【Culture Shock】You won’t like Japan…Because…

 

Superficial…

Many non-Japanese complains about this, but actually many Japanese also.This is called as Tatemae (建前) by many people.

So often, we can’t express our true feelings or desires and just say something expected by society or required according to your position and circumstances. The chances are what they say is not actually what they think honestly.

 

If you come to Japan as a customer or just visitor, there is no problem. But if you live for a long time, this might bother you a lot. No matter how honest and friendly you try to be, we are just superficial and pretending good person.

I think this is exactly why it’s quite hard to be friends with Japanese aside from language barrier and culture difference. Even I, as a Japanese, feel so.

 

 

You won’t like Japan ?

Hahahahaha…☺️

 

 

 

Crowed 

In Tokyo, everywhere is fucking CROWED!! Especially trains in the morning makes you crazy all the time.If you have ever ridden a train during rush hour in Japan, you know it’s difficult to survive, right?

Even I’ve lived here since I was born, actually I still can’t get used to that. Sometimes I avoid super stuffed trains and wait for next train. It’s important to avoid carrying big bags on a crowded train — this can be a real nightmare.

 

 

 

Last trains  

You might think that large Japanese cities such as Tokyo and Osaka are 24 hour towns. They are. However, the trains don’t run all night. It’s important to keep an eye on your last train if you’re far from your hotel. Taxis are quite expensive in Japan.

 

 

 

English  

Japan isn’t an English speaking country. As a tourist it’s a good idea to learn a few words of basic Japanese.  If people are nice enough to speak English to you — speak slowly.

 

 

 

Long lines for ramen  

Japan’s restaurant market is extremely competitive. There’s a trendy aspect to it. If a restaurant gets a few good reviews it will have long lines.

Long lines are most common for B-class gourmet foods like ramen. The dilemma for the traveller is to join or not to join (the long lines). Locals will tell you that exceptional B-class restaurants are worth the wait.

 

 

 

Noodle slurping  

According to Japanese manners, it’s completely acceptable to slurp noodle dishes such as ramen, udon and soba. People slurp loudly and so can you — enjoy!

 

 

 

Natto  

Fermented soybeans (natto) have long threads trailing from them ☆

 

Natto are unpleasant fermented beans that are a popular breakfast food in much of Japan.

 

 

 

Nudity  

Onsen are one of the best reasons to visit Japan. They generally require nudity –  this can represent culture shock for shy foreigners.

Onsen has several rules of etiquette that you need to learn before trying it. Otherwise, you risk being embarrassed.

 

 

 

Masks  

If you get a cold or flu it’s considered rude not to wear a mask.

 

 

 

No blowing your nose in public  

In Japan it’s generally considered rude to blow your nose in public. It’s best to go to the restroom to do it.

 

 

 

Seiza pain  

Seiza is the formal, traditional way to sit in Japan. You might run into it at a temple or shrine. It’s incredibly painful when you’re not accustomed to it.

 

 

 

Complex toilets  

Japan has the most complex toilets in the world. They can be a little intimidating the first time.

 

 

 

Umbrella condoms  

Japanese department stores offer plastic wrapping for your umbrella on rainy days. It’s considered good manners to wrap your umbrella before entering (no pun intended). This prevents the floors from becoming wet.

 

 

 

☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★

 

 

The best way to experience Japan is to go with an open mind and few expectations. Japan is a fascinating country. If you don’t enjoy it — you’re doing something wrong.