First Impressions of Japan
Jackson Craun
They call it culture shock when you first step onto foreign ground and see societal behaviors that directly and extremely contradict everything you know. After one week in Japan, I can say it was even more shocking than I expected. Not that I didn't believe I would be affected, but the way of life here is different to say the least.
In the first week, almost all of which was spent in various parts of Tokyo, I learned and mastered basic sayings. I taught myself to walk on the left side of the walkway, cleansed my palette, and toughed out who knows how many subways. Some adjustments have been easy, while others make me question if I really want to live here someday. I won't stray away from my negative impressions, as Japan has so far made me realize there are inevitable downsides to any society. The lack of trash cans here has led to bags overflowing with loose bottles and wrappers. As someone who is highly against littering even in America, it's a chore. The subways are overpacked, confusingly laid out and stressful, and after a few meals, seafood and rice starts to lose its excitement.
However, these are merely petty gripes from a privileged westerner. I wouldn't count these things as valid criticisms of the country. The lack of trash cans creates an incentive to not carry litter and keeps the streets from stinking and being littered. The subway system provides an alternative to car transportation, which uses energy and gas and causes traffic and road damage. And the food is just a deviation from the fried slop I've been taught to love; it's better, but it's another culture shock. It all makes me realize how catered to we are in America.
Overall, I love Japan. The people here are respectful and patient, even to foreigners. Plenty of people speak decent English and plenty of businesses accommodate Americans. It's refreshing to see how orderly and relaxed everyone is. For a long time, I've been exhausted by the frantic and unorganized nature of Americans. I find the people here to be more shy and quiet on average, which of course could be because I'm a foreigner, but I think it's true. It makes going out on the town less risky because there's less confrontation.
This leads to another point: the surveillance. I see why the crime rate is so low here. There are cameras up and down every street, which feels equally reassuring and compromising. Everyone stays on their best behavior. If you leave something important lying around, like a bag or a wallet, there's a good chance it'll still be there. Japan sacrifices many freedoms for a safer and more healthy environment, which is honestly something I really respect. We can learn a thing or two from Japanese civilization.
Traversing a brand new country on your own is a challenge, but Japan has been as wonderful as it's been eye-opening. The cities are bright and colorful, the people are kind and the food is delicious. I'm enjoying myself here and I can't wait to see what the next few weeks has in store.
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