Would I Feel Welcome If I Ever Visited Japan Sometime In The Future?

[raiden]

I'm an American from Texas with Autism Spectrum and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.
I'm quite familiar with some elements of Japanese culture and traditions. I love reading books about Japan, and I've watched a few videos on Youtube. Because I'm a video arcade game fan, and due to the fact that Japan is a relatively safe country compared to the States apart from the quakes there, I would very much like to visit Japan for a couple weeks IF and whenever this COVID crisis gets under control. Having said that, I've heard stories from some Youtube videos that some foreigners, Americans especially don't feel welcome there. Now, I'm a very nice, polite guy for the most part. I'm also very reserved and a loner type of person. I'm also willing to learn a little Japanese myself and try to make it second nature. I've also heard people who had positive experiences in Japan. I suppose there's a big difference between visiting Japan as a vacationist and a tourist, and actually trying to live there. I've also heard stories about signs saying "Japanese Only" from some of the videos. If I ever visit Japan sometime in the future, should I do so going undercover as a Canadian tourist and video game fan? Obviously people from other countries don't seem to care about Canadians one way or another like they do with Americans, Europeans, and people everywhere else. Would I be able to make friends in Japan whether I'm American or Canadian? Thanks for the advice.

[barry1010]

My friends went to Japan three years ago on their honeymoon and loved it - they said, on the whole, the people were respectful and friendly without being effusive. Don't suppose it matters but they are a mixed-race couple - they plan to go back.

I find that people will treat me the way I treat them. Make your plans and go with an open mind, be polite without being over the top. I'm sure you will be fine, especially as you have an interest in their culture. Don't pretend to be Canadian - most people outside North America assume Canadians are Americans anyway.

[EdmundD]

I'm British and I lived and worked in Japan on two occasions. I found Japanese people to be friendly, helpful and courteous. I enjoyed living there. I still keep in contact with people I knew from those times.

I was never aware of any particular antipathy to other nationalities. The only time I ever heard of anything like that was when there was an incident involving US marines in Okinawa.

I like their culture and traditions and still take an interest in that. Whether its Japan or some other country always be mindful you are a visitor and be respectful of other people's culture and way of life.

I did hear of hostess bars that had signs saying "Japanese only". But that is more because most foreigners wouldn't understand how these places work. And you would only get in if you spoke fluent Japanese anyway. Or you were with a Japanese man. Horrendously expensive apparently.

Sometimes you may find that you would be politely told the restaurant is fully booked even if there is no-one in it !! Or the doorman crosses his arms in a X shape in front of you.

Just be yourself and remember its their country and their way of life. You'll be fine.

[Ellipsis]

> Now, I'm a very nice, polite guy
> I'm also willing to learn a little Japanese myself

I think those two things will put you in good stead.

[Captain2]

Been twice, once to Tokyo and second time to Osaka, Nara and Kyoto. Always felt at ease, comfortable and truly welcomed everywhere.

Just respect their way of life and especially their space.

An example of their kindness. We were travelling from Narita airport to central Tokyo on the Metro. Elderly gent saw me studying the map, asked where we were going to; he said there's a quicker route but involves a change of line. He then got off the metro with us, carried my Good Lady's suitcase, took us through a maze of platforms, put us on the correct metro, bowed and said goodbye. That set the tone for the holiday and it didn't disappoint.

[Captain2]

By the way, do you know this is a UK based site?

Not that I saw any animosity to any US people at all (plenty of American themed restaurants and bars, ie Hardrock Cafe).

[EdmundD]

^^ Ah yes Roppongi -- Hard Rock Cafe and Tony Romas......