Takashi, I'm sixty and retired. Working a job is no longer a concern of mine. I would like to see you interview older folk who've relocated to Japan and for whom employment is not an issue.
Why do african americans call themselves black people, when they are clearly brown skin colour? Shouldnt they call themselves african american brown people, They literally the same colour of brown chocolate.
If you Americans want to help me why don t you ask the Syrian Turkish border gate to let me in legally through a Turkish wali office He can get me into Turkey in a few minutes by putting my name on the entry list and calling me when my name is allowed to enter because the Syrian Turkish border is closed and no one can cross the border illegally. So I can travel to Japan I originally have an official Turkish ID I entered Syria as a tourist and I commented Is this legal Many Syrians cling to me so that I remain stuck here because of jealous policies. Failed people and a completely failed land
I went to Japan for vacation once and from the second I stepped outside the airport until the moment I left I felt an overwhelming sense of peace that I’ve never felt before or since. I love that place.
That’s vacation syndrome. You don’t live there so you don’t know the reality, only the idealized version. Japanese are racist as hell and two-faced. “Tate-Mae”. They are proud of being skilled at being able to smile in your face now and stab you in the back later.
I find that that is the case with many things Japanese. To me it indicates that they think a bit further about what "others" need to make their lives more convenient. When social harmony and cohesion are of highest priority a lot of things tended to be convenient for people.
Yeah because some of their answers only make sense from where they're from. America is huge and there's small cities, townships, villages, metropolis' etc that really changes their answers.
I have traveled to more than 100 countries around the world. Japan is my number 1. They just do so much right. I feel at home and at peace whenever I am there. I have visited 6 times so far, hopefully will live there in the near future.
Hey Takashi, Aloha from Hawai’i. My son moved to Japan to work in the JET program then met a Japanese girl and married her. He loves his life there and has no plans to leave. Thank you for providing lots of relevant content to help me understand his experience.
A lot of the people saying they felt safer in Japan are from places like California and New York who defunded the police. Moreover, the local government lets criminals out within hours instead of staying in the jail. In the rural States outside the major cities, it is much safer.
Funny. All I see on youtube is terrible videos of japan and their work ethic and how depressed everyone is yadda yadda. I wish I knew what was true anymore. Suicide is sky high in japan though so....must be something
@ you’re not wrong about suicide rates. But both those things can be true at the same time. I believe the suicide rates is due to work burnout and loneliness in the cities. Also, it’s not really about Japan, but understanding that the collective can achieve so much more by will, than government can impose.
@@k.t.1641 It's both. Japan is amazing to visit and live if you make money elsewhere. That's why youtubers moved in, LOL. The job opportunities for non-japanese are scarce and even so, they require extremely hard work to get (more than japanese person would). Teaching English was the obvious career some time ago (even lucrative), but million others had the same idea in recent decade too. Many low jobs tat would be no brainer elsewhere are actually not available to foreigners. You can't be taxi driver, or work in store, not even stock shelves... And of course 10 days vacation and no sick days was somehow not mentioned in the video at all... The best part of being in Japan as a foreigner is that you can leave and work anywhere else in the world - something most Japanese can't really do (vast language barrier, vast skills barrier and of course no money ). Yeah, many young Japanese people will tell you they feel locked in Japan.
@@k.t.1641 It is the same in America. Nobody comments on it either... The US has no work/life balance and no one thinks anything different? But Japan doesn't either and it's suddenly a problem?
So I found this channel yesterday, and started watching old videos from like 3 years first. The progression of his language skills is so cool to observe!
Visited my son in Japan this past June. He’s been there for three years in the military and has married a wonderful Japanese lady. If I could find a way to make a living in Japan I would move there in a heartbeat. Is the most wonderful and amazing places I’ve ever been. Japan has a lot they could teach America about respect, courtesy and general decency.
But not if you do not have a degree! I would love to move out of America, and Japan would be my number one pick! But I have no degree so I don’t think it’s possible.
@@karenkingrey6142 you could get a cheap online only university degree. If they want a “degree” of any type just do classes on something you like. You could try a school like Sage. All they wanted was a native English speaker.
I lived in Japan for 3 years and I loved it. It’s true that you will always be a “Gaijin”-an outsider, but for the most part, you are treated well and it’s a safe, clean, beautiful, country.
Basing respectful on the outside and having hatred for you on the inside, that's called being fake and disingenuous. Who wants to be around fake people?
@@twochinsmma surprisingly most of that stereotype is false. People never avoided sitting next to me and some of the food service was above and beyond from observation. It just depends on the person just like in the US.
I came to Japan for work on a US base 10 years ago. I fell in love with the Japanese culture and then retired here. I get culture shock every time I go to the USA. Your interview was spot on! どもうありがとうございました！
@ working DOD, you pay taxes just like living in the States. If you’re working for a Japanese firm, you’ll have to pay taxes to Japan, and then report those taxes on your American tax forms. There are firms that specialize in taxes for expats.
@@justwatching2006 you do get used to it, it doesn't hang over you thinking about it. Everyone gets under tables or stands in a doorway. For bigger ones the power and gas might go out.
This is genuinely such a great video. Amazing insights from real people from the states, and as an American myself, i aligned with a bunch of the opinions stated and its pretty darn accurate
I really appreciated this video, thank you! At 59, I’m definitely older than the folks in the video, but I am very curious to learn about what it’s like as an older American moving to Japan. Thanks again for the wonderful videos!
I visited for the first time in 2022. There was an uncanny feeling I had when walking around Tokyo that took me a couple days to understand. I realized that in walking around a big city like Tokyo, there was no chaos, no loud noises, even with the number of cars on the road it was relatively quiet, and I never felt unsafe. That feeling was the absence of anxiety. Walking around Japan I always felt comfortable and safe, and that feeling in a big city was profound to me. Truly a special experience being in Japan.
I am from America and I was in Japan for 2 weeks this past June, visiting my brother who moved there for 3 years. Those 2 weeks were 2 of my favorite weeks of my life. Tokyo, Yokohama, Osaka, Kyoto, Odawara were some of my visits in those 2 weeks. I loved every part of the trip. I started missing Japan the second I got on the plane ride home.
not every american can afford japan man im american i rather stay in usa theres lots of do and lot of friendly americans if you see the reality japan has crimes too just like north america or any country i never been to japan cUse money 💰 talks.
I was fortunate, more than I could ever realize at the time, to have lived in Japan for three years back in the 90’s and many other countries while in the US Navy. I finished up my time in the service, and Japan, in the year 2000 and have been homesick for Japan and other countries for the past 24 years.
Yeah, I was just thinking how as a navy wife I didn't really appreciate it as much as I'm sure I would now. I was there around the same time period in Yakosuka. Base life was definitely an entirely different experience.
@@CptShibe I decided to make it happen. I booked a 2025 Thanksgiving combo trip to South Korea and wrapping up in Tokyo to revisit Tokyo Disney. I’m beyond stoked to finally return!!
@@trae74 several of my buddies back then were married to their H.S. Sweethearts add during deployment some of the wives would take shopping trips to Hong Kong and Singapore but many others being so young would just be on base. I’m going to be returning to Tokyo this Thanksgiving finally and I feel being older now will make the trip that much more meaningful.
@@OhShunz That's awesome to hear, man! I visited some two years back, (2022 december) and I'm hoping I'll be able to return soon aswell, many beautiful memories that I hold onto dearly. I hope you have a great trip C:
Thank you for a very nice video. As a US citizen who's never been to Japan, it's very nice to hear different Americans (who all seemed quite nice) from diverse backgrounds giving their take on living in Japan. I saw your first video last night--which was also excellent--and this second one today and have now subscribed and "thumbs up". I look forward to many more, learning a lot more about Japanese culture and the country, and perhaps learning some Japanese along the way. All the best to you and those you interviewed!
I'm an American who has been living in Japan for nearly 2 years conducting research. When I passed the halfway point of my planned 3 and 1/2 year stay several months ago, it was more than a melancholic moment for me. I'm now seriously thinking of extending my residence in the country by at least another year. At some point, I will have to return to California to take care of certain necessary life issues. But I absolutely do not look forward to my day of departure at all. Even though I have travelled to Japan frequently during my life, visiting Japan on tourist visas is not quite the same as living here as a long-term resident. I will truly miss the country, her people, and her culture when I leave, and am so grateful for the opportunity to have lived here.
These are very well produced. I haven't followed this channel for a long time and its impressive to see the things you've done to improve the quality over time. Thank you!
Hi Takashii, we are traveling from the USA to Tokyo in March 2025 for a two week visit. Thank you for all the content you've uploaded. Your channel has been so informative and entertaining. We are really looking forward to experiencing your culture and your videos have really helped provide a primer on what to expect. Thank you!
Takashi, your English has improved a lot just by talking to foreigners in Japan. There's a clear difference between your earlier videos and the later ones. Very well done!
The American who was a Californian and said he missed Mexican food that def hits home for those who left Cali. If I'm by some good taco stands or a taqueria that is my piece of heaven.
Last month I spent two weeks in Japan. The people and the culture are truly incredible. The food, architecture, history, safety, are first class. But it's the people and their sense of pride to maintain the culture that made me fall in love with the country.
Definitely. Here in US most people have no pride, that's why customer service here in US sucks and quality of services and goods is low as hell. No pride, despite what they try to pretend.
@@jensz9360You’re free to leave and move to Japan. I know a lot of Americans who complain a lot about our country but are willing to support illegal immigration to dilute our culture. The reason why Japan has so much pride is because if you haven’t already noticed, they are Japanese first. They don’t like foreigners going in to screw their culture up and dilute the gene pool. But hell you clowns are the same ones to call that racism, there’s no such thing as racism in Japan because they will call you a gaijin. You want people to show pride in the country, give them a reason to feel proud.
food is mostly useless, toxic garbage. architecture is either copypoaste british garbage with zero insulation, or copypaste american garbage... with not much more insulation. Safety is overrated and severely underreported. They dont care about their culture being robbed of them. They just go "oh well" and get drunk again.
I did the Jet program too in the early 2000s. They really did go above and beyond to make us feel welcomed and taken care of. It was a great experience! If you are thinking of going to Japan, it’s a great option. Definitely worth applying and giving the recruitment process a go.
Lived in Japan for 10+ years, now go back and forth, and I agreed with so much of what everyone said. There’s a difference in experiences and thus perspectives with foreigners who have been in Japan for a long time and/or made a life for themselves versus those who’ve only been in the country for a short period or haven’t really found their footing.
I didn't know a thing about Japan and I loved that you interviewed different people on their perspectives. It was so interesting and now I want to come visit. Thanks for this!
Amazing and inspiring video. I love how you interviewed people with different years in Japan. It's a fresh take and really shows how possible it is to move and live there. Thanks for the motivation!
When you consider that Tokyo has almost the same population as Canada, I found that it was super organized and quiet and there are lots and lots of huge open spaces. Looking forward to going back for 5 weeks next year during Sakura.
This may be the best video I have watched so far about moving to Japan, hands down. Thank you and thanks to all the folks that agreed to an interview. Well done.
I just wanna say I really appreciate your videos Takashii and thanks to you I feel more connected to Japan. I really love the country and I hope to visit again someday soon and maybe even be interviewed by you 🙏🏽
I was in Japan last week in both Tokyo and Osaka. I have two friends that moved over there and they never want to come back to the States. I don't blame them. Its such a beautiful country.
Also Japan got stuff like better healthcare and public transportation where in America you better hope your covered and need a car for everything unless your in like New York but public transit have issue tho tehur many reason I say start watching Not Just Bike to begins
Their also how we view politics in America we vuew Harris was a liberal but around the world she'll be view a a centrist same with Obama and Biden center right
I deployed to Iwakuni twice. Definitely safe and very peaceful. Planning a trip to visit my friend in Akita in the near future. It is a great life if you move there and you are already established.
Love this video. Thank you, Takashii ! If you’re coming to LA in January, you should definitely interview some local Japanese born in the US and Japanese who moved to the US. I know a musician and a culinary teacher who moved to LA, also some Japanese people who grew up in LA, and restaurants in little Tokyo who’s been there since the city began. They might be good contacts for you. Feel free to reply and reach out if needed. 🙌🏼😊
My first duty station with the USAF was Misawa AB Japan. I was there two years before going back to the States and I had culture shock coming back to USA. Not being in Japan and was so glad to visit many places and people. I’d love to come back 20 years later and climb Mt Fuji and travel throughout Asia for a couple years.
I lived in Japan for 16 years. Very courteous, kind and respectful people 👍 (also humble). This is the best thing about Japan. All the other things are just bonus.
@@DisgruntledPigumonYour just talking about yourself. Being mean n talking sht about others.. its literally YOU. Ive been in japan more than 5 yrs but i dont have any problem like you
This was so interesting! I’m impressed with the Americans you interviewed and how great their Nihongo was. I would love to try making a life in Japan, but I’m an old man now. Maybe in my next life!
Thanks for putting interesting interviews together. I was in Tokyo for 7 weeks, now back in Seattle, and planning to go back to Japan for part of the year in the future. I guess I'll be a "senior nomad" instead of a digital nomad. Let me know if you visit the PNW. :)
I'm from Zurich, Switzerland. Been living here in Tokyo for almost 8 years. Yeah living in Tokyo is very comfortable and convenient, but one thing that really stands out is the people. The Japanese are just incredible people !
I would love for you to interview people who work blue collar jobs. Feels like everyone you interviewed works mostly in an office or a classroom. Which is fine 😅. But I’m really interested in farming and construction and would like to hear about that side of Japan 🇯🇵
I'm from such a small town in Virginia, so I'm laughing at how you found this many people from there to interview 😄 Anyways, I enjoy hearing the differences, and I appreciate how you handled this topic. Lately, I've noticed anything related to Americans traveling/living abroad isn't.. well done so respectfully. My daughter and I would love to visit Japan. So hope to see you someday!
very difficult language to learn. You need a good ear for the expressions and particles, which can completely change the sentence. has a lot of nuance and many of the words are equivalent to tongue twisters for a western person.
Excellent video Takashii. Love to hear about the different experiences each of the interviewees has had in Japan. Also, wow, at the end you said you are coming to L.A. in January to interview Japanese people in America - - - looking forward to that a lot !
Just returned from a 2 week trip. It was amazing & the people were so so kind. I loved it…wasn’t ready to go but I had to get back to my life. now that I’m home…I look around America and feel so sad that our country is so dysfunctional
I'm a retired Army veteran. I have been thinking about living in Japan but I don't don't speak the language lol. It looks beautiful over there and the people seem very polite like South Korea. I lived there for four years and loved it.
Wow loved this video. It gives a really great insight , into foreigners living in Japan. Loved the variety of people and their experiences. I would love to live in Japan, visited many times. Always sad to leave . Maybe one day .
I spent a year in Japan years ago. I spent most of my time with my other Korean friends and learned almost nothing. 🤣 When I traveled alone to USA and spent all of my time with Americans, I became proficient in English in no time at all. Speaking with native speakers is essential to learning language. You can't do it on your own!
20:12 preach!!!! Love this perspective! AND…. 25:44 💯 agree!!!! So this woman definitely turned out to be my fave of all the interviewed people (clearly).
When the price of living in Texas was made public, wealthy people looking to profit came and drove the cost of living up. Families who had worked hard saving money to finally get their dream home were left with a smaller home and unforeseen issues. I love how respectful things are in Japan. Sharing the amazing experiences in Japan, or any beautiful place, public causes me to contemplate whether the same history will repeat itself, as in Texas.
I think everyone and I mean everyone should go to Korea or Japan once in their life to visit if not live. My friend. Amazing person, took my sister and her brother and Mom with us to Korea to seoul, busan, daegu, and jeju Island. I would go back a million times to jeju Island and daegu. Even busan was lovely. Every place people were so Kind even though we were foreigners. I think it was because we showed allot of etiquette and were kind. That kind of language is universal ❤
I am coming up on my 35 year anniversary of living in Okinawa, Japan. Anyone who meets me for the first time of course meets me as a foreigner that arrived recently. After all this time I really do not think I could move back to the states. So many responsibilities, family, and friends here. A long vacation maybe more in mind. At least 98% of foreigner's I knew that gave their best shot at living in Japan have eventually gone back to the states. If and when you decide to come to Japan, do not try to do it on your own. A good friend, or even a group of friends for support is recommended before your feet hit the ground. Keep putting out the great content Takashii!
@@jensz9360 A great deal of the foreigners I have met are Military, so they eventually rotate to a new duty station. Civilians leave because of divorce, or a family member becoming ill, or passing away while they are abroad. The biggest thing for Civilians is of course living a life style without the means to support yourself. 3-5 years is about enough time for somebody to know if they can fit in with the Japanese culture. I feel lucky Japan has allowed me all this time over here with my children, and grandbabies.
@@Willbme4EVA Yes that is the thing. I think learning Japanese makes it 100% easier. Even visiting Japan and not reading or speaking Japanese sometimes creates barrier and missed connections even with translator.
@@jensz9360 in a perfect world one would think so, but a great deal of those who did just tuck tail and go back were actually very fluent in the language, not the culture. "What is Japan going to do for me?" as a mindset, is a bad start.
@@Willbme4EVA yes that is true. You have to think about what you can bring to the table and then fill the role as best you can. Thats what makes Japan such a great society is that no matter how small of a part a person has or job they have they play a part and they do it to the best of their ability. (Thus the high quality in Japan since people take pride in their work). They understand that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts and the combined effort makes the society more cohesive and efficient. In contrast here in US everyone wants to be a social media star so people are always angry because they have to work a job they feel is beneath them. So they have no pride in their job. Quality of everything suffers and they have a "Well its good enough" me , me , me mentality.
I just got back from Japan and I missed it so much I freaking cried leaving:( I would so move there permanently with my family such a beautiful country and just people minding their own business I love it!!!
@@Hay8137gI lived in Okinawa as a child, my father was in the Army. In my late twenties, I lived in Kanagawa ken for a few years. From the beginning, I felt like I was home. One day, after I returned to the U.S., I was watching something about Japan on my mother’s television. Suddenly, I started to cry. When she asked why I was crying, I told her I was homesick. Her reply was, “How can you be homesick, you just got home!” I am now 80, yet Japan, her language and culture remain a part of my life everyday. Forever the home of my heart.
so as usa i never been to japan i would visit but not to live there i dont even speak japanese too i love usa theres many friendly americans too just like other countries including japan, plus i love american cuisine and asian cuisine
This is great Takashi. I have fad a fascination about traveling to live in Japan for years now. It hasn't been open for me to do so yet so this video totally explored this topic for me is a mind-expansive way. Look forward to your next video. I really love this topic of eastern versus western societies.
Getting a bank account in Japan is a bigger pain than it needs to be for sure. If you come here through JET or some other arranged thing, they may help you with it or take care of it, but getting a bank account from scratch, on your own when you don't have any history here can be a hassle.
Ive done it by my own.... wasnt a hussle at all, because japan banks have websites where you can change the language. We dont have something like this is Germany and WAY more Immigration...
Japanese back accounts are now difficult because of the US laws. USA criminal politicians demanded AML / KYC. Also if you're American you'll see what happens with financial institutions in Japan. Even tourists in Japan used to be able to open a Japanese bank account.
@@hijackhypergamythis is nonsense, it's hard to get a bank account in Japan because of "anti terrorism laws", aka they don't want people to facilitate accounts for illegals. FATCA only applies if you're an American national and all it requires is filling out one sheet of paper. Don't be a drama queen. If you want hassle free banking in Japan, use Sony.
Opening a bank account in Japan is not a problem. The one requirement is to have legal "long-term" residence, which means having a Zairyu card (legal residence ID card). Short-term stays on a Tourist Visas (90 days or less) are not considered grounds for legal residence.
I've wanted to live in Japan since I was in my teens, given how things are going here in America, trying to find an Akiya or a really cheap house there sounds like a really good thing. I'm more than happy to teach English to students & with my cooking background... maybe that could come in handy too! Love your videos Takashi!
Great interviews Takashii. Hey! Oakland guy is Nick! He is in a comedy group called TimeBomb, in a rockabilly band and has done some programs with Nogizaka46, a Japanese idol group that are sisters to AKB48. You may be able to see some of his stuff online, the show is called ‘NogiEigo’ and is hosted by famous comedian Suzuki Tami (part of comedy duo Drunk Dragon). Suzuki-san also had a show with some AKB48 Team 8 members. Nick is great! Great insights by all guests and good dialogue with Takashii. Otsukare!
I Have Nothing But Love & Respect For Japan, Its People & Awesome Culture. Lived On Okinawa For A Year And It Was One Of The Best Years Of My Life. I Wouldn't Trade The Experiences I Had For Anything. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Thank You TAKASHii For Yet Another Great Video Presentation!
Dope interviews! I'm an American who visited Japan in 2017, and it was life changing in the best way. I can't wait to go back! It was summed up perfectly by the girl from Oklahoma who said the US is disappointing. It may not be Japan, but living abroad full-time is definitely in the cards in my future. Even if it's as a nomad.
I have been living in Japan for nearly ten years, and I absolutely love it here. The medical care is affordable, and the transportation system is excellent. I met my amazing husband in Japan, and I have always had a job and a place to live. I feel safe walking home at night. Additionally, Japan is a beautiful country with a rich and diverse culture, and the people are generally kind. While it’s not a perfect place and there are areas where improvements could be made-such as addressing sexism-life here suits me very well. I have been watching your channel for a while. Your interviews are great!
Sexism?? Where ypu from, the US?? Go back if you don't like how they handle it there. People like you are the main reason why II and many want to leave the US because of the HORRIBLE woman!!!!
I mean if you are going to live in a place long term that you love because of the culture, assimilating into that culture starting with learning the language makes sense
Travelling to Japan for the first time myself very soon, looking forward to do lots of walking and sightseeing all day long! Living there for a while sounds really interesting, but I'm not from a rich/known country so the possibilities look extremely slim.
I live in PA and Osaka. The draw to Japan is that one’s standard of living: cost, safety, freedom in Japan is the same everywhere you go in Japan. In the U.S. in varies greatly. When I fly back into NYC I want to turn right around and go back to Japan, but once I get back into the Lehigh Valley that standard of living gets closer and in some areas better than Japan.
Left the US and moved to Mexico back in 2017 .No longer have debt and live quite comfortably and managed to save up for my for first home and paid cash for it. 🎉 love the culture here
@@cris_here learn as much Spanish as you can but in Mexico City english is quite common. They even have ads in English. A lot of expats living in Mexico City.
What part? Looking into expat communities in Jalisco/lake Chapala, or San Miguel de Allende, or Ensenada (any thoughts/recs?) Primary reason I favor MX over Japan is easy flights to my grandchild in Florida 🤷🏻♀️
I came to Japan in 1988 with a plan of staying for 2 years then moving back to Canada...5 kids and 36 years later...I'm still here...by choice. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else.
I’m listening to the Japanese language from those men and I can’t imagine myself learning Japanese. It seems so freaking hard. I give you guys props for learning to talk so fluently💪🏼
I am a Japanese girl who ran away from Japan to the US 20 years ago thinking i would never go back. So interesting to see different perspectives....I would take my family and kids there for vacation. But I don't know i would ever live there again.
It's alr as many people have also left Japan because of their different perspective and conditions. I've seen plenty of people who left it because of the workaholic culture and the stress
There’s also the case of Japanese family members being disowned. My coworker told me that’s what happened with his mom and she never went back to Japan. She still doesn't speak with them to this day. But yeah the point is most people have legitimate reasons as to why they refuse to come back to their country.
I came to Japan from Canada in 1993. I went home for four years from 1997-2000, but came back and will likely die here. Got a PhD, tenure at university, husband, kids, and cats.
Been living in Japan for 2 years, and I’m still proud to be American! We all have strengths and weaknesses as countries. Japan is amazing, the people are amazing and I love being here but I do miss the ability to make friends on a daily! I’ve made many friends while being here but it’s much more open in America. Bottom line: You gotta love where you are and where you’re from!
so as usa lots of friendly Americans just like japan i wouldn’t go far saying its better cause no country is perfect there are crimes in japan just like anywhere else if you think japan is safe your wrong.
@@ViviendoconLoli I am from California! Based upon your experience, it is the same everywhere, to a certain extent. However, I would rather be able to converse with people and make life more enjoyable rather than to be amongst a “reserved” people. I do agree with you to a point that Japanese people, when they become friends- you gain a lifelong friend. There are too many things to talk about that a chat room isn’t the place. My whole point is no one should be embarrassed about where they are from as each place has its amazing points and it is what makes us all amazing!!
Good reply.... Sad one of the interviewers mentioned that the USA isn't doing much with sustainable energy compared to other countries... guess she didn't get the memo about Tesla ya know - that USA company whose cars are the most USA made car... making perhaps 2 million electric cars this year... significantly reducing transportation-related emissions. oh oh - yea - they also installed over 46,500 kW of solar capacity across their factories, aiming for 100% renewable energy use in operations by 2024. and - well - there is Tesla's Supercharger network that has achieved 100% renewable energy usage. T but - hey - can't let facts get in the way of opinions.
Every Japanese person who visited me in the US was blown away by me being able to make a comment to a total stranger and having them reply and both of us laughing. It’s soul crushing in japan, though, I felt Osaka people were much more friendly, closer to US sensibilities while still being Japanese.
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Takashi, I'm sixty and retired. Working a job is no longer a concern of mine. I would like to see you interview older folk who've relocated to Japan and for whom employment is not an issue.
Why do african americans call themselves black people, when they are clearly brown skin colour? Shouldnt they call themselves african american brown people, They literally the same colour of brown chocolate.
If you Americans want to help me why don t you ask the Syrian Turkish border gate to let me in legally through a Turkish wali office
He can get me into Turkey in a few minutes by putting my name on the entry list and calling me when my name is allowed to enter because the Syrian Turkish border is closed and no one can cross the border illegally.
So I can travel to Japan
I originally have an official Turkish ID I entered Syria as a tourist and I commented Is this legal
Many Syrians cling to me so that I remain stuck here because of jealous policies.
Failed people and a completely failed land
The Turkish portal is subject to American and Turkish policy.
Takashii you should interview my husband when you're in LA in January.
I went to Japan for vacation once and from the second I stepped outside the airport until the moment I left I felt an overwhelming sense of peace that I’ve never felt before or since. I love that place.
That’s vacation syndrome. You don’t live there so you don’t know the reality, only the idealized version. Japanese are racist as hell and two-faced. “Tate-Mae”. They are proud of being skilled at being able to smile in your face now and stab you in the back later.
Been to Japan 3x, don’t have to worry about crime. Love the subway system too.
@ It’s an incredible place.
Same here
A weight off your chest and shoulders and random feeling of inspiration
I'm the Florida-man in the video! Thanks for the interview Takashi! 🖤
my username is the same on all socials if you wanna see life in japan 🫡
Reppin Florida that’s what’s up
So you like Jimmy John's or something? 😁
Your vibe and fit made me nostalgic for 2006-2008 era internet for some reason, in a positive way 😄
Boy you're cute as a pie ❤
That's cool that Takashii leaves a reminder on the top right during each scene reminding the viewer where each person is from.
That's a Japanese thing, they aways make everything so convenient. I love it.
What the hell are you on about@@AZTIAN-TALKS your comment is literally the thing in Japan vs thing outside of Japan meme
I find that that is the case with many things Japanese. To me it indicates that they think a bit further about what "others" need to make their lives more convenient. When social harmony and cohesion are of highest priority a lot of things tended to be convenient for people.
i appreciated that too!
Yeah because some of their answers only make sense from where they're from. America is huge and there's small cities, townships, villages, metropolis' etc that really changes their answers.
I have traveled to more than 100 countries around the world. Japan is my number 1. They just do so much right. I feel at home and at peace whenever I am there. I have visited 6 times so far, hopefully will live there in the near future.
rich bastard.
What about the language barrier in Japan? Is there a big expat community in Japan?
@@Stormstorm1 I think most Japanese people know basic English and also understand that everybody doesn't speak Japanese
Sure
Top tier glaze
Hey Takashi, Aloha from Hawai’i. My son moved to Japan to work in the JET program then met a Japanese girl and married her. He loves his life there and has no plans to leave. Thank you for providing lots of relevant content to help me understand his experience.
That’s such a cute story.
A lot of the people saying they felt safer in Japan are from places like California and New York who defunded the police. Moreover, the local government lets criminals out within hours instead of staying in the jail.
In the rural States outside the major cities, it is much safer.
Thank you for speaking facts! @@WW-cp4gb
Now he will get cheated kn
@@WW-cp4gb fear? Fears of getting shot at? In every school in the usa . Japan is safer because of culture, not just because they have police or not.
This is hitting hard this week. Wish more ppl in the US traveled and understood and had higher standards for quality of life.
Funny. All I see on youtube is terrible videos of japan and their work ethic and how depressed everyone is yadda yadda. I wish I knew what was true anymore. Suicide is sky high in japan though so....must be something
@ you’re not wrong about suicide rates. But both those things can be true at the same time. I believe the suicide rates is due to work burnout and loneliness in the cities. Also, it’s not really about Japan, but understanding that the collective can achieve so much more by will, than government can impose.
@@k.t.1641 It's both. Japan is amazing to visit and live if you make money elsewhere. That's why youtubers moved in, LOL. The job opportunities for non-japanese are scarce and even so, they require extremely hard work to get (more than japanese person would). Teaching English was the obvious career some time ago (even lucrative), but million others had the same idea in recent decade too. Many low jobs tat would be no brainer elsewhere are actually not available to foreigners. You can't be taxi driver, or work in store, not even stock shelves... And of course 10 days vacation and no sick days was somehow not mentioned in the video at all... The best part of being in Japan as a foreigner is that you can leave and work anywhere else in the world - something most Japanese can't really do (vast language barrier, vast skills barrier and of course no money ). Yeah, many young Japanese people will tell you they feel locked in Japan.
@@k.t.1641 It is the same in America. Nobody comments on it either... The US has no work/life balance and no one thinks anything different? But Japan doesn't either and it's suddenly a problem?
I am sure a lot of people would love to travel including me, but a major issue is it's expensive.
So I found this channel yesterday, and started watching old videos from like 3 years first. The progression of his language skills is so cool to observe!
Agree
Visited my son in Japan this past June. He’s been there for three years in the military and has married a wonderful Japanese lady. If I could find a way to make a living in Japan I would move there in a heartbeat. Is the most wonderful and amazing places I’ve ever been. Japan has a lot they could teach America about respect, courtesy and general decency.
Why is Japan suicide rate so high? This video is such a lie
Teach English. The pay is liveable and you meet a ton of people. I know teachers who moved in their 50s and 60s to Japan.
But not if you do not have a degree! I would love to move out of America, and Japan would be my number one pick! But I have no degree so I don’t think it’s possible.
Unfortunately most Americans are too arrogant to learn what respect is.
@@karenkingrey6142 you could get a cheap online only university degree. If they want a “degree” of any type just do classes on something you like. You could try a school like Sage. All they wanted was a native English speaker.
I lived in Japan for 3 years and I loved it. It’s true that you will always be a “Gaijin”-an outsider, but for the most part, you are treated well and it’s a safe, clean, beautiful, country.
Basing respectful on the outside and having hatred for you on the inside, that's called being fake and disingenuous. Who wants to be around fake people?
@@twochinsmmabecause no one's really that sensitive. Japanese people are very respectful and as long as you do the same, what does it really matter?
@@TwitchTakeout Its funny that some people think its okay to hate people based on their race as long as they don't show it in public.
@@twochinsmma surprisingly most of that stereotype is false. People never avoided sitting next to me and some of the food service was above and beyond from observation. It just depends on the person just like in the US.
@@musicconnoisseur4019 So basically you're saying that stereotypes are generated from imaginary consensus.
I came to Japan for work on a US base 10 years ago. I fell in love with the Japanese culture and then retired here. I get culture shock every time I go to the USA. Your interview was spot on! どもうありがとうございました！
Trump is back, usa will be better now.
ばか。Trump might deside to abandon Japan to save up money allowing young Chinese men to penetrate Japan.
But how do US taxes work out? And do you pay Japanese taxes, in addition?
@ working DOD, you pay taxes just like living in the States. If you’re working for a Japanese firm, you’ll have to pay taxes to Japan, and then report those taxes on your American tax forms. There are firms that specialize in taxes for expats.
@@stuartmisfeldt3068
嫁はいますか？
I miss living in Japan.
I lived in Sapporo for 2 years and Tokyo for 8 years. Wonderful country. Love it.
Did you ever get used to the earthquakes or were you always, deathly afraid? What was your common practice when the earthquake hits?
What would recommend to do in Tokyo?
@@justwatching2006 you do get used to it, it doesn't hang over you thinking about it. Everyone gets under tables or stands in a doorway. For bigger ones the power and gas might go out.
This is genuinely such a great video. Amazing insights from real people from the states, and as an American myself, i aligned with a bunch of the opinions stated and its pretty darn accurate
I really appreciated this video, thank you! At 59, I’m definitely older than the folks in the video, but I am very curious to learn about what it’s like as an older American moving to Japan. Thanks again for the wonderful videos!
Do you follow Chani Japan?
@@verwilliams1thanks for that tip!! Will definitely follow also!🤟🙏
61 here but I look about 50- I want to go now while I’m still young & fit enough😅
Just go
Did you know you can buy a house there for almost nothing if you don't mind living in the beautiful countryside.
I'm an American and I love learning about culture and every day life in other countries. Your channel is amazing! Keep up the great work.
I visited for the first time in 2022. There was an uncanny feeling I had when walking around Tokyo that took me a couple days to understand. I realized that in walking around a big city like Tokyo, there was no chaos, no loud noises, even with the number of cars on the road it was relatively quiet, and I never felt unsafe. That feeling was the absence of anxiety. Walking around Japan I always felt comfortable and safe, and that feeling in a big city was profound to me. Truly a special experience being in Japan.
I met that guy from Florida at WARP Club when I was on vacation in Tokyo. That’s so crazy to see him on a random RUclips video, so cool.
I am from America and I was in Japan for 2 weeks this past June, visiting my brother who moved there for 3 years. Those 2 weeks were 2 of my favorite weeks of my life. Tokyo, Yokohama, Osaka, Kyoto, Odawara were some of my visits in those 2 weeks. I loved every part of the trip. I started missing Japan the second I got on the plane ride home.
not every american can afford japan man im american i rather stay in usa theres lots of do and lot of friendly americans if you see the reality japan has crimes too just like north america or any country i never been to japan cUse money 💰 talks.
Thank you for visiting Japan. Hokkaido and Okinawa are beautiful. ぜひ来て
You should come to Nagoya where I grew up and live here.
小田原に行ってるところがいいですね
I recommend you go back for several weeks so you can add more "favorite" weeks to your life!!
I was fortunate, more than I could ever realize at the time, to have lived in Japan for three years back in the 90’s and many other countries while in the US Navy. I finished up my time in the service, and Japan, in the year 2000 and have been homesick for Japan and other countries for the past 24 years.
Hope you can go back one day ❤
Yeah, I was just thinking how as a navy wife I didn't really appreciate it as much as I'm sure I would now. I was there around the same time period in Yakosuka. Base life was definitely an entirely different experience.
@@CptShibe I decided to make it happen. I booked a 2025 Thanksgiving combo trip to South Korea and wrapping up in Tokyo to revisit Tokyo Disney. I’m beyond stoked to finally return!!
@@trae74 several of my buddies back then were married to their H.S. Sweethearts add during deployment some of the wives would take shopping trips to Hong Kong and Singapore but many others being so young would just be on base. I’m going to be returning to Tokyo this Thanksgiving finally and I feel being older now will make the trip that much more meaningful.
@@OhShunz That's awesome to hear, man! I visited some two years back, (2022 december) and I'm hoping I'll be able to return soon aswell, many beautiful memories that I hold onto dearly.
I hope you have a great trip C:
Thank you for a very nice video. As a US citizen who's never been to Japan, it's very nice to hear different Americans (who all seemed quite nice) from diverse backgrounds giving their take on living in Japan. I saw your first video last night--which was also excellent--and this second one today and have now subscribed and "thumbs up". I look forward to many more, learning a lot more about Japanese culture and the country, and perhaps learning some Japanese along the way. All the best to you and those you interviewed!
I'm an American who has been living in Japan for nearly 2 years conducting research. When I passed the halfway point of my planned 3 and 1/2 year stay several months ago, it was more than a melancholic moment for me. I'm now seriously thinking of extending my residence in the country by at least another year. At some point, I will have to return to California to take care of certain necessary life issues. But I absolutely do not look forward to my day of departure at all. Even though I have travelled to Japan frequently during my life, visiting Japan on tourist visas is not quite the same as living here as a long-term resident. I will truly miss the country, her people, and her culture when I leave, and am so grateful for the opportunity to have lived here.
These are very well produced. I haven't followed this channel for a long time and its impressive to see the things you've done to improve the quality over time. Thank you!
Hi Takashii, we are traveling from the USA to Tokyo in March 2025 for a two week visit. Thank you for all the content you've uploaded. Your channel has been so informative and entertaining. We are really looking forward to experiencing your culture and your videos have really helped provide a primer on what to expect. Thank you!
Takashi, your English has improved a lot just by talking to foreigners in Japan. There's a clear difference between your earlier videos and the later ones. Very well done!
The American who was a Californian and said he missed Mexican food that def hits home for those who left Cali. If I'm by some good taco stands or a taqueria that is my piece of heaven.
I'm from colorado and living in vietnam and I miss mexican food so fucking bad. I make my own but it's not the same.
Surprisingly Japan has some pretty good Mexican food and good Brazilian food. Depending on the city but Osaka and Hiroshima have a lot of that
Cantina Rima in Osaka! 🔥
Arizona moved back to the Northeast and the Mexican food up here is straight basura
Kind of similar to a friend of mine. She can find food Mexican food, good pho but she misses good Indian food in Korea.
Last month I spent two weeks in Japan. The people and the culture are truly incredible. The food, architecture, history, safety, are first class. But it's the people and their sense of pride to maintain the culture that made me fall in love with the country.
Definitely. Here in US most people have no pride, that's why customer service here in US sucks and quality of services and goods is low as hell. No pride, despite what they try to pretend.
@@jensz9360You’re free to leave and move to Japan. I know a lot of Americans who complain a lot about our country but are willing to support illegal immigration to dilute our culture. The reason why Japan has so much pride is because if you haven’t already noticed, they are Japanese first. They don’t like foreigners going in to screw their culture up and dilute the gene pool. But hell you clowns are the same ones to call that racism, there’s no such thing as racism in Japan because they will call you a gaijin. You want people to show pride in the country, give them a reason to feel proud.
I dunno if I'd include their history in the first class category...yyyikes
food is mostly useless, toxic garbage. architecture is either copypoaste british garbage with zero insulation, or copypaste american garbage... with not much more insulation. Safety is overrated and severely underreported.
They dont care about their culture being robbed of them. They just go "oh well" and get drunk again.
@@adamleyva9224what makes you say that?!
I did the Jet program too in the early 2000s. They really did go above and beyond to make us feel welcomed and taken care of. It was a great experience! If you are thinking of going to Japan, it’s a great option. Definitely worth applying and giving the recruitment process a go.
Me too. Tokushima, ALT. How about you?
@ 👋 I was an ALT as well, in Wakayama near Osaka. Anyone else?
Tochigi '02-'05
I did a short stint with NOVA then I found a small private English school.
Lived in Japan for 10+ years, now go back and forth, and I agreed with so much of what everyone said. There’s a difference in experiences and thus perspectives with foreigners who have been in Japan for a long time and/or made a life for themselves versus those who’ve only been in the country for a short period or haven’t really found their footing.
I didn't know a thing about Japan and I loved that you interviewed different people on their perspectives. It was so interesting and now I want to come visit. Thanks for this!
I feel that all of the Americans interviewed are blue city liberals living in a fantasy though. The real Americans stay in America I suppose.
Amazing and inspiring video. I love how you interviewed people with different years in Japan. It's a fresh take and really shows how possible it is to move and live there. Thanks for the motivation!
Sure moving there is very possible, making a good living a little tougher
When you consider that Tokyo has almost the same population as Canada, I found that it was super organized and quiet and there are lots and lots of huge open spaces. Looking forward to going back for 5 weeks next year during Sakura.
Japan has three times the population of Canada.
This may be the best video I have watched so far about moving to Japan, hands down. Thank you and thanks to all the folks that agreed to an interview. Well done.
It was very one sided sadly. They barely touched on any negatives.
I just wanna say I really appreciate your videos Takashii and thanks to you I feel more connected to Japan. I really love the country and I hope to visit again someday soon and maybe even be interviewed by you 🙏🏽
I'm from Virginia and shocked to see three people from VA. Especially the 757 area code
804 for me. Yeah. Suprised so many of us were from Virginia in this video. Its rare for me to find someone from VA out on my daily.
Fellow Virginian here. I find it also cool to see so many Virginians in this video, especially from the DMV area. Maybe we should all go to Japan!
Me too! Lol
Why so many people leave VA? 😅
@ VA is the most basic GTA server. Once you experience Japan its usually no turning back from then🤣
Japan was one of my favorite countries to visit, their culture is by far better than most. Respect is honorable there.
sure if you`re into stuck-up individuals
That won’t last if they let in foreigners.
Foreigners will ruin it just like they have ruined France
@@LHBH8Homogeny is a beautiful thing.
No. Mexican Food. No Italian food. No Cannabis. No Firearms rights.... No Mixed black Girls No white women.
I was in Japan last week in both Tokyo and Osaka. I have two friends that moved over there and they never want to come back to the States. I don't blame them. Its such a beautiful country.
What do u they like mote about Japan that they never wanna come back to the US?
Also Japan got stuff like better healthcare and public transportation where in America you better hope your covered and need a car for everything unless your in like New York but public transit have issue tho tehur many reason I say start watching Not Just Bike to begins
Their also how we view politics in America we vuew Harris was a liberal but around the world she'll be view a a centrist same with Obama and Biden center right
@@USSAnimeNCC-sadly Americans don’t know this. Democrats vs republicans are center vs far right
@@ZhannaZhumabayeva-jq8otwhat's a negative? Кыздар!
I deployed to Iwakuni twice. Definitely safe and very peaceful. Planning a trip to visit my friend in Akita in the near future. It is a great life if you move there and you are already established.
Takashii is always doing such a good job with these videos! I always enjoy watching them!
Love this video. Thank you, Takashii ! If you’re coming to LA in January, you should definitely interview some local Japanese born in the US and Japanese who moved to the US.
I know a musician and a culinary teacher who moved to LA, also some Japanese people who grew up in LA, and restaurants in little Tokyo who’s been there since the city began. They might be good contacts for you. Feel free to reply and reach out if needed. 🙌🏼😊
Shout out to dude #1 from RVA! Fellow RVA citizen living in Japan for 18 years now.
My first duty station with the USAF was Misawa AB Japan. I was there two years before going back to the States and I had culture shock coming back to USA. Not being in Japan and was so glad to visit many places and people. I’d love to come back 20 years later and climb Mt Fuji and travel throughout Asia for a couple years.
I visited Japan and instantly could see why people want to stay. Can’t wait to go back. Great video. 🙏
I lived in Japan for 16 years. Very courteous, kind and respectful people 👍 (also humble). This is the best thing about Japan. All the other things are just bonus.
Have you been to every prefecture
But that’s all fake. They act nice to your face and then say some mean evil sht when they think you can’t hear or understand them.
@@DisgruntledPigumonYour just talking about yourself. Being mean n talking sht about others.. its literally YOU. Ive been in japan more than 5 yrs but i dont have any problem like you
I don't deny some of Japanese are like that but not all of us.
@@Iggyyy4920
Are you fluent in the language
This was so interesting! I’m impressed with the Americans you interviewed and how great their Nihongo was. I would love to try making a life in Japan, but I’m an old man now. Maybe in my next life!
Loved everyone's honest opinion and perspective on the differences. Thank you for sharing. ❤
Best channel to understand Japan as a foreigner!
Thanks for putting interesting interviews together. I was in Tokyo for 7 weeks, now back in Seattle, and planning to go back to Japan for part of the year in the future. I guess I'll be a "senior nomad" instead of a digital nomad. Let me know if you visit the PNW. :)
I'm from Zurich, Switzerland. Been living here in Tokyo for almost 8 years. Yeah living in Tokyo is very comfortable and convenient, but one thing that really stands out is the people. The Japanese are just incredible people !
you moved from the best place on earth to Japan. lol. I would love to live in Switzerland. Probably a tad bit more than Japan.
@@michaels8878 Have you been to Zurich? It's one of the most BORING city in the world!😂
@@azabujuban-hito-dake hehe. i just like the protection of the alps and the beauty. plus the monetary policy.
How did u go to Japan, what do you do
Tell me what do u like about japanese people😍
One of my favorite videos of yours by far! Keep it up. Everyone was awesome.
Takashii, you've really stepped up your game! Well-deserved success.
OMG crazy to see you here Kong! Takashi is the man 😂
I would love for you to interview people who work blue collar jobs. Feels like everyone you interviewed works mostly in an office or a classroom. Which is fine 😅. But I’m really interested in farming and construction and would like to hear about that side of Japan 🇯🇵
Probably won't find blue collar Americans living in Japan seems Japan only wants people with college degrees
This was a great interview! Loads of different perspectives!
I'm from such a small town in Virginia, so I'm laughing at how you found this many people from there to interview 😄
Anyways, I enjoy hearing the differences, and I appreciate how you handled this topic. Lately, I've noticed anything related to Americans traveling/living abroad isn't.. well done so respectfully. My daughter and I would love to visit Japan. So hope to see you someday!
This is so cool. I am so impressed by how fluent in Japanese these foreigners are.
very difficult language to learn. You need a good ear for the expressions and particles, which can completely change the sentence. has a lot of nuance and many of the words are equivalent to tongue twisters for a western person.
Excellent video Takashii. Love to hear about the different experiences each of the interviewees has had in Japan.
Also, wow, at the end you said you are coming to L.A. in January to interview Japanese people in America - - - looking forward to that a lot !
Glad to have someone representing Hawaii in the interview so awesome to see
Just returned from a 2 week trip. It was amazing & the people were so so kind. I loved it…wasn’t ready to go but I had to get back to my life. now that I’m home…I look around America and feel so sad that our country is so dysfunctional
I'm a retired Army veteran. I have been thinking about living in Japan but I don't don't speak the language lol. It looks beautiful over there and the people seem very polite like South Korea. I lived there for four years and loved it.
Camp humphreys gang
As long as you're fine always being the outsider.
The issue would be getting residence status
you don't have to speak the language to live there.
@@SegaAidan yes you do lol. I recommend living there thinking no one can speak English. or youll have hard time communicating with people
Wow loved this video. It gives a really great insight , into foreigners living in Japan. Loved the variety of people and their experiences. I would love to live in Japan, visited many times. Always sad to leave . Maybe one day .
good luck with that im american i never been to japan the country is too expensive to live but i would only visit cause i love usa 🇺🇸 too
I spent a year in Japan years ago. I spent most of my time with my other Korean friends and learned almost nothing. 🤣 When I traveled alone to USA and spent all of my time with Americans, I became proficient in English in no time at all. Speaking with native speakers is essential to learning language. You can't do it on your own!
20:12 preach!!!! Love this perspective!
AND…. 25:44 💯 agree!!!!
So this woman definitely turned out to be my fave of all the interviewed people (clearly).
Hello! The 6’3 guy is from Norfolk, VA. Great video!
I think he had it as Northford VA in the video lol
Hi! Currently in Norfolk!!
Yeah it's supposed to be Norfolk lmao
Hello I’m a 500 pound man from Maine.
There’s no way he’s 6’3” 😂
Takashii , I love the way you introduce your videos and say : "Let's get started" 👏🏻👏🏻🥰
I’m Thai but I love watching all these interviews about Japan on your channel lol
Thailand is awesome too 🖤🖤🖤
When the price of living in Texas was made public, wealthy people looking to profit came and drove the cost of living up. Families who had worked hard saving money to finally get their dream home were left with a smaller home and unforeseen issues. I love how respectful things are in Japan. Sharing the amazing experiences in Japan, or any beautiful place, public causes me to contemplate whether the same history will repeat itself, as in Texas.
Texas is still the best state to live along with Tennesee and Arizona, even switching Colorado still had better numbers than other blue ones
I think everyone and I mean everyone should go to Korea or Japan once in their life to visit if not live. My friend. Amazing person, took my sister and her brother and Mom with us to Korea to seoul, busan, daegu, and jeju Island. I would go back a million times to jeju Island and daegu. Even busan was lovely. Every place people were so Kind even though we were foreigners. I think it was because we showed allot of etiquette and were kind. That kind of language is universal ❤
I am coming up on my 35 year anniversary of living in Okinawa, Japan. Anyone who meets me for the first time of course meets me as a foreigner that arrived recently. After all this time I really do not think I could move back to the states. So many responsibilities, family, and friends here. A long vacation maybe more in mind. At least 98% of foreigner's I knew that gave their best shot at living in Japan have eventually gone back to the states. If and when you decide to come to Japan, do not try to do it on your own. A good friend, or even a group of friends for support is recommended before your feet hit the ground. Keep putting out the great content Takashii!
What usually prompts them to move back? How long do most of them last before they tuck tail and head back?
@@jensz9360 A great deal of the foreigners I have met are Military, so they eventually rotate to a new duty station. Civilians leave because of divorce, or a family member becoming ill, or passing away while they are abroad. The biggest thing for Civilians is of course living a life style without the means to support yourself. 3-5 years is about enough time for somebody to know if they can fit in with the Japanese culture. I feel lucky Japan has allowed me all this time over here with my children, and grandbabies.
@@Willbme4EVA Yes that is the thing. I think learning Japanese makes it 100% easier. Even visiting Japan and not reading or speaking Japanese sometimes creates barrier and missed connections even with translator.
@@jensz9360 in a perfect world one would think so, but a great deal of those who did just tuck tail and go back were actually very fluent in the language, not the culture. "What is Japan going to do for me?" as a mindset, is a bad start.
@@Willbme4EVA yes that is true. You have to think about what you can bring to the table and then fill the role as best you can.
Thats what makes Japan such a great society is that no matter how small of a part a person has or job they have they play a part and they do it to the best of their ability. (Thus the high quality in Japan since people take pride in their work). They understand that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts and the combined effort makes the society more cohesive and efficient. In contrast here in US everyone wants to be a social media star so people are always angry because they have to work a job they feel is beneath them. So they have no pride in their job. Quality of everything suffers and they have a "Well its good enough" me , me , me mentality.
I just got back from Japan and I missed it so much I freaking cried leaving:( I would so move there permanently with my family such a beautiful country and just people minding their own business I love it!!!
😂😂
@@Hay8137gI lived in Okinawa as a child, my father was in the Army. In my late twenties, I lived in Kanagawa ken for a few years. From the beginning, I felt like I was home. One day, after I returned to the U.S., I was watching something about Japan on my mother’s television. Suddenly, I started to cry. When she asked why I was crying, I told her I was homesick. Her reply was, “How can you be homesick, you just got home!” I am now 80, yet Japan, her language and culture remain a part of my life everyday. Forever the home of my heart.
so as usa i never been to japan i would visit but not to live there i dont even speak japanese too i love usa theres many friendly americans too just like other countries including japan, plus i love american cuisine and asian cuisine
This is great Takashi. I have fad a fascination about traveling to live in Japan for years now. It hasn't been open for me to do so yet so this video totally explored this topic for me is a mind-expansive way. Look forward to your next video. I really love this topic of eastern versus western societies.
Fantastic interviews. I enjoyed watching every minute. 💛👍
I love this so much especially being someone from the DMV and also thinking about moving to Japan. So much representation in this video ❤️
I'm from the DMV too
LOVE LOVE LOVE your channel, thank you so much for your content. Peace and success!!!
This was such a good interview. I loved all the advice & struggles.
Getting a bank account in Japan is a bigger pain than it needs to be for sure. If you come here through JET or some other arranged thing, they may help you with it or take care of it, but getting a bank account from scratch, on your own when you don't have any history here can be a hassle.
Ive done it by my own.... wasnt a hussle at all, because japan banks have websites where you can change the language. We dont have something like this is Germany and WAY more Immigration...
Japanese back accounts are now difficult because of the US laws. USA criminal politicians demanded AML / KYC. Also if you're American you'll see what happens with financial institutions in Japan.
Even tourists in Japan used to be able to open a Japanese bank account.
@@hijackhypergamythis is nonsense, it's hard to get a bank account in Japan because of "anti terrorism laws", aka they don't want people to facilitate accounts for illegals.
FATCA only applies if you're an American national and all it requires is filling out one sheet of paper. Don't be a drama queen.
If you want hassle free banking in Japan, use Sony.
People without residency cards have never been able to open bank accounts, and FATCA only applies to Americans.
Please stop spreading misinformation.
Opening a bank account in Japan is not a problem. The one requirement is to have legal "long-term" residence, which means having a Zairyu card (legal residence ID card). Short-term stays on a Tourist Visas (90 days or less) are not considered grounds for legal residence.
I've wanted to live in Japan since I was in my teens, given how things are going here in America, trying to find an Akiya or a really cheap house there sounds like a really good thing. I'm more than happy to teach English to students & with my cooking background... maybe that could come in handy too! Love your videos Takashi!
Great interviews Takashii.
Hey! Oakland guy is Nick! He is in a comedy group called TimeBomb, in a rockabilly band and has done some programs with Nogizaka46, a Japanese idol group that are sisters to AKB48. You may be able to see some of his stuff online, the show is called ‘NogiEigo’ and is hosted by famous comedian Suzuki Tami (part of comedy duo Drunk Dragon). Suzuki-san also had a show with some AKB48 Team 8 members. Nick is great!
Great insights by all guests and good dialogue with Takashii. Otsukare!
I had a friend from Japan. He was so sweet, so cute. He didn’t speak english well, I didnt speak Japanese… but we were pals hehe
I Have Nothing But Love & Respect For Japan, Its People & Awesome Culture. Lived On Okinawa For A Year And It Was One Of The Best Years Of My Life. I Wouldn't Trade The Experiences I Had For Anything. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank You TAKASHii For Yet Another Great Video Presentation!
Id love to hear more about living in Okinawa
Came to Japan in '85 as a military brat, stayed behind when the family returned to the States and have been here since. Love it and will die here.
Dope interviews! I'm an American who visited Japan in 2017, and it was life changing in the best way. I can't wait to go back! It was summed up perfectly by the girl from Oklahoma who said the US is disappointing. It may not be Japan, but living abroad full-time is definitely in the cards in my future. Even if it's as a nomad.
Kudos Mr Takashii, best segment I've seen to date 👍
I have been living in Japan for nearly ten years, and I absolutely love it here. The medical care is affordable, and the transportation system is excellent. I met my amazing husband in Japan, and I have always had a job and a place to live. I feel safe walking home at night. Additionally, Japan is a beautiful country with a rich and diverse culture, and the people are generally kind. While it’s not a perfect place and there are areas where improvements could be made-such as addressing sexism-life here suits me very well. I have been watching your channel for a while. Your interviews are great!
sexism? wow scary
Are you fluent
LOL. You are trying to turn Japan into a woke place. Go back to America. Idiot
Sexism?? Where ypu from, the US?? Go back if you don't like how they handle it there. People like you are the main reason why II and many want to leave the US because of the HORRIBLE woman!!!!
leave if you don't like it. you're not male. men need careers more than women do.
I’m so impressed hearing these fellow Americans speak fluent Japanese! A lot of Americans are not multilingual.
I mean if you are going to live in a place long term that you love because of the culture, assimilating into that culture starting with learning the language makes sense
WRONG, they speak ghetto slang and trailer twang.
We would have been bilingual - my mother was German - but dad put a stop to that.
Wrong! Many American are bilingual!
Fascintating perspectives. Great content as always.
I’m so happy that everyone appreciate Japan.
Japan is one of the best places in the world.
A very interesting and diverse selection of interviewees. Thank you.
Travelling to Japan for the first time myself very soon, looking forward to do lots of walking and sightseeing all day long! Living there for a while sounds really interesting, but I'm not from a rich/known country so the possibilities look extremely slim.
I live in PA and Osaka. The draw to Japan is that one’s standard of living: cost, safety, freedom in Japan is the same everywhere you go in Japan. In the U.S. in varies greatly. When I fly back into NYC I want to turn right around and go back to Japan, but once I get back into the Lehigh Valley that standard of living gets closer and in some areas better than Japan.
Ironic to see this comment while living in LV as well
@@DylanHaas610 ironic?
Thanks!for helpings 🎉
Just recently visited and also had trouble with being tall in a short society. Pleasantly surprised how safe it was
Left the US and moved to Mexico back in 2017 .No longer have debt and live quite comfortably and managed to save up for my for first home and paid cash for it. 🎉 love the culture here
Stay there! Happy for you. Going to Mexico City this week-excited!
is it common without speaking fluent Spanish? sounds like a good life! thank you
@@cris_here learn as much Spanish as you can but in Mexico City english is quite common. They even have ads in English. A lot of expats living in Mexico City.
What part? Looking into expat communities in Jalisco/lake Chapala, or San Miguel de Allende, or Ensenada (any thoughts/recs?) Primary reason I favor MX over Japan is easy flights to my grandchild in Florida 🤷🏻♀️
My wife is from Mexico and she's a doctor here, we live very comfortably
I came to Japan in 1988 with a plan of staying for 2 years then moving back to Canada...5 kids and 36 years later...I'm still here...by choice. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else.
That’s awesome!
I’m listening to the Japanese language from those men and I can’t imagine myself learning Japanese. It seems so freaking hard. I give you guys props for learning to talk so fluently💪🏼
It's impressive that one of these people lived there in Japan 🇯🇵 for 17 years, which is amazing 👏
It's not amazing if you know that his other choice is the crime ridden drug den that is Oakland.
I'm a bit jealous, I wish I could do that as well.
ニック兄貴はyoutubeのchもありますよ
アメリカ人らしいどストレードな喋りが面白くて気に入ってます
I am a Japanese girl who ran away from Japan to the US 20 years ago thinking i would never go back. So interesting to see different perspectives....I would take my family and kids there for vacation. But I don't know i would ever live there again.
Where in the US do you live in
It's alr as many people have also left Japan because of their different perspective and conditions. I've seen plenty of people who left it because of the workaholic culture and the stress
Doubt it.
There’s also the case of Japanese family members being disowned. My coworker told me that’s what happened with his mom and she never went back to Japan. She still doesn't speak with them to this day. But yeah the point is most people have legitimate reasons as to why they refuse to come back to their country.
Interesting, why did you leave?
One of the best interviews I’ve seen on your channel,thanks and keep it up! 🎉😊
I came to Japan from Canada in 1993. I went home for four years from 1997-2000, but came back and will likely die here. Got a PhD, tenure at university, husband, kids, and cats.
Which prefecture
@@missplainjane3905 Various
Do the cats say meow or nyaa?
Been living in Japan for 2 years, and I’m still proud to be American! We all have strengths and weaknesses as countries. Japan is amazing, the people are amazing and I love being here but I do miss the ability to make friends on a daily! I’ve made many friends while being here but it’s much more open in America. Bottom line: You gotta love where you are and where you’re from!
so as usa lots of friendly Americans just like japan i wouldn’t go far saying its better cause no country is perfect there are crimes in japan just like anywhere else if you think japan is safe your wrong.
@@mattburritocompared to the US it’s leagues above in safety just in the fact that your everyday moron isn’t allowed to own guns😂
@@ViviendoconLoli I am from California! Based upon your experience, it is the same everywhere, to a certain extent. However, I would rather be able to converse with people and make life more enjoyable rather than to be amongst a “reserved” people. I do agree with you to a point that Japanese people, when they become friends- you gain a lifelong friend. There are too many things to talk about that a chat room isn’t the place. My whole point is no one should be embarrassed about where they are from as each place has its amazing points and it is what makes us all amazing!!
Good reply.... Sad one of the interviewers mentioned that the USA isn't doing much with sustainable energy compared to other countries... guess she didn't get the memo about Tesla
ya know - that USA company whose cars are the most USA made car... making perhaps 2 million electric cars this year... significantly reducing transportation-related emissions.
oh oh - yea - they also installed over 46,500 kW of solar capacity across their factories, aiming for 100% renewable energy use in operations by 2024.
and - well - there is Tesla's Supercharger network that has achieved 100% renewable energy usage. T
but - hey - can't let facts get in the way of opinions.
Every Japanese person who visited me in the US was blown away by me being able to make a comment to a total stranger and having them reply and both of us laughing. It’s soul crushing in japan, though, I felt Osaka people were much more friendly, closer to US sensibilities while still being Japanese.
For dude missing tacos, Taqueria La Fonda in Osaka is on point!
😂 nah I’m going to Mexico 🇲🇽.
Japan is my #1 to visit, has been for centuries 😭 I appreciate this video, the different perspectives. I wouldn’t mind living there for a bit 🥹