Is Japan Getting Worse? (Honest Thoughts)

Japan's had a tough decade. Has it changed for the worse?
🗼 Get 3 months FREE on Express VPN!
www.expressvpn...
Edited by: David Parish and Chris Broad
Filmed by: Chris Broad
► WEEKLY Podcast: hyperurl.co/nhgr30
► BEHIND the scenes Patreon: goo.gl/NWEoQm
*FOLLOW THE ADVENTURE*
► Facebook: / abroadinjapan
► Twitter: / abroadinjapan
► Instagram: @abroadinjapan
*EQUIPMENT I USE*
► MAIN Camera: amzn.to/2HSSdmy
► INDOOR Lens: amzn.to/2jyPOPm
► OUTDOOR Lens: amzn.to/2rnAt7O
► FAVOURITE Lens: amzn.to/2jwqyJm
► BACKUP Camera: amzn.to/2jvhILY
► STABILISED Camera: amzn.to/2HR3ljI
Business Enquiries: [e-mail]

[@AbroadinJapan]

Come for Natsuki's devastating economic appraisal of Japan, stay for the Begskin. We covered some heavy hitting topics in this ask-me-anything session. Thanks to everyone who sent in their questions!

[@ApeOfGold]

Nice

[@Allamant22]

Thanks DAVE in japan!😉🙏

[@itwasagoodideaatthetime7980]

Good morning from Australia 🇦🇺 where it's currently 3:30am 🥱

[@Paminjapan]

I was your 10th subscriber. You enticed me to moved to Japan. Thank You!! Not there any longer due to health issues and back in States and I miss Japan so much. The only time I was scared is when a missile flew across our base In Misawa from "Pajama Boy in N.K., I think you were in a hotel in Aomori at the time. Never been so scared as the base "LOST' it and could not track the missile for 15 damn minutes!!! How do you lose an incoming missile?????

[@jacobrev6567]

Oh nice

[@bavo981]

Listening to Natsuki speak in a semi serious manner is really refreshing. I love his silly side and he is so full of joy but damn did I like that one segment in this video.

[@AbroadinJapan]

It certainly made the segment all the more jarring

[@BewareTheLilyOfTheValley]

Same, it was nice to see another side of him.

[@FroggeeSB]

I was going to say all Natsuki is good Natsuki, but then I remember the white bodysuit from cyclathon and realised there is too much Natsuki after all.

[@JizyaDhimmi]

It's "Black Santa" without the santa gear.

[@adammcdonald6870]

Really great to see a different and also rather intelligent side of Natsuki, even though he still found it impossible to be 100% serious haha

[@hkaur4487]

Influencers becoming politicians is a dystopian nightmare

[@Tiasung]

A good amount of influencers are already CIA assets (intended to socially indoctrinate people into certain ways, like anti-rightwing, anti-Israel, pro-Ukraine, etc) so in a way them being politicians is unironically more honest and less dystopian.

[@codenamepyro2350]

@@Tiasung the CIA being anti-israel is a very funny joke

[@I_am_Lauren]

Imagine how we feel about Trump.....

[@SmartDrug]

I'm far more afraid of politicians staying politicians. I have far more faith in Chris and Natsuki than Kamala, Starmer, and Trudeau.

[@linkurosawa1711]

@@I_am_Lauren Trump was a businessman for decades before he hosted the apprentice.

[@Rockalanche]

Journey across Japan will forever be one of the best Japanese travel series ever to me. The production, friendship, challenges, and sights to be seen will always hold a dear place in my heart. Thank you, Chris and the rest of the team.

[@ingloriousdane]

I think Journey across Japan was the series that made me find this channel back in 2019'ish, and when the lockdown came and many creators rised in numbers Chris was one of my favorites to entertain me from boredom after working hours. I have almost watched every videos he has uploaded since then.

[@Xingmey]

but only the journey across japan titles... not the cyclothons or whatever he does lately

[@AbroadinJapan]

Thanks for watching! Really proud of the series and looking forward to trying something new!

[@elindred]

I still think the original journey across Japan is the best thing on KZbin. It was bold and exciting, and that energy won't ever be repeated.

[@Lawol]

Buuut there are still plenty of regions that did not get their own JAJ installment :// like 4 more series could be made: Kansai, Chubu, Chuugoku, Shikoku, or group them into 2 or something. Anyhow, I watched all of them religiously ever since the original JAJ, which gotta say is still my favorite one, the others weren't able to replicate the same atmosphere and excitement but they were nonetheless interesting and fun in their own right! It's sad to see them go but what an amazing run! Excited for what's next.

[@thatsabadmiss]

Absolutely love the guy showing you his English knowledge. We experienced something similar in Tokyo last year. We'd arrived from Sydney for a few days on the way back to the UK and were walking around the grounds of the Imperial Palace before we could check in to our hotel. A gentleman approached us, bowed and asked us in quick succession - where are you from?, which airline did you fly with?, what aeroplane did you fly on?, where are you staying and which football team do we support? We answered politely - he bowed again and wandered off as quickly as he arrived. I think he just saw a chance to practice his English. It was almost like a verbal mugging. Didn't put us off though and we're back to Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka in a few weeks for a "proper" holiday.

[@JaycedTea]

The dude has probably been looking for someone to practice his English on for a loonnngggg time. And you gave him that chance. 🥂

[@h93565]

I 1000% agree with hiking the Nakasendo Trail! I was fortunate enough to hike it last October. I stayed overnight in Nagoya, took a bus up to Magome, and began my hike from there. It was incredible to walk from town to town, being offered free tea along the way and passing through traditional Japanese villages. It was easily the most memorable part of my trip and worth the effort tenfold. A quick tip: If you take the Nagiso JR line back to Nagoya, the woman at the train station is very helpful and even recommended a few places to check out! She suggested visiting the Momosuke Bridge, the longest wooden suspension bridge in Japan!

[@RESPECTxORANGES]

I hope I don’t sound too pessimistic but everywhere has gotten worse in the last 10 years

[@TallicaMan1986]

When you say this minimize the places severely effected.

[@12ealDealOfficial]

Yes. There was a brief break for some around 2016 up until Corona, but the zeitgeist was already charged and full of fear. Globalism is ruining the world. Globalism, corruption, and engineered incompetence.

[@skyc.j4571]

​@@TallicaMan1986no it doesn't u just want to feel butt hurt

[@TallicaMan1986]

@@skyc.j4571 nope you just need to be hyperbolic turd and acting like everything is worse. Grow up. You're not 12 anymore.9ts not true and never jas been true in recent history. Some thrived some didn't. Educate yourself instead of ridiculous untrue blanket statements.

[@nanashi7779]

@@skyc.j4571 It's objectively true that some places have gotten worse than others in the past 10 years

[@zdp303]

Holy crap, that quote on the kitchen mat was something else 😂

[@hockeydork1414]

Timestamp?

[@artawhirler]

​@@hockeydork1414 Right at the beginning of the video.

[@71kimg]

I presume the Japanese have the same experience reading Japanese writing on European stuff

[@Journey22405]

remember kids if you want to become a member of European parliament all you have to do is record yourself breaking the law in a different country Bonus points if that country is in Asia.

[@cooltwittertag]

feel like its more bonus points in africa

[@datpotatoes4005]

I spent 24 hours in the poorest country in the world!

[@YataTheFifteenth]

​@@cooltwittertag a certain Leopold comes to mind

[@kcjfilms2946]

Japan needs immigration asap. Fact

[@TerryKitts]

And, kids, if you want to be President of the United States, claim to be Hispanic BEFORE you claim to be African-American. If you want to be Vice President, join the National Guard, then quit just before deployment of your unit. You can still claim to have been "in battle". Works every time.

[@MayaConner16]

It's interesting to hear Natsuki's perspective on the rural life. Quite a change to hear him speak so seriously, but it really emphasized the point he was making. Thanks for the video!

[@mario98730]

Dang Natsuki kept it REALLY real in his segment that was shocking but in a good way. I appreciate his honesty, you don't see that kind of perspective on KZbin really. And while I will sincerely miss Journey Across Japan, one of THE best series I've seen on all of KZbin, I completely respect that you found a great way to end it and I'm excited to see what you come up with next!

[@ohheyitskevinc]

On the Nolan and Spielberg comment - I probably wouldn’t be surprised if, after the tsunami documentaries you did, Ken one day calls to commission other serious documentaries about Japan for you and the team. They were that good and I’m sure he noticed too.

[@Ordo1980]

The problem is that it is not just about skills. It is about getting into the right circles.

[@talusxelen8069]

Also, READ the fine print on these houses. The prefecture may by offering super cheap prices for homes, but if there is farmland attached to it, for example an apple orchard or anything else, you MAY be contractually expected to maintain it in compensation for the ultra-low prices.

[@AND-od5jt]

and "historical building" restrictions when renovating...

[@springheeljak145]

So I get a cheap house and all I have to do is tend to an apple orchard? Sounds great

[@zoeyc5851]

And you might have to stay in the village for a certain amount of time (like 10 years)

[@Arcademan09]

What does that mean? Like they want you to help on the orchard? Or maintain the house?

[@liam-398]

Considering the price of fruit in Japan, if I were so inclined that would just be a net benefit.

[@Tschudenizer]

13:58 I am speechless and humbled to be part of the "Comment of the week". My jaw dropped to the floor, well, figuratively.

[@boydegg]

*fist bump*

[@RecAsiakoth]

Sad to hear that Journey Across Japan is done, but that's nothing nothing short of a testiment to the quality youve continued to bring, which in turn makes me excited to see what new things you have in store going ahead.

[@TroutSqwii]

My favourite part of this video is hearing the more serious Natsuki speaking in japanese, can we have more of that please?

[@lordofutub]

I REALLY like this more serious side of Natsuki. Please have him on talking earnestly about stuff more often

[@turboballer]

Hearing your story about the older gentleman mentioning all the things he knew about the UK reminds me of how I met my first friend in Japan. I was at Shinjuku Chuo park, and I saw two older 50-year-old guys sitting on some steps playing guitar next to each other with some people sitting near them enjoying the weather and the music. I watched them for a while and one of the guys noticed me and INSISTED I play his guitar, and after declining a few times I gave in and jammed with them. After the jam, the guy who had me play his guitar chatted me up and asked the typical questions (Where are you from, why are you here, etc) and after I was sure the small-talk was over, he just... kept talking to me like we'd known each other for years (Entirely in Japanese, which I did not know at the time). Long story short, we hung out at a music studio that following Saturday, had drinks, and managed to talk about nothing and everything at the same time (given neither of us understood each other's language), and each time I've gone to Japan since then we've hung out. Daisuke, you're a legend.

[@OW12354]

That's so cool

[@princessthyemis]

wow!!! How magical! :D

[@vazzaroth]

He just said to you "We're friends now" like elementary school. That's my favorite part of japan, it seems the older folks have this uncommon tradition of just automatically befriending and kinning other people like we're all back in school. Yadda yadda innocence or something. Esp watching the old okinawan women vids out there. They are just living their best life in kindergarten, man.

[@alexfalton3985]

That is an amazing story.

[@florianschaefer78]

About the older Japanese guy talking about the UK, you're lucky that your home country is the UK. I'm from Germany and 25 years ago, I was in a Shinkansen from Tokyo to Osaka and an old Japanese guy talks to me for hours about what a good guy Hitler was. Every attempt from me to change the topic didn't work,he talked and talked and talked. People around me tried to ignore it, but I was sure they listened to everything. I never forget when this maybe 80 years old man tells the 21 years old me "next time, we do it without Italy!"

[@erenliebert4576]

Loool, what a chad, I'm from Russia btw, and no, don't forget Italians next time either, we need them for food, Germany is cool in a lot of stuff but food isn't one of them

[@ThaGr1m]

​@@Rayon-p7t there was no education in japan, they still deny their own massive list of crimes against humanity to the point that the average japanese kid doesn't know it happened

[@notusneo]

Based grandpa

[@keyser021]

You probably come off to him in the exact same light... your country is financing the mass murder of women and children imprisoned in a concentration camp in the year 2024, and you're oblivious. The world sees the world outside the magical bubble you live in. You probably think Okinawa is a fun place for military to hang on weekends... not a word of the occupied Ryukyu Kingdom that has guns on them 24hrs a day.

[@lukelim5094]

Dude might be a kid during WWII or is on the sidelines. I mean it is always fun to root for hypothetical war when your skin isn't on the line. If he had been on the frontline starving, dying, full of death stench shit and filth and still say " yea lets do war again". He is probably not sane.

[@sam-in8231]

When you mentioned that during lockdown Journey Across Japan kept people sane I couldn't agree more with that statement. I also got covid and was locked in a small hospital with IV strapped on to hand. The only thing I could do was watch videos and what a joy it was to watch Journey Across Japan. I just wanted to recover quickly and get out of that bloody bed to see the world again

[@elizabethasib6668]

Can we appreciate how much effort went into this video? Lol it was great. I love how Chris' natural response to some of these questions are sheer sarcasm.

[@nosleep1870]

average brit

[@nikonbosse5920]

​@@nosleep1870 pshh

[@gotakazawa408]

As a Japanese person, the reason I enjoy Chris's videos is, like most people, because they are fundamentally filled with "love and humor." However, recently, I’ve noticed an increase in streamers spreading baseless and unbelievable rumors about Japan. This not only affects Japanese people but also excellent creators like Chris, as well as foreigners who love Japan and have chosen to live here. This concerns me more than the issue of our aging and shrinking population. Regardless, let's continue to support Chris in pursuing his dreams!

[@Karma_Keeps_Score]

You gave no examples. Plenty of "likes" but no one asked for details. That's very Japanese. Very KZbin. (^.^) As a foreigner in Japan I always get a chuckle out of the lack of detail in "reports" of "problems". It's like telling a doctor that you don't feel well and expecting the doctor to cure you immediately. (^.^) KZbinrs tend to be "glass-half-empty" personalities. Whine. Fuss. Gripe. Chris himself tends to spend most videos rolling his eyes. I spend most of my days with a whimsical smile. I'm twice his age. You reap what you sow. (^.-)

[@ともこともこ-k3r]

An American KZbinr named Tasha K, who has 1.26 million subscribers, is under fire for spreading a false rumor that a black man can receive money from the Japanese government if he impregnates a Japanese woman.

[@gotakazawa408]

@@Karma_Keeps_Score The reason I chose not to provide specific examples is that the content is so absurd that including it might provoke a strong sense of disgust in the reader. One such example is the completely false information spread by Tasha K during a live broadcast, which was even covered by Japanese mass media. Are you aware of this fact? If not, it would suggest that you are not well-informed. On the other hand, if you are the type of person who accepts such ridiculous misinformation, then it’s clear that we live by entirely different values, and I see no reason to continue this discussion. The analogy you made involving a doctor was so trite that it left me astonished.

[@_Hewman_]

@@gotakazawa408 your English is better than most Americans

[@gotakazawa408]

@@_Hewman_ I don’t think that’s possible lol, but thank you anyway.

[@alexbutane5550]

I don't know why but your sense of humor often catches me off guard. When I watch your videos. And the sound effects are so lovely that they add a lot to this experience.

[@datpotatoes4005]

Gotta love Mr. Affable

[@calebgale7807]

The genuine sorrow I felt when I heard no more journey across Japan was shocking. It is my all time favorite thing and dreams I wish I could live. I wait eagerly for what's next

[@renren0714]

田舎のおじいちゃんおばあちゃんはお話が大好きだから…ちゃんと付き合ってあげてるの優しい しかも受け答えや挙動が完全に日本人です 頷き方とか会釈とかちょっと困った感じとか立ち去りたいなぁって顔に書いてあるところも日本人にしか見えない

[@Maruko95]

25:10 In my six years of being subscribed, I have never resonated more with Chris than right now.

[@TheHipClip]

After Corona and the inflation the world is experiencing right now, I doubt anyone would say their country is better than it was 10 years ago. It might be pessimistic but I don't see any improvement for the next few years.

[@Alwayz114]

I especially find that a lot of countries think they are *uniquely* worse off when its generally a pretty global thing. Certain policies fefinitely help or hurt, but no one thing is seemingly causing what a lot of people are seeing

[@IronKnee963]

It's only getting worse. If people truly understood how inflation works and banking in general, they would go outside and riot. But too many ppl are ignorant and believe the mainstream nonsense shoved down their throats.

[@noahocker9096]

5 years ago

[@IronKnee963]

Bro really deleted my comment, how pathetic.

[@tomppeli.]

"@TheHipClip 5 years ago"

[@MellalleM]

Natsukis is effin surreal. Give that man a hug.

[@TerryKitts]

Natsuki is a never ending font of decorative English. Gotta love him. Does he contract out to the 100 yen store? That... could explain some things.

[@WB_Mel]

I didn't realise Journey Across Japan was 6 years long... the organic progression of quality and editing throughout the series was amazing! It felt communal and still does despite the insane popularity. Thank you for the dedication over this many years Chris, and to many more!

[@jonathanmoore8162]

Our May 2020 Japan trip obviously got postponed for some time and JAJ really did help with escapism and keeping excitement for when we were fortunate enough to go in late 2022. Thank you Chris!

[@ChickensAndGardening]

Abroad in Japan makes me feel connected to a country I've never lived in (other than spending a week in Tokyo 25 years ago), via the observations of a witty Englishman. Please never retire!

[@oriongear2499]

Considering so many famous KZbinrs have retired, it wouldn't surprise me if he chose to do so himself.

[@joedwyer3297]

​@@oriongear2499many more didnt retire so by this logic theres some pretty good odds that he doesnt retire

[@BlakeElliott35]

Chris, in my humble opinion, you set an ideal bar for the production quality of content created by indie KZbinrs. Keep up the excellent work, and keep on living the good life in Japan. *Raises Glass* 🍺

[@AdamNRG316]

I don't know why but I always thought Natsuki's shop was in a city. Glad to see he hasn't lost that sense of humour though haha.

[@Epsilonsama]

Check Natsuki the Movie. It's a docudrama about Natsuki life in his small town and his trip to the UK. You get the sense of a working class man who is outside the Japanese norm trapped in a culture that compels conformity and breaks the human spirit yet he is still able to get by and enjoy the most out of life. IRL Natsuki is a married hair stylist in his 50s that lives in a town in Northern Japan. He comes off as someone from a big city because he was always interested in western culture and was part of a band in his younger days so he knows English and knows a lot about the West. So he isn't your typical Japanese man by any means.

[@heinzmustermann8416]

It is in a city, one with 106'000 inhabitants

[@ielizabethm2]

You’re an expert in making this knowledgeable yet entertaining. I didn’t even know 25 minutes passed by after learning so much from you.

[@Bismuth69]

I am 100% with you on short-format, reels, shorts, whatever are indicative of a society that wants instant gratification in 30-second segments.

[@YedLee]

I didn't know that Journey Across Japan had ended. But as you said, it was a nice wrap up going back to where you started. I fell in love with Japan because of this series, and it has kept me company and given me a sense of escape many times. Can't wait for Natsuki the movie 2, Chris!

[@zz3410]

16:55 Answer to the question. Natsuki is this channel's secret weapon. Definitely need a new series with him.

[@TerryKitts]

Chris need to implement a new feature to Abroad in Japan... "Natsuki-cam". Anything filmed in Natsuki-cam would be constantly obscured by cigarette smoke. OK, maybe not.

[@joaotfranco]

Discovered the channel a month or two (around february 2020) before the pandemic, and I can vouch that Journey Across Japan really did helped me getting connected to not only Japan but to the world too. I remember quickly binge-watching all the videos and then keeping up with the latest uploads. Over 4 years later, I'm still here, watching every video, pretty much on the release day, and listening to the podcast with Pete. I know 4 years isn't a lot since you been here since 2012 but it helped me a lot. Really thankful for that day in february of 2020 when KZbin algorithm decided to recommend me one of your videos and to you for still being here. I always get excited when a new video is dropped and now I'm excited for what's next. Love from Portugal, Coimbra.

[@sambrewster3889]

Comedian Chris! Love it. Thanks for your weekly rants / reports. We appreciate you

[@johns8329]

Enjoyed the Q&A. As someone who a is a non Japan resident but who did buy a place in the Japanese countryside, I actually found the process remarkably easy, especially when considering how near impossible it is to open a bank account, get a phone number or own a car. I have never regretted my purchase and now that I have recently retired I am looking forward to spending a lot of time there in the future, beginning next week in fact. So if Chris (or anyone else) wants to explore mountain Japan yet only 1 hr from Tokyo on the Joetsu Shinkansen, come to Minakami. The mountains and onsens are fabulous and we need all the visitors we can get to revive the local economy.

[@anthonyleung5277]

New episode of "Taken for Garnted" Chris and Garnt getting chase down by a Mountain Lion.

[@BewareTheLilyOfTheValley]

I really want "Taken for Garnted" to become a thing 😂

[@purposeseeker3659]

Me too! 😂😆🙃

[@ThaiTalkwithPaddy]

The Q&A videos never disappoint! Always so creatively produced and hilarious Chris!

[@Elzettoloco]

Chris, i‘m following for many many years. I think you‘re doing a great job ❤️

[@chuxmix65]

Pete is goofy, yet positive. I would vote for him! You aren't talking to a bit of plastic, you are talking to us. Don't travel on festival days? Pro tip! Short form videos? I swear I'm going to make a Tick Tock about how spaying your ice cube trays with cooking oil makes the cubes come out easier. Mountain Lions are beautiful and should eat things other than Mr. Broad. Mr. Natsuki's words are from the perspective of a small business owner in his region, who has travelled. I respect his opinion. Proposed future series: Q&A Quarterly, Best Beaches, Best one Day Hike, Best wildlife photography tour... Thanks, Chris for a great Q&A!

[@hplms]

As someone who has lived in Japan for several decades, I feel that although the social burden has increased compared to the cult-related incidents of the 1990s, the subsequent deflation and stupid government, and 3/11, there is no need to despair that much. . I believe in the potential of the people living in this country. But politicians (and in the West as well) are the worst.

[@angelbear_og]

"Forever drinking time." That's a new t-shirt. :)

[@Tygerfalcon]

Excited for another Abroad in Japan video!

[@jambo2685]

@AbroadinJapan: Mate, I love it when you produce content like this! I'm less than 4 minutes into the above video but it has already made a particularly trying first half of my week feel less awful. I look forward to similar content and possibly running into you one day in Tokyo, whenever I get my shit together to make that dream happen! Many thanks, Chris.

[@stefanieebelke1300]

I laughed so many times and I’m not even halfway through watching.

[@lanturned3343]

I honestly think mr. Affable has one of the most high end q&a videos on the platform. I love how even your “low effort” content has a high end feel to it. Like all your other videos. Keep up the good work. And im looking forward to your jolly jaunt across japan!

[@nerdwiththehat]

Genuinely an interesting change of pace to have a serious interview with Natsuki, I'm always very interested to hear the "Everyman" perspective. To hear it coming from a guy who owns his own business and seems generally well connected, yes, it's always fun for Natsuki's wacky mistranslations and jokes, but I really appreciated the serious appraisal of the ups and downs in the local sphere for him, even if the ups were limited to just "hey, you can get Docomo coverage basically anywhere now!"

[@goblin12]

I swear the quality of these videos are some of the the most top tier you are so great Chris. I wish you the best and good vibes and wishes

[@AFinnishCarrot420-qg4kj]

I think a tweet I saw of a Japanese friend when the market crashes earlier this month sums up what's currently going on in Japan. Said tweet was, 5 minutes after the market crashed and I quote, "I'm not feeling so good Shinzo-kun, I don't want to be here currently" 😭

[@zenboy1612]

Chris we know you love history and the analysis/discussion of current events please do more in this area thank you. A humorous and light series on Japanese history is much needed.

[@TimeLockLady]

It would be an absolute dream to watch a movie directed by you, truly. I guess it's sort of expected to have nice landscape shots and stuff on your documentaries, but for me it's these type of videos when Chris shows how talented he is. The short sketches, his humour, the balancing between seriousness and jokes... Oh man, i really hope you can produce that film at some point. I would be so excited to watch!!!

[@igiem368]

Just finished my first ever trip to Japan, and in 14 days I traveled from Osaka to Yakushima, and it was the most amazing experience of my life. Japan is flush with so much food, culture, and cool attractions, and the people are so friendly. Looking forward to returning in the future to teach!

[@ArnoldsKtm]

imho it's great to visit, not so great to live in. especially as a foreigner.

[@DeepValue-cr2pg]

Teaching will get you in a rut from what I’ve seen (never taught here but got friends that do) and working for a Japanese company is what most teachers will try to pivot to realising that sucks even more albeit for better pay. Just try and get a transfer here if you’re a skilled worker.

[@mistacrawson7472]

@@ArnoldsKtm have you ever lived there? didnt think so, opinion invalid.

[@jayg2444]

​@@mistacrawson7472I have and they're right. Japan is not great to live in as a foreigner. Significantly worse if you're an attractive Caucasian female. I'm an ugly male so not my place to share others' stories but indeed there is plenty of mistreatment.

[@ARKSAAXX-ys9gz]

@@ArnoldsKtm If Japan were such a sithole for foreigners, Chris and Trash Taste would have left Japan long ago.

[@cantatumuri6943]

日本をよく理解していて素晴らしいです 日本人としてとても嬉しく思います

[@honghongkohan]

何様やねん

[@pizza-pizza]

Simply... THANK YOU!! 🎉

[@markdrawsthings]

My partner and I are for Japan in November after trying to get over since Covid ruined our plans - cannot wait but now have to rewatch all the abroad in Japan videos for things to see and do 👀

[@平田快翔]

I live in a place called Kanagawa in Japan, and recently I've seen a lot of people spreading negative stories about us on KZbin, etc., and the number of people who have a bad impression of foreigners has increased. I want to make it clear to you that we do not discriminate based on skin color, etc., and we will treat you regardless of race. However, I think I no longer tolerate people who are rude or cause trouble. I don't like problems, but in the past few years, the inconvenience has been especially noticeable to foreign tourists and streamers. This is a country called Japan, not an amusement park.

[@平田快翔]

@@ChimpoLust Many foreigners are coming to Japan due to factors such as the weak yen. I'm glad that people come here for sightseeing, but there are some foreigners who damage shrines and other facilities and make false reports on KZbin. We Japanese have our own problems, but it's troublesome for people to come all the way to Japan to act violently and discriminate.

[@bigdrippy4104]

I’m a big dumb foreigner and have been travelling for a few months, so I really do get why people can be pretty unhappy with my presence, even if I’m respectful as I can be. For some people it can feel like losing their country and national identity, or it’s being damaged, to people who don’t understand or appreciate it

[@平田快翔]

@@bigdrippy4104 One thing I want you to know is that I welcome all people who come to Japan, whether they are black, white, Asian or Hispanic, as long as they do not harm me or my loved ones. I want people to know that there are Japanese people who want people to take their memories home with them.

[@Beautiful-ModelBarbara-Hut-s1j]

Hie Shrine is definitely little known amongst tourists. I asked a Guide about it and she was clueless. But I found my way to this little peaceful haven amongst the surrounding modern buildings and it was lovely and quiet when I visited. You can take an escalator up from street level and walk back down through the red gates.

[@tevinsamuel]

Liked a comment from a bot bro 😆

[@enginerd80]

This @Beautiful-ModelBarbara-Hut-s1j is a spambot that stole a comment written by @lynettefalconer7599 .

[@didriksen86]

After all these years, with so many questions, it's still an entertaining Q&A!

[@catherinejones5807]

I absolutely love the Journey Across Japan series and look forward to more travel adventures. Through the series, I have fallen in love with Japan and truly hope to visit someday.

[@bitfreakazoid]

First visited Japan back in 2012. Wish I had realized how good it was then. Where it took just a little bit more effort to get around made everything so much more worthwhile and smart phones were really just beginning to take off so they weren't so ubiquitous. Man I really wish I had gotten to experience Japan in the 90's and before.

[@Theboyfromjupiter]

Dave in Japan back again with another banger!!!

[@emirrustemovic9061]

A brand new abroadinjapan video now my days gotten much better

[@JasonMoir]

Cocktail of needles is a good name for a drink at the new bar.

[@tuvillo]

Also a band

[@umamiwanderlust]

13:43 Exactly!

[@dark_knight109]

I started watching Abroad in Japan about 8 years ago, in the lead-up to my first trip to Japan. Prior to watching this channel, I'd never considered visiting Tohoku, yet it's become perhaps my favourite spot in the country to visit aside from maybe Okinawa. I do love visiting a lot of the countryside spots and what Natsuki said definitely resonates with my experiences. I often feel, as I'm visiting some of these small towns and rural areas, that I'm watching a society slowly receding into the mists of time. So many of these picturesque and serene villages are dotted with an ever-growing number of abandoned houses and it gives it all an almost haunted feel. I hope Japan figures out a way to halt the decline of its countryside, because it's such a strikingly beautiful area and I would hate to see it lost.

[@privilegedchromosome]

I miss this type of format. Please make more videos like this! 🙏

[@KrimsonKracker]

Japan has such a fun relationship with the English language, I just never get tired of their creativity! 😂

[@longliveidea]

It’s like there’s a big grey cloud over earth. Hopefully Japan gets out of its economic slump and rude touristy season.

[@l.a.3680]

Your backdrop is absolutely awesome. It should be mandatory to point that out under every video. damn.

[@habersmashery]

Always love these Q&As. Your mix of honesty and humour gives such a well rounded picture.

[@Yetiforce]

I'd be down for Chris & Natsuki's Jolly Jaunt around Japan. Even that hot tub charity idea seemed good, and way easier than bike riding.

[@75gmag]

Woohooo!! New vid!! I miss your vids Chris!! I love your podcasts, but the vids are my favorite! 🤗

[@cn6897]

The sound design on this video was top notch. Those audio stings were cracking me up!

[@Prozzie]

6:35 KZbinr in Taiwan here, can confirm, filming yourself (especially in public) feels so cringy you'll implode

[@user-upt6j6hk15]

Yes, Japan situation is deteriorating, but not as severely as in some other countries.

[@cube6485]

To be honest, I kinda get the whole wanting Chris to be chased by a mountain lion thing. Not truly advocating for that, that would be insane, but Chris, often when something dangerous, tedious, or boring on screen comes along you (not always, giving you credit) get cold feet and try to get your friends to be the one to do it. It's your video, Chris, you gotta be the one to take the risks. Love you Chris, don't take it personal lmao. All I'm saying is, I come to Chris's channel. I want Chris to be the lead.

[@theunicyclist35]

My take: it's gotten worse for Japanese citizens due to the depreciation of their currency, harsher working hours due to workforce shortages, and just general economic decline due to the tendency of less spending as the population is rapidly aging. Many young Japanese are moving out or want to move out of Japan in search of better opportunity or quality of life.

[@zeddwulfen7737]

Yeah they need to fix their economy and help the younger population. Also concerning work hours, there is a reason they have a specific phrase for people that die by over working.

[@AProfilename]

So 85% of the world 😅

[@eruno_]

Japanese are not "moving out" from Japan. Japanese people still have the perception that every foreign country is unsafe and not convenient and that hasn't changed. Not to mention Japanese people do not like moving in general.

[@shanjida8353]

You seem unimformed.

[@Sathornetfire]

Nah pretty sure the amount of people wanting to move to Japan is way more than Japanese wanting to move out

[@kristkarapetyan]

Happy to watch another video about Japan:)

[@BrandenBrazil]

Damn, this made me laugh so much! Great video!

[@Hirami_de]

Came here to let you know I absolutely loved that you included some serious insights from Natsuki. While its nice to see him as the crazy entertainer, its awesome to get some actual view of the life in the countryside. Definitely interested in more! 👏

[@Vlaidyy]

I love when we get to see a more serious Natsuki.

[@ShamelessLainLover]

Its never too late. You should make and send something to one of those film festivals. I'm sure you'd benefit from the experience.

[@Deraphim]

Hearing about the difficulties of filming in Japan reminds me of all those people who scout out the irl locations copied directly into anime. Maybe it would make more sense to animate his dream movie?

[@CinemaSurgery]

The editing on your videos are a different level. Definitely inspired me to embark on my own video editing journey. Also, your perspective on disasters against the overall general safety of the country has reassured me. Off to Japan next year, and I would be lying if I said the recent news about a 'Mega' quake didn't cause a little anxiety.

[@IVCMusic]

@AbroadinJapan just discovered your videos. Man, they are really high quality and awesome. Thanks for making so cool videos. Its really enjoyable!

[@dougnapier6441]

15:30 There are many empty houses in Detroit and West Virginia too, It is the same premise you can live in an old house for very cheap but it is disconnected, undesirable location, and trash.

[@Synest2]

1:29 - if you were an onigiri, what flavour would you be? 1:39 - Bad streamers in Japan are bad, are you finding it more difficult being labeled with those groups? 3:09 - Given the work culture, how likely you'd be living in Japan if you were not a content creator? 3:18 - What's the strangest thing u saw in your cycle across Japan? 3:25 - How do you stay in great shape? What's your routine? 4:18 - Would you consider becoming an official ambassador if the UK asked? 4:49 - Favorite hidden place in Tokyo 5:30 - Could you and Sharla adopt me so I can come live in Japan? 5:48 - Did you ever think you'd live off being a KZbinr? (A iu iuchuba?) 7:29 - What has been the most outrageous interaction you've had in Japan? 10:33 I wanna move to Japan but I'm anxious. How dangerous is it when it comes to crimes and natural disasters? 13:05 - Going to Tokyo during golden week... is it a mistake? 13:40 - What is your dream? 13:57 - **Comment of the week** 14:21 - What are your thoughts on the extremely cheap houses in the middle of nowhere? 16:20 - **Hate mail of the week** 16:51 - Has Japan gotten better or worst in the last decade? 21:10 - Simplest place to get to from Tokyo that gives a more "real world" vibe than big cities 22:28 - Do you have a dream video you'd like to do but haven't been able to? 24:02 - Are you planning a new Journey Across Japan?

[@fuzexi]

I recently went to Japan and was struck by the amount of plastic waste you can accumulate just by going to a convenience store. Does that bother you, or have you got used to it? Many places separate rubbish but apparently most of that is still burned. Are people in Japan concerned about plastic waste?

[@tuvillo]

As an ecologist I also found Japan to be really weak in terms of sustainability, lol. Recycling, too.

[@inFamous_Prime4]

I love this channel

[@ruudbonekamp4868]

I loved the Journey across Japan series too! Wonderfully shot and really enjoyable. I hope you'll show us some more beautiful sights of Japan!

[@DeHeld8]

That self help tape is pretty spot on. Love it.

[@wolf1438]

Thank you for the tip about rural places to visit in Japan. I am planning 14 days trip to Japan and I want to travel from Tokyo to Hiroshima and right now I am picking up places to stay 1-2 days. Also thank you for reminder to avoid golden week.

[@custos3249]

Wait. Was that a serious article claiming millennials are to blame for the housing market? Millenials.....the generation with the lowest home owner rate second only to gen z? There's special, then there's _really special._

[@ShaiyanHossain]

most boomers who write these articles are delusional

[@WCD_Media]

You should do. Japanese version of Dinners, Drive-Ins, and Dives. Where you guys tour the best underground and hidden restaurants that no one has ever heard of.

[@AND-od5jt]

Diving sounds interesting -- maybe combined with some (motor)boating?

[@WCD_Media]

@@AND-od5jt well the term Dive in this instance is referring to a business that isn't exactly mainstream quality but still provides superb services and menu items. Those types of restaurants and business are Dives in my area's local slang.

[@ShaiyanHossain]

japaneat kinda does this already but id love for them to do a collab (though japaneats keep his identity hidden)

[@BilalKhan-if7yx]

I absolutely love your content, Chris. Sometimes I am feeling low and watch your video, and after that I don't feel that way anymore. You are making lives better, at least by a little. It's well worth the effort. Keep up the good work 👍

[@mikekun155]

I cannot get over the fact that umbrella theft was a thing. I went for the first time in 2019 around December in the rain and left my umbrella outside the family mart holder. To my surprise, my umbrella was taken. I've left my phone, wallet keys laptop on a table for long periods of time and nothing was taken but an umbrella for like less than 7 minutes? Good lord lmao

[@phalaxgames]

Youre sense of humor keeps me subscribed hahaha love it