Asking Interracial Couples In Japan How They Met

Summary

This video features interviews with various interracial couples living in Japan, exploring how they met, navigated long distance relationships, overcame cultural differences, and adapted to living together. Couples share perspectives on communication challenges, the impact of the pandemic on meeting in person, importance of setting relationship expectations openly, and mutual personal growth. Their stories aim to inspire those in international relationships by proving they can work despite hurdles.

Q & A

How did the first couple featured meet each other?

They met online through a language exchange app and started out teaching each other their native languages. After talking for 6 months, they arranged to meet in person for the first time in the UK.

What difficulties did the couple face in terms of communication styles?

The Japanese partner felt that in Japan people can understand things without explicitly saying them, but her British partner needed more direct communication. She had to adjust and be more direct in voicing her thoughts and feelings.

Why did the couple decide to move back to the UK?

While they enjoyed living in Japan, they found life in the UK more comfortable. The UK offered more opportunities to try new things and challenges which motivated them.

How did the American man and Japanese woman featured meet?

They met at university in Japan where the American was studying abroad. They started going to dinner together for language exchange.

What was the biggest cultural difference the American-Japanese couple had to overcome?

Approaches to arguing - the American wanted to talk issues through completely whereas the Japanese partner needed space. This caused stress until they compromised.

How long was the Italian woman featured in a long distance relationship before closing the distance?

She was in a long distance relationship with her Japanese partner for 3 years before finally moving to Japan to live with him.

What advice did the Italian woman have for those in new international relationships?

Openly discuss what each partner finds acceptable or not early on so everyone clearly understands boundaries and avoids unspoken assumptions.

What enabled the Italian and Japanese couple to sustain their long distance relationship?

Having a clear future goal and timeline to finally reunite kept them motivated through the difficulties of separation.

What language skills helped facilitate the Brazilian man's relationship with his Japanese girlfriend?

The man's fluency in Japanese allowed him to fully communicate and express himself with his girlfriend who only spoke Japanese.

Why does the Brazilian man credit his ability to live in Japan long-term for the relationship success?

Since he has adapted to and understands Japanese culture well from living there, cultural differences don't pose issues in their daily lives.