountains of Guilin in the south. Each region offers its own unique beauty. Whether it’s the majestic Yellow Mountains, the serene West Lake, the expansive grasslands, or the mysterious Tibetan Plateau, these landscapes not only inspire awe but also evoke a deep appreciation for the grandeur and splendor of nature.

Weiyu: Moreover, China’s culinary culture is another aspect that captivates me. With a vast array of regional cuisines, each with its own distinct flavors and cooking techniques, Chinese food offers something for every palate. From the spicy hot pot of Sichuan and the delicate dim sum of Guangdong to the hearty dishes of Shandong and the sweet and savory dishes of Jiangsu and Zhejiang, the variety is endless. Whether it’s street food or gourmet dining, Chinese cuisine never fails to impress with its depth of flavor and cultural richness. The food not only satisfies the taste buds but also reflects China’s long history and vibrant culture, which is another reason why I deeply love China.

Why did you come to Japan and what do you like about Japan?

Weiyu: There are many similarities between Chinese and Japanese culture and lifestyle, and Japan’s culinary traditions also share much in common with those of China. This makes it easier for me to adapt to and immerse myself in life in Japan. Additionally, I am captivated by Japan’s natural beauty. Whether it’s the cherry blossoms in spring, the beaches in summer, the autumn foliage, or the snow-covered landscapes in winter, each season has its own unique charm. Especially in the countryside, the perfect harmony of tranquility and nature offers a precious respite from the fast pace of modern life.

What do you think about life in Aizu?

Weiyu: The deep-rooted samurai traditions and the preservation of ancient festivals provide a strong sense of connection to Japan’s past, making everyday life feel steeped in history. The city’s reputation for exquisite traditional crafts, such as Aizu lacquerware and ceramics, adds an artistic and cultural dimension to daily life.

Weiyu: Surrounded by stunning mountains and lakes, Aizu also offers a peaceful natural environment. The changing seasons bring their own beauty, with vibrant autumn foliage and serene winter snowscapes, making the area ideal for those who appreciate nature’s rhythms. Overall, life in Aizu feels like a harmonious blend of the old and the new, where one can enjoy the tranquility of nature while being deeply connected to Japan’s cultural heritage.

What is your academic background and what kind of research are you doing or have you done before?

Weiyu: I am currently a first-year master’s student at the University of Aizu, focusing on cryptography. My research primarily involves designing encryption methods to ensure the security of information during data transmission.

Do you have any things or skills that you are proud of?

Weiyu: I have a passion for calligraphy and have won several national awards in the past.

What do you think is the hottest technology-related topic?

Weiyu: I think one of the hottest topics in technology is the rapid advancement and application of artificial intelligence, particularly generative AI and large language models like GPT. These technologies are transforming industries by automating tasks, enhancing creativity, and enabling more sophisticated data analysis.

Weiyu: Colleagues at Eyes, JAPAN are Incredibly Nice

How did you know about Eyes, JAPAN and why did you decide to join Eyes, JAPAN?

Weiyu: I got a recommendation from a fellow student in the same lab. Then, I decided to join Eyes, JAPAN because this allows me to apply the theoretical knowledge I’ve gained in the classroom to real-world projects, thereby gaining valuable practical experience. Additionally, I can engage with cutting-edge technologies and innovative projects, helping me better understand industry trends and broaden my professional perspective. Moreover, the company’s diverse cultural environment greatly appeals to me, and I look forward to making new friends here.

What kind of projects have you been working on in Eyes, JAPAN?

Weiyu: I worked on 360-Degree VR project and context reading AI surgical robot project.

Could you let us know your most memorable project in Eyes, JAPAN?

Weiyu: I leverage the most cutting-edge large language models to perform in-depth analysis of medical surgery videos. This technology is capable of extracting critical data and insights from the footage, providing medical professionals with more precise diagnostic support and suggestions for surgical improvements, thereby advancing the healthcare industry.

What do you think about your colleagues in Eyes, JAPAN?

Weiyu: I think my colleagues at Eyes, JAPAN are incredibly nice and always willing to help. The team fosters a supportive and collaborative environment where everyone is eager to share their knowledge and assist each other. Additionally, the diverse cultural backgrounds of my colleagues make the workplace vibrant and dynamic, enriching our discussions and projects with a wide range of perspectives. Overall, working with such a friendly and helpful team in a diverse environment is truly a rewarding experience.

What about the working environment in Eyes, JAPAN?

Weiyu: I think the working environment at Eyes, JAPAN is fantastic. The projects we work on are both interesting and at the forefront of technology, which keeps me engaged and motivated. The team gets along very well, and everyone is supportive and collaborative, creating a positive atmosphere. Additionally, the work environment is relaxed, allowing for creativity and innovation to flourish.

What do you think about working at the company and working at home?

Weiyu: I think the option to work both at the company and from home is very considerate and flexible. When it’s not convenient to come to the office, the ability to work remotely is a great advantage. However, working at the company allows for more face-to-face interactions and collaboration with colleagues, which can be very beneficial for team projects and brainstorming.

What kind of problems or challenges have you faced while working in Eyes, JAPAN, and how did you solve it?

Weiyu: I’ve faced relatively few major challenges while working at Eyes, JAPAN. Occasionally, I do encounter issues like code errors or bugs. When these problems arise, I usually resolve them by using GPT to troubleshoot or by asking full-time employees for guidance. This approach has been effective in quickly overcoming any technical hurdles I face.

Dream: To Be Successful and Pursue My Passion!

Can you give some pros and/or cons of working at a Japanese company?

Weiyu: Pros: 1. Stability: Japanese companies often offer long-term job security, providing employees with a strong sense of stability. 2. Teamwork: There’s a strong emphasis on teamwork in Japanese companies, creating a supportive and collaborative work environment. 3. Attention to Detail and Professionalism: Japanese workplace culture is known for its meticulousness and high standards, leading to high-quality work and efficiency. 4. Employee Benefits: Many Japanese companies provide excellent employee benefits, such as health insurance, paid leave, and retirement plans.

Weiyu: Cons: 1. Language and Cultural Barriers: For non-Japanese employees, language and cultural differences can be challenging, particularly in formal communication and understanding workplace etiquette. 2. Hierarchical Structure: Japanese companies often have a strict hierarchical structure, which can make career advancement slower and require more time to move up the ranks.

How do you balance your working and private time?

Weiyu: I organize my time based on the urgency and importance of tasks to ensure a balance between work, study, and personal time. I also set aside specific time each day or week for relaxation and personal activities, which helps me recharge and stay motivated.

What kind of project do you want to work on in the future?

Weiyu: I would love to work on projects that combine large language models with the medical field. I’m particularly interested in leveraging the power of AI to improve healthcare outcomes, such as using advanced language models to analyze medical data, assist in diagnostics, or even support personalized treatment plans.

Any advice for people who wants to work in Japan?

Weiyu: I would emphasize the importance of being polite and attentive to details. Japanese work culture places a high value on respect and proper etiquette, so it’s crucial to be mindful of your manners in both verbal and written communication. Additionally, having a good command of the Japanese language is highly beneficial. While not always mandatory, being able to communicate effectively in Japanese will greatly help you integrate into the workplace, build strong relationships with colleagues, and navigate daily interactions with ease.

What motivates you to keep working or studying?

Weiyu: Stay informed about cutting-edge technologies and the opportunity to continuously improve my interpersonal communication skills.

Lastly, what is your dream?

Weiyu: My dream is to achieve success in my career while also having the time to pursue the things I’m passionate about. I hope to maintain strong friendships and enjoy spending time with friends, have a harmonious family life, and everyone is healthy and happy.

Thank you!

If you are interested in Eyes, JAPAN and would like to hear other stories, please do not hesitate to contact us at the following contact form.

Contact form

Everyone welcome.