Great vids!!! oh my Mama(white gaijin) went through this similar situation by bringing me up in the ordinary Japanese school system. She was the only gaijin there so she tried very hard to become a "Japanese mother" that even some Japanese thought she was more Japanese than Japanese themselves...hehe But you must not forget who you are as a person, or you'll go mentally insane and miss out on having fun!
This is an extremely well-delivered explaination considering the background noise you had to deal with. Thank you. We appreciate it much. I don't know if I can actually do what you do. I, too, can't talk down to people.
I'm happy that in general I never really assimilated even in my Own hometown. So i've gotten used to not fitting in. If i go to Japan all i'll be doing is making it more apparent!
yamato-damashii ^u^v haha your videos are really interesting I am glad I found you to subscribe to (and from what I've heard I don't think you're a bad dj!)
Love your videos Hiko. I am learning Japanese but I was considering giving up because I thought I would never be accepted in Japan because I am Irish.
Thanks to you though I am going to pick up where I left off.
Great video, I've had a total of 7 years working for Japanese companies myself. I've had a lot of similar experiences, and have largely come to the same conclusions. I found, as a foreigner in a Japanese company I just had to get the most from the experience that it was, but then move on. I think you really hit the nail on the head by saying that we are like perpetual guests in Japan.
@konoha4dawin I don't think that's it. It's generally people who believe you should try to fit in to the country you are in. The hope is that it makes life easier, which is true to an extent. I don't think it's a desire to change what you are - it is a desire to be accepted among others for who you are.
A lot of people don't seek that acceptance, and hang out in English pubs with their gaijin mates and rip on guys going native. Some of those guys are happy like that, some are miserable
@konoha4dawin Some guys who try very hard to be accepted tend to go more extreme one way or the other - they either carve out a long stable life here, or they suffer complete breakdowns. In the end of the day, I don't like to see people suffer breakdowns, and I can't stand whingers or people who rip on others, but whether you seek acceptance or not, if you're happy doing your own thing, then that's fine with me.
Hiko, your advice is so incredibly invaluable. Myself studying abroad in Japan next semester and looking seriously at the possibility of working in Japan for a good portion of my life, I can tell that this information will be incredibly helpful to me. I've been thinking a lot about cultural identity as of late and what is expected of a person in Japan, and this sets many of my fears at ease. As always, thank you for your helpful spirit. Oh, and Yamato-damashii... :P
No... Think about an even bigger social historical problem: Are Japanese Americans, Asian Americans, or any Asians in Western countries totally accepted as "real Australian", "real American", "real Canadian" even if they were born or raised there? Simply no.. Because racial discrimination has been going on in Western countries for centuries and keeps going on.. People keep thinking White=West.. Its that simple.. Sure there may be some grey areas, mixed people, but mostly overall, No.
Mostly overall, it doesn't matter whether you are white or not to be considered a 'real' American. There being a 'real' America is a minority concept, and has been declining for quite some time.
@Turigamot. I see you are ignornant and uneducated about the facts of racial discrimination in America. Well discrimination is what causes people to become "minorities" in the first place whether they want to be or not.. You simply brush off a centuries old serious social problem and smugly say it "doesnt matter"? Amazing. You must be white since racial discrimination "doesnt matter" to you. How arrogant.
@Turigamot. Your arrogant act of denying racism exists or is even a problem makes you complicit. People like you arent even worth spitting at. You are sickening.
@DJmixmastermicro I never denied it exists, dude. But times have changed. And you refuse to acknowledge that. And most of those who are racist do their damnedest to hide it. Race is fringe. The thing to be bigoted against now in America is political affiliation.
Also, simply stating that me being white means I think racism doesn't matter is racism in and of itself. You are blind to your own deficits, sir.
@DJmixmastermicro This ain't the 60s dude. Or the 70s. Or even the 80s and 90s. Most people have moved on. Using the past to condemn the present doesn't help anybody.
@Turigamot. Well you being an arrogant moron who is blinded by your own ignorance and White privelege, to brush everything under a carpet of "everything is great now that Obama is here". You are incapable of being concerned with racial minority issues in America.
@DJmixmastermicro I live in Washington, DC. "Chocolate City". I wasn't born well-to-do. And you just keep going back to insulting me, never backing up your claims that racial discrimination is an overwhelming problem. Tell me, if *most* people are racist nowadays, then why did *most* people vote for Obama, to the very pinnacle of political power in this country? How does that work? It doesn't. Times. Have. Changed. And continue to do so. Now, kindly stop putting words into my mouth, thanks.
@Turigamot. Hilarious. You claim that the city where someone live determines whether one is racist or not? You clearly have a demented and mistaken view of social problems. You seem to think that the election of Obama means racism is disappearing or already disappeared? You as a White man in America dare to claim that racism is no longer an important issue? Well maybe thats because it doesnt really affect you directly. So you have the privilege to say its not important. How smug and arrogant.
@Turigamot. you dont have much words in your mouth. because you are essentially saying the same thing in different ways, basically you say: "today everything is much better than yesterday, so stop complaining".. thats a very smug attitude. it might be wonderful for you, so congratulations, but if you havent realized yet, things are different for black, asian, latino, or whatever historically discriminated ethnic group. even in the present.
@DJmixmastermicro The funny thing is, I never said racism has fully disappeared. And it never will. But the way racism affects average day-to-day life is vastly different now than it used to be. Open, blatant racists are social pariahs. Discrimination is more often subtle in this day and age where it exists, except in the case, as I said, of political affiliation.
I'm glad you finally replied without using any insults this time. But I am done now.
@Turigamot. You seem to suggest that racist violence is almost gone now and any racism that remains is deeply covered up. But this us a very distorted viewpoint. You are assuming some kind of evolution has happened in a few years. Sorry, but real evolution happens over eons, not just a few years. The fact is racist killings, disappearances, beatings, fights, lootings still happen up to now. Congratulation you didnt experience it, but many others do. Do you even protest? Did I say I wasnt white?
@DJmixmastermicro I don't agree with your comment at all. Obviously, there are always cases of racism in any country you may happen to live in, but the idea that Asians in America are NEVER accepted as REAL Americans is completely false. I have had many Asian-American friends through the years, all of whom were born and raised in America. They consider themselves American. I consider them American, and I don't know of anyone who DOESN'T consider them American.
@bravictor. The fact that there IS racism in America means that "Asian Americans" are not accepted as really American. Do you even now what you are talking about? What do you think racism affects?? If Asian Americans were TOTALLY accepted as American then it would mean there wasnt any racism and there would be no need to group themselves defensively as "Asian Americans". Sure "Asian Americans" are legally "American" citizens, but that doesnt stop the racism against them all their lives. Wake up.
@DJmixmastermicro You need to read my comment before replying. I didn't say that ALL people accept Asians as Americans. I was simply saying that your contention that Asians are NEVER accepted as real Americans is false. I'm not the one so focused on race. An American is an American no matter what their ethnic background, and there are a lot of people who feel like I do. I also stated that racism exists in every country, including America, but it isn't in the majority here.
@bravictor Thats funny, but i never said the word "never". YOU did moron. You seem to be reading your own imagination into something you read. Of course you didnt focus on race, you are downplaying the problem of racism that many white Americans tend to do. You think that a passport of citizenship card is where the truth lies. Sorry but the lived experiences of human beings is were the real TRUTH lies. And thos human beings called "Asian American" experience racism in America. Thats the fact.
@DJmixmastermicro You're obviously not worth debating with if all you have in your rhetorical repertoire is the knee-jerk reaction of calling people morons. Your very first comment, which I was originally responding to said, "Are Japanese Americans, Asian Americans, or any Asians in Western countries totally accepted as "real Australian", "real American", "real Canadian" even if they were born or raised there? Simply no.." That sounds like "never" to me. But that's it. I'm done with you.
@bravictor. A person who downplays cultural racism against an entire group of minorites (ie Asian Americans) in the US is very seriously wrong.. If you did it un-intentionally you are indeed a moron. But if you did it intentionally you are simply a jerk.
@bravictor Don't worry, the guy has some deep-seated issues. I'm British, of African and Southeast Asian descent, and I live in Japan. Doesn't matter how anyone makes excuses in the other direction: in the West a non-white citizen is embraced overall. In Japan, a non-(racially) Japanese is not. End of. Here people ask you on first meetings: "so where are you from?.. UK?!" (but he's black!... their brains melt). Back at home its: "What part of London are u from mate?".. and that's the difference.
@121drumstick I guess you have been living under a rock for the last 1000 years, or you have never travelled anywhere outside your village. In that case, save yourself the plane fare, type in 'Black British' on Wikipedia, and learn. Ignorance can be a shameful thing, 121drumstick, a very shameful thing..
@DJmixmastermicro The only real Americans are native Americans. The only real Canadians are native Canadian. The only real Australians are indigenous Australians. Everyone else is an immigrant. Unless I learned some weird version of history.
@DJmixmastermicro It really happens that much? I've been raised in New England, and the pretty much general experience I've had all my life is there are only Americans. Actually I've found that people of the same race tend to be meaner to each other. I got a lot of shit from white guys and girls, especially in high school, but puerto ricans, asians, blacks were always nice to me. Heck white girls made fun of me for being fat a lot, while black girls just talked to me normally..
@DJmixmastermicro That is really quite ignorant. As a Canadian who has lived in many parts of my country I can say without a shadow of a doubt that no one will naturally assume you're an immigrant, tourist, or foreign business person simply because you're not white.
That attitude is terribly antiquated. I'd say the great majority of people in my country assume anyone walking the street to be a Canadian citizen by virtue of our naturally diverse culture.
@Condeycon it totally invalidates your point because you can never feel the edge of the racial discrimination sword. you just a privileged white man, out of touch with minority peoples reality.
@DJmixmastermicro Privileged, lol. I'm lower middle class. Your rhetoric sounds straight out of a Black Panther rally.
And you don't know a thing about me and yet you assume I've never been discriminated against. Hell, you're the one making grand assumptions about me based on the ONE fact I've told you. The age of race wars and pogroms is over. I'd say a minority or immigrant has a way better chance to build a new life in the west then anywhere else in the world.
@Condeycon. Oh yes how predictable, a WHITE man declares that there is no more racism against minorities in America. Everything is just equal now because a white man says so. Please say that again as you just keep shooting yourself in the foot. LOL
@DJmixmastermicro Unless you're living in a middle of no-where small town, this isn't really the case. In any sort of urban area Americans of whatever ethnicity are generally accepted as "just another person", not "that japanese guy" or whatever. There are exceptions of course, but that's definitely not the norm.
Thanks for the great vid but please please never make a vid in a noisy area again. I thought you were on a runway! That cam picks up evey single sound and I really strained to catch what you said. As for that, well done, its about time someone said it ey? Lets be grateful we dont have to pit up with as much 'job crap' as the natives.
@mybelovedsushi yep... when I posted this, it was so long and the sound was so bad, I was embarrassed to post it but wanted to put it up as a response and left a note I would only leave it up for a week. I got a lot of positive feedback however asking me to leave it up so I have, but rest assured, I will never make a 30 minute long vlog walking beside a highway ever again. :)
I think you are twisting the "gaijin" point of view to your advantage. You are saying that foreigners want to be treated "as a Japanese". You are lying, you are a lapodog liar, and you know you are a liar. Foreigners want to be treated as a HUMAN BEING. Don't try to twist things lapdog.
Yamato-damashii, thaaat was a very long video. I once had dreams of moving to Japan but after experiencing the hard life of my Japanese friends. I decided that I rather live in Sweden where I grew up and visit Japan as a tourist now and then. That way I can have the best of both worlds. Loads of carefree fun in Japan and a healthy, unstressfull work-life where I have more rights, priveleiges and living space in Sweden.
Excellent! Yes, most Gaijin come to Japan and their goal is to "become" Japanese. The worst thing is the gaijin who start competing with OTHER gaijin, as in "They may reject you, but they accept me...because I speak Japanese better, I know their culture better, etc..." That's the worst. It's like they're competing to get into "The Club". I'd like to see those type of Gaijin get a reality check.
Anyway, excellent video and very interesting insight.
@itsinthebag2010xyz Cheers man - glad you enjoyed the vid. I used to be that kind of competitive sucky gaijin. I cringe thinking of it now, but there again, it's how I got where I am so I guess there's pros and cons to everything.
Appreciate you watching this - hope it paints a bit of colour to where I was coming from on the arguing collab skit as well.
@Hikosaemon I think the reason is that many of the "Western" foreigners come to Japan are very insecure people, and haven't really grown up despite of being in their late 20s early 30s. They are still in the phase where they can only get self-esteem from belonging to a group.
Of course, when these people come here and meet their fellow "contenders", they feel like in a competition and are envious of everybody who speaks better or has more Japanese friends.
@itsinthebag2010xyz I really hate that concept. At least that's how I feel as a comp. eng. student. The students are so arrogant and cocky that they reject your ideas and only accept theirs. The learning experience becomes very difficult. I end up studying on my own whereas the other cocky students sit there and argue all day long. It's so annoying that I don't even want to study comp. engineering anymore. Students want to compete and get in the "I'm smart" spotlight rather than learn together.
I really want REAL democracy which isn't based on hierarchy in Japan as a Japanese. Coz the hierarchical exclusive socialistic structure of society ( the old constitution ) actually causes problems even for Japanese and its economy. And it often kills potentials of people. It's a problem that many Japanese still don't have a sense of equality to people from other countries and even to own people. There are some people who want changes but, the society kills the individuals. But Some fight.
Hey I just want to say thanks for making this video. I'm not familiar with J-bloggers or the drama that happened regarding this debate of foreigners in Japan. However what I can say is that your advice has definately helped me during my "burnout" if you would call it that. I'm a current exchange student in Japan and though I haven't been here that long yet, I'm kinda hardcore in that I want to get to know the real Japan and I have a long-term outlook on wanting to stay in Japan.
The thing is though I've recently joined a very tough social circle. A club actually, where the hierarchical senpai/kouhai thing is as strong as it can be. For the sake of privacy I don't want to state what the club is but I can say it has over decades of tradition. I'm very privileged to be let in but doing so also means you are to be treated the same. When watching your video, the whole salaryman world seems to be a close situation with what I'm experiencing now.
Since I only joined recently I am the lowest of the low so basically almost everyone is my senpai. And the thing is, I'm so scared of doing things wrong, so freaking nervous of my senpais, worried about using Keigo and getting so damn frustrated about why why why the senpais have to subject kouhais to a bunch of crap when they know it was hard back when they were the kouhais.
The whole environment was just not making sense to me especially since I also come from a westernised background (also Aust/NZ actually!) so I guess I'm going through this so-called burnout right now where I'm questioning why the hell I'm doing this, why the hell do I want to be in Japan when it's like this etc. etc. It's gotten to the point where I feel like everyday when I don't see the people in the club is when I'm free.
I don't feel like myself anymore when I automatically bow to anyone that walks in front of me because I'm used to everyone being my senpai. What I want to ask is, does it get any better once you become a senpai? If I, no no that's ::when:: I overcome all this, I'll be getting some kouhais in a couple of months. But I can't imagine treating them the way I was treated. I wouldn't want to dump all the work on them.
And if they're in trouble I'd want to help them, but doing so also means not following the senpai/kouhai hierarchy. My senpais will look disapprovingly on me helping out the kouhai and the kouhai will probably not even dare to let me help them. What's this crazy system? Right now being in the midst of it all I just don't get it anymore!
However watching your video has made me try to look on the positive side. It's made me a little less scared of facing my senpai tomorrow again. Maybe it's ok to mess up and get scold at. Doing so I might become a stronger person for it.
So I thank you for your advice video and if you have time I'd love it if you could respond to my question about the being a senpai thing. Some more advice on this Japanese hierarchical system might also help to keep me sane.
@kyuririn hey, not at all - it's nice to hear a comment from someone with a familiar experience. There's a lot to cover here to. As I mentioned in the first half of the vid, I never came to terms with dealing with kouhai, having the same issues you do, and it ends up affecting your own status - when you don't act like a sempai, you don't get treated or accepted as one, and this was a hurdle I never really got over. Instead, in my own work, I found ways to work independently to avoid this.
@kyuririn That said, there are gaijins who do slip into that role, and indeed, there are many Japanese who manage to fill that role while still being nice guys. I think the key is having support - I'm guessing you will have douki or equal level people in your club. Those "douki" networks I had from when I first started working in Japan are an important source of support for me today. Douki who are friends are great sources of support.
@kyuririn I also think it is good to find Japanese senpai you respect and immitate them, and get their counselling on it. It feels bad at times, but some Japanese come through it without seeming like a-holes. ;) On the other stuff, yes, Japan does change you - bowing, being deferntial, etc, especially in the first couple of years. And that first and third year burnout hits hard. What happens at that time is people tend to bounce back and reclaim a bit of their gaijin identity.
@kyuririn People go through extreme swings in my experience, and this is why so many leave after 1 or 3 years. Probably 90% of people go to foreign companies after 3 years, even if they stay. I went to a foreign company after 7 years. I think it is around the 5 year mark that things start to balance out. You reclaim your old character, but with the benefits of being a better listener, a bit more self aware, and sufficiently mellowed out and humble to deal with most situations at either end.
@kyuririn This is where I made two vids on this. For new arrivals, my advice is "go hard or go home". But for someone like you in a fairly intense and easy to burnout situation, it is important to be able to step back and reclaim perspective at that point of burnout. The stress can make people physically become ill, and even actually go nuts sometimes (I've seen and heard it happen). I guess it takes good self awareness to find your own way through things.
@kyuririn Point is, it is good to be open and to really try hard to fit in, but when you see it is starting to take a toll, take a breather, try to be as objective as possible, and strategize the best way to deal with the situation that lets you keep your own sanity and identity. In my case, I discovered that it is better to accept being a little "kirawareteiru" in exchange for the breathing room you get. But of course, you don't want to go too far and not fit in at all. It's a delicate balance.
@kyuririn Everyone is different, but based on my experience, my advice is to not to focus on doing EVERYTHING exactly as you are supposed to, but objectively figuring out the best way to fit in that works for everyone. Accept that some compromise is involved, and use the friends around you for support and ideas.
It's always the best and nicest people who go too far and end up in a bad way. Keep perspective, and I can tell you when you find that right balance, everything does get MUCH easier.
Thank you so much for taking the time to reply. I guess maybe I am trying a bit too hard. I want to talk to heaps of people and get to know everyone but people tell me I should stick with my douki and never address the senpais unless they approach me (which won't happen because I am lower than them or whatever). As a fairly social person, it feels so strange to be suppressed like that, as if I don't even have the freedom to talk to whoever I want.
Plus in my situation, it doesn't help that there are very few douki because just like you mentioned in the video, even Japanese themselves find it hard and heaps of people had quit earlier this year.
I found it a little better to deal with today. I think it just helps to know that I'm not alone in my suffering, that there has been others before me who've found a good balance themselves and come out better for it.
It's just sometimes I feel like everyone else is having a better time in Japan than me. Especially as I'm an exchange student, I see heaps of other students seemingly having the time of their life in Japan. But then again, most of them probably are just here to have fun for a semester or a year and then return home whereas I'm planning on staying long term.
Since it's my own decision it's silly to be complaining really but when it gets tough sometimes you forget why you're doing what you're doing. However I'll remember to keep your advice in mind next time I'm questioning myself again. :) Plus I've gotten interested in some of your other videos now. You have some great insight on issues facing Japan today! Thanks again! :)
i think that you have understood the question and the various answers better than most of the repliers (is repliers a word?) and what you say is the truth and its perfectly acceptable, if you are not japanese you are not japanese but you can still fit in as a gaijin with the people you know and work with and it really depends on the level of dedication you have to be more culturally japanese
Interesting/insightful video, too bad there's all that annoyse - I've had enough problems understanding your accent, or rather the speed of your pronunciation :Þ
Very yin-yang. At least thats what it sounds like to me. To be japanese, everyone is very nice, but in order for that to happen, you have to go through a lot of trouble.
It's nice that everyone is so nice though. I remember going through this in a way to a much lesser extent when I went to boarding school in England as an american.
Like once when walking with my friends, to keep myself from boredom, I started singing 'Yankee Doodle', but as soon as I got past the first two words, I made them laugh in surprise. Same with 'eni-meeni-miini-mo'. I said said tiger, they said piggy. :) So I just made up a new one suited for boarding school life. PM me if you're curious.But the strangest comment I had personally heard was that I looked american. I had never really thought before that that could apply to me. I was just a person.
wow, this is a really interesting video. It gave me lots to think about, and I had never really questioned about what it's like to be Japanese, even though I know a number of Japanese people who are not pleased with their lot (so to speak). Thanks!
I've never been to Japan but would someday love to visit.
I don't think this issue is strictly a Japanese one. This phenomenon happens all over the world. People everywhere see foreigners as different and treat them as such, for better or for worse, until that foreigner becomes known to the community. Japan may be unique due to the vast cultural differences but I think the basic feelings towards foreigners are the same.
@Devilock79 I think that's very true - I've had a lot of comments from people in other countries with similar experiences. It's really a fascinating topic.
I live in Ireland where it has been basically a white country up until very recently. We have had a massive influx of African, Middle Eastern, and Eastern European people in the last 10-20 years. The Irish are very friendly and polite to your face but it's a different story entirely behind closed doors. Of course not all Irish are like this but I think it's a natural reaction to foreigners everywhere. We are afraid of what we do not know and fear breeds hatred and intolerance.
On the other hand there is a great fascination for new and different cultures and I think this is a great thing. Although I do believe we should hold on to our individual cultures, there is no reason we can't share with others. This world is too small to be divided by silly things like race and culture. There are many things I love about Japanese culture but there are some I loathe. Overall it seems like an awesome country. I envy you! =D
やまとーだましい、A long but interesting video for me, I'm pleased i stuck with it. I'm one of those early 20's people so I guess it's a smart idea to keep these things in mind.
Onegaishimasu... The premise is ludicrous. I've followed most of the responses to the question bobbyjudo posed. Asking whether a gaijin can be accepted as Japanese is like asking whether a black man in a predominantly white setting can be accepted as a white man. The answer is a resounding NO, particularly in a homogeneous culture as Japan. No matter how he attempts to assimilate bobbyjudo will forever remain gaijin. In his view, that may seem unfair but no one said life is fair. Get over it.
@VidBrats I think the question is more about whether you can ever be accepted as "normal" in Japan, and my experience is that it is perfectly possible to be accepted the same as everyone else among people you regularly see - your family, your coworkers, your friends. Japanese tend not to think in terms of nationality and race, but more about who their circles of friends and associates are. You can't become racially Japanese, but gaijins can get into Japanese circles, with some effort.
@deathstrike2323... Historically, individualism has been strongly discouraged in Japan (although that is changing among the younger generations). There's a well-worn adage in Japan that the nail that sticks out will be pounded down. Ever notice that even the cosplayers in Yoyogi by and large do their thing as a group?
I still don't understand people who argue about that.
Yes I understand that you want to be threated the same as ethnic japanese but you will never become one just by moving there and learn the language etc.
Personally i feel that ppl expect to much. now don't take this the wrong way but there are racism out there and there are ppl that don't care. i think ppl see a race as a whole and not ppl as individuals. who cares how one person thinks about you because you make friends with ppl in common to you. if you don't care and are not racist then you will find someone JUST LIKE YOU! im just saying don't worry who cares. A person who cares don't matter and a person who matters don't care! PEACE!
Yes there is some stupid japanese people who just fall for you & ask for an autograph, happened to me in kyoto when a bunch of highschool girls asked more my autograph.
Its rather stupid, & I know there intentions is probably to mock or have fun. but its silly. its just not right, but I had fun signing those autographs ! ;D
it was really interestung to get that opinion because I've heard 'no matter how long you live in japan you'll never get fully accepted as a japanese' so often and now I see the whole thing differently (though I don't plan on spending my life in japan or anything), I don't see that comment as negatively as I did before.
This was really, really quality stuff. Personally, while I struggled with the idea, ultimately I decided that I'd never want to permanently live in Japan and try to be "Japanese," as you've said - and that it's ok. I feel very lucky to hear all these opinions from people going through this experience. Thanks for sharing your point of view, this is a really great video!
大和魂 I agree with you, sometimes 「胡麻すり」 makes more sense than 「実力主義」 in Japan. There is nothing wrong with this, it's just how things are here. And about your view about japanese people trying to scape from the social pressure was very interesting.
I wanted to understand all what you said in this vid,so I watched so many times but I couldn't.. My English sucks.. I watched other videos about DRAMA. I can agree both hiroko and tokyozeplin's opinions. I don't think he attacked hiroko. He was just talking about his opinion. But I felt GFM attacked Tokyozeplin... It's Japanese people that must watch and understand these videos. We must know how foreigners feel when they live in Japan.
Just wondered if your from the UK or New-Z ? As in this video your voise sounds more new-Z but in others sounds like your from yorkshire way ish ?
Great videos btw i love your easy videos like Stand-Sit ect.. I grew up with japanese stuff started with transformers, anime, video games and martial arts.
Great video Hikosaemon! By watching this video I know now that I would never make it in Japanese society I do not work well under great pressure and I am lifetime nondrinker socially or other wise! Next time make the video in a quieter place the noise made it hard to listen to you. I do however still like the Japanese language it is very cool! どうもありがとひこさえもんやまとだましい。
This has been flagged as spam show
すごい動画発見しちゃったー☆☆☆
是非見た方がいいと思います♪
「あむき」で検索してね！
世の中にはこんなことで悩んでる人もいたんですね～
みんなも一度は見てみてください!!!!
kuhgku3554 5 days ago
Thanks for the vid man, I like your perspective.
kanadaze 1 week ago
@kanadaze My pleasure, thanks for sitting through that (and the terrible sound!)
Hikosaemon 1 week ago
IT AINT EASY BEING CHEEZAY
dondopa 2 weeks ago
Great vids!!! oh my Mama(white gaijin) went through this similar situation by bringing me up in the ordinary Japanese school system. She was the only gaijin there so she tried very hard to become a "Japanese mother" that even some Japanese thought she was more Japanese than Japanese themselves...hehe But you must not forget who you are as a person, or you'll go mentally insane and miss out on having fun!
2bfreeism 2 weeks ago
Comment removed
2bfreeism 2 weeks ago
Comment removed
2bfreeism 2 weeks ago
やまとだましい！
yanyanyanyan70 3 weeks ago
This is an extremely well-delivered explaination considering the background noise you had to deal with. Thank you. We appreciate it much. I don't know if I can actually do what you do. I, too, can't talk down to people.
kelveto 1 month ago
Thumbs up for yamato-damashii
DenshiDereku 2 months ago
むずかしいね。
sofarsogood66 2 months ago
彦左衛門さん。日本人が外人を差別するのは見た目だけですよ。日本の社会に入り込み調和を尊重するなら、人種は関係ありません。ただ国籍の問題はありますけど。東京ほどGAIJINにとって住みやすい都市は世界中探してもありません。自分はGAIJINだと開き直ったら、周りは自然に理解してくれますよ。私の周りはGAIJINだらけですけど。
cyzu1538 3 months ago
I'm happy that in general I never really assimilated even in my Own hometown. So i've gotten used to not fitting in. If i go to Japan all i'll be doing is making it more apparent!
idostuff1up 3 months ago
interesting insight. i empathize
TakYamaguchi 5 months ago
Japan isnot Hierarchy coutry. Suppose a person can pass the exmination he can get
the profession what he want. Japan is fair chance country.
kaisermuto 5 months ago
yamato-damashii ^u^v haha your videos are really interesting I am glad I found you to subscribe to (and from what I've heard I don't think you're a bad dj!)
ItsGrrreat 6 months ago
Yamato-Damashii
Love your videos Hiko. I am learning Japanese but I was considering giving up because I thought I would never be accepted in Japan because I am Irish.
Thanks to you though I am going to pick up where I left off.
Peace.
Conwayn00b 6 months ago
Learning that you were actually asked for your autograph just for being a foreigner was quite interesting.
TheAle89515 7 months ago
Great video, I've had a total of 7 years working for Japanese companies myself. I've had a lot of similar experiences, and have largely come to the same conclusions. I found, as a foreigner in a Japanese company I just had to get the most from the experience that it was, but then move on. I think you really hit the nail on the head by saying that we are like perpetual guests in Japan.
locky0803 8 months ago
it's almost as if foreigners think that if they try being as japanese as they can they will magically start transforming into a japanese person -.-
konoha4dawin 9 months ago
@konoha4dawin I don't think that's it. It's generally people who believe you should try to fit in to the country you are in. The hope is that it makes life easier, which is true to an extent. I don't think it's a desire to change what you are - it is a desire to be accepted among others for who you are.
A lot of people don't seek that acceptance, and hang out in English pubs with their gaijin mates and rip on guys going native. Some of those guys are happy like that, some are miserable
Hikosaemon 9 months ago 6
@konoha4dawin Some guys who try very hard to be accepted tend to go more extreme one way or the other - they either carve out a long stable life here, or they suffer complete breakdowns. In the end of the day, I don't like to see people suffer breakdowns, and I can't stand whingers or people who rip on others, but whether you seek acceptance or not, if you're happy doing your own thing, then that's fine with me.
Hikosaemon 9 months ago
Yamato-damashii what did i win ?? ^_^
iso53145314 9 months ago
I read this as "Japanese are spicy" at first.
after I got over that, great video
hojoojoh 10 months ago
Hiko, your advice is so incredibly invaluable. Myself studying abroad in Japan next semester and looking seriously at the possibility of working in Japan for a good portion of my life, I can tell that this information will be incredibly helpful to me. I've been thinking a lot about cultural identity as of late and what is expected of a person in Japan, and this sets many of my fears at ease. As always, thank you for your helpful spirit. Oh, and Yamato-damashii... :P
ershnuff 10 months ago
No... Think about an even bigger social historical problem: Are Japanese Americans, Asian Americans, or any Asians in Western countries totally accepted as "real Australian", "real American", "real Canadian" even if they were born or raised there? Simply no.. Because racial discrimination has been going on in Western countries for centuries and keeps going on.. People keep thinking White=West.. Its that simple.. Sure there may be some grey areas, mixed people, but mostly overall, No.
DJmixmastermicro 1 year ago 9
This has been flagged as spam show
Mostly overall, it doesn't matter whether you are white or not to be considered a 'real' American. There being a 'real' America is a minority concept, and has been declining for quite some time.
Turigamot 9 months ago
@Turigamot. I see you are ignornant and uneducated about the facts of racial discrimination in America. Well discrimination is what causes people to become "minorities" in the first place whether they want to be or not.. You simply brush off a centuries old serious social problem and smugly say it "doesnt matter"? Amazing. You must be white since racial discrimination "doesnt matter" to you. How arrogant.
DJmixmastermicro 9 months ago 4
This has been flagged as spam show
@DJmixmastermicro When you resort to insulting someone, your argument is no longer worth listening to.
Turigamot 9 months ago
@Turigamot. Your arrogant act of denying racism exists or is even a problem makes you complicit. People like you arent even worth spitting at. You are sickening.
DJmixmastermicro 8 months ago 4
@DJmixmastermicro I never denied it exists, dude. But times have changed. And you refuse to acknowledge that. And most of those who are racist do their damnedest to hide it. Race is fringe. The thing to be bigoted against now in America is political affiliation.
Also, simply stating that me being white means I think racism doesn't matter is racism in and of itself. You are blind to your own deficits, sir.
Turigamot 8 months ago
This has been flagged as spam show
@DJmixmastermicro This ain't the 60s dude. Or the 70s. Or even the 80s and 90s. Most people have moved on. Using the past to condemn the present doesn't help anybody.
Turigamot 8 months ago
@Turigamot. Are you delusional? Im AM talking about the present. Your ignorance and arrogance is truly astounding.
DJmixmastermicro 8 months ago 6
This has been flagged as spam show
@DJmixmastermicro Rather, you are paranoid.
Turigamot 8 months ago
@DJmixmastermicro *Looks at the President of the United States* Oh hey, he's not white. How did that happen, when a majority of people are racist?
Turigamot 8 months ago
@Turigamot. Oh Obama got elected, and so racism is over? Wow so ignorant.
DJmixmastermicro 8 months ago
@DJmixmastermicro Is that really all you can say? Fucking internet arguments. I really need to stop getting into them.
Turigamot 8 months ago
@Turigamot. Well you being an arrogant moron who is blinded by your own ignorance and White privelege, to brush everything under a carpet of "everything is great now that Obama is here". You are incapable of being concerned with racial minority issues in America.
DJmixmastermicro 8 months ago
@DJmixmastermicro I live in Washington, DC. "Chocolate City". I wasn't born well-to-do. And you just keep going back to insulting me, never backing up your claims that racial discrimination is an overwhelming problem. Tell me, if *most* people are racist nowadays, then why did *most* people vote for Obama, to the very pinnacle of political power in this country? How does that work? It doesn't. Times. Have. Changed. And continue to do so. Now, kindly stop putting words into my mouth, thanks.
Turigamot 8 months ago
Comment removed
speedtribejp 8 months ago
@Turigamot. Hilarious. You claim that the city where someone live determines whether one is racist or not? You clearly have a demented and mistaken view of social problems. You seem to think that the election of Obama means racism is disappearing or already disappeared? You as a White man in America dare to claim that racism is no longer an important issue? Well maybe thats because it doesnt really affect you directly. So you have the privilege to say its not important. How smug and arrogant.
DJmixmastermicro 8 months ago
@DJmixmastermicro Again, putting words into my mouth. Reading comprehension, please.
Turigamot 8 months ago
@Turigamot. you dont have much words in your mouth. because you are essentially saying the same thing in different ways, basically you say: "today everything is much better than yesterday, so stop complaining".. thats a very smug attitude. it might be wonderful for you, so congratulations, but if you havent realized yet, things are different for black, asian, latino, or whatever historically discriminated ethnic group. even in the present.
DJmixmastermicro 8 months ago
@DJmixmastermicro The funny thing is, I never said racism has fully disappeared. And it never will. But the way racism affects average day-to-day life is vastly different now than it used to be. Open, blatant racists are social pariahs. Discrimination is more often subtle in this day and age where it exists, except in the case, as I said, of political affiliation.
I'm glad you finally replied without using any insults this time. But I am done now.
And just so you know, I'm not even white.
Turigamot 8 months ago
@Turigamot. You seem to suggest that racist violence is almost gone now and any racism that remains is deeply covered up. But this us a very distorted viewpoint. You are assuming some kind of evolution has happened in a few years. Sorry, but real evolution happens over eons, not just a few years. The fact is racist killings, disappearances, beatings, fights, lootings still happen up to now. Congratulation you didnt experience it, but many others do. Do you even protest? Did I say I wasnt white?
DJmixmastermicro 8 months ago
@DJmixmastermicro I don't agree with your comment at all. Obviously, there are always cases of racism in any country you may happen to live in, but the idea that Asians in America are NEVER accepted as REAL Americans is completely false. I have had many Asian-American friends through the years, all of whom were born and raised in America. They consider themselves American. I consider them American, and I don't know of anyone who DOESN'T consider them American.
bravictor 6 months ago 2
I'm sure there might be a few people out there who don't, but they are in the minority.
bravictor 6 months ago
@bravictor. The fact that there IS racism in America means that "Asian Americans" are not accepted as really American. Do you even now what you are talking about? What do you think racism affects?? If Asian Americans were TOTALLY accepted as American then it would mean there wasnt any racism and there would be no need to group themselves defensively as "Asian Americans". Sure "Asian Americans" are legally "American" citizens, but that doesnt stop the racism against them all their lives. Wake up.
DJmixmastermicro 6 months ago
@DJmixmastermicro You need to read my comment before replying. I didn't say that ALL people accept Asians as Americans. I was simply saying that your contention that Asians are NEVER accepted as real Americans is false. I'm not the one so focused on race. An American is an American no matter what their ethnic background, and there are a lot of people who feel like I do. I also stated that racism exists in every country, including America, but it isn't in the majority here.
bravictor 6 months ago
@bravictor Thats funny, but i never said the word "never". YOU did moron. You seem to be reading your own imagination into something you read. Of course you didnt focus on race, you are downplaying the problem of racism that many white Americans tend to do. You think that a passport of citizenship card is where the truth lies. Sorry but the lived experiences of human beings is were the real TRUTH lies. And thos human beings called "Asian American" experience racism in America. Thats the fact.
DJmixmastermicro 6 months ago
@DJmixmastermicro You're obviously not worth debating with if all you have in your rhetorical repertoire is the knee-jerk reaction of calling people morons. Your very first comment, which I was originally responding to said, "Are Japanese Americans, Asian Americans, or any Asians in Western countries totally accepted as "real Australian", "real American", "real Canadian" even if they were born or raised there? Simply no.." That sounds like "never" to me. But that's it. I'm done with you.
bravictor 6 months ago
@bravictor. A person who downplays cultural racism against an entire group of minorites (ie Asian Americans) in the US is very seriously wrong.. If you did it un-intentionally you are indeed a moron. But if you did it intentionally you are simply a jerk.
DJmixmastermicro 5 months ago
@bravictor Don't worry, the guy has some deep-seated issues. I'm British, of African and Southeast Asian descent, and I live in Japan. Doesn't matter how anyone makes excuses in the other direction: in the West a non-white citizen is embraced overall. In Japan, a non-(racially) Japanese is not. End of. Here people ask you on first meetings: "so where are you from?.. UK?!" (but he's black!... their brains melt). Back at home its: "What part of London are u from mate?".. and that's the difference.
MrHalohalo85 5 months ago
@MrHalohalo85 black people in the UK is the most unfitting race in a country lol
121drumstick 4 months ago
@121drumstick I guess you have been living under a rock for the last 1000 years, or you have never travelled anywhere outside your village. In that case, save yourself the plane fare, type in 'Black British' on Wikipedia, and learn. Ignorance can be a shameful thing, 121drumstick, a very shameful thing..
MrHalohalo85 4 months ago
@DJmixmastermicro The only real Americans are native Americans. The only real Canadians are native Canadian. The only real Australians are indigenous Australians. Everyone else is an immigrant. Unless I learned some weird version of history.
Chocobosh 3 months ago
@DJmixmastermicro It really happens that much? I've been raised in New England, and the pretty much general experience I've had all my life is there are only Americans. Actually I've found that people of the same race tend to be meaner to each other. I got a lot of shit from white guys and girls, especially in high school, but puerto ricans, asians, blacks were always nice to me. Heck white girls made fun of me for being fat a lot, while black girls just talked to me normally..
xxGing 3 months ago
@DJmixmastermicro That is really quite ignorant. As a Canadian who has lived in many parts of my country I can say without a shadow of a doubt that no one will naturally assume you're an immigrant, tourist, or foreign business person simply because you're not white.
That attitude is terribly antiquated. I'd say the great majority of people in my country assume anyone walking the street to be a Canadian citizen by virtue of our naturally diverse culture.
Condeycon 2 months ago
@Condeycon you must be white.
DJmixmastermicro 2 months ago
@DJmixmastermicro You must have a very narrow understanding of citizenship and 'racial discrimination'.
And ya, I am. That doesn't invalidate my point. Assuming it does sounds pretty... Y'know, discriminatory.
Condeycon 2 months ago
@Condeycon it totally invalidates your point because you can never feel the edge of the racial discrimination sword. you just a privileged white man, out of touch with minority peoples reality.
DJmixmastermicro 2 months ago
@DJmixmastermicro Privileged, lol. I'm lower middle class. Your rhetoric sounds straight out of a Black Panther rally.
And you don't know a thing about me and yet you assume I've never been discriminated against. Hell, you're the one making grand assumptions about me based on the ONE fact I've told you. The age of race wars and pogroms is over. I'd say a minority or immigrant has a way better chance to build a new life in the west then anywhere else in the world.
Condeycon 2 months ago
@Condeycon. Oh yes how predictable, a WHITE man declares that there is no more racism against minorities in America. Everything is just equal now because a white man says so. Please say that again as you just keep shooting yourself in the foot. LOL
DJmixmastermicro 1 month ago
@DJmixmastermicro Unless you're living in a middle of no-where small town, this isn't really the case. In any sort of urban area Americans of whatever ethnicity are generally accepted as "just another person", not "that japanese guy" or whatever. There are exceptions of course, but that's definitely not the norm.
Shaehl 2 weeks ago
Thanks for the great vid but please please never make a vid in a noisy area again. I thought you were on a runway! That cam picks up evey single sound and I really strained to catch what you said. As for that, well done, its about time someone said it ey? Lets be grateful we dont have to pit up with as much 'job crap' as the natives.
Keep vlogging!
mybelovedsushi 1 year ago
@mybelovedsushi yep... when I posted this, it was so long and the sound was so bad, I was embarrassed to post it but wanted to put it up as a response and left a note I would only leave it up for a week. I got a lot of positive feedback however asking me to leave it up so I have, but rest assured, I will never make a 30 minute long vlog walking beside a highway ever again. :)
Hikosaemon 1 year ago
This has been flagged as spam show
I think you are twisting the "gaijin" point of view to your advantage. You are saying that foreigners want to be treated "as a Japanese". You are lying, you are a lapodog liar, and you know you are a liar. Foreigners want to be treated as a HUMAN BEING. Don't try to twist things lapdog.
nihonjinshusabetsu 1 year ago
Yamato-damashii, thaaat was a very long video. I once had dreams of moving to Japan but after experiencing the hard life of my Japanese friends. I decided that I rather live in Sweden where I grew up and visit Japan as a tourist now and then. That way I can have the best of both worlds. Loads of carefree fun in Japan and a healthy, unstressfull work-life where I have more rights, priveleiges and living space in Sweden.
lordmetroid 1 year ago
yamato-damashii (^-^*)/
TapiokaasOkaa 1 year ago
Yamato-damashii.
Now excuse me, I am going to the polished up version.
NeverForgetWizet 1 year ago
yamato - damashii
LOL
mgessler 1 year ago
Interesting video, I'll keep it in mind.
WiriamuN 1 year ago
yamato-damashii :P
SkeenBot5000 1 year ago
yamato-damashii :P
SkeenBot5000 1 year ago
Excellent! Yes, most Gaijin come to Japan and their goal is to "become" Japanese. The worst thing is the gaijin who start competing with OTHER gaijin, as in "They may reject you, but they accept me...because I speak Japanese better, I know their culture better, etc..." That's the worst. It's like they're competing to get into "The Club". I'd like to see those type of Gaijin get a reality check.
Anyway, excellent video and very interesting insight.
itsinthebag2010xyz 1 year ago 5
@itsinthebag2010xyz Cheers man - glad you enjoyed the vid. I used to be that kind of competitive sucky gaijin. I cringe thinking of it now, but there again, it's how I got where I am so I guess there's pros and cons to everything.
Appreciate you watching this - hope it paints a bit of colour to where I was coming from on the arguing collab skit as well.
Peace
Hikosaemon 1 year ago
@Hikosaemon I think the reason is that many of the "Western" foreigners come to Japan are very insecure people, and haven't really grown up despite of being in their late 20s early 30s. They are still in the phase where they can only get self-esteem from belonging to a group.
Of course, when these people come here and meet their fellow "contenders", they feel like in a competition and are envious of everybody who speaks better or has more Japanese friends.
suction 3 months ago
@itsinthebag2010xyz I really hate that concept. At least that's how I feel as a comp. eng. student. The students are so arrogant and cocky that they reject your ideas and only accept theirs. The learning experience becomes very difficult. I end up studying on my own whereas the other cocky students sit there and argue all day long. It's so annoying that I don't even want to study comp. engineering anymore. Students want to compete and get in the "I'm smart" spotlight rather than learn together.
BobbyDigital314 1 year ago
4.5 million people
56 million sheep
lol you been out of the country too long! :)
irit8r 1 year ago
Greeeaattt topic, but it's not a good idea to make a video by the noisy traffic.
...Probably you figured that out on your own, but yeah.
jinamerica 1 year ago
I'm Hispanic but get called Japanese by white people who act black while they listen to Puerto Ricans in a cuban city.
The world is a rainbow baby!
:D
Emceetem 1 year ago
Life is life , na na na nana :)
poli21 1 year ago
I really want REAL democracy which isn't based on hierarchy in Japan as a Japanese. Coz the hierarchical exclusive socialistic structure of society ( the old constitution ) actually causes problems even for Japanese and its economy. And it often kills potentials of people. It's a problem that many Japanese still don't have a sense of equality to people from other countries and even to own people. There are some people who want changes but, the society kills the individuals. But Some fight.
tokumas 1 year ago
very very interesting topic to argue about
I like your conclusion as well
total22cal 1 year ago
Hey I just want to say thanks for making this video. I'm not familiar with J-bloggers or the drama that happened regarding this debate of foreigners in Japan. However what I can say is that your advice has definately helped me during my "burnout" if you would call it that. I'm a current exchange student in Japan and though I haven't been here that long yet, I'm kinda hardcore in that I want to get to know the real Japan and I have a long-term outlook on wanting to stay in Japan.
kyuririn 1 year ago
The thing is though I've recently joined a very tough social circle. A club actually, where the hierarchical senpai/kouhai thing is as strong as it can be. For the sake of privacy I don't want to state what the club is but I can say it has over decades of tradition. I'm very privileged to be let in but doing so also means you are to be treated the same. When watching your video, the whole salaryman world seems to be a close situation with what I'm experiencing now.
kyuririn 1 year ago
Since I only joined recently I am the lowest of the low so basically almost everyone is my senpai. And the thing is, I'm so scared of doing things wrong, so freaking nervous of my senpais, worried about using Keigo and getting so damn frustrated about why why why the senpais have to subject kouhais to a bunch of crap when they know it was hard back when they were the kouhais.
kyuririn 1 year ago
The whole environment was just not making sense to me especially since I also come from a westernised background (also Aust/NZ actually!) so I guess I'm going through this so-called burnout right now where I'm questioning why the hell I'm doing this, why the hell do I want to be in Japan when it's like this etc. etc. It's gotten to the point where I feel like everyday when I don't see the people in the club is when I'm free.
kyuririn 1 year ago
I don't feel like myself anymore when I automatically bow to anyone that walks in front of me because I'm used to everyone being my senpai. What I want to ask is, does it get any better once you become a senpai? If I, no no that's ::when:: I overcome all this, I'll be getting some kouhais in a couple of months. But I can't imagine treating them the way I was treated. I wouldn't want to dump all the work on them.
kyuririn 1 year ago
And if they're in trouble I'd want to help them, but doing so also means not following the senpai/kouhai hierarchy. My senpais will look disapprovingly on me helping out the kouhai and the kouhai will probably not even dare to let me help them. What's this crazy system? Right now being in the midst of it all I just don't get it anymore!
kyuririn 1 year ago
However watching your video has made me try to look on the positive side. It's made me a little less scared of facing my senpai tomorrow again. Maybe it's ok to mess up and get scold at. Doing so I might become a stronger person for it.
So I thank you for your advice video and if you have time I'd love it if you could respond to my question about the being a senpai thing. Some more advice on this Japanese hierarchical system might also help to keep me sane.
kyuririn 1 year ago
Btw I didn't realise my comment was that long! Sorry, I guess I have a lot to get off my chest .. ^^;;
kyuririn 1 year ago
@kyuririn hey, not at all - it's nice to hear a comment from someone with a familiar experience. There's a lot to cover here to. As I mentioned in the first half of the vid, I never came to terms with dealing with kouhai, having the same issues you do, and it ends up affecting your own status - when you don't act like a sempai, you don't get treated or accepted as one, and this was a hurdle I never really got over. Instead, in my own work, I found ways to work independently to avoid this.
Hikosaemon 1 year ago
@kyuririn That said, there are gaijins who do slip into that role, and indeed, there are many Japanese who manage to fill that role while still being nice guys. I think the key is having support - I'm guessing you will have douki or equal level people in your club. Those "douki" networks I had from when I first started working in Japan are an important source of support for me today. Douki who are friends are great sources of support.
Hikosaemon 1 year ago
@kyuririn I also think it is good to find Japanese senpai you respect and immitate them, and get their counselling on it. It feels bad at times, but some Japanese come through it without seeming like a-holes. ;) On the other stuff, yes, Japan does change you - bowing, being deferntial, etc, especially in the first couple of years. And that first and third year burnout hits hard. What happens at that time is people tend to bounce back and reclaim a bit of their gaijin identity.
Hikosaemon 1 year ago
@kyuririn People go through extreme swings in my experience, and this is why so many leave after 1 or 3 years. Probably 90% of people go to foreign companies after 3 years, even if they stay. I went to a foreign company after 7 years. I think it is around the 5 year mark that things start to balance out. You reclaim your old character, but with the benefits of being a better listener, a bit more self aware, and sufficiently mellowed out and humble to deal with most situations at either end.
Hikosaemon 1 year ago
@kyuririn This is where I made two vids on this. For new arrivals, my advice is "go hard or go home". But for someone like you in a fairly intense and easy to burnout situation, it is important to be able to step back and reclaim perspective at that point of burnout. The stress can make people physically become ill, and even actually go nuts sometimes (I've seen and heard it happen). I guess it takes good self awareness to find your own way through things.
Hikosaemon 1 year ago
@kyuririn Point is, it is good to be open and to really try hard to fit in, but when you see it is starting to take a toll, take a breather, try to be as objective as possible, and strategize the best way to deal with the situation that lets you keep your own sanity and identity. In my case, I discovered that it is better to accept being a little "kirawareteiru" in exchange for the breathing room you get. But of course, you don't want to go too far and not fit in at all. It's a delicate balance.
Hikosaemon 1 year ago
@kyuririn Everyone is different, but based on my experience, my advice is to not to focus on doing EVERYTHING exactly as you are supposed to, but objectively figuring out the best way to fit in that works for everyone. Accept that some compromise is involved, and use the friends around you for support and ideas.
It's always the best and nicest people who go too far and end up in a bad way. Keep perspective, and I can tell you when you find that right balance, everything does get MUCH easier.
Hikosaemon 1 year ago
@Hikosaemon
Thank you so much for taking the time to reply. I guess maybe I am trying a bit too hard. I want to talk to heaps of people and get to know everyone but people tell me I should stick with my douki and never address the senpais unless they approach me (which won't happen because I am lower than them or whatever). As a fairly social person, it feels so strange to be suppressed like that, as if I don't even have the freedom to talk to whoever I want.
kyuririn 1 year ago
@Hikosaemon
Plus in my situation, it doesn't help that there are very few douki because just like you mentioned in the video, even Japanese themselves find it hard and heaps of people had quit earlier this year.
I found it a little better to deal with today. I think it just helps to know that I'm not alone in my suffering, that there has been others before me who've found a good balance themselves and come out better for it.
kyuririn 1 year ago
@Hikosaemon
It's just sometimes I feel like everyone else is having a better time in Japan than me. Especially as I'm an exchange student, I see heaps of other students seemingly having the time of their life in Japan. But then again, most of them probably are just here to have fun for a semester or a year and then return home whereas I'm planning on staying long term.
kyuririn 1 year ago
@Hikosaemon
Since it's my own decision it's silly to be complaining really but when it gets tough sometimes you forget why you're doing what you're doing. However I'll remember to keep your advice in mind next time I'm questioning myself again. :) Plus I've gotten interested in some of your other videos now. You have some great insight on issues facing Japan today! Thanks again! :)
kyuririn 1 year ago
Thanks...
Laura17T 1 year ago
-giggles- sheep.
PunkPlaidKitty 1 year ago
This has been flagged as spam show
yamato-damashii
NinetytoFirst 1 year ago
i think that you have understood the question and the various answers better than most of the repliers (is repliers a word?) and what you say is the truth and its perfectly acceptable, if you are not japanese you are not japanese but you can still fit in as a gaijin with the people you know and work with and it really depends on the level of dedication you have to be more culturally japanese
yamato damashii
thesheepofboredom 1 year ago
One of your longest videos, made by choice with the sun in your eyes.
Emidretrauqe 1 year ago
This is truly a piece of video!
Oh, by the way … 大和魂
plathhs 1 year ago
if bobby judo still lives where he used to, then he is far from the only 外国人 in his "town" but yes saga is very rural...
effik3 1 year ago
To all Gaijins in Japan or want to live in my country,
*Remember that you left your native country despite advancement when it comes to basic rights, gender employment laws, etc. etc.
*Japan is over 98% Japanese...... rightfully so since Japan was not created by mass immigration.
*Don't expect "loose" immigration laws in Japan.
*Try to "assimilate" instead of whining like "Debito" san..
*It's not Japanese responsibility to accommodate Gaijins but it's your responsibility.
novajoke 1 year ago
yamato damashi
buenview 1 year ago
Very inspiring, thank you very much!
yamato-damashii
Osutin 1 year ago
yamato-damashii ^_^!
PussyCatDoll14 1 year ago
But physical appearance is a huge factor in determining if your a Australian or not..
I have tried to assimilate into the Australian culture and yet they do not accept me is simply amazing..
mostupdate 1 year ago
"Yamato-damashii" (?) :)
Interesting/insightful video, too bad there's all that annoyse - I've had enough problems understanding your accent, or rather the speed of your pronunciation :Þ
detubator 1 year ago
Yamato-damashii (what does that mean anyway?)
Great Vid. Somehow you managed to hold my attention for half an hour. But i found the topic very interesting.
QuietMindedMe 1 year ago
"yamato-damashii", as informed. :)
Relatharr 1 year ago
Very yin-yang. At least thats what it sounds like to me. To be japanese, everyone is very nice, but in order for that to happen, you have to go through a lot of trouble.
It's nice that everyone is so nice though. I remember going through this in a way to a much lesser extent when I went to boarding school in England as an american.
welwisher 1 year ago
Like once when walking with my friends, to keep myself from boredom, I started singing 'Yankee Doodle', but as soon as I got past the first two words, I made them laugh in surprise. Same with 'eni-meeni-miini-mo'. I said said tiger, they said piggy. :) So I just made up a new one suited for boarding school life. PM me if you're curious.But the strangest comment I had personally heard was that I looked american. I had never really thought before that that could apply to me. I was just a person.
welwisher 1 year ago
Not that I try to be racist or anything. It just really made me think.
Btw. You sound like a really nice person.
welwisher 1 year ago
very interesting vid however I hate how you made half of the vid next to a road : /
Shikari21 1 year ago
wow, this is a really interesting video. It gave me lots to think about, and I had never really questioned about what it's like to be Japanese, even though I know a number of Japanese people who are not pleased with their lot (so to speak). Thanks!
michelelisa 1 year ago
At what point did you think it was a good idea to narrate a video on a busy road?
Jarvik7 1 year ago 2
I've never been to Japan but would someday love to visit.
I don't think this issue is strictly a Japanese one. This phenomenon happens all over the world. People everywhere see foreigners as different and treat them as such, for better or for worse, until that foreigner becomes known to the community. Japan may be unique due to the vast cultural differences but I think the basic feelings towards foreigners are the same.
Devilock79 1 year ago
@Devilock79 I think that's very true - I've had a lot of comments from people in other countries with similar experiences. It's really a fascinating topic.
Hikosaemon 1 year ago
@Hikosaemon
I live in Ireland where it has been basically a white country up until very recently. We have had a massive influx of African, Middle Eastern, and Eastern European people in the last 10-20 years. The Irish are very friendly and polite to your face but it's a different story entirely behind closed doors. Of course not all Irish are like this but I think it's a natural reaction to foreigners everywhere. We are afraid of what we do not know and fear breeds hatred and intolerance.
Devilock79 1 year ago
@Hikosaemon
On the other hand there is a great fascination for new and different cultures and I think this is a great thing. Although I do believe we should hold on to our individual cultures, there is no reason we can't share with others. This world is too small to be divided by silly things like race and culture. There are many things I love about Japanese culture but there are some I loathe. Overall it seems like an awesome country. I envy you! =D
Devilock79 1 year ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
stop acting Japanese...you're not....
madman3247 1 year ago
@madman3247 What exactly is "acting Japanese?" Should Japanese in America not "act American?"
I think you should "act" consistently with what is expected of you in the place you are.
Hikosaemon 1 year ago 5
@Hikosaemon madman3247 is a faggot! lol
TkyoSam 1 year ago
やまとーだましい、A long but interesting video for me, I'm pleased i stuck with it. I'm one of those early 20's people so I guess it's a smart idea to keep these things in mind.
LomVids 1 year ago
Onegaishimasu... The premise is ludicrous. I've followed most of the responses to the question bobbyjudo posed. Asking whether a gaijin can be accepted as Japanese is like asking whether a black man in a predominantly white setting can be accepted as a white man. The answer is a resounding NO, particularly in a homogeneous culture as Japan. No matter how he attempts to assimilate bobbyjudo will forever remain gaijin. In his view, that may seem unfair but no one said life is fair. Get over it.
VidBrats 1 year ago
@VidBrats I think the question is more about whether you can ever be accepted as "normal" in Japan, and my experience is that it is perfectly possible to be accepted the same as everyone else among people you regularly see - your family, your coworkers, your friends. Japanese tend not to think in terms of nationality and race, but more about who their circles of friends and associates are. You can't become racially Japanese, but gaijins can get into Japanese circles, with some effort.
Peace
Hikosaemon 1 year ago 2
It more of a mindset just be yourself out there don't be like one of them that boring.
deathstrike2323 2 years ago
@deathstrike2323... Historically, individualism has been strongly discouraged in Japan (although that is changing among the younger generations). There's a well-worn adage in Japan that the nail that sticks out will be pounded down. Ever notice that even the cosplayers in Yoyogi by and large do their thing as a group?
VidBrats 1 year ago
I still don't understand people who argue about that.
Yes I understand that you want to be threated the same as ethnic japanese but you will never become one just by moving there and learn the language etc.
Good video tho
wylfwylfwylf 2 years ago
This has been flagged as spam show
Personally i feel that ppl expect to much. now don't take this the wrong way but there are racism out there and there are ppl that don't care. i think ppl see a race as a whole and not ppl as individuals. who cares how one person thinks about you because you make friends with ppl in common to you. if you don't care and are not racist then you will find someone JUST LIKE YOU! im just saying don't worry who cares. A person who cares don't matter and a person who matters don't care! PEACE!
kr4zyr4ver 2 years ago
Maybe abit late, but still commenting on a great video.
yamato damashii
Nuolimieli 2 years ago
yamato-damashii :)
Great video, very helpful.
Thanks
diraso12 2 years ago
Though it was hard for my untrained ear to filter out all of the street noise in the second part I understood your point.
Thanks for sharing your opinion and in such a long run. I'd like to hear more of it!
yamato-damashii!!
redancient 2 years ago
yamato damashii!
Niiiiiice video!
zellator 2 years ago
You have said everything I wanted to say in my video!
I am very amazed by your understanding of Japanese society and culture. My hat is tipped to you.
BruceIno 2 years ago
lol the autograph thing LOL
Yes there is some stupid japanese people who just fall for you & ask for an autograph, happened to me in kyoto when a bunch of highschool girls asked more my autograph.
Its rather stupid, & I know there intentions is probably to mock or have fun. but its silly. its just not right, but I had fun signing those autographs ! ;D
animalkindness 2 years ago
yamato damashii (｀・ω・´)b
it was really interestung to get that opinion because I've heard 'no matter how long you live in japan you'll never get fully accepted as a japanese' so often and now I see the whole thing differently (though I don't plan on spending my life in japan or anything), I don't see that comment as negatively as I did before.
I'm going to subscribe to your channel now :)
thanks~
Trayanah 2 years ago
yamato damashii!
Guybrush369 2 years ago
yamato damashiiii~ :)
brightst4r 2 years ago 2
大和魂~
Hiharu765 2 years ago
大和魂！ excellent, very informative
theshredda 2 years ago
Yamato damashii! Haha
This was really, really quality stuff. Personally, while I struggled with the idea, ultimately I decided that I'd never want to permanently live in Japan and try to be "Japanese," as you've said - and that it's ok. I feel very lucky to hear all these opinions from people going through this experience. Thanks for sharing your point of view, this is a really great video!
CultureQuirk 2 years ago
大和魂 I agree with you, sometimes 「胡麻すり」 makes more sense than 「実力主義」 in Japan. There is nothing wrong with this, it's just how things are here. And about your view about japanese people trying to scape from the social pressure was very interesting.
highbridge23 2 years ago
Comment removed
highbridge23 2 years ago
本当に大和魂^^
dasnervtgewaltig 2 years ago 3
Agree, Excellent video! Very Wise words. Appreciate the time put into the subject.
(15 years in japan for me) So I can say you hit the nail right on the head.
BlackSoulsAion 2 years ago 2
I wanted to understand all what you said in this vid,so I watched so many times but I couldn't.. My English sucks.. I watched other videos about DRAMA. I can agree both hiroko and tokyozeplin's opinions. I don't think he attacked hiroko. He was just talking about his opinion. But I felt GFM attacked Tokyozeplin... It's Japanese people that must watch and understand these videos. We must know how foreigners feel when they live in Japan.
adakkochan 2 years ago 9
大和魂！
zionviller 2 years ago
Excellent video
UzumakiMatrix 2 years ago 2
A wise video, sir. Good work.
bluesheeft 2 years ago 2
ah, crap, posted too early :)
yamato damashii!
bluesheeft 2 years ago
Very interesting video :)
Yamato damashii
blomlie 2 years ago 2
yamato damashii.... always like hearing what you have to say...
dapefley 2 years ago
yamato damashii
Skeletor101 2 years ago
yamato damashii?
shinmei2006 2 years ago
Just wondered if your from the UK or New-Z ? As in this video your voise sounds more new-Z but in others sounds like your from yorkshire way ish ?
Great videos btw i love your easy videos like Stand-Sit ect.. I grew up with japanese stuff started with transformers, anime, video games and martial arts.
SophiaDi0r 2 years ago
Great video Hikosaemon! By watching this video I know now that I would never make it in Japanese society I do not work well under great pressure and I am lifetime nondrinker socially or other wise! Next time make the video in a quieter place the noise made it hard to listen to you. I do however still like the Japanese language it is very cool! どうもありがとひこさえもんやまとだましい。