The internet has manifested tons of Japanese stereotypes.
Japan pops up on the web a lot in headlines: “crazy X thing in Japan” “freaky X thing in Japan” “awesome new technology in Japan”. I admit that when I came to Japan, I had a few stereotypes in my head floating around. I was curious to see if they were true or not, and now I’m going to share my findings with you.
DISCLAIMER: This whole article is based on my own experiences, research, and speaking with various, completely random, natives. I am not the Mythbusters team and don’t have millions of dollars to extensively test all of these – and I doubt a conclusive yes or no could satisfy all of these anyway.
1 The Japanese are creepily polite. TRUE!
One thing you immediately notice in Japan is how freaking nice everyone is. Seriously, it’s sometimes to the point of feeling fake. Everyone smiles, waves, bows and tries SO HARD to help you if you need it.
I’m walking the long trek to the hostel from the train station with my backpack on – and it’s pouring. Whatever, I’m so hot it’s refreshing and my laptop safe. A woman stopped me and tried to hand me her umbrella. I shook my head and put my hands up “kekko desu, no thanks” but she shoved it at me, insisting. I took it from her and she had a huge grin on her face as she turned and walked away. I felt like I was in Totoro!
Continue Reading