How has Japan changed you as a person?

Summary

In this insightful video, Takashi interviews long-term foreign residents of Japan, exploring how living in the country has transformed their personalities and habits. From becoming more introverted and respectful to adopting cultural practices like bowing and handwashing upon entering home, the interviewees share their personal growth and challenges. They discuss the impact of Japanese customs, business culture, and language learning, offering a rich perspective on adapting to life in Japan.

Takeaways

• 😀 Many expats in Japan have become more introverted and value their personal space more due to the societal norms that respect privacy.
• 🌐 Expats from different countries like Switzerland, Canada, America, and India have all experienced personal growth and changes in their lifestyles while living in Japan.
• 🍶 Drinking culture is a significant part of socializing in Japan, and many expats have adapted to this aspect, even if they don't drink alcohol themselves.
• 🛏️ The importance of cleanliness and respect for personal space is highlighted, with habits like washing hands upon returning home becoming more common among expats.
• 🗣️ Learning to speak Japanese and understanding the culture is seen as essential for a deeper connection with the country and its people.
• 🎓 Expats have found that their professions, such as teaching English, product design, and video production, have influenced their experiences and the way they interact with Japanese society.
• 🍜 Food preferences, such as the dislike for natto, are cultural differences that expats often struggle to accept, despite living in Japan for extended periods.
• 🏡 The lack of centralized air conditioning and heating in Japan is a challenge for some expats, especially when compared to the systems in their home countries.
• 👘 Bowing and other Japanese customs have been adopted by expats, which can sometimes lead to humorous or awkward situations when they return to their home countries.
• 🚶‍♂️ The experience of living in Japan has made some expats more punctual, disciplined, and respectful of other people's time and space.

Q & A

How long have the interviewees been living in Japan?

The interviewees have been living in Japan for varying lengths of time, with the shortest being a little over a year and the longest being 11 years.

What are some of the jobs the interviewees have in Japan?

The interviewees work in a range of fields including language schools, travel agencies, marketing, product design, music, video production, and working with YouTubers.

How has living in Japan influenced the interviewees' personalities?

Living in Japan has made some interviewees more introverted, shy, punctual, and respectful of others' space and time. It has also made others more extroverted and compassionate.

What are some cultural practices that the interviewees have adopted from Japan?

Some cultural practices adopted include washing hands upon returning home, not sitting on the bed with outside clothes, bowing as a sign of respect, and making sure not to disturb others with one's belongings in public spaces.

How has the interviewees' perspective on social interactions changed after living in Japan?

Some interviewees have become more comfortable with being introverted and having intentional interactions rather than feeling the need to be constantly social.

What challenges have the interviewees faced in adapting to Japanese culture?

Challenges include understanding the level of politeness and indirect communication, making friends with locals, and dealing with bureaucracy and technology that may seem outdated compared to their home countries.

How do the interviewees feel about the concept of 'Ganbaru' in Japanese culture?

One interviewee mentioned that 'Ganbaru' or persevering is something they have come to appreciate, as it reflects the Japanese culture's emphasis on hard work and effort.

What are some lifestyle changes the interviewees have noticed after living in Japan?

Lifestyle changes include becoming more disciplined, respecting other people's time, and developing a routine of taking a shower at night instead of in the morning.

How do the interviewees feel about the work culture in Japan compared to their home countries?

The interviewees find the work culture in Japan to be very different, with a strong emphasis on respect, hierarchy, and the importance of group harmony.

What advice do the interviewees have for people learning Japanese or considering moving to Japan?

The interviewees recommend finding a community, being patient with the learning process, watching Japanese dramas for everyday language, and understanding the cultural context behind language use.

Do the interviewees plan to stay in Japan long-term, and why?

The interviewees have varying plans for the future, with some considering staying in Japan for the long term due to career opportunities and lifestyle, while others may return to their home countries to be closer to family or for a change of environment.