I am mixed race with Japanese - grew up there. Moved to the states went to college in U.S. went back to Japan to work and I know exactly what you mean. I think you crave authenticity genuine interaction with people which is really rare to find in Japan. There are rare gems of people I have met and they are a treasure to me. Praying for your future and for you to find the true purpose of life. We don’t have time to waste on fake - is how I see it. I’m very impressed with how articulate you are.
I mean, that's true in every country. You maybe experiencing this bc u was young when u was in the U.S., but it's basically the same in adulthood whatever the place you be.
I don't care about authenticity when I'm just trying to eat in a restaurant or buy groceries. I want good service. If I'm craving authenticity I have friends for that.
I am Japanese, but I went to England on a school trip before the pandemic, and we had to wear masks because of the flu epidemic that was going around at the time. When I walked around London wearing a mask, I was laughed at and got racial slur by strangers. A female student in a different group experienced severe racism in a store and was diagnosed with PTSD after returning to Japan. Yes, The Japanese obsession with masks is crazy, but it's also crazy overseas, where people are discriminated against just for wearing masks. I'm glad I live in Japan, where people don't say anything to me wearing a mask.
Come to IL we love wearing masks here and still walk a round with them on. My family work in the medical profession and I've always known how important they are to my health. I'm sorry that your friend was treated so cruelly here. It's uncalled for. I have Japanese friends and I do have other Asian friends and I really enjoy my friendships with them; most are like family. Please do not a few rude people deter you from enjoying traveling and connecting. All people should be welcomed and treated respectfully everywhere. I who that you friend's mental health improves soon.
Western countries like US tend to embrace hyper individualism that also make people feel extremely isolated. As an Asian having lived in US and travelling Japan a lot, I think both cultures are extreme to each another, and I would recommend you may consider other Asian cities like Hong Kong or Shanghai, as they embrace western culture without losing its own.
I wear my hood when it's windy so my hair doesn't look shit. Id love to wear a mask on days I look tired but it'd look bizarre in Spain. So I get it ha
Know a handful of Japanese that moved to major European cities like London and Paris for similar reasons, they went back after a couple of years. When you take basic things for granted like trains arriving on time and not having to be constantly checking your pockets and bags for missing things everytime you go through a crowd it is easy to fall into the "grass looks always greener on the other side" mentality.
Yeah, and the people who seemed kind, open and more welcoming than Japanese would "suddenly" turn just as hypocritical, judgemental and selfish. The halo effect is very real unfortunately. I'd rather get permanently treated as a foreigner but live in a safe and stable country than my native clusterfuck.
I understand your valid points, but that goes both ways too. A lot of Europeans / Westerners moved to Japan for a few years and never stayed as well, partly because of what he said on the video (and probably other reasons). Also, "the West" is not a country, there are plenty of very safe western countries as well, so I don't get the point.
@adelemarietta1711 Hard to find any country both cleaner and safer than Japan. And, it's difficult for Japanese to adjust to the culture of many western countries for various reasons. Paris syndrome, for example.
I’m an American who’s been studying Japanese for a few years. I have Japanese friends and visit Japan. A lot of your reasons listed are reasons I don’t want to live in Japan. But I do enjoy visiting. I’ve had some bad experiences with friendships with Japanese people. They seem to back off pretty quickly when the friendship moves beyond surface level. It’s sad, I understand it’s uncomfortable, but I don’t want surface level friendships. I would feel lonely living in a place where the majority of people are like that.
@@rissachi93 Agreed 100%.Also they look for Stability of high income by Friends and like to visit US or EU by staying at someone else’s House for free. Thanks
@elenakursteiner4729 I had someone attempt to do this. When he realized he wasn’t able to visit America he blocked me. Another Japanese friend I had was able to visit then lost interest in our friendship afterwards. His reasoning was because he was now only interested in making a friend from a different English speaking country.
@ many Western visitors put All Japanese people in the Holly Grail Podium with out realising , that they are just Normal people. I had Japanese women lodged by me for free with language exchange reason. She spoke only English so later stopped talking at all and concentrated on her studies. Later on I meet two three people who after Presenting to be my friend did Invite them self to me. I refused after a reasonable answers that if their houses are Small then just Invite for Coffee were also OK for me us invitation from their side.
@@rissachi93 are you male or female. If you are female, do not invite foreign male "friends" to stay with you! Same advice i have for males and females. The gesture can easily be misconstrued, unless they are gay. 😐
eye contact some cultures think its rude to look people in the eyes. most western culture sign of respect and strength you shake hands and look people in the eyes.
As a Canadian living in Japan, I agree with everything here. I'm always a bit on edge when I talk to Japanese people because I feel like I have to walk on eggshells, and I never feel very comfortable because I don't expect them to mean what they say. I definitely feel like I can't just relax and be myself. I have a Japanese husband, but like you, his values and personality align much closer with the West. We're planning to move back to Canada, and Canada certainly has a lot of its own problems, but I can't wait to get back to a more open, more honest, more laid-back society. Good luck with your life in a new country. You'll fit right in in the West.
I recommend reading Erich Fromm's Escape From Freedom. A book that speaks about people's adaptation mechanisms. To paraphrase part of it "People who never ended the fight for their own freedom are prone to neurosis. A perfectly adapted person forgets about his own personality, likes and dislikes and lives like others." And in Carl Gustav Jung's (another psychologist, but also a psychiatrist) terms, you are more extraverted then introverted. And Asian cultures, as Jung pointed out are introverted. Both terms were invented by Jung, but nowadays they are used without regards to their true meaning. There are no pure introverts or extraverts. It's all about your interests. Are they inside, or outside yourself. You are interested in other people, plus you want to share your feelings and thoughts with them. In other words you are more of an extravert. Which is common for westerners. That's why - as Jung pointed out - being exposed to western philosophy, way of thinking, living and religion may not be harmful to you. While in most cases human mind isn't so flexible in this field. A westerner who was raised in extraverted culture, may bring harm to his own psyche, by tryting to fit into Asian, introverted mindset - philosophy and religion. Jung was quite a remarkable man, of great intelligence.
Thanks for sharing! Your stories about the lack of eye contact is really what shocks me. As a Canadian I can't imagine not looking at someone when speaking to people; seems alienating. The only exception I know of is if you're speaking to someone with autism, most of the time the refrain from making eye contact.
that's why living in japan is a paradise for shy people. Don't have to look people in the eyes and it's not rude. So relaxing. No people who judge over me If I don't want to talk.
This video is like a breath of fresh air and I respect you for it. I'm a Eastern European who learned Japanese in my teenage years and lived in Japan in my twenties. Everything you say is accurate and true. I pointed out these exact same things to the few close people in Japan I knew, but unfortunately, let's just say they were already fixed in their ways. I mentioned the lack of facial expressions, wearing a masks even when its not necessary, the over excited faked speech etc. Absolutely everything you said is 100% true. You've articulated it very well. God forbid, if a non-Japanese person was to make the exact same video like this one! You already know what would've happened: The mean comments with "if you don't like it, go back to your country" Or "kaere" would start fludding. The funny part is that it wouldn't be strictly Japanese people who would say this, but also some foreigners who believe that by being mean and bullying others with different opinions they would get some sort of favoritism from other Japanese. 😄 They would basically find any excuse to attack you. Mob mentality! I truly respect you for deciding to talk open about it and say it like it is.
Hey Taiki, I just came across this video and watched a few of your older videos. I'm full Japanese too, did half my schooling in Japan and the other half in Australia. Currently doing university in Australia. I completely understand where you are coming from, there is no right or wrong opinion, but from an outsider it looks just as close minded as the people that overly hype up Japan. Not saying you're wrong at all, I get it man I was there too but to me it looks like you are hyper-fixated on the negatives of Japan and seeing the Western culture through a "the grass is greener on the other side" view/lens too. The Western culture and the Eastern culture are very different for many other reasons beyond the scope of this video but all I just want to say is, do not blindly see one cultural norm as better or worse than another, when only looking through a small collection of issues and examples without looking at the history and bigger picture of both sides. Western culture, they value individualism over collectivism , Eastern culture values collectivism over individualism. You must look at the positives and the negatives of both sides, to say yes to one thing means you are saying no to something of equal value. I think as long as you respect people in any country, a large majority of people will respect you back. I have had good and bad experiences in both Australia and Japan but as long as you smile, both sides will smile back in my experience - "Smile and the world will smile back at you". Again no black and white answer, but as a fellow Japanese man I truly hope you do not forget your Japanese roots Taiki. Best of luck to your future ventures.
That's a great reply, it's true what you say. People tend to be biased, and it's understandable. When you are frustrated with what you have around, you begin to search for a way to escape.
I don't believe for a minute that he's fixated on the negatives..I think he's just showing a distinct difference in culture dynamics and making people aware that we are not all the same but the Japanese culture may be depriving themselves and others of warmth and the joy of true fellowship and friendship.
Thank you for sharing your honest opinion ! I spent in Japan only several months but I had different experiences from those wich native Japanese warned me. Just one example : Japanese lady told us that it's in your culture minding your own business and not engaging in helping others, but I experienced people on the street approaching me by them selfs and trying to help (to point me on right direction, buy me a ticket in metro machine, help me with the suitcase...). And all women, i have to say🙂 So I have really praise words for Japanese people❤
My ex Japanese bf wearing mask all the time even when we video call. He’s tall,Handsome and very shy charming guy. I’m sad to see him that way, I know and I can feel that he’s not confident about himself. I just let him do that and I don’t want to force him to do something he’s not comfortable but eventually I think he feel helpless about him self and he felt that he’s not being comfortable always hiding his face to me. I think he eventually felt tired of not showing his true self to me and he clearly cant be confident. He just give up and we broke up. Its sad because I know he wants to be love but he just cant be the person he wants to be in himself. I prayed that he’s going to be just fine.
When I was asked to show my face to a gal in New York, she got upset because I was wearing "sunglasses" (adaptive lenses.) She said it was the same thing as a man in a mask. At least you tried to encourage him. The sad thing is that in a culture based in conformity, individuality makes you an outcast.
I think all countries have their own pros and cons. Japanese culture is based on how other peoples perceive them. And people worry about the impression they leave on others
My suggestion would be... try living abroad for a few years and see if those cultural traits are really as unbearable. As an Italian who speaks Japanese, I would personally move to Japan in a heartbeat if I wasn't so attached to my family and friends here...the amount of people who are utterly rude and self-centered, don't follow rules, are loud and obnoxious, litter everywhere despite having trashcans at every corner, the fact that you can't sleep peacefully at night because thieves are constantly breaking in around your neighborhood (and I live in a small town) and the police doesn't do anything about it, the fact that we don't have a minimum wage, if you want to find a decent job you have to either know the employer or accept stages where you are paid 600 dollars a month for working you a** off, the amount of people who evade taxes, extreme inflation (waaaay worse than in Japan, where the purchase power is actually very good...two days ago I went to a pub and paid the equivalent of 5000 yen for a meal that in Japan would have cost me 800-1000 yen, and keep in mind that wages here in Italy are a lot lower), the healthcare system being mind-blowingly terrible (if you take an appointment for a check up in a public hospital you could easily wait in line for 6 months-a year), the education system getting worse and worse by the year, baby gangs stabbing people "for fun" (let's not even talk about crime in big cities), the complete lack of cultural creativity and ingenuity (whenever I watch Japanese movies, art exhibitions, listen to songs, read authors, watch TH-camrs, I feel like we live in a different world, here pop culture has become extremely shallow and vulgar, everything is either brainrot or about sex and gangster-rap kind of vibe), the constant uneasiness as a gay person (who doesn't behave in a flamboyant way either) to appear too "weird" because there are many men who would openly cuss at you or attack you because they don't like the way you dress in public (I couldn't wear baggy clothes and a tote bag here, but in Japan nobody would judge me for that, it's even pretty normal over there), etc. I would gladly exchange all of these traits for introverted people who don't like tattoos, but hey that's my personal opinion😂 (In spite of all of this I still manage to love my country, but comparing it to Japan it's becoming tougher and tougher to keep finding its silver linings)
I totally agree with you! The things that were said as negative things in the video are bad, but if these are the worst things that can be said about a country, I will easily accept these conditions and move to Japan. (I have already made a plan for him) Before deciding to leave Japan, he should first consider the positive things that seem obvious in Japan but are like dreams and wishes in other countries.
Absolutely same. I've visited Japan multiple times, and while I totally agree with this video, all the problems of Japan (and a lot of eastern countries tbh) are so much lesser than MOST western countries. Its like watching a rich person complain that their parents are busy with work or something and have to hang out with their maids all day instead. Like just being able to take a clean subway to work, not having to worry about someone lighting you on fire while you doze off is just apparently such a blessing now, lmao. Honestly, I feel the same about family and friends, but I think at some point I'm gonna have to just detach myself for a bit for the sake of my own quality of life. Honestly the worst thing really is the hot summers. I always visit in the winter just to avoid, lol.
For real. People say bad things about Japan not realizing having your phone stolen just because you left it on table is worse than someone in konbini faking their smile for you.
Hey Taiki, I live in Dubai but I’m moving to japan,(not my wish, but destiny)I watched your video, and I understand that you’re feeling frustrated. But I noticed that most of what you talked about wasn’t really about you personally-it was about external factors. I get that you’re upset because many situations seem repetitive or identical, but if you shift your focus to what truly makes you happy, you might see things differently. If the reasons you mentioned are the only ones influencing your decision, I honestly don’t think moving somewhere else will make you any happier, because the real issue isn’t about others-it’s about perspective. There are things you can accept and live with, and things that you can’t. But before making a final decision, I really hope you take a moment to reflect again. All the things you mentioned at the beginning-safety, cleanliness, affordability to live in -are incredibly important. But personal frustrations are different from fundamental living conditions. If you move to a place where those core things are taken away, the rest of what you mentioned might start feeling less important in comparison. I live in the UAE, one of the safest countries in the world, but also one of the most expensive. Moving to Japan scares me because I don’t want to lose the things that matter most to me. However, when I visited Japan, I saw a country full of energy, where people are always busy, goal-oriented, and creative. The way people behave-like avoiding eye contact or showing less facial expression-isn’t about you personally. It’s cultural or their personal choice. If you understand that they might not even realize it themselves, it becomes less personal and easier to accept. And about the tattoo issue at the onsen-come on, man, that’s such a small thing in the grand scheme of everything you talked about! The person with a tattoo could have been more aware of the rules and covered it beforehand if they really wanted to go. If they were denied entry, they just had to respect the rule and go somewhere else prepared. That’s not a big deal. Moving to another country means facing a whole new set of challenges, adjustments, and stresses. Eventually, you’ll find things there that frustrate you too. Please, I truly hope you take time to process everything and think again. Focus on finding happiness and satisfaction from within, and ask yourself what you can genuinely accept. Believe me-every country has its own set of problems. Maybe in another place, people will make more eye contact, but the streets will be dirtier, there will be more crime. Expensive food, starvation , or the smiles won’t be genuine. There will always be something. That’s just how the world works. You said, “Who cares about their faces?” So then, why do you care? If no one cares, then why do you assume they care about how you feel? Why would they waste their energy trying to make you feel a certain way? The fact that it bothers you means it’s already something about you, not just them I wish you the best, man. Take care.
Totally agree with the way you have described about pros and cons of living outside of your birthplace. I was raised outside Japan but came back to look after my sick parents and was really surprised to know how the staff of nursing homes and other local facilities were helpful to make my parents last days happy. I know there're still some problems that can change for the better but still the national healthcare system in Japan is NOT BAD AT ALL. I know that because I volunteered to work in British and Hong Kong nursing homes and their conditions were so terrible unless you're super rich.
I totally loved your answer I agree with you ❤ by the way I live in Bahrain/am Bahraini, have you been to Japan? What's your opinion about it comparatively?
@@venasm i have been in Japan and im going there again in a week, i will be relocating there in summer. I found it very secure, people are very focused on their own business and interests, seems serious. I think after UAE I would say it is country number 2 to consider as safe country oriented for livelihood
From the descriptions, it sounds like the culture is currently struggling with a lot of isolation, caused by high social pressure and anxiety. As a foreigner living in Japan, I was thankfully able to bypass these pressures by using my gaijin status. Many people did not push me to follow the Japanese customs and I refused to be pushed into being afraid or insecure about what everyone else thought (mainly because I could not tell what everyone thought anyway. Japan is a high context culture and many Japanese people were too subtle for me to pick up all of the hidden meanings, even when I tried really hard to do so). I also had a great expat community that banded together, and they caused me to feel connected and understood, rather than isolated and alone. Because of this, I was able to enjoy my time there very much. But if I did not have those advantages, I could see how the loneliness could become crushing. It can already be difficult to connect with others in a more introverted culture and Covid masking and fear of standing out would only make that worse.
Like it's not about "treating people like human beings", it's just overwhelming and uncomfortable to me. I don't like excess attention and would appreciate not being stared at or approached by strangers.
Thank you for sharing your honest thoughts of your native country. It’s difficult to realize that you don’t feel like you fit in your own nation’s culture, but it’s good that you’re self aware enough to want to proactively do something about it. I believe there is a place for everyone to belong, but for some, it might no longer be their native land, and that’s okay. I wish the best for you on your new adventure. For those who think he might be “too harsh,” I honestly think he could have been more harsh if he wanted to-ie didn’t really touch on politics, education, or trauma-triggering topics. I think he got his point across though.
@@tablescissors Or we don't want eyes contact depending the context. If I can avoid it I will. That just a cultural perception. Eyes contact will not mean you respect the other at all. I also prefer not having eyes on me.
You have a very pleasant accent in English it is enjoyable. You are very well spoken. It is interesting to hear your take Japanese Culture. Korean society especially in the older people also have a cultural aversion to tattoos as well.
I made 2 trips to Japan. I’m no expert, but there’s enough people not wearing masks to worry about those wearing masks. As for no eye contact, I don’t even notice. I made eye contact in some instances, but of course it’s when I’m speaking English to them and I don’t speak Japanese. People have more than one tattoo or large tattoo so there’s no way to avoid it in a spa where everyone is fully nude. I heard some spas are allowing it so look for those.
As someone who’s never lived in Japan I think the reasons you gave seem minor and not worth the hate… but I also understand how small things building up over a long period of time can lead up to strong feelings. I hope you have a better experience in the future
Where I grew up in the US people would put on that plastic excited voice when I knew without a doubt they didn't give two shits about what I was saying. I cannot stand that fake crap.
Taiki, this is a very emotional video. I recommend that in your next video, you go beyond emotions and try to understand why people in Japan behave the way they do. What is the meaning of life for a Japanese person, and what is the meaning of life for a Westerner? This will help you better understand why Japan is the way it is, and why the West is different. But this is an excellent start to your exploration!
He born and live his whole life in Japan. I think there is no need for him to do that. He should move out from Japan and live in a country he likes. In fact everyone should leave the country they hate.
@@GingerBeer-s6v What he complained about Japan were all not big deals. Masks, eye contact, Facial Expression, Tatoos… There are Japanese who don’t wear a mask, have eye contact, lots of facial expressions, and accept tattoos. He is just looking at one tree, not seeing a forest. I would recommend him to have a border view.
@@ureshi5948 you are right as well. But he won’t change his views on Japanese. He hates Japanese and Japanese culture which means it’s almost everything of Japan. He leave Japan and live in a country he likes would be good for him and Japan.
@@ureshi5948 "what he complained about...were all not big deals." that is NOT up to you to define or comment on. How incredibly rude. Obviously, the OP here has a MUCH better idea of what it's like living in Japan, than YOU do. Seems like you need to get some empathy and respect first before commenting here on TH-cam.
What a condescending comment. The OP has lived his entire life in Japan. I'm preeetttyyy sure he understands the country and the nuances WAY more than you. Get some respect. Before that, an apology would be in good order.
I live in Japan and I agree with all of it. It doesn't get me upset, as it isn't my culture so not my place to judge, but I would prefer it if people were more laid back. I sense a high degree of judgement and anxiety from most people most of the time.
Great video, and thank you for sharing! I’ve recently started learning about Japanese culture. I was born and raised in Europe and have been living in the USA for a couple of years now. When I first arrived in the U.S., people often commented on how friendly and polite I was. Over time, I’ve become more introverted-still friendly and approachable, but quieter, more reserved, and preferring not to speak unless asked. I always smile when interacting with others. In the U.S., or at least here in Florida where I live, it’s common for people to greet you with a smile or a friendly hello at the park, in stores, or at restaurants. Whether it’s holding the door open for someone or someone doing the same for me, I always thank them with a smile, which creates such a warm and welcoming atmosphere. If someone approaches me in a store with a question, I naturally smile and make eye contact while answering. I often find myself helping them locate items in the store, almost as if I work there-lol! When I go to parks, elders often approach me and start conversations unexpectedly. One time, a lady simply said, "Good morning," and out of nowhere, we started chatting. We ended up walking and exercising together for two hours! At the end, she thanked me and said it was very nice to meet me. :) Although I’m from Europe and my country is known for being friendly, I’ve noticed over the years that things have changed-at least in the city I’m from. People aren’t as friendly as they used to be; some seem bothered if you ask them something, and others can be outright rude. It makes me uncomfortable to ask questions or even make eye contact. When I asked my family why this is happening, they explained it’s due to the hardships people face in life-suffering has changed them. It’s an interesting, and somewhat sad, feeling to feel unwelcome in my own country. This makes me wonder how I would adapt to living in Japan, where avoiding eye contact and not smiling in certain situations is more customary.
I'm a woman and have been living with my Japanese partner in Germany for 5 years. I have learned a lot about his culture. When I visited Japan for the first time, I could see all the things you mentioned. I am also a very down to earth person who appreciates open conversation, opinions and eye contact as I have learned that this is a sign of interest, respect and attention. When people in Japan avoided eye contact, I thought I had done something bad, at times I even felt a little offended and excluded. I tried to understand that this is a cultural difference, but I still found it hard to grasp. I also find it difficult to understand, why it's so hard to talk about one's opinion and how the entire society will judge you if you only say one word they don't like.
As the old Chinese saying goes: all our bad character traits are the continuation of our good traits. I have been living in Germany and France for over 10 years and everything has its advantages and disadvantages. I understand what you are talking about: the Germans are also rigorous, probably a bit like the Japanese: few emotions, little compassion, lots of rules, life is like prison or hospital, but also simpler and safer (yes, well, things have changed in recent years, but still). I am still pretty glad being here because of the order, prosperity and opportunities. A lot also depends on the environment and how you live your life. If I were you, I would not move, but find people there who are also a bit more lively, e.g. through appropriate hobbies such as theater classes, martial arts, football ✊🙏🌷☀
People are annoying wherever you go! Each geographic location has its own unique brand of weirdness and wherever you go you will never fit in. That's my experience.
@@tablescissors not in perth lol nobody wore mask here and i came their lockdowns was only border not shop to shop totally different state from victoria, i ended up staying in WA. Nice and clean beaches, beautiful homes.
A lot of what you’re experiencing might be a matter of perspective. I live in the UK, where healthcare is overbooked and overpriced, housing is unaffordable, and quality of life feels like it’s declining. That’s why I’m moving to Japan-to live more affordably, access better healthcare, and experience stronger community ties. That said, I’ve learned that many frustrations in life improve with a mindset shift and more community involvement. If you’re struggling with social norms in Japan, consider places like Osaka, where people are more open, direct, and less reserved. There’s also a huge international community-pub crawls, Discord groups, and even akiya revitalization projects can connect you with like-minded people. Ultimately, no place is perfect, but how we engage with our environment often shapes our experience more than the place itself.
Honestly if you're so fed up already with certain Japanese people maybe just.. be yourself to Japanese people and stop caring about how they react to you. If you've already reached this tipping point of leaving the country you have no more fear to conform and might actually find more like mindedness in others.
I came across your movie in my feed, watched it, and totally enjoyed it!! Thank you!! I’m half Japanese and American, living in Japan now, and I totally get what you’re saying. I don’t like speaking Japanese because it makes me feel inauthentic. There are many beautiful aspects to the language but… I just don’t enjoying speaking it. Regarding tattoos, I have two tattoo artist Japanese friends, and their work is mindblowing. They’re trying to change Japanese minds about the beauty of the irezumi, but so far it’s an uphill battle. I look forward to watching more of your content!!!!😊
I'm really curious about one thing. All those visual kei artists right? Many of them have lots of piercings and tattoos, sometimes in places it's hard to cover up. And everybody knows about it too. I've been wondering how they are being treated in every day life. Are they being restricted in the same way you're telling?
@@aelitastone5629Really? My hairdressers have nose pierced and tattoos on arms. No issues for me and many of the other Japanese. Just public bath or gym restrict people with tattoos.
@@ureshi5948 Well like everywere, it will also depend of people. The region and others. Maybe after time, some rule was also less strict. That would be good. But they were a time, that was verry restrictive for what I know.
I lived and worked in Japan for several years and also in a small rural town. I had no problems except one night with a drunken salary man in Shimbashi Tokyo, but his friend intervened and apologised to me. In small rural towns in Japan people are nervous about Gaijins but when they get to know you it’s fine. To be honest I’ve lived in 5 countries and travelled extensively to others. To be honest all Countries have their own little idiosyncrasies around race and culture. I get back to Japan on a regular basis and love the food and culture. I’m also subscribed to your channel 👍 Gambatte! 🌸🌟☘️
I lived in japan for years, im part black and japanese. What your saying is the reason why i went back to north america. I was raised to communicate with people so i wanted my kids to have my childhood having fun with individual friends. When i came back home, i met my wife we have 3 children. Best decision ever!
I find you very likable and honest. Japan is beautiful but I could never live there for all the reasons you have stated. Eye contact is extremely important to me and I can't trust anyone that won't make eye contact when communicating with me.
I'm not japanese, but I'm very shy, so it's difficult to me to make eye contact with other people. I'm also overly excited about things in general, so I tend to be a little cartoonish on my reactions too lol That being said, I'd like to ask what you don't like about those actions? Is there a specific way that Japanese people behave that makes you feel triggered or angry? As you said in the video, is it because they don't seem to care about you as a human being, or because they're trying to fake their personality? I liked your insights on the video, thank you very much for making it! ^^
thank you for this video and also your writings. actually, through reading your book (Not a Japanese Textbook), as well as exploring some of the literature you reference in that text, i've began to find some healing. learning japanese and also living in japan as someone who didn't grow up here, or in any asian country, there is still much to learn and a lot of nuance to take in while doing that learning. so i'm really grateful to be exposed to a balanced and educated expression of opinion such as yours ! wishing you health and peace. thank you again!
I once had a Japanese patient-an elderly lady-who didn’t like me and even called me a bad person because of my neck tattoo. I understood it was part of her culture, so I didn’t take it to heart. I even tried covering it up, but that didn’t help. She also didn’t like me because I smiled. On top of that, she would get upset, asking why I was laughing when I wasn’t. She was a tough patient. The hardest part for me was keeping a straight face-I just can’t do it! I honestly admire people who can because I’m not one of them." I’m to happy! 😂
I agree with his reasons wholeheartedly. If you are a Westerner, you know that facial expressions, body language, and eye contact represent 99% of context clues in a situation. He makes great points, and I send him the best of wishes and happiness on his journey! We would love to have you here!
I've heard many of these things before. But it has been a long time since I've visited Japan. I'm not sure if you just wanted a video topic, if life is getting you down in general, or something in between. I hope with spring in a couple of months it heals. It's my understanding that it takes a lot for Japanese to say anything negative. Which, to be honest, I don't think you did here. You are just being honest. It sounds like you could use a change of scenery, Maybe not long term. But I think a trip to a western country would do you some good. And if you are not able to afford that, maybe if you can manage a region like Osaka or Kyushu or anywhere known to be friendlier/laid back. To meet and talk with more approachable people and see different perspectives on things for a bit. And if you are seriously considering moving out of country, it might be difficult; but nothing is impossible.
Interesting thoughts, especially considering you're Japanese. I was surprised to hear some of the things mentioned, but also I was surprised you didn't mention tatemae :)
Seems like you would fit perfectly in Balkan countries, Belgrade and Bucharest as an example are really nice places to live in and veryyy affordable for someone with Japanese salary.
I think you are absolutely hilarious. I am obsessed with Japan. I would Love to visit one day and even dreamed about living there. I watch nearly anything Japanese related hence why I watched your video and I have to say I feel the same about the UK 🇬🇧 as you feel about Japan. I guess it’s a grass always greener situation. You’re the first person I’ve heard make these statements with such passion 😂🤣😂. I guess I’m just surprised with your honesty, but most appreciated . Stay blessed Peace and Happiness 🫶💜💯
Some Japanese people seem to stop functioning if there is a sudden change of plans or a surprise moment. E.g. I went to an izakaya in Hong Kong. I had to pay them 86 Hong Kong dollars. I gave the waitress a 100 dollar bill. She started to look for the change. I said: "Wait! I'll give you 6 dollars. Then you can give me 20 dollars." The girl got all flustered and started to say: "Oooohhhh....oooohhhh....oooohhh!" I could not understand why she needed to go crazy because I wanted to make her job easier. But she really needed her time to process the new situation. Very strange.
I remember having a conversation with a French air stewardess who was the only foreigner in an otherwise all Japanese crew. She told me that her Japanese colleagues tended to look down on her but as soon as something which took them out of their comfort zones occurred during a flight, they would almost always look to her to deal with the situation.
Many Americans care about how the Japanese feel and try not to be offense when in Japan; while many Japanese don’t care how Americans feel or if they offend them. If a Japanese person knows that Americans feel uncomfortable when you avoid eye contact and refuse to meet your eyes anyway; that is rude. If they are unaware of the cultural difference, then it is fine. Wearing a mask, when it is not needed, is rude. You are correct, you should not have to fake your personality. I am critiqued from time to time for using big words. I grew up in a family which was highly educated, read a great deal, and research anything I am interested in; so yes, I use big words as naturally as breathing. A message for you. In America, a magical thing happens about the time we turn 40. We stop caring about the opinion of others and realize our opinions and the way we do things is just as important as anyone else’s. You cannot change others. Be the best version of yourself you can be and let those who want to live their lives criticizing and judging others live their shallow, unhappy lives. Let their comments roll off you like water off a duck’s back.
Respectfully, I think you’re being entirely too harsh on your own culture. I feel on opposite ends with you, I just moved here and I have loved Japan for almost as long as I’ve been alive. Japanese people are very unique among the world and very multifaceted. Yes, there is a strong focus on appearances here, but beneath the surface there are a lot of profound emotions stirring within. From my experience, Japanese are shy and very circumspect, but once you get past the outer shell, they’re warm, affectionate, considerate and very receptive to the same. I think you may be tired with dealing with that surface level interaction and crave the easy-going, carefree way that foreigners like me express ourselves. I want you to know something, Taiki. I attend a Japanese language school here in Shibuya, yesterday there was a suicide along the Saikyo line. It interrupted train service and of course caused a severe inconvenience to anyone commuting. When I arrived to school, I discussed this with the other students there. You know what they said to me? “Well, it would have been better if they didn’t inconvenience other people.” I bring that up because I watched another one of your videos where you recounted a similar story and your disgust with your Japanese peers. It goes to show you, human beings are very similar, no matter the culture! I’ve heard similar things in NYC when it occurred. I live here in Japan, I have a similar attitude and disposition as you, but I find myself your polar opposite in terms of how I feel about your people and country. I love Japan and 日本人 sooooooo much, I wonder what it is that makes your opinion and my own so distinct. Would love to discuss it with you and to be perfectly frank, see if I can’t persuade you to reconsider at least a little bit. Anyway, hope you’re having a good day and thanks for sharing your thoughts.
Tell me you're a foreigner without telling me. And yea, you LITERALLY just moved there. What makes you think your superficial understanding would hold ANY weight to 26 years of life experience in Japan? Rude, and unempathetic. Shame on you. Apologize.
@@catnokimochi they have loved Japan as long as they’ve been alive but only just moved there! I worked for 3 years in Tokyo. I know the difference between tatemae and honne. When foreigners fall in love with the “charm” surface, I would love them to spend even just 3 months in a typical company to see the rife bullying, the sheer misery and tedium and rigidity of life in a Japanese office.
13:30 - I'm pretty sure the context of this is that the receptionist doesn't want to get in trouble and risk losing their job to make an exception for someone. If you live in an honor based society, then you cannot help other people if you are not high up enough in what is effectively the caste system to make the decision that would help them. You simply leave that to the people higher than you and their policy. I notice this a lot with Japan; There seems to be a lack of desire to be responsible for a potential social altercation or a breach of the norm. So people do their best not to be the person responsible, whether it's the right thing to do or not.
I’m Spanish. I lived in Japan for 12 years, and then 12 years in the UK. I prefer work culture in the UK, but in general I get on well better with Japanese people. I recognize those “negative” points you mention, but to me they are not bad. I wear masks often because of hay fever and allergies, and weirdos in the UK have insulted me for wearing a mask and even thrown a lit cigarette at me. In Japan lots of people wear masks, so I never feel out of place. About eye contact, I would say I’m a little tiny bit in the autistic spectrum, so it’s hard for me to make eye contact while I speak because I can’t think while I look into your eyes (I do look when the other person speaks). In general, I feel Japanese society is a bit towards that side of “autistic spectrum”, if you know what I mean (think of otaku), which goes well with my personality. I felt like it was my medium. But I understand if you are Japanese and not like that, you may feel trapped in there. You can travel abroad and find your ideal country. I’m flying back to Japan tomorrow and I’m looking forward to seeing my friends and excolleagues. I’m married to a Japanese man and many of my friends are Japanese or half Japanese. They are great people, despite some absurd rules they may have over there (like the tattoo rule… 😅) どうも
I haven’t watched all the way through yet, but there are similarities I find with my own cultural background. I’m born and grew up in America, but my family is from the Philippines and Mexico. Both cultures place a great importance and family and are very collectivist. Both also have the potential to be very homophobic, I’m also gay. I remember as a child attempting suicide because of that and other major issues that also seem to be similar to the problems in Japanese culture. The main issue I seem to find, is a struggle between individualism and collectivism. America and Japan seem to be on exact opposite sides of that spectrum. And I think the issues in both are indicative that extremes on either side are never healthy. Balance must be had. It’s gotten a little better, I suppose, but from time to time I do wish that I died when I was a kid so I didn’t have to deal with a impossible expectation of who I’m “supposed” to be. Maybe one day I can find balance myself. I think I will just have to keep living to see.
I can agree with the speaking part. Most of the people I talk too sound way over the top. Forced in some way. While I talked slowly and relaxed. My online teacher also told me that I should talk that way to sound more authentic, but I told him that I cannot force myself to change my natural voice.
Hi Taiki, Thank you for sharing. It's nice to hear a Japanese person speak with their natural voice! You come across as a very friendly, approachable and down to earth person. 😊I totally understand wanting to flee from Japan. I have a Japanese friend who also fled the country for some of the same reasons: He doesn't like the culture and the people and the workaholic mentality. He lives here in The Netherlands now, and he really likes Dutch people. We are very direct, friendly, and open to other cultures. our directness can still be a challenge for him sometimes though! 😉 I wish you all the best on your journey and hope you find a place where you will feel at home!💖
Honestly I think living somewhere else is probably a good idea. Sometimes it takes being in a completely different environment to feel comfortable. I lived in a different place for about a month last year and it did wonders for my mental health and gave me a new perspective on my life. Other people may try to discourage you, but honestly I think it's better to follow where your heart takes you. Maybe this new place you go to will suit you better than Japan does. It could be worse than Japan, but first hand experience is usually better than what you hear from other people or the internet. Good luck moving and I hope you find what you're looking for! 🎉
To be honest, the things you bring up kinda appeal to me, probably because of my personality, but I can definitely see why some people would dislike them. I can absolutely relate to not fitting in the culture/country you were born into though. Except I want to move to Japan while you want to move out of there lol.
Its good to hear your thoughts on this Taiki, just like this video you should find similar to see peoples reviews of other countries from local and foreigner perspectives, personally as a Westerner thats travelled around only a little and wants to more but is well read /cultured, I find Japan to be a country very high on the list of places I'd hope to one day move to, quite a few things bring me to say that but putting it aside when you critique your own culture, as you should, observe the scale of the things you take issue with and compare them to other cultures, you'll often find the grass not to be greener on the other side
I just found your channel. I love the way you speak like you really worked hard to learn it. I hope your channel grows bigger buddy. I admire Japanese people who are bold and capable of change. I kept hearing about this Samurai mindset where your people admire strength. Strength also comes from people who are capable of change, adaptability and acceptance of mistakes. I also hear that Japan is scared of change because they believe that'll destroy the identity and their culture but c'mon, a little bit of change and adaptability will not destroy Japanese identity. Japan adapted a lot of things from the Chinese culture and beliefs afterall. Nothing was ever 100% Japanese.
I'm learning japanese and I wish to stop to save my free time so maybe your video changes my view and future goals at this journey about japanese lifestyle and+
I haven’t eaten love for Japan’s culture and beauty. My husband and I both have tattoos and honestly some are a bit hard to cover up so I do worry about going to onsons. I love your honesty and you are validated.
The longest I've been in Japan is two months in Tokyo. I've never had people avoid eye contact. People were always friendly. I look sort of like a lanky Jason Stathum with glasses. Though my main issue socially was how busy people were with work or helping parents. Also people being friendly didn't mean they wanted to be friends so that could be disappointing if I misread them. I was able to make some friends though I have only one that I would call close but even she has her walls. She doesn't get close to people normally. She described our friendship as 不思議(fushigi). Which can mean wonderous, mysterious, etc.
And you think that a mere 2-month stay, is at all comparable to 26 years of life experience? So amazing how some ppl here (ostensibly weaboos) are so quick to discredit the OP's life experiences based off of a cursory tourist-esque temporary stay in the country. Like where does this unfounded confidence stem from?
As a westerner, the chipper, upbeat tone sounds fake to me, and really only expected in the service industry (front desk or waiter, etc.) It's normal for people to feel differently, or go through different moods. I hope you find a place you really like and where you feel you can be yourself.
I'm American so I have a different perspective. When you say you like to talk, "down to earth," it's about whether you are sharing your emotions through your voice or not. Just like you want someone to look you in the eye while speaking so that you feel like you are being treated as a human being, others want to hear your emotional reaction when speaking with you about something in their life so they feel like you are treating them as a human being whose life matters to you. If you respond to them the same way whether making small talk or learning that they just got their dream job, it is like you don't care about their achievement and by extension that person.
I know someone who has several tattoos. He went to Japan and had no problems. He could go to hot springs. He just had to cover the tattoos. A bit humiliating but at least he could visit the places. I am sorry but I do not understand the tattoo problem. Yakuza has very specific tattoos. It is like their language or something. Prohibiting tattoos is like making all food illegal because you do not like mushrooms.
It is not just Yakuza tbh. I teach English here and one time I asked a student of mine (about 15 years old)during an English discussion practice what she thought of tattoos in onsens. She said they shouldn't be allowed. I asked why not? She said tattoos will make the onsen's ranking and public image worsen if they allow tattoos.... Go figure.
I had a gym experience in which the gym I attended played very graphic hip-hop music in English. (I have nothing against hip-hop; I just don't want to hear explicit lyrics at the gym). When I approached the staff about it, suggesting that they should play the radio cuts, they essentially said that most people don't understand the lyrics and hip-hop is popular. I told them that they could play hip-hop without the explicit lines, but they refused to do anything about it. When I asked other Japanese people about what they thought, they essentially said, "Maybe you should buy some earbuds..." I was really surprised with that response because I feel pretty sure most of those people (who I spoke with speak quite politely in general) wouldn't feel comfortable hearing that kind of stuff in Japanese while at the gym.
I’m so happy that videos like this are making it onto TH-cam. Many many people in the world still think that Japan is an amazing place to live and work in, the truth for many foreigners is that it isn’t a great place to live and work in, but 99.9% of foreigners rightfully feel that Japan is a great place to visit as a tourist only. i’m really happy that videos showing the negative sides of Japan are becoming more common on the Internet and we are now moving away from the cult mentality of worshipping Japan for cultlike reasons only. Thank you for making this video!
As someone who grew up in Holland who is stuyding Japanese daily, has lived in Japan for 10 months and went to an international school there with many different mainly western cultures I have the following remarks; - In regard to the forced enthusiasm of the Japanese, I've experienced Americans to be way worse in that regard. It's really fake in my experience. From the Japanese it feels like it's motivated by not making the other person feel bad. but from Americans it just feels like making anything way bigger than it needs to be and thus making the response feel very disingenuous. It feels like a cheap way to gain favour by complimenting everything unnecessarily. It's hard to describe the difference but you can just feel it. - Western people are far from calm by default. There is a really nice test for it in Japan, see how easy it is for them to respect the quietness on the trains and you will see how many western people find it hard to talk softly. Even when you ask them to talk softly they can never sustain that for more than 5 minutes and go back to default loud. - I agree that Japan has a lot of shortcomings when it comes to emotions. But for me personally one of the reasons I want to go to Japan is because I think compassion in the west is worse. I feel like in the west compassion is an investment, where you only show it if it improves your reputation by posting it on social media for example. 'Look how much I care about this social issue!' is the gist of most of the content regarding compassion online. But besides that individualism has caused the biggest generation of narcissism and entitlement ever, while Japan remains relatively collective and I feel ego is a lesser problem over there. I think you and I are in a really interesting situation. You want to leave Japan while I want to move there, but we both have different experiences living in the place where the other wants to move to. I have a Japanese channel called ジェロム where I talk about western culture, if you're interested hopefully you can find something interesting there as I go deeper into what I just wrote! よろしくお願いします！
I think you blend in "Western" and "American" too easily. I can imagine Americans talking loudly in a train in Japan, but I highly doubt Finnish people would do the same. Same for the things related to compassion, it's really different between western countries.
@ Finnish are definitely a lot calmer, and Finland is not the whole of Europe haha. I would consider them an exception to the norm. but for central, western and especially southern europe, calm is not the norm in my personal experience. At least the calmness described in the video in comparison to Japanese calmness.
Your comment about posting on the Internet is very specific and interesting to me, I think many people do actually care online and want to share kindness and positivity whilst I think in a society like Japan being a narcissist is easier cause no one wants to truly stand up to you especially in a hierarchy situation, plus you'd blend in more Overall I only agree with half of what you said but that's okay cause we are different people and it's the Internet, God bless take care
Your English is excellent bc you have the least accent and you actually sound good. I guess I couldn't blame you for feeling the way you feel bc you're a young man starting life and you have to explore whatever the world can offer you as far as culture is concerned. I am a half-Okinawan/Filipino who has lived in the States for 30 years. We are home-basing in Okinawa pretty soon bc that's the place I chose to retire and live for the rest of my life w my American husband. Americans have their own positives and negatives, but I am so thankful I got to live three different cultures and at this age, I prefer to go back to Okinawa. American culture has its own shortcomings and disgusting qualities in how they sometimes treat people. I wonder if you have seen any videos of Karens and people freaking out in public. There's no such thing in Japan (that I have heard of) bc they are more considerate of others. Americans are more individualistic while the Japanese go about their daily life as a whole united group which fosters more compassion for others. I have never met any other culture as tolerant, honest, and considerate as the Japanese, especially the Okinawans. Perhaps you could also consider other countries in Europe. I had a great time during my 15-year residency in Okinawa, although it could be bc I am half and I was treated better the same way my siblings and other "half" friends were treated by Okinawans. But then again, I was much younger and knew there was another world out there that I needed to experience, so I left. You may want to consider living elsewhere while you're young and eventually, you will appreciate the culture you grew up in as you age and gain more wisdom.
I have found musicians, and artists of any type, are more open in conversations than for example a salary person / office worker. This is true in my experiences with musicians from the United Kingdom and Japan. Is it "more true" for musicians from Japan (and China and Korea)? I think so, due to the cultures. Thank you for this!
Yes, I am starting to find this out more and more about Japan. I am setting Japanese on my own and I love the culture. I always have I want to visit. I don’t want to live just visit but the more I watch videos even natives it is very depressing for a lot of them because I can’t express who they are and it is really sad. I’ve been until recently. I did not know this until I started researching more and more about Japan there’s a lot of beauty to Japan, but there’s no expression and it’s frowned upon.
@thelinstel "I'M MOVING OUT." These words are printed on the thumbnail. There is something wrong with your attitude. You should fix yourself before you accuse others.
@ I did not see that in the thumbnail I simply watched the video, and heard no mentions of him moving or even considering it. So this comment seemed like you were being passive aggressive towards him with a bombard of questions that seem patronizing for him explaining a few dislikes of living within Japan. Which I don't believe is wrong to do? No attitude was given. You have the day you deserve.
@The original commenter questions seemed to be patronizing so I was confused as to why. Anger is not something I felt when I wrote the comment, it was simply confusion. It sucks it came across that way because it wasn't intended but your comment specifically is a little irritating as I am not upset...
I like you! Its refreshing to hear a real thought on this stuff. As for me i have a really nice looking dragon tattoo I have always manage to keep things in good taste so it doesnot bother others. I will say this like it or not the Japanese must adjust to other people and it can't t be helped either. Take care 😊😊
You are a brave rare individual. I congratulate you for being honest. It is certainly an uncomfortable assessment to make of a culture one grew up in. I think you are definitely not alone to feel that way amongst the young adults. They would be feeling it more acutely as they venture into the world. Good on you. I wish you all the best going forward. Life is an adventure. Live it as true as you can.
I was told as kid you should always looking in eyes when you speak,special when it is important.When person doesnt do it,they dont pay attention to you or they lying to you,making excuses.Is very rude not looking in eyes when you talk to someone.So I understand why you felt that way.
as a neurodivergent person, who hates eye contact, struggles with facial expressions, can get way to over excited and fast when speaking, and doesn’t have tattoos this doesn’t sound all that bad, lol.
I find your perspective so refreshing. I currently live in the United states, and I have lots of negative feelings towards the US and American people. I really want to move abroad. I love my country, but it also really annoys me. Even though you are Japanese and I am American, we share a lot in common, haha! I think it is healthy to not like or fit in with your culture. We live in an amazing time in the 21st century. We have the ability and privilege to leave our countries. I support you in leaving Japan and finding a country that suits you more. Good luck!
During my Japanese stays few months ago, I cannot recall memories of people wearing masks... I do see some Japanese people not wearing masks in Hokkaido. Which is nice because I love seeing beautiful faces. On one note Taiki, Asian Australians might don't have the Asian sensibility in a way you might be too agressive towards Japanese culture.
I understand your feeling. I have a friend from Japan, I feel that way too. Thank you for sharing, so I don’t feel like I am the one who feel that..😅 But however, I still like Japan music and drama.
Sou brasileira e aqui somos muito calorosos , mostramos nossos sentimentos , abraçamos as pessoas , é cultural . Mas sei que europeus não são assim e os asiáticos em geral não demonstram seus sentimentos e não se pode tocar nas pessoas . Aqui é normal sermos carinhosos uns com os outros . E alguém se meter ou dar muito palpite na vida alheia e falta de educação aqui no Brasil. Na verdade não ligamos para o que o outro faz . Só se isso importunar a minha vida . Fora isso , não nos metemos no que o outro faz . É problema dele a maneira que o outro quer viver . Somos um povo bastante feliz apesar de muitos problemas que temos . Se tatua quem quiser não temos nada com isso . É a vida do outro , não posso me meter com o que o outro faz . . Como eu disse , SÓ vou fazer algo à respeito , se isso prejudicar a minha vida .
I was in Hong Kong recently and saw several Japanese tourists. I was at my hotel waiting for the lift. There was a Japanese couple before me. When the lift arrived, the man let his wife enter and then turned to me and bowed. It was so spectacular. I was in awe. Nobody had ever bowed to me like that before. I think it was fusion etiquette: Japanese bowing + Western ladies first. On my way back to Europe, I was in business class. Across the aisle there was a posh Japanese man. The flight attendants really respected him. Must have been the CEO of something important. He had very beautiful and soothing energy. He was like a harsh samurai and a soft feather in one. But I get the cold part somewhat. I have had a Japanese air hostess who seemed to simultaneously like and hate everybody. It was crazy. She was really polite and proper but her vibe was ice cold. I think I was even scared of her somewhat. Brrrrr.
I am mixed race with Japanese - grew up there. Moved to the states went to college in U.S. went back to Japan to work and I know exactly what you mean. I think you crave authenticity genuine interaction with people which is really rare to find in Japan. There are rare gems of people I have met and they are a treasure to me. Praying for your future and for you to find the true purpose of life. We don’t have time to waste on fake - is how I see it. I’m very impressed with how articulate you are.
for real
I mean, that's true in every country. You maybe experiencing this bc u was young when u was in the U.S., but it's basically the same in adulthood whatever the place you be.
I don't care about authenticity when I'm just trying to eat in a restaurant or buy groceries. I want good service.
If I'm craving authenticity I have friends for that.
@@l4rkdono the only thing that interests me about living in japan is the good healthy and cheap food
@@pedrovitor5324 Yep I've met a ton of fake people and two faced people in the US
I am Japanese, but I went to England on a school trip before the pandemic, and we had to wear masks because of the flu epidemic that was going around at the time. When I walked around London wearing a mask, I was laughed at and got racial slur by strangers. A female student in a different group experienced severe racism in a store and was diagnosed with PTSD after returning to Japan. Yes, The Japanese obsession with masks is crazy, but it's also crazy overseas, where people are discriminated against just for wearing masks. I'm glad I live in Japan, where people don't say anything to me wearing a mask.
What was the race of the people being racist?
@Miquelalalaa Why does that even matter? 🙄
@Miquelalalaa non asian probably
@@aruarian43 Because too often it’s b folks, yet people will unfairly assume that it is yt folks behaving that way.
Come to IL we love wearing masks here and still walk a round with them on. My family work in the medical profession and I've always known how important they are to my health. I'm sorry that your friend was treated so cruelly here. It's uncalled for. I have Japanese friends and I do have other Asian friends and I really enjoy my friendships with them; most are like family. Please do not a few rude people deter you from enjoying traveling and connecting. All people should be welcomed and treated respectfully everywhere. I who that you friend's mental health improves soon.
Western countries like US tend to embrace hyper individualism that also make people feel extremely isolated. As an Asian having lived in US and travelling Japan a lot, I think both cultures are extreme to each another, and I would recommend you may consider other Asian cities like Hong Kong or Shanghai, as they embrace western culture without losing its own.
I heard some Japanese girls saying. That they wore masks, so they didn`t have to put on makeup.
so that's basically the same
I wear my hood when it's windy so my hair doesn't look shit. Id love to wear a mask on days I look tired but it'd look bizarre in Spain. So I get it ha
@@nivsharabi1322 But much easier.
Know a handful of Japanese that moved to major European cities like London and Paris for similar reasons, they went back after a couple of years. When you take basic things for granted like trains arriving on time and not having to be constantly checking your pockets and bags for missing things everytime you go through a crowd it is easy to fall into the "grass looks always greener on the other side" mentality.
Lol, when you find out that the Europe, that you know from Manga and Anime, doesn't exist anymore
Yeah, and the people who seemed kind, open and more welcoming than Japanese would "suddenly" turn just as hypocritical, judgemental and selfish. The halo effect is very real unfortunately. I'd rather get permanently treated as a foreigner but live in a safe and stable country than my native clusterfuck.
I understand your valid points, but that goes both ways too. A lot of Europeans / Westerners moved to Japan for a few years and never stayed as well, partly because of what he said on the video (and probably other reasons).
Also, "the West" is not a country, there are plenty of very safe western countries as well, so I don't get the point.
@adelemarietta1711 Hard to find any country both cleaner and safer than Japan. And, it's difficult for Japanese to adjust to the culture of many western countries for various reasons. Paris syndrome, for example.
Where in europe do you constantly check your pockets ? Weirdo
I’m an American who’s been studying Japanese for a few years. I have Japanese friends and visit Japan. A lot of your reasons listed are reasons I don’t want to live in Japan. But I do enjoy visiting. I’ve had some bad experiences with friendships with Japanese people. They seem to back off pretty quickly when the friendship moves beyond surface level. It’s sad, I understand it’s uncomfortable, but I don’t want surface level friendships. I would feel lonely living in a place where the majority of people are like that.
@@rissachi93 Agreed 100%.Also they look for Stability of high income by Friends and like to visit US or EU by staying at someone else’s House for free. Thanks
@elenakursteiner4729 I had someone attempt to do this. When he realized he wasn’t able to visit America he blocked me. Another Japanese friend I had was able to visit then lost interest in our friendship afterwards. His reasoning was because he was now only interested in making a friend from a different English speaking country.
@ many Western visitors put All Japanese people in the Holly Grail Podium with out realising , that they are just Normal people. I had Japanese women lodged by me for free with language exchange reason. She spoke only English so later stopped talking at all and concentrated on her studies. Later on I meet two three people who after Presenting to be my friend did Invite them self to me. I refused after a reasonable answers that if their houses are Small then just Invite for Coffee were also OK for me us invitation from their side.
@@rissachi93 are you male or female. If you are female, do not invite foreign male "friends" to stay with you! Same advice i have for males and females. The gesture can easily be misconstrued, unless they are gay. 😐
@@rissachi93
It's the individual regardless of nationality.
eye contact some cultures think its rude to look people in the eyes. most western culture sign of respect and strength you shake hands and look people in the eyes.
Which is why autistic people have difficulty in Western countries.
that's definitely a thing with Japanese ppl...
Look in the eye or not in Japan is good
As a Canadian living in Japan, I agree with everything here. I'm always a bit on edge when I talk to Japanese people because I feel like I have to walk on eggshells, and I never feel very comfortable because I don't expect them to mean what they say. I definitely feel like I can't just relax and be myself. I have a Japanese husband, but like you, his values and personality align much closer with the West. We're planning to move back to Canada, and Canada certainly has a lot of its own problems, but I can't wait to get back to a more open, more honest, more laid-back society. Good luck with your life in a new country. You'll fit right in in the West.
@@sven7160 I hope you didn't get Ptsd when you returned home from culture shock. I wonder why Asians are more adaptable than Notth Americans.
Wait until you misgender someone
Wait until after Poilievre is elected to move back.
@@billlee6729 It's funny you say that considering the entire video just contradicts that statement...
Praying for your future health and plans. 🙏🏻
I recommend reading Erich Fromm's Escape From Freedom. A book that speaks about people's adaptation mechanisms. To paraphrase part of it "People who never ended the fight for their own freedom are prone to neurosis. A perfectly adapted person forgets about his own personality, likes and dislikes and lives like others." And in Carl Gustav Jung's (another psychologist, but also a psychiatrist) terms, you are more extraverted then introverted. And Asian cultures, as Jung pointed out are introverted. Both terms were invented by Jung, but nowadays they are used without regards to their true meaning. There are no pure introverts or extraverts. It's all about your interests. Are they inside, or outside yourself. You are interested in other people, plus you want to share your feelings and thoughts with them. In other words you are more of an extravert. Which is common for westerners. That's why - as Jung pointed out - being exposed to western philosophy, way of thinking, living and religion may not be harmful to you. While in most cases human mind isn't so flexible in this field. A westerner who was raised in extraverted culture, may bring harm to his own psyche, by tryting to fit into Asian, introverted mindset - philosophy and religion. Jung was quite a remarkable man, of great intelligence.
It’s a such Pleasure to read your comment. Thank you so much:) Rarely see such comments anywhere on You Tube.❤
How is fromm relevant exactly? Did you "fight for your freedom" ? And jung is a crank
Thanks for sharing! Your stories about the lack of eye contact is really what shocks me. As a Canadian I can't imagine not looking at someone when speaking to people; seems alienating. The only exception I know of is if you're speaking to someone with autism, most of the time the refrain from making eye contact.
that's why living in japan is a paradise for shy people. Don't have to look people in the eyes and it's not rude. So relaxing. No people who judge over me If I don't want to talk.
I enjoyed his honesty. Thank you for sharing!
I like your way of presenting. It's like I'm listening to a story to an old friend 😌
This video is like a breath of fresh air and I respect you for it. I'm a Eastern European who learned Japanese in my teenage years and lived in Japan in my twenties. Everything you say is accurate and true. I pointed out these exact same things to the few close people in Japan I knew, but unfortunately, let's just say they were already fixed in their ways. I mentioned the lack of facial expressions, wearing a masks even when its not necessary, the over excited faked speech etc. Absolutely everything you said is 100% true. You've articulated it very well.
God forbid, if a non-Japanese person was to make the exact same video like this one! You already know what would've happened:
The mean comments with "if you don't like it, go back to your country" Or "kaere" would start fludding. The funny part is that it wouldn't be strictly Japanese people who would say this, but also some foreigners who believe that by being mean and bullying others with different opinions they would get some sort of favoritism from other Japanese. 😄
They would basically find any excuse to attack you. Mob mentality!
I truly respect you for deciding to talk open about it and say it like it is.
Hey Taiki, I just came across this video and watched a few of your older videos. I'm full Japanese too, did half my schooling in Japan and the other half in Australia. Currently doing university in Australia. I completely understand where you are coming from, there is no right or wrong opinion, but from an outsider it looks just as close minded as the people that overly hype up Japan.
Not saying you're wrong at all, I get it man I was there too but to me it looks like you are hyper-fixated on the negatives of Japan and seeing the Western culture through a "the grass is greener on the other side" view/lens too.
The Western culture and the Eastern culture are very different for many other reasons beyond the scope of this video but all I just want to say is, do not blindly see one cultural norm as better or worse than another, when only looking through a small collection of issues and examples without looking at the history and bigger picture of both sides.
Western culture, they value individualism over collectivism , Eastern culture values collectivism over individualism. You must look at the positives and the negatives of both sides, to say yes to one thing means you are saying no to something of equal value.
I think as long as you respect people in any country, a large majority of people will respect you back. I have had good and bad experiences in both Australia and Japan but as long as you smile, both sides will smile back in my experience - "Smile and the world will smile back at you".
Again no black and white answer, but as a fellow Japanese man I truly hope you do not forget your Japanese roots Taiki. Best of luck to your future ventures.
Nowhere is perfect 👌
That's a great reply, it's true what you say. People tend to be biased, and it's understandable. When you are frustrated with what you have around, you begin to search for a way to escape.
@@sugar6a32 I totally agree with you.
I don't believe for a minute that he's fixated on the negatives..I think he's just showing a distinct difference in culture dynamics and making people aware that we are not all the same but the Japanese culture may be depriving themselves and others of warmth and the joy of true fellowship and friendship.
@@believeandbsaved
You are different too
Thank you for sharing your honest opinion !
I spent in Japan only several months but I had different experiences from those wich native Japanese warned me. Just one example : Japanese lady told us that it's in your culture minding your own business and not engaging in helping others, but I experienced people on the street approaching me by them selfs and trying to help (to point me on right direction, buy me a ticket in metro machine, help me with the suitcase...). And all women, i have to say🙂
So I have really praise words for Japanese people❤
The things you see on the internet are lies. People in Japan have helped me many times it's unbelievable.
My ex Japanese bf wearing mask all the time even when we video call. He’s tall,Handsome and very shy charming guy. I’m sad to see him that way, I know and I can feel that he’s not confident about himself. I just let him do that and I don’t want to force him to do something he’s not comfortable but eventually I think he feel helpless about him self and he felt that he’s not being comfortable always hiding his face to me. I think he eventually felt tired of not showing his true self to me and he clearly cant be confident. He just give up and we broke up. Its sad because I know he wants to be love but he just cant be the person he wants to be in himself. I prayed that he’s going to be just fine.
When I was asked to show my face to a gal in New York, she got upset because I was wearing "sunglasses" (adaptive lenses.) She said it was the same thing as a man in a mask. At least you tried to encourage him. The sad thing is that in a culture based in conformity, individuality makes you an outcast.
I think all countries have their own pros and cons. Japanese culture is based on how other peoples perceive them. And people worry about the impression they leave on others
My suggestion would be... try living abroad for a few years and see if those cultural traits are really as unbearable. As an Italian who speaks Japanese, I would personally move to Japan in a heartbeat if I wasn't so attached to my family and friends here...the amount of people who are utterly rude and self-centered, don't follow rules, are loud and obnoxious, litter everywhere despite having trashcans at every corner, the fact that you can't sleep peacefully at night because thieves are constantly breaking in around your neighborhood (and I live in a small town) and the police doesn't do anything about it, the fact that we don't have a minimum wage, if you want to find a decent job you have to either know the employer or accept stages where you are paid 600 dollars a month for working you a** off, the amount of people who evade taxes, extreme inflation (waaaay worse than in Japan, where the purchase power is actually very good...two days ago I went to a pub and paid the equivalent of 5000 yen for a meal that in Japan would have cost me 800-1000 yen, and keep in mind that wages here in Italy are a lot lower), the healthcare system being mind-blowingly terrible (if you take an appointment for a check up in a public hospital you could easily wait in line for 6 months-a year), the education system getting worse and worse by the year, baby gangs stabbing people "for fun" (let's not even talk about crime in big cities), the complete lack of cultural creativity and ingenuity (whenever I watch Japanese movies, art exhibitions, listen to songs, read authors, watch TH-camrs, I feel like we live in a different world, here pop culture has become extremely shallow and vulgar, everything is either brainrot or about sex and gangster-rap kind of vibe), the constant uneasiness as a gay person (who doesn't behave in a flamboyant way either) to appear too "weird" because there are many men who would openly cuss at you or attack you because they don't like the way you dress in public (I couldn't wear baggy clothes and a tote bag here, but in Japan nobody would judge me for that, it's even pretty normal over there), etc.
I would gladly exchange all of these traits for introverted people who don't like tattoos, but hey that's my personal opinion😂
(In spite of all of this I still manage to love my country, but comparing it to Japan it's becoming tougher and tougher to keep finding its silver linings)
I totally agree with you! The things that were said as negative things in the video are bad, but if these are the worst things that can be said about a country, I will easily accept these conditions and move to Japan. (I have already made a plan for him) Before deciding to leave Japan, he should first consider the positive things that seem obvious in Japan but are like dreams and wishes in other countries.
Sorry, but the evade taxes part broke me 😂😂😂😂 Europeans are so weird, you guys have an urge to pay politicians.
Absolutely same. I've visited Japan multiple times, and while I totally agree with this video, all the problems of Japan (and a lot of eastern countries tbh) are so much lesser than MOST western countries. Its like watching a rich person complain that their parents are busy with work or something and have to hang out with their maids all day instead. Like just being able to take a clean subway to work, not having to worry about someone lighting you on fire while you doze off is just apparently such a blessing now, lmao. Honestly, I feel the same about family and friends, but I think at some point I'm gonna have to just detach myself for a bit for the sake of my own quality of life. Honestly the worst thing really is the hot summers. I always visit in the winter just to avoid, lol.
For real. People say bad things about Japan not realizing having your phone stolen just because you left it on table is worse than someone in konbini faking their smile for you.
not to mention all the Catholic cult members🙄
Hey Taiki, I live in Dubai but I’m moving to japan,(not my wish, but destiny)I watched your video, and I understand that you’re feeling frustrated. But I noticed that most of what you talked about wasn’t really about you personally-it was about external factors. I get that you’re upset because many situations seem repetitive or identical, but if you shift your focus to what truly makes you happy, you might see things differently.
If the reasons you mentioned are the only ones influencing your decision, I honestly don’t think moving somewhere else will make you any happier, because the real issue isn’t about others-it’s about perspective. There are things you can accept and live with, and things that you can’t. But before making a final decision, I really hope you take a moment to reflect again.
All the things you mentioned at the beginning-safety, cleanliness, affordability to live in -are incredibly important. But personal frustrations are different from fundamental living conditions. If you move to a place where those core things are taken away, the rest of what you mentioned might start feeling less important in comparison.
I live in the UAE, one of the safest countries in the world, but also one of the most expensive. Moving to Japan scares me because I don’t want to lose the things that matter most to me. However, when I visited Japan, I saw a country full of energy, where people are always busy, goal-oriented, and creative. The way people behave-like avoiding eye contact or showing less facial expression-isn’t about you personally. It’s cultural or their personal choice. If you understand that they might not even realize it themselves, it becomes less personal and easier to accept.
And about the tattoo issue at the onsen-come on, man, that’s such a small thing in the grand scheme of everything you talked about! The person with a tattoo could have been more aware of the rules and covered it beforehand if they really wanted to go. If they were denied entry, they just had to respect the rule and go somewhere else prepared. That’s not a big deal.
Moving to another country means facing a whole new set of challenges, adjustments, and stresses. Eventually, you’ll find things there that frustrate you too. Please, I truly hope you take time to process everything and think again. Focus on finding happiness and satisfaction from within, and ask yourself what you can genuinely accept.
Believe me-every country has its own set of problems. Maybe in another place, people will make more eye contact, but the streets will be dirtier, there will be more crime. Expensive food, starvation , or the smiles won’t be genuine. There will always be something. That’s just how the world works.
You said, “Who cares about their faces?” So then, why do you care? If no one cares, then why do you assume they care about how you feel? Why would they waste their energy trying to make you feel a certain way?
The fact that it bothers you means it’s already something about you, not just them
I wish you the best, man. Take care.
Totally agree with the way you have described about pros and cons of living outside of your birthplace. I was raised outside Japan but came back to look after my sick parents and was really surprised to know how the staff of nursing homes and other local facilities were helpful to make my parents last days happy. I know there're still some problems that can change for the better but still the national healthcare system in Japan is NOT BAD AT ALL. I know that because I volunteered to work in British and Hong Kong nursing homes and their conditions were so terrible unless you're super rich.
I totally loved your answer I agree with you ❤ by the way I live in Bahrain/am Bahraini, have you been to Japan? What's your opinion about it comparatively?
@@venasm i have been in Japan and im going there again in a week, i will be relocating there in summer. I found it very secure, people are very focused on their own business and interests, seems serious. I think after UAE I would say it is country number 2 to consider as safe country oriented for livelihood
@@kemekoist I’m sorry for your loss. Hope life treats you well, stay safe
Excellent answer and well said! I touched on the tattoo thing and eye contact too, and very much agree!!
From the descriptions, it sounds like the culture is currently struggling with a lot of isolation, caused by high social pressure and anxiety. As a foreigner living in Japan, I was thankfully able to bypass these pressures by using my gaijin status. Many people did not push me to follow the Japanese customs and I refused to be pushed into being afraid or insecure about what everyone else thought (mainly because I could not tell what everyone thought anyway. Japan is a high context culture and many Japanese people were too subtle for me to pick up all of the hidden meanings, even when I tried really hard to do so). I also had a great expat community that banded together, and they caused me to feel connected and understood, rather than isolated and alone. Because of this, I was able to enjoy my time there very much. But if I did not have those advantages, I could see how the loneliness could become crushing. It can already be difficult to connect with others in a more introverted culture and Covid masking and fear of standing out would only make that worse.
Lol I hate eye contact and showing my face (can't even wear a mask anymore, sad) and people treat me like trash for it here. OMW to Japan 🏃🏃🏃
Like it's not about "treating people like human beings", it's just overwhelming and uncomfortable to me. I don't like excess attention and would appreciate not being stared at or approached by strangers.
Thank you for sharing your honest thoughts of your native country. It’s difficult to realize that you don’t feel like you fit in your own nation’s culture, but it’s good that you’re self aware enough to want to proactively do something about it. I believe there is a place for everyone to belong, but for some, it might no longer be their native land, and that’s okay. I wish the best for you on your new adventure.
For those who think he might be “too harsh,” I honestly think he could have been more harsh if he wanted to-ie didn’t really touch on politics, education, or trauma-triggering topics. I think he got his point across though.
Me, a non asian who doesn’t like making eye contact: 👀
You, being rude
@ well whenever I make the decision to look into someone’s eyes, it’s never for a kind and respectful purpose.
@@tablescissors Or we don't want eyes contact depending the context. If I can avoid it I will. That just a cultural perception. Eyes contact will not mean you respect the other at all. I also prefer not having eyes on me.
You have a very pleasant accent in English it is enjoyable. You are very well spoken. It is interesting to hear your take Japanese Culture. Korean society especially in the older people also have a cultural aversion to tattoos as well.
I made 2 trips to Japan. I’m no expert, but there’s enough people not wearing masks to worry about those wearing masks. As for no eye contact, I don’t even notice. I made eye contact in some instances, but of course it’s when I’m speaking English to them and I don’t speak Japanese. People have more than one tattoo or large tattoo so there’s no way to avoid it in a spa where everyone is fully nude. I heard some spas are allowing it so look for those.
As someone who’s never lived in Japan I think the reasons you gave seem minor and not worth the hate… but I also understand how small things building up over a long period of time can lead up to strong feelings. I hope you have a better experience in the future
You talk in a very personal, sincere way. It feels like I'm listening to a good friend. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and feelings with us🙏🩷
Where I grew up in the US people would put on that plastic excited voice when I knew without a doubt they didn't give two shits about what I was saying. I cannot stand that fake crap.
Taiki, this is a very emotional video. I recommend that in your next video, you go beyond emotions and try to understand why people in Japan behave the way they do. What is the meaning of life for a Japanese person, and what is the meaning of life for a Westerner? This will help you better understand why Japan is the way it is, and why the West is different. But this is an excellent start to your exploration!
He born and live his whole life in Japan. I think there is no need for him to do that.
He should move out from Japan and live in a country he likes.
In fact everyone should leave the country they hate.
@@GingerBeer-s6v What he complained about Japan were all not big deals. Masks, eye contact, Facial Expression, Tatoos…
There are Japanese who don’t wear a mask, have eye contact, lots of facial expressions, and accept tattoos. He is just looking at one tree, not seeing a forest. I would recommend him to have a border view.
@@ureshi5948 you are right as well. But he won’t change his views on Japanese. He hates Japanese and Japanese culture which means it’s almost everything of Japan.
He leave Japan and live in a country he likes would be good for him and Japan.
@@ureshi5948 "what he complained about...were all not big deals."
that is NOT up to you to define or comment on. How incredibly rude.
Obviously, the OP here has a MUCH better idea of what it's like living in Japan, than YOU do.
Seems like you need to get some empathy and respect first before commenting here on TH-cam.
What a condescending comment. The OP has lived his entire life in Japan.
I'm preeetttyyy sure he understands the country and the nuances WAY more than you.
Get some respect. Before that, an apology would be in good order.
I live in Japan and I agree with all of it. It doesn't get me upset, as it isn't my culture so not my place to judge, but I would prefer it if people were more laid back. I sense a high degree of judgement and anxiety from most people most of the time.
Great video, and thank you for sharing! I’ve recently started learning about Japanese culture. I was born and raised in Europe and have been living in the USA for a couple of years now. When I first arrived in the U.S., people often commented on how friendly and polite I was. Over time, I’ve become more introverted-still friendly and approachable, but quieter, more reserved, and preferring not to speak unless asked.
I always smile when interacting with others. In the U.S., or at least here in Florida where I live, it’s common for people to greet you with a smile or a friendly hello at the park, in stores, or at restaurants. Whether it’s holding the door open for someone or someone doing the same for me, I always thank them with a smile, which creates such a warm and welcoming atmosphere. If someone approaches me in a store with a question, I naturally smile and make eye contact while answering. I often find myself helping them locate items in the store, almost as if I work there-lol!
When I go to parks, elders often approach me and start conversations unexpectedly. One time, a lady simply said, "Good morning," and out of nowhere, we started chatting. We ended up walking and exercising together for two hours! At the end, she thanked me and said it was very nice to meet me. :)
Although I’m from Europe and my country is known for being friendly, I’ve noticed over the years that things have changed-at least in the city I’m from. People aren’t as friendly as they used to be; some seem bothered if you ask them something, and others can be outright rude. It makes me uncomfortable to ask questions or even make eye contact. When I asked my family why this is happening, they explained it’s due to the hardships people face in life-suffering has changed them. It’s an interesting, and somewhat sad, feeling to feel unwelcome in my own country.
This makes me wonder how I would adapt to living in Japan, where avoiding eye contact and not smiling in certain situations is more customary.
I'm a woman and have been living with my Japanese partner in Germany for 5 years. I have learned a lot about his culture. When I visited Japan for the first time, I could see all the things you mentioned. I am also a very down to earth person who appreciates open conversation, opinions and eye contact as I have learned that this is a sign of interest, respect and attention. When people in Japan avoided eye contact, I thought I had done something bad, at times I even felt a little offended and excluded. I tried to understand that this is a cultural difference, but I still found it hard to grasp. I also find it difficult to understand, why it's so hard to talk about one's opinion and how the entire society will judge you if you only say one word they don't like.
As the old Chinese saying goes: all our bad character traits are the continuation of our good traits. I have been living in Germany and France for over 10 years and everything has its advantages and disadvantages. I understand what you are talking about: the Germans are also rigorous, probably a bit like the Japanese: few emotions, little compassion, lots of rules, life is like prison or hospital, but also simpler and safer (yes, well, things have changed in recent years, but still). I am still pretty glad being here because of the order, prosperity and opportunities. A lot also depends on the environment and how you live your life. If I were you, I would not move, but find people there who are also a bit more lively, e.g. through appropriate hobbies such as theater classes, martial arts, football ✊🙏🌷☀
What things
To me, fake enthusiasm while speaking scares me because I don't know how to react.
People are annoying wherever you go! Each geographic location has its own unique brand of weirdness and wherever you go you will never fit in. That's my experience.
You would fit right in here in Australia. Come on down mate😊
But AUS gov’ment had maskholes everywhere
@@tablescissors not in perth lol nobody wore mask here and i came their lockdowns was only border not shop to shop totally different state from victoria, i ended up staying in WA. Nice and clean beaches, beautiful homes.
A lot of what you’re experiencing might be a matter of perspective. I live in the UK, where healthcare is overbooked and overpriced, housing is unaffordable, and quality of life feels like it’s declining. That’s why I’m moving to Japan-to live more affordably, access better healthcare, and experience stronger community ties.
That said, I’ve learned that many frustrations in life improve with a mindset shift and more community involvement. If you’re struggling with social norms in Japan, consider places like Osaka, where people are more open, direct, and less reserved. There’s also a huge international community-pub crawls, Discord groups, and even akiya revitalization projects can connect you with like-minded people.
Ultimately, no place is perfect, but how we engage with our environment often shapes our experience more than the place itself.
Honestly if you're so fed up already with certain Japanese people maybe just.. be yourself to Japanese people and stop caring about how they react to you. If you've already reached this tipping point of leaving the country you have no more fear to conform and might actually find more like mindedness in others.
I feel you man...Interesting video, thank you for sharing your experiences
I came across your movie in my feed, watched it, and totally enjoyed it!! Thank you!! I’m half Japanese and American, living in Japan now, and I totally get what you’re saying. I don’t like speaking Japanese because it makes me feel inauthentic. There are many beautiful aspects to the language but… I just don’t enjoying speaking it. Regarding tattoos, I have two tattoo artist Japanese friends, and their work is mindblowing. They’re trying to change Japanese minds about the beauty of the irezumi, but so far it’s an uphill battle. I look forward to watching more of your content!!!!😊
I'm really curious about one thing. All those visual kei artists right? Many of them have lots of piercings and tattoos, sometimes in places it's hard to cover up. And everybody knows about it too. I've been wondering how they are being treated in every day life. Are they being restricted in the same way you're telling?
They will have restrictions and bad vision about themselves from others. Some closed door too.
@@aelitastone5629Really? My hairdressers have nose pierced and tattoos on arms. No issues for me and many of the other Japanese. Just public bath or gym restrict people with tattoos.
@@ureshi5948 Well like everywere, it will also depend of people. The region and others. Maybe after time, some rule was also less strict. That would be good. But they were a time, that was verry restrictive for what I know.
I lived and worked in Japan for several years and also in a small rural town. I had no problems except one night with a drunken salary man in Shimbashi Tokyo, but his friend intervened and apologised to me. In small rural towns in Japan people are nervous about Gaijins but when they get to know you it’s fine. To be honest I’ve lived in 5 countries and travelled extensively to others. To be honest all Countries have their own little idiosyncrasies around race and culture. I get back to Japan on a regular basis and love the food and culture. I’m also subscribed to your channel 👍
Gambatte!
🌸🌟☘️
I lived in japan for years, im part black and japanese. What your saying is the reason why i went back to north america. I was raised to communicate with people so i wanted my kids to have my childhood having fun with individual friends. When i came back home, i met my wife we have 3 children. Best decision ever!
I find you very likable and honest. Japan is beautiful but I could never live there for all the reasons you have stated. Eye contact is extremely important to me and I can't trust anyone that won't make eye contact when communicating with me.
I'm not japanese, but I'm very shy, so it's difficult to me to make eye contact with other people. I'm also overly excited about things in general, so I tend to be a little cartoonish on my reactions too lol
That being said, I'd like to ask what you don't like about those actions? Is there a specific way that Japanese people behave that makes you feel triggered or angry? As you said in the video, is it because they don't seem to care about you as a human being, or because they're trying to fake their personality?
I liked your insights on the video, thank you very much for making it! ^^
I appreciate your honesty. I think you'll fit in well in the states.
thank you for this video and also your writings. actually, through reading your book (Not a Japanese Textbook), as well as exploring some of the literature you reference in that text, i've began to find some healing. learning japanese and also living in japan as someone who didn't grow up here, or in any asian country, there is still much to learn and a lot of nuance to take in while doing that learning. so i'm really grateful to be exposed to a balanced and educated expression of opinion such as yours ! wishing you health and peace. thank you again!
This was an extremely insightful video, thank you for your candid take on your culture.
I once had a Japanese patient-an elderly lady-who didn’t like me and even called me a bad person because of my neck tattoo. I understood it was part of her culture, so I didn’t take it to heart. I even tried covering it up, but that didn’t help. She also didn’t like me because I smiled.
On top of that, she would get upset, asking why I was laughing when I wasn’t. She was a tough patient. The hardest part for me was keeping a straight face-I just can’t do it! I honestly admire people who can because I’m not one of them."
I’m to happy!
😂
I agree with his reasons wholeheartedly. If you are a Westerner, you know that facial expressions, body language, and eye contact represent 99% of context clues in a situation. He makes great points, and I send him the best of wishes and happiness on his journey! We would love to have you here!
I've heard many of these things before. But it has been a long time since I've visited Japan. I'm not sure if you just wanted a video topic, if life is getting you down in general, or something in between. I hope with spring in a couple of months it heals. It's my understanding that it takes a lot for Japanese to say anything negative. Which, to be honest, I don't think you did here. You are just being honest.
It sounds like you could use a change of scenery, Maybe not long term. But I think a trip to a western country would do you some good. And if you are not able to afford that, maybe if you can manage a region like Osaka or Kyushu or anywhere known to be friendlier/laid back. To meet and talk with more approachable people and see different perspectives on things for a bit.
And if you are seriously considering moving out of country, it might be difficult; but nothing is impossible.
Interesting thoughts, especially considering you're Japanese. I was surprised to hear some of the things mentioned, but also I was surprised you didn't mention tatemae :)
Seems like you would fit perfectly in Balkan countries, Belgrade and Bucharest as an example are really nice places to live in and veryyy affordable for someone with Japanese salary.
I think you are absolutely hilarious.
I am obsessed with Japan.
I would Love to visit one day and even dreamed about living there.
I watch nearly anything Japanese related hence why I watched your video and I have to say I feel the same about the UK 🇬🇧 as you feel about Japan.
I guess it’s a grass always greener situation.
You’re the first person I’ve heard make these statements with such passion 😂🤣😂.
I guess I’m just surprised with your honesty, but most appreciated .
Stay blessed
Peace and Happiness
🫶💜💯
Some Japanese people seem to stop functioning if there is a sudden change of plans or a surprise moment. E.g. I went to an izakaya in Hong Kong. I had to pay them 86 Hong Kong dollars. I gave the waitress a 100 dollar bill. She started to look for the change. I said: "Wait! I'll give you 6 dollars. Then you can give me 20 dollars." The girl got all flustered and started to say: "Oooohhhh....oooohhhh....oooohhh!" I could not understand why she needed to go crazy because I wanted to make her job easier. But she really needed her time to process the new situation. Very strange.
I remember having a conversation with a French air stewardess who was the only foreigner in an otherwise all Japanese crew. She told me that her Japanese colleagues tended to look down on her but as soon as something which took them out of their comfort zones occurred during a flight, they would almost always look to her to deal with the situation.
Many Americans care about how the Japanese feel and try not to be offense when in Japan; while many Japanese don’t care how Americans feel or if they offend them. If a Japanese person knows that Americans feel uncomfortable when you avoid eye contact and refuse to meet your eyes anyway; that is rude. If they are unaware of the cultural difference, then it is fine. Wearing a mask, when it is not needed, is rude. You are correct, you should not have to fake your personality. I am critiqued from time to time for using big words. I grew up in a family which was highly educated, read a great deal, and research anything I am interested in; so yes, I use big words as naturally as breathing. A message for you. In America, a magical thing happens about the time we turn 40. We stop caring about the opinion of others and realize our opinions and the way we do things is just as important as anyone else’s. You cannot change others. Be the best version of yourself you can be and let those who want to live their lives criticizing and judging others live their shallow, unhappy lives. Let their comments roll off you like water off a duck’s back.
Japan can be a very lonely place.
Tokyo maybe. But in countryside, I want to say to the neighbors. “leave me alone!”.
Respectfully, I think you’re being entirely too harsh on your own culture.
I feel on opposite ends with you, I just moved here and I have loved Japan for almost as long as I’ve been alive.
Japanese people are very unique among the world and very multifaceted. Yes, there is a strong focus on appearances here, but beneath the surface there are a lot of profound emotions stirring within.
From my experience, Japanese are shy and very circumspect, but once you get past the outer shell, they’re warm, affectionate, considerate and very receptive to the same.
I think you may be tired with dealing with that surface level interaction and crave the easy-going, carefree way that foreigners like me express ourselves.
I want you to know something, Taiki. I attend a Japanese language school here in Shibuya, yesterday there was a suicide along the Saikyo line. It interrupted train service and of course caused a severe inconvenience to anyone commuting. When I arrived to school, I discussed this with the other students there. You know what they said to me? “Well, it would have been better if they didn’t inconvenience other people.”
I bring that up because I watched another one of your videos where you recounted a similar story and your disgust with your Japanese peers. It goes to show you, human beings are very similar, no matter the culture! I’ve heard similar things in NYC when it occurred. I live here in Japan, I have a similar attitude and disposition as you, but I find myself your polar opposite in terms of how I feel about your people and country. I love Japan and 日本人 sooooooo much, I wonder what it is that makes your opinion and my own so distinct.
Would love to discuss it with you and to be perfectly frank, see if I can’t persuade you to reconsider at least a little bit.
Anyway, hope you’re having a good day and thanks for sharing your thoughts.
After you’ve been living there for 26 years like Taiki, I’ll weigh your opinion equally to his.
Tell me you're a foreigner without telling me.
And yea, you LITERALLY just moved there. What makes you think your superficial understanding would hold ANY weight to 26 years of life experience in Japan?
Rude, and unempathetic. Shame on you.
Apologize.
@@catnokimochi they have loved Japan as long as they’ve been alive but only just moved there! I worked for 3 years in Tokyo. I know the difference between tatemae and honne. When foreigners fall in love with the “charm” surface, I would love them to spend even just 3 months in a typical company to see the rife bullying, the sheer misery and tedium and rigidity of life in a Japanese office.
@ exactly!!!
Nothing i despise more than a bunch of brainwashed, know-it-all weaboos
Bahaha, he just moved here😂😂😂 I hope you happy forever
13:30 - I'm pretty sure the context of this is that the receptionist doesn't want to get in trouble and risk losing their job to make an exception for someone. If you live in an honor based society, then you cannot help other people if you are not high up enough in what is effectively the caste system to make the decision that would help them. You simply leave that to the people higher than you and their policy. I notice this a lot with Japan; There seems to be a lack of desire to be responsible for a potential social altercation or a breach of the norm. So people do their best not to be the person responsible, whether it's the right thing to do or not.
I’m Spanish. I lived in Japan for 12 years, and then 12 years in the UK. I prefer work culture in the UK, but in general I get on well better with Japanese people. I recognize those “negative” points you mention, but to me they are not bad. I wear masks often because of hay fever and allergies, and weirdos in the UK have insulted me for wearing a mask and even thrown a lit cigarette at me. In Japan lots of people wear masks, so I never feel out of place. About eye contact, I would say I’m a little tiny bit in the autistic spectrum, so it’s hard for me to make eye contact while I speak because I can’t think while I look into your eyes (I do look when the other person speaks). In general, I feel Japanese society is a bit towards that side of “autistic spectrum”, if you know what I mean (think of otaku), which goes well with my personality. I felt like it was my medium. But I understand if you are Japanese and not like that, you may feel trapped in there. You can travel abroad and find your ideal country.
I’m flying back to Japan tomorrow and I’m looking forward to seeing my friends and excolleagues. I’m married to a Japanese man and many of my friends are Japanese or half Japanese. They are great people, despite some absurd rules they may have over there (like the tattoo rule… 😅)
どうも
Yakuza I guess, not absurd.
I haven’t watched all the way through yet, but there are similarities I find with my own cultural background. I’m born and grew up in America, but my family is from the Philippines and Mexico.
Both cultures place a great importance and family and are very collectivist. Both also have the potential to be very homophobic, I’m also gay.
I remember as a child attempting suicide because of that and other major issues that also seem to be similar to the problems in Japanese culture.
The main issue I seem to find, is a struggle between individualism and collectivism.
America and Japan seem to be on exact opposite sides of that spectrum. And I think the issues in both are indicative that extremes on either side are never healthy. Balance must be had.
It’s gotten a little better, I suppose, but from time to time I do wish that I died when I was a kid so I didn’t have to deal with a impossible expectation of who I’m “supposed” to be.
Maybe one day I can find balance myself. I think I will just have to keep living to see.
I can agree with the speaking part. Most of the people I talk too sound way over the top. Forced in some way. While I talked slowly and relaxed. My online teacher also told me that I should talk that way to sound more authentic, but I told him that I cannot force myself to change my natural voice.
Hi Taiki, Thank you for sharing. It's nice to hear a Japanese person speak with their natural voice! You come across as a very friendly, approachable and down to earth person. 😊I totally understand wanting to flee from Japan. I have a Japanese friend who also fled the country for some of the same reasons: He doesn't like the culture and the people and the workaholic mentality. He lives here in The Netherlands now, and he really likes Dutch people. We are very direct, friendly, and open to other cultures. our directness can still be a challenge for him sometimes though! 😉
I wish you all the best on your journey and hope you find a place where you will feel at home!💖
Honestly I think living somewhere else is probably a good idea. Sometimes it takes being in a completely different environment to feel comfortable.
I lived in a different place for about a month last year and it did wonders for my mental health and gave me a new perspective on my life.
Other people may try to discourage you, but honestly I think it's better to follow where your heart takes you. Maybe this new place you go to will suit you better than Japan does. It could be worse than Japan, but first hand experience is usually better than what you hear from other people or the internet.
Good luck moving and I hope you find what you're looking for! 🎉
ビデオを楽しんだよ。Your honesty about your experiences and how you feel was refreshing!
Living abroad is a wonderful experience. It can often make you miss all those little things we often dislike at home
To be honest, the things you bring up kinda appeal to me, probably because of my personality, but I can definitely see why some people would dislike them.
I can absolutely relate to not fitting in the culture/country you were born into though. Except I want to move to Japan while you want to move out of there lol.
As an introvert none of it sounds bad to me lol
Its good to hear your thoughts on this Taiki, just like this video you should find similar to see peoples reviews of other countries from local and foreigner perspectives, personally as a Westerner thats travelled around only a little and wants to more but is well read /cultured, I find Japan to be a country very high on the list of places I'd hope to one day move to, quite a few things bring me to say that but putting it aside when you critique your own culture, as you should, observe the scale of the things you take issue with and compare them to other cultures, you'll often find the grass not to be greener on the other side
I change your place. You come to the Netherlands and I go to Japan. No problem at all.
I just found your channel. I love the way you speak like you really worked hard to learn it. I hope your channel grows bigger buddy. I admire Japanese people who are bold and capable of change. I kept hearing about this Samurai mindset where your people admire strength. Strength also comes from people who are capable of change, adaptability and acceptance of mistakes. I also hear that Japan is scared of change because they believe that'll destroy the identity and their culture but c'mon, a little bit of change and adaptability will not destroy Japanese identity. Japan adapted a lot of things from the Chinese culture and beliefs afterall. Nothing was ever 100% Japanese.
I'm learning japanese and I wish to stop to save my free time so maybe your video changes my view and future goals at this journey about japanese lifestyle and+
Try to spend a month or more in Japan and decide for yourself. Everyone has different experiences.
I haven’t eaten love for Japan’s culture and beauty. My husband and I both have tattoos and honestly some are a bit hard to cover up so I do worry about going to onsons. I love your honesty and you are validated.
The longest I've been in Japan is two months in Tokyo. I've never had people avoid eye contact. People were always friendly. I look sort of like a lanky Jason Stathum with glasses.
Though my main issue socially was how busy people were with work or helping parents. Also people being friendly didn't mean they wanted to be friends so that could be disappointing if I misread them.
I was able to make some friends though I have only one that I would call close but even she has her walls. She doesn't get close to people normally. She described our friendship as 不思議(fushigi). Which can mean wonderous, mysterious, etc.
And you think that a mere 2-month stay, is at all comparable to 26 years of life experience?
So amazing how some ppl here (ostensibly weaboos) are so quick to discredit the OP's life experiences based off of a cursory tourist-esque temporary stay in the country. Like where does this unfounded confidence stem from?
As a westerner, the chipper, upbeat tone sounds fake to me, and really only expected in the service industry (front desk or waiter, etc.) It's normal for people to feel differently, or go through different moods. I hope you find a place you really like and where you feel you can be yourself.
I'm American so I have a different perspective. When you say you like to talk, "down to earth," it's about whether you are sharing your emotions through your voice or not. Just like you want someone to look you in the eye while speaking so that you feel like you are being treated as a human being, others want to hear your emotional reaction when speaking with you about something in their life so they feel like you are treating them as a human being whose life matters to you. If you respond to them the same way whether making small talk or learning that they just got their dream job, it is like you don't care about their achievement and by extension that person.
I know someone who has several tattoos. He went to Japan and had no problems. He could go to hot springs. He just had to cover the tattoos. A bit humiliating but at least he could visit the places. I am sorry but I do not understand the tattoo problem. Yakuza has very specific tattoos. It is like their language or something. Prohibiting tattoos is like making all food illegal because you do not like mushrooms.
It is not just Yakuza tbh. I teach English here and one time I asked a student of mine (about 15 years old)during an English discussion practice what she thought of tattoos in onsens.
She said they shouldn't be allowed. I asked why not?
She said tattoos will make the onsen's ranking and public image worsen if they allow tattoos.... Go figure.
I had a gym experience in which the gym I attended played very graphic hip-hop music in English. (I have nothing against hip-hop; I just don't want to hear explicit lyrics at the gym). When I approached the staff about it, suggesting that they should play the radio cuts, they essentially said that most people don't understand the lyrics and hip-hop is popular. I told them that they could play hip-hop without the explicit lines, but they refused to do anything about it. When I asked other Japanese people about what they thought, they essentially said, "Maybe you should buy some earbuds..." I was really surprised with that response because I feel pretty sure most of those people (who I spoke with speak quite politely in general) wouldn't feel comfortable hearing that kind of stuff in Japanese while at the gym.
karen
I’m so happy that videos like this are making it onto TH-cam. Many many people in the world still think that Japan is an amazing place to live and work in, the truth for many foreigners is that it isn’t a great place to live and work in, but 99.9% of foreigners rightfully feel that Japan is a great place to visit as a tourist only. i’m really happy that videos showing the negative sides of Japan are becoming more common on the Internet and we are now moving away from the cult mentality of worshipping Japan for cultlike reasons only. Thank you for making this video!
As someone who grew up in Holland who is stuyding Japanese daily, has lived in Japan for 10 months and went to an international school there with many different mainly western cultures I have the following remarks;
- In regard to the forced enthusiasm of the Japanese, I've experienced Americans to be way worse in that regard. It's really fake in my experience. From the Japanese it feels like it's motivated by not making the other person feel bad. but from Americans it just feels like making anything way bigger than it needs to be and thus making the response feel very disingenuous. It feels like a cheap way to gain favour by complimenting everything unnecessarily. It's hard to describe the difference but you can just feel it.
- Western people are far from calm by default. There is a really nice test for it in Japan, see how easy it is for them to respect the quietness on the trains and you will see how many western people find it hard to talk softly. Even when you ask them to talk softly they can never sustain that for more than 5 minutes and go back to default loud.
- I agree that Japan has a lot of shortcomings when it comes to emotions. But for me personally one of the reasons I want to go to Japan is because I think compassion in the west is worse. I feel like in the west compassion is an investment, where you only show it if it improves your reputation by posting it on social media for example. 'Look how much I care about this social issue!' is the gist of most of the content regarding compassion online.
But besides that individualism has caused the biggest generation of narcissism and entitlement ever, while Japan remains relatively collective and I feel ego is a lesser problem over there.
I think you and I are in a really interesting situation. You want to leave Japan while I want to move there, but we both have different experiences living in the place where the other wants to move to.
I have a Japanese channel called ジェロム where I talk about western culture, if you're interested hopefully you can find something interesting there as I go deeper into what I just wrote!
よろしくお願いします！
It sounds like I am super critical here but I just wanted to give a different perspective!
I think you blend in "Western" and "American" too easily. I can imagine Americans talking loudly in a train in Japan, but I highly doubt Finnish people would do the same.
Same for the things related to compassion, it's really different between western countries.
@ Finnish are definitely a lot calmer, and Finland is not the whole of Europe haha. I would consider them an exception to the norm. but for central, western and especially southern europe, calm is not the norm in my personal experience. At least the calmness described in the video in comparison to Japanese calmness.
Your comment about posting on the Internet is very specific and interesting to me, I think many people do actually care online and want to share kindness and positivity whilst I think in a society like Japan being a narcissist is easier cause no one wants to truly stand up to you especially in a hierarchy situation, plus you'd blend in more
Overall I only agree with half of what you said but that's okay cause we are different people and it's the Internet, God bless take care
Your English is excellent bc you have the least accent and you actually sound good.
I guess I couldn't blame you for feeling the way you feel bc you're a young man starting life and you have to explore whatever the world can offer you as far as culture is concerned. I am a half-Okinawan/Filipino who has lived in the States for 30 years. We are home-basing in Okinawa pretty soon bc that's the place I chose to retire and live for the rest of my life w my American husband.
Americans have their own positives and negatives, but I am so thankful I got to live three different cultures and at this age, I prefer to go back to Okinawa. American culture has its own shortcomings and disgusting qualities in how they sometimes treat people. I wonder if you have seen any videos of Karens and people freaking out in public. There's no such thing in Japan (that I have heard of) bc they are more considerate of others. Americans are more individualistic while the Japanese go about their daily life as a whole united group which fosters more compassion for others. I have never met any other culture as tolerant, honest, and considerate as the Japanese, especially the Okinawans. Perhaps you could also consider other countries in Europe.
I had a great time during my 15-year residency in Okinawa, although it could be bc I am half and I was treated better the same way my siblings and other "half" friends were treated by Okinawans. But then again, I was much younger and knew there was another world out there that I needed to experience, so I left. You may want to consider living elsewhere while you're young and eventually, you will appreciate the culture you grew up in as you age and gain more wisdom.
You are captivating to listen to. I hope you know that. Thank you for sharing your insights with us Taiki
I have found musicians, and artists of any type, are more open in conversations than for example a salary person / office worker. This is true in my experiences with musicians from the United Kingdom and Japan. Is it "more true" for musicians from Japan (and China and Korea)? I think so, due to the cultures.
Thank you for this!
Yes, I am starting to find this out more and more about Japan. I am setting Japanese on my own and I love the culture. I always have I want to visit. I don’t want to live just visit but the more I watch videos even natives it is very depressing for a lot of them because I can’t express who they are and it is really sad. I’ve been until recently. I did not know this until I started researching more and more about Japan there’s a lot of beauty to Japan, but there’s no expression and it’s frowned upon.
What will you do? Will you move to another country? Where would you like to live?
@thelinstel "I'M MOVING OUT." These words are printed on the thumbnail. There is something wrong with your attitude. You should fix yourself before you accuse others.
@@thelinstelwhy are you so mad?💀
@ I did not see that in the thumbnail I simply watched the video, and heard no mentions of him moving or even considering it. So this comment seemed like you were being passive aggressive towards him with a bombard of questions that seem patronizing for him explaining a few dislikes of living within Japan. Which I don't believe is wrong to do? No attitude was given. You have the day you deserve.
@thelinstel Bless your little pea-picking heart.
@The original commenter questions seemed to be patronizing so I was confused as to why. Anger is not something I felt when I wrote the comment, it was simply confusion. It sucks it came across that way because it wasn't intended but your comment specifically is a little irritating as I am not upset...
I like you! Its refreshing to hear a real thought on this stuff. As for me i have a really nice looking dragon tattoo I have always manage to keep things in good taste so it doesnot bother others. I will say this like it or not the Japanese must adjust to other people and it can't t be helped either. Take care 😊😊
Thank you for your honesty.
japan is bringin back the ninja costume.
You are a brave rare individual. I congratulate you for being honest. It is certainly an uncomfortable assessment to make of a culture one grew up in. I think you are definitely not alone to feel that way amongst the young adults. They would be feeling it more acutely as they venture into the world. Good on you. I wish you all the best going forward. Life is an adventure. Live it as true as you can.
I was told as kid you should always looking in eyes when you speak,special when it is important.When person doesnt do it,they dont pay attention to you or they lying to you,making excuses.Is very rude not looking in eyes when you talk to someone.So I understand why you felt that way.
as a neurodivergent person, who hates eye contact, struggles with facial expressions, can get way to over excited and fast when speaking, and doesn’t have tattoos this doesn’t sound all that bad, lol.
what piece of music is that floating around in the background? looks like it could be some CPE Bach with the onslaught of notes for so many bars
I like you and like how you present yourself about Japan.
I really appreciate your honest opinion. Greetings from Greece 🇬🇷
Almost every celebrity still masks in public for the benefit of anonymity.
I find your perspective so refreshing.
I currently live in the United states, and I have lots of negative feelings towards the US and American people. I really want to move abroad. I love my country, but it also really annoys me. Even though you are Japanese and I am American, we share a lot in common, haha!
I think it is healthy to not like or fit in with your culture. We live in an amazing time in the 21st century. We have the ability and privilege to leave our countries.
I support you in leaving Japan and finding a country that suits you more. Good luck!
During my Japanese stays few months ago, I cannot recall memories of people wearing masks... I do see some Japanese people not wearing masks in Hokkaido. Which is nice because I love seeing beautiful faces.
On one note Taiki, Asian Australians might don't have the Asian sensibility in a way you might be too agressive towards Japanese culture.
I understand your feeling. I have a friend from Japan, I feel that way too. Thank you for sharing, so I don’t feel like I am the one who feel that..😅
But however, I still like Japan music and drama.
Sou brasileira e aqui somos muito calorosos , mostramos nossos sentimentos , abraçamos as pessoas , é cultural . Mas sei que europeus não são assim e os asiáticos em geral não demonstram seus sentimentos e não se pode tocar nas pessoas . Aqui é normal sermos carinhosos uns com os outros . E alguém se meter ou dar muito palpite na vida alheia e falta de educação aqui no Brasil. Na verdade não ligamos para o que o outro faz . Só se isso importunar a minha vida . Fora isso , não nos metemos no que o outro faz . É problema dele a maneira que o outro quer viver . Somos um povo bastante feliz apesar de muitos problemas que temos . Se tatua quem quiser não temos nada com isso . É a vida do outro , não posso me meter com o que o outro faz . . Como eu disse , SÓ vou fazer algo à respeito , se isso prejudicar a minha vida .
I was in Hong Kong recently and saw several Japanese tourists. I was at my hotel waiting for the lift. There was a Japanese couple before me. When the lift arrived, the man let his wife enter and then turned to me and bowed. It was so spectacular. I was in awe. Nobody had ever bowed to me like that before. I think it was fusion etiquette: Japanese bowing + Western ladies first.
On my way back to Europe, I was in business class. Across the aisle there was a posh Japanese man. The flight attendants really respected him. Must have been the CEO of something important. He had very beautiful and soothing energy. He was like a harsh samurai and a soft feather in one.
But I get the cold part somewhat. I have had a Japanese air hostess who seemed to simultaneously like and hate everybody. It was crazy. She was really polite and proper but her vibe was ice cold. I think I was even scared of her somewhat. Brrrrr.