"Japanese people really care about..." Americans Share Their Culture Shocks in Japan
In Japan, some of us learn about the American people's personality from movies and tv shows, seeing things like clearly expressing one’s feelings and respecting individual rights. So what is it like from the opposite perspective? How do some Americans see us?
We've interviewed Americans on a few occasions, so here we've put together a collection of those responses to see what shocked Americans the most when they visited Japan. (The following reflects the opinions of those interviewed only)
Izakaya are the best! Everyone is so full of energy!
“Izakaya are wonderful! Good food, low prices, and most of all, the staff are cheerful and helpful. I was really surprised when I went back to my table from the bathroom and I was given a hand towel. It’s not unusual for a 3-star restaurant or more in the US, but it’s not common when it comes to pubs.” (American man who has been in Japan for 5 years)
The place that surprised this American man the most was an izakaya. Of course, service is important, but it seems to be on another level in Japan!
“Sometimes it’s a little too lively and noisy (laugh). Especially when they yell “Welcome,” and everyone else repeats it. At first I wasn’t used to it, but I kind of like it now.”
This liveliness is at the heart of izakaya. If you're not used to it, it might come as a bit of a surprise - but you'll warm up to it pretty quickly!
Dining out is such high quality! Everything is delicious!
“Japan generally has very high standards when it comes to food. I think that anywhere you go, the food is good. You can eat delicious dishes from all over the world. Japanese really like their wonderful food culture! For example, when I was in the United States I couldn’t really eat Indian food. It wasn’t great. But Japanese Indian food seems authentic and tastes so good! I think Japanese food is delicate and the people who make it put a lot of love into it. American cuisine? To be honest I don’t expect delicious food when I go out(laugh). Can you believe even Chinese food in New York is something that you really don’t want to eat (laugh).” (American man who has been in Japan for 3 years)
Whereas our previous interviewee was more excited about going out, this American really wanted to home in on food. It seems even picky people can find something they love here!
Free time is too much fun!
“The biggest factors contributing to Japan's tourism are its sightseeing spots with rich history, its food, and its entertainment! Some shops are open 24h/day, and you can enjoy nightlife after work because it's generally a safe country. Especially the …
In Japan, some of us learn about the American people's personality from movies and tv shows, seeing things like clearly expressing one’s feelings and respecting individual rights. So what is it like from the opposite perspective? How do some Americans see us?
We've interviewed Americans on a few occasions, so here we've put together a collection of those responses to see what shocked Americans the most when they visited Japan. (The following reflects the opinions of those interviewed only)
Izakaya are the best! Everyone is so full of energy!
“Izakaya are wonderful! Good food, low prices, and most of all, the staff are cheerful and helpful. I was really surprised when I went back to my table from the bathroom and I was given a hand towel. It’s not unusual for a 3-star restaurant or more in the US, but it’s not common when it comes to pubs.” (American man who has been in Japan for 5 years)
The place that surprised this American man the most was an izakaya. Of course, service is important, but it seems to be on another level in Japan!
“Sometimes it’s a little too lively and noisy (laugh). Especially when they yell “Welcome,” and everyone else repeats it. At first I wasn’t used to it, but I kind of like it now.”
This liveliness is at the heart of izakaya. If you're not used to it, it might come as a bit of a surprise - but you'll warm up to it pretty quickly!
Dining out is such high quality! Everything is delicious!
“Japan generally has very high standards when it comes to food. I think that anywhere you go, the food is good. You can eat delicious dishes from all over the world. Japanese really like their wonderful food culture! For example, when I was in the United States I couldn’t really eat Indian food. It wasn’t great. But Japanese Indian food seems authentic and tastes so good! I think Japanese food is delicate and the people who make it put a lot of love into it. American cuisine? To be honest I don’t expect delicious food when I go out(laugh). Can you believe even Chinese food in New York is something that you really don’t want to eat (laugh).” (American man who has been in Japan for 3 years)
Whereas our previous interviewee was more excited about going out, this American really wanted to home in on food. It seems even picky people can find something they love here!
Free time is too much fun!
“The biggest factors contributing to Japan's tourism are its sightseeing spots with rich history, its food, and its entertainment! Some shops are open 24h/day, and you can enjoy nightlife after work because it's generally a safe country. Especially the …
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Summary
Americans share their culture shocks in Japan, particularly regarding dining experiences and izakayas. Surprises include the high quality of food, affordability, cheerful staff, and unique customs like yelling "Welcome." The liveliness of izakaya may initially seem overwhelming but is soon