Question about Americans/living in Japan

[Everlasting]

I'm sure it's been asked before but I couldn't find it so, how do the Japanese feel about Americans? I've been looking at the threads here and saw that there is racism there. Is that so? I've been studying the culture/language for a while and have even started to read anime, if that counts for anything. I would really like to visit but I can't be in a place where people don't want me! I think I might go to college here and study more in Japan, who knows. I really want to be an architecht, need those there? Also, how are the living conditions there? I now they're crowded but are they dirty/smelly? I really want to go there but I'm dreaming foolish dreams. I mean how often does a foreigner go there, fall in love and start a cozy life there??? Well those are the main questions of millions of others. Maybe a last one, umm, my religion is very important to me, are there a lot of Christian churches in Japan? I'm sure that sounds stupid but, you know... That's it for now. Please don't be angry with me for asking such dumb questions.

[GomiGirl]

sweetie - there are literally thousands of us here - hence this web-site. Read through the archives to see what we experience here. Sure there are things that are less than perfect but that could be said of anywhere. It is just different to what you are used to and that is half the fun of the adventure.

If we didn't like it or didn't feel comfortable we would leave.

I am not American but am constantly asked if I am... there is still a love affair with many things american so you will be fine..

Japan is not really the place to start a career.. sure come for some study abroad to increase your horizons and decide for yourself. I know some foreign architects here and they love it.

[Taro Toporific]

I'm sure it's been asked before but I couldn't find it so, how do the Japanese feel about Americans?

Alien are aliens.
Japanese feelings about aliens or FGs is not much a concern to most foreigners.

have even started to read anime, if that counts for anything.

Nope.

I really want to be an architecht, need those there? Also, how are the living conditions there? I now they're crowded but are they dirty/smelly?

Like concrete? You'll love Japan.
Architects are needed here but only ones with 100% Japanese ability. However architecture/construction is basically a criminal industry that exploits the Japanese people and makes them suffer by substandard/fraudulent construction.

Stink? You'll looove the honey wagons.

religion is very important to me, are there a lot of Christian churches in Japan?

There are enough churches here for you to find a hot date. Every city has a few churches but there're not very popular except for the wedding industry.

[Pencilslave]

First of all, the only dumb questions are the ones you already know the answer to, and if anyone gets angry at you for trying to learn, they're a jackass.

As for anime and manga, while there a lot of folks who like it,(myself included), it's not a great way to learn about Japan. I've learned littlle tidbits of culture, but it's not enough. You're better off reading some books on Japanese culture.

As for people not wanting you there, that'll happen no matter where you go in the world. Even if you're the nicest person on earth, there'll still be people who won't like you. The Japanese don't all hate foreigners. Some of them like us, some of them hate us, and some are indifferent.

As for Japanese churches, here's a link that you may find helpful:http://www.keikyo.com/churches_japan/index.html

As for love, you're going to have to deal with cultural differences if you do get a Japanese girlfriend and possibly parental opposition if you two want to get married. Not all Japanese would be opposed but some are.

The best thing I can tell you I guess is to do as much research about Japan as you can and discard any rose colored pre-concieved notions. While I admit, that since I've never set foot in Japan, what I'm saying may not seem to carry much weight,but all the info I'm giving you I've learned from the folks on these forums. Do your homework, come visit a few times and make up your own mind whether Japan's for you or not.

Best wishes, Alan

[kamome]

The Japanese have generally positive feelings about Americans, despite public opposition to US military bases in Okinawa and the US presence in Iraq. But usually the Japanese don't do a great job of distinguishing foreigners by their nationality. As Taro said, to them, you are a foreigner, and their stereotypes are based more on that status rather than your nationality.

Religion is not central to life in Japan, but as others have said, there are churches you can go to.

Everything else about Japan can be adapted to, with some measure of personal sacrifice, the degree of which depends on your flexibility and sense of humor. You might want to befriend some Japanese people at your school to get a better sense of things before taking a trip out East.

[times-up]

It's great to see people helping this dude out rather than flame him. Something that I see way too much of on other boards.

[Big Booger]

Dude if you want to get your wick wet in some origami poontang, this country's all yours. If you want to make friends and form lasting relationships stay where you are. Of course every situation is different so do what you like.

I think Japanese are quite friendly on the surface and honestly speaking that's all I need. I don't give two shits what they say or do behind my back as long as they treat me square on the surface.

I've had a handful of "pseudo-racist" shit pulled because I am not of the yellow skin tribe, but it didn't put any extra shit stains in my underwear... so no worries.

Come over, get laid, cause some ruckus and then take your American ass back to the states.

[jingai]

"get you wick wet in some origami poontang"

You can probably make your own origami just as well back home. Not sure how well it will work wet, however.

[Charles]

You can probably make your own origami just as well back home.

[Everlasting]

Sorry I haven't replied. First, ahh, embarrassing, I'm a girl. Yes, a woman seeking a man. Which brings me to my next question. Oh, but first. I would like to say thank you for all the replies! They are very helpful. Ok, here's my next question. My older brother who is taking Japanese, said that it's ok for a man to cheat on his wife. I don't want to be offensive and I'm not trying to be or anything. Someone told me that um, a lot of people over there aren't straight...... I'm being so rude I know but, I would like to know some things the books don't tell you, you know? I respect everyone's opinion and I hope no one is offended. Also, medical conditions, how are those taken care of? I have a few that actually, have cuzed me to have homeschool for the past few years. Could I get medicine for aniexty/depression out there? That may sound stupid, but I can get very physicaly sick without it. I have more questions still, so I hope no one get's annoyed with me. ^_^A

[AssKissinger]

I'm a girl. Yes, a woman seeking a man.

I'll fuck you.

[kamome]

Sheeeeit, that's a lot of loaded questions.

Are you trying to confirm what your brother said about cheating on one's spouse? It definitely happens in Japan, but I don't think it's officially condoned. However, the culture is more accepting of the notion that you can separate sex from love and I have heard Japanese women frankly admit that they wouldn't consider it "cheating" if their husband had sex with a prostitute since no love is involved. However, extra-marital affairs are not limited to men in Japan, and from what I've seen Japanese women can be equally guilty these days.

Are you considering marrying a Japanese dude? And is that your reason for wanting to go to Japan (i.e., to meet a possible future spouse?). Personally, I would not recommend going to Japan if that is your main motivating factor.

Homosexuality exists in Japan like in every other country. I doubt it's any more prevalent than in other places. I think there's a thread on FG about gay gaijin being attracted to Japan. Do a search to get some info.

Our man Taro Toporific can give you a great run-down about the medical system in Japan. He's been in and out of Club Dead for months now.

[AssKissinger]

Just kidding I won't fuck you.

are there a lot of Christian churches in Japan

But American Oyaji will. He's horny as toad. [SIZE="1"]Hasn't been laid in years actually.[/SIZE]

[Hanakuso]

Someone told me that um, a lot of people over there aren't straight...... I'm being so rude I know but, I would like to know some things the books don't tell you, you know?

No , you have every reason to be alarmed... Look! heres proof!

[nullpointer]

Just kidding I won't fuck you.




But American Oyaji will. He's horny as toad. Hasn't been laid in years actually.

[Everlasting]

Actually, I don't care what race my husband is as long as were in love. I'm not sure why I would like visit. I've just been very intrested in Japan ever since I was little. I think my grandmother might of hade something to do with it. Before she pasted away, she would show my sister and I all these beauful asian decorations. Maybe that's why, I don't know. Sometimes I daydream about living there, but for now, I would just like to visit. Try it before you but it, you know. I can't help it, but I feel really bad about my last post. I feel that I might of been offensive. I'm sorry if I was, I wasn't trying to be.

[kamome]

I can't help it, but I feel really bad about my last post. I feel that I might of been offensive. I'm sorry if I was, I wasn't trying to be.

Offensive? You obviously haven't been a member of FG for very long. If you want offensive, check out these threads for just a taste of what FG provides for your obscene entertainment:

Let's Talk About Smegma

Anime. Bukkake. Dolls.

Student Cuts Off Penis and Tongue

[Taro Toporific]

... um, a lot of people over there aren't straight......

Yep, Japan can be a gay place for a gaijin (who might be walking into things not fully understanding the score)...but no-way-Jose' is gayness an big issue/problem/danger/excitement.

..... Also, medical conditions, how are those taken care of? I have a few that actually, have cuzed me to have homeschool for the past few years. Could I get medicine for aniexty/depression out there? ...

Saaa.
Japanese has far fewer options for anxiety/depression meds. If you need them, you should always bring them with you (if legally prescribed). A "reasonable" supply of prescribed meds to cover the length of your tourist visa shoud be ok. Read more about other gaijin dealing with anxiety/depression here, here,and
Pills To The Rescue?]

Please note that many Japanese doctors here have little interest-or-abilities dealing with such problems.*

You really you need to think over the wisdom of coming to Japan, if you're already having such issues. If you have anxiety/depression now just think what changing cultures/languages/food/housing/jobs is going to put you well over the edge in terms of life-changes stress factors. Serious. Take the [url=http://www.amtamassage.org/room/lifechangestest.html]test answering the questions as though you just arrived in Japan---Most regular noob gaijin will score a deadly 300+ points in Life Change Units (LCUs) meaning physical illness or psychosis will be a danger.


*For an American with pre-existing medical conditions that cause insurance problems, the Japanese national health insurance system is wild bargan, IF you can handle the Japanese language/system well.

[Greji]

Just kidding I won't fuck you.




But American Oyaji will. He's horny as toad. [SIZE="1"]Hasn't been laid in years actually.[/SIZE]

I might warn you about believing everything AK posts, he's hornier than a two peckered billy goat!

[Everlasting]

I have this plan. I don't want my fears to get in the way anymore. I've had it. I feel I need to follow my dreams and look at the brighter side of things. I'm currently seeing a therapist and some other doctors. My plan is to continue with school and go to college to become an architect or something. (Building beautiful modern homes at affordable prices!) hehe. Either that or writing/art, that's what my teachers and family want me to do. I wouldn't mind it. (I just need a career that can take care of my family.) While I'm doing this I will continue seeing my doctors. I plan to visit Japan on vactions, absorbing all the culture that I can, and then perhaps after school, I'll look into living there for a month. A little at a time, easing my way into a new life. School is very important to me, no matter where you go, you need an education. So that needs to come first. I sound stupid, but, well that's my plan pretty much.
Btw, I'm borderlined stressed. Not too bad. I also don't have as many panic attacks. I'm working on all these things, not just to go to Japan, which is my main goal, but to be able to achieve in life.

[homesweethome]

I have this plan. I don't want my fears to get in the way anymore. I've had it. I feel I need to follow my dreams and look at the brighter side of things. I'm currently seeing a therapist and some other doctors. My plan is to continue with school and go to college to become an architect or something. (Building beautiful modern homes at affordable prices!) hehe. Either that or writing/art, that's what my teachers and family want me to do. I wouldn't mind it. (I just need a career that can take care of my family.) While I'm doing this I will continue seeing my doctors. I plan to visit Japan on vactions, absorbing all the culture that I can, and then perhaps after school, I'll look into living there for a month. A little at a time, easing my way into a new life. School is very important to me, no matter where you go, you need an education. So that needs to come first. I sound stupid, but, well that's my plan pretty much.
Btw, I'm borderlined stressed. Not too bad. I also don't have as many panic attacks. I'm working on all these things, not just to go to Japan, which is my main goal, but to be able to achieve in life.

There are lot's of doctors who will gladly give you any pills you need. I know from experience (as do others here at FG), but, if your real problems are something else, there are ways of getting help like the Kenkou Hokken Kokumin Houshou Center which every resident in any local in Japan should be able to get help from, it just requires asking for it to the right people. But in all seriousness, I really don't think anything less than death would or should prohibit anyone from seeking their life's purpose in Japan, or anywhere else.

That's what it's all about anyway.

[503]

Ok, here's my next question. My older brother who is taking Japanese, said that it's ok for a man to cheat on his wife. I don't want to be offensive and I'm not trying to be or anything. Someone told me that um, a lot of people over there aren't straight......

Only a Christian could think in such an ignorant way. I guess there are people here who aren't straight, and I guess some people do cheat on their spouses. Why would you express concern about the Japanese being racist and not treating foreigners fairly when you yourself, in my opinion, are bigoted and closed minded?

Only a Christian could express concern about one social flaw that directly effects them and at the same time turn off their brain to become unreasonable and misguided about another.

I knew before I read your original post what your story was. Please keep that hatred in the States.

[BeantownBastard]

... Btw, I'm borderlined stressed. Not too bad. I also don't have as many panic attacks. I'm working on all these things, not just to go to Japan, which is my main goal, but to be able to achieve in life.

If you're trying to get away from stress, then this is the last contry you'll want to live and work in, IMO. The only way for me to releave stress is on multiple-week vacations, OUTSIDE of the country.

This country is built on stress, and everyone has it. It all depends on how you deal with it, and it can be a shock to new people.

[Taro Toporific]

...Only a Christian could express concern about one social flaw that directly effects them and at the same time turn off their brain to become unreasonable and misguided about another.... Please keep that hatred in the States.

Whoa.
That's a harsh response to a kid just asking a question. ...actually just thinking out loud whether or not living in Japan is a real problem from a religous or racial aspect (it isn't).

[kamome]

I think Japan offers more ways to get rid of stress than the US (onsen, beer/whiskey accessible every 3 feet, smoker's paradise, legit and non-legit massage parlors, love hotels, etc.) Stress reduction is big business in Japan.

But if you're prone to stress, then I'd agree that Japan is not a good country to go to. Not because the Japanese are stressed out, but because the myriad frustrations that crop up in the daily life of an FG can be a significant source of stress. I felt I had to learn patience to an extreme not required when I lived in the States. And also had to learn what my priorities were in life in order to maintain my own sense of fulfillment.

Ironically, Japan tends to attract a lot of unbalanced people, but it's the wrong place to go to sort themselves out.

[Everlasting]

Only a Christian could think in such an ignorant way. I guess there are people here who aren't straight, and I guess some people do cheat on their spouses. Why would you express concern about the Japanese being racist and not treating foreigners fairly when you yourself, in my opinion, are bigoted and closed minded?

Only a Christian could express concern about one social flaw that directly effects them and at the same time turn off their brain to become unreasonable and misguided about another.

I knew before I read your original post what your story was. Please keep that hatred in the States.

Well, I am Christian but I'm not closed minded. That may not be my lifestyle but I don't care about others doing it. As for the cheating thing, yes. I would care if it happened to me. If my husband cheated on me I would be so hurt. Oh, and it's not just the Japanese. Every counrty has it. I don't expect to go to a country without that stuff. What I meant was, are they very open about it. My older sister found out about her husband cheating and like most people she was not happy. (trial seperation.) Do spouses in Japen care as much as U.S. spouses do?

---- I'm sorry for being rude, but I think you may be a little closed minded if you think every Christian thinks that way. I just want to learn about stuff that you don't read about in the culture/language books, ok? I am not a bigot. I don't care about other people's sexual perferences, but what I do care about it people like you who can't be mature and state what you think without insults. Grow up. Good day to you sir. Excuse me for being rude everyone but I'm not going to take that. I still have more questions but I can't think of any right now. Thank you to everyone who is being patient with me and once again I'm sorry if I was offensive.

[Big Booger]

I'll say this, if you are self-conscious, the Japanese will rip you a new asshole.. got a mole... it will become talk of the office. Fat? Better go on a diet because they'll lay into you like AOyaji in a fresh piece of tail after 4 year dry spell.

Eye color not brown/black... you'll be jirjiromiru'd constantly... Every little thing you could possibly think that could be talked about, will. I know a chick who left here in about 3 months cause everyone was calling her fat... and she had the nicest ass I had every seen on any woman (apart from my wife)... I swear if I were not married, I would have T-boned her every day she was here.

It's like Japanese have some obsession with putting down co-workers... I don't get it... because I am not fucking Japanese. But I find as soon as you cut them down on something in Japanese they shut their fucking pie holes.

[Taro Toporific]

...As for the cheating thing...Do spouses in Japen care as much as U.S. spouses do? ...

Saaaa, People-are-People: Japanese wives are brothered by it, but will let it slide more than American wives provided the husband is a good provider.[floatr][/floatr] Now an American wife bringing her charisma-man husband to Japan may have just a few problems. I suggest strict regime of Depo Provera (medroxyprogesterone acetate) for any healthly American husband six months prior to arrival in Japan.

As for state of Christianity in Japan, there's shocking new news about that today...

GALLUP POLL OF JAPAN FINDS CHRISTIANITY ON THE UPSWING
Traditional Religions In Japan Show Decline Among Teens, Pessimism About The Meaning Of Life As Compared To US Teens
ASSIST News Service, Friday, March 17, 2006--- A poll conducted by the Gallup Organization has yielded some surprising statistics on Japanese attitudes toward religion, morality and spirituality.
According to a media advisory obtained by ANS, among the findings from one of the most extensive surveys of the country ever taken was a Christian population of 6 percent, a number much higher than reported in previous surveys.
Researchers were also surprised by high numbers of teens who claimed the Christian faith, while the traditionally dominant religions, Buddhism and Shintoism, though still claimed by many adults, suffered declines among teenagers. Some respondents answered that they belonged to more than one religion.Of the 30 percent of adults surveyed who claimed to have a religion, 75 percent considered themselves Buddhists, 19 percent Shintoists, while 12 percent considered themselves to be Christians.
Researchers were especially surprised at the large number of Japanese youth who claimed the Christian faith. Of the 20 percent who professed to have a religion, 60 percent called themselves Buddhists, 36 percent Christians and followers of the traditionally dominant Japanese religion, Shinto.
Calling the numbers "stunning," George Gallup Jr. who assisted with the poll, noted of teenagers: "these projections mean that seven percent of the total teenage population say they are Christians."...more...

[drpepper]

Yeah well that is because history is ignored here in just about every way. Looks cool to be married in a church so I guess I will be a christian.. god bless them, they are simply too ignorant to know any better.

[Mulboyne]

I'd be interested in what kind of Christianity was supposedly making ground in Japan. The Mormons and Jehovahs Witnesses are probably the most active proselytizers while the Catholic Church depends on Phillipinos. No idea what the Protestants are up to.

The bursting of the bubble saw a number of religious cults increasing their membership in spite of the Aum Shinrikyo gas attack. Most of the membership growth came from disaffected well-to-do graduates. More recently, however, there has been a lot of press about how the economic recovery has been very uneven with fewer Japanese feeling they qualify as middle class. That might be creating a pool of people looking for answers in the wrong places.