How These Foreigners Became Japanese

Summary

The transcript follows individuals who reflect on their journeys to obtain Japanese citizenship, sharing their personal experiences of cultural integration, challenges, and the complex naturalization process. They discuss how they navigated language barriers, encountered discrimination, and gradually adapted to life in Japan. The narrative touches on the emotional and bureaucratic difficulties faced in the citizenship process, including the impact of their personal identities and the influence of Japanese culture. Ultimately, they express a sense of belonging in Japan and offer advice to others considering a similar path.

Takeaways

• 😀 Obtaining Japanese citizenship is a challenging and lengthy process that requires a lot of paperwork and perseverance.
• 😀 Despite being a Japanese citizen, people often don't perceive individuals who have foreign backgrounds as fully Japanese.
• 😀 The experience of cultural integration can be difficult, especially when faced with discrimination in schools and workplaces.
• 😀 The high school and college environments tend to be more accepting and diverse compared to earlier years of education.
• 😀 There is a significant emotional struggle involved in obtaining citizenship, especially when the feeling of being at home changes after living in Japan for an extended period.
• 😀 Japanese language proficiency is crucial in the citizenship application process, and applicants may even be asked to write essays in Japanese explaining their desire for citizenship.
• 😀 While Japanese citizenship provides access to the benefits of the Japanese passport, it also comes with the responsibility of adapting to the culture and societal norms.
• 😀 The personal journey of becoming Japanese can involve a shift in mindset, where individuals start identifying more with Japan than their country of origin.
• 😀 The experience of being a foreigner in Japan is often accompanied by feelings of not being fully accepted, even after becoming a naturalized citizen.
• 😀 Advice for potential immigrants includes learning Japanese, respecting the law, and maintaining a positive attitude to integrate into Japanese society.

Q & A

Why did the speaker want to become a Japanese citizen?

The speaker wanted to become a Japanese citizen because after returning to Armenia, they felt unsettled and always like they were overseas. They felt a stronger connection to Japan and found that their thinking had become more aligned with Japanese culture. They also realized Japan was their home, where they wanted to live and work.

What challenges did the speaker face when trying to blend into Japanese society?

The speaker faced discrimination and difficulty fitting in when they returned to Japan after living abroad. Despite speaking Japanese, they were often considered 'different' due to their appearance and cultural background, and they struggled to make friends.

How did the speaker's experience change from middle school to high school?

In high school, the speaker attended an international school where many of the students were eager to engage globally. Unlike in middle school, where they felt isolated, in high school they were appreciated and admired by peers, and they made friends who respected their unique background.

What does the speaker think about their identity after obtaining Japanese citizenship?

The speaker feels like they have become more Japanese in terms of their way of thinking and cultural alignment. Although they still identify with their roots, such as their Zimbabwean heritage, their mindset and heart are now more in line with Japanese culture.

What is the process of obtaining Japanese citizenship like?

The process is extremely difficult and involves complicated paperwork. The speaker mentioned having to write a detailed essay in Japanese explaining why they wanted to become a Japanese citizen. Additionally, one must prove their ability to blend into Japanese society, pay taxes, and live in Japan for a certain period.

What are the benefits of having Japanese citizenship, according to the speaker?

A major benefit is the strong Japanese passport, which is highly valued globally and simplifies visa processes. The speaker also appreciates the sense of security and belonging that comes with being a Japanese citizen.

What role does language play in obtaining Japanese citizenship?

Language is essential for obtaining Japanese citizenship. The speaker had to demonstrate their proficiency in Japanese by writing an essay in the language. Fluency in Japanese is crucial for integrating into society and fulfilling the citizenship requirements.

How does the speaker feel about Japanese people's perception of foreigners who become citizens?

The speaker feels that Japanese people still lack understanding of the citizenship process and may not fully acknowledge foreigners as 'Japanese,' even after they acquire citizenship. The speaker expresses disappointment at not being recognized as Japanese despite having gone through the citizenship process.

What advice does the speaker give to those who want to live in Japan permanently?

The speaker advises individuals to study Japanese diligently and to follow Japanese laws. Learning the language and adapting to the culture are key steps in successfully living in Japan.

How does the speaker feel about their experiences with Japanese culture compared to their original culture?

The speaker feels that their experiences with Japanese culture have shaped their thinking, and they no longer fully connect with their original Armenian culture. They prefer the simplicity and basic nature of Japanese culture, which they find more compatible with their mindset.