Culture Shock in Taiwan (life in Japan to Taiwan) 🇹🇼🇯🇵 [加拿大人🇨🇦住日本8年後，搬到台灣的文化衝擊]

[@LayersOfJenn]

Hello~ As I said, I am not an expert.. just some lady that films herself online!! This video was highly requested on instagram sharing culture shock & differences I felt between Taiwan and Japan. Would **love** to read some of your culture shock experiences from ANY country you have been to in the comment section ❤️ 請按關閉字幕按鈕進行繁體中文翻譯 (CC)

[@LayersOfJenn]

Story time… For example I went to make a bank account recently and Taiwan and you get a card to access your bank but you also get a bank book. In Japan, you also get a bank book and a bank card. I asked the Taiwanese lady if I can use just my bankbook to withdraw money from the atm machine and she kind of giggled and said no. And I felt like maybe that was a silly question but… In Japan it’s very common for people to use their bankbook to withdraw money and not their card. Anyways, just a little blurb of my mind constantly battling between strange questions and differences in life hahaha

[@danielchou3818]

​@@LayersOfJenn 有部份的ATM提款機可以用存摺 存或提款, 但不是所有的都可以, 大多只在銀行內或外面的提款機可以這麼操作, 還有 7-11及部份其他便利店內的提款機也可以用存摺, 而且有可能會限制提款機的銀行必須和存摺是同一家銀行

[@TheSilveryew]

I moved from Norway to the UK to attend university. Some differences: -If someone asks you how you are, that is your cue to say 'fine, thanks' or 'not to bad, thank you' - it's not actually an invitation for you to tell someone how you are XD -THE DRINKING. SO MUCH DRINKING.And how readily available alcohol is! For context: In Norway alcohol above 12.5% proof is sold in government owned stores open Monday to Saturday 9am to 5pm, Sundays these shops are closed. You can buy beer etc. in grocery stores but sale of these items is not permitted after 8pm on a weekday and 6pm on a Saturday, Sunday everything is closed. You have to be 20 to buy anything stronger than 22%. It is illegal to advertise or otherwise promote alcohol. Seeing 3-4-2 vouchers being handed out at bars at university, the off-licence shops on almost every street corner selling really strong stuff at all hours, and watching the adverts for huge crates of Stella etc. at Christmastime being played as you are doing your grocery shop is very strange. -Perhaps a strange one, but all the same: Kissing your child on the mouth. This is NOT a done thing back home and I was really surprised to see parents and caregivers doing this here. I still find it very odd. -Finally: That very few stores accept a £50 note - my brothers had exchanged some money for me to take while I was waiting for my student loan to come through. Imagine my surprise when the cashier wouldn't take my note! I now always advise people to ask for £10 and £20 notes if they are exchanging money.

[@LayersOfJenn]

哦好的！！！ 對我有用的信息〜 If anyone is wondering, Daniel Chou is saying you can usually use bankbooks at the banks ATMs just not usually at a 7/11 atm family mart etc ✨

[@LayersOfJenn]

OMG THISSSS!!! Thank you for sharing~ I’m reminded of some other things i thought were different coming from Canada to japan (and probably Taiwan) In Canada, at least in Nova Scotia when I was there.. you can’t buy alcohol outside of the Nova Scotia Liquor Store which is owned by the province. Maybe a few wine only is available the a grocery store. I thought it was different to buy all different kinds of alcohol in Japan at a 7/11 or grocery store. It’s the same with Taiwan. ALSO, you can drink in public here! And also in Canada if you buy something small and pay with a $50, some shop owners can deny you lol. And kissing on the mouth, interesting 🤔 I can’t remember I’ve kissed my parents on the lips lol. It’s not for me but I’ve seen many adults do it in Canada.

[@akanegiga]

日本會把人性放在精心設計的商品上；台灣則是把人性發揮在日常不經意的生活中 台日文化有許多相似也有一些不同的地方，某種程度上也是一種互補，相信也祝福您們在台灣的日子能感受到更多的自在跟喜悅❤️❤️

[@LayersOfJenn]

我很想知道您認為日本和台灣之間有什麼相似之處

[@hokila678]

@@LayersOfJenn Taiwan was part of Japan between 1895 ~ 1945.so.....

[@perfectmebyshong1506]

I totally agree with you. I'm Thai and I love Taiwan so much. Every time I went to Taiwan, I felt that people were so friendly and helpful to me. Everyone was so nice and tried to help. Even a taxi driver uncle who couldn't speak much English, he tried his best to communicate and told me to look at some significant buildings as we drove pass them. Ahh... I cannot wait until everything is back to normal so I can go to Taiwan again.

[@hermin]

My first time in Taiwan, there was this guy who helped me find my hotel. I was not really asking for help, but I think he sensed that I was somewhat lost. This is one of the reasons I love that country.

[@LayersOfJenn]

Yes!!!! I love that~ I’ve had so many people offer me help so far from just being here 7 months 👍🏻

[@max3334441]

Taiwanese people are "aware" 😂

[@hermin]

Taiwanese people have a "community" mindset

[@DumDumFish]

@@hermin There's this Taiwanese word 雞婆(ke-poˊ) best described Taiwanese people, which means love to mind others' business. Mostly it is a good thing, but sometimes it could be annoying af😂

[@hermin]

@@DumDumFish I can imagine how can that be annoying.

[@modo8507]

台灣人大部分都喜愛日本.但其實都是去日本遊玩旅遊.沒有真正在日本居住過.更無法體會日本和台灣在居住上真實的不同...因為你在日本真的居住過.所以台灣人一定會問這種問題.沒有要你比較的惡意喔...只是聽聽你的想法讓我們了解而已^^

[@LayersOfJenn]

在日本旅行和住在日本是非常不同的。I still love Japan just, I’m saying some things are different :) I will forever love a quiet train haha

[@ArmaliteR10]

光是職場上的規則就......只要兩個禮拜就會變成社畜

[@ghbfghg819]

台灣人有人情味，喜歡熱鬧，日本講禮儀，講秩序，日本人比較喜歡安靜，注重私人空間，人互動方面相對比較冷漠，可能有些人覺得日本待久了會比較壓，看個人性格喜歡哪裡。台灣和日本兩個國家民風不一樣。就像歐洲的北歐和西歐的人也不一樣。但生活品質國家的進步上面綜合來看，日本還是贏過台灣很多，雖然生活成本日本也算是亞洲最貴的地方之一，但是總的來說日本比台灣更加乾淨和繁榮，社會秩序更好，工資也更高，日本生活品質甚至超越很多歐洲國家，日本目前還是亞洲最先進的國家。

[@大爺-w6f]

日本生活品質贏臺灣很多是只哪些？

[@jennil5237]

@hsw06 hui 戰爭是殘酷的，如果發生戦爭，你已經無法在這裏發表你的看法了。

[@林雷-y1d]

@hsw06 hui 希望你的想法成真，別只會在網路上嘴砲，中共喊要打台灣喊了70年了，請問何時要來打台灣？還有別只會在網路上面喊，請你當先頭部隊為了你作為的大一統付出生命，我會很樂意看到，別怯戰嘿，我不勇敢也不大膽，至少我會甘願為了台灣的自由，為了以後的小孩不被奴役不被當韭菜，而付出生命去守衛台灣，所以我期待你們前頭裡面有你，台灣不希望引起戰爭，但是為了台灣的自由跟以後小孩不被奴役或是當韭菜我願意拿槍跟你們拼哪怕因此復出生命在所不惜

[@ericchang8543]

@hsw06 hui 完全自己補腦，說台灣人內心冷漠的真的是非常草率完全不了解台灣社會和諧現象才會說出口的話，不是說台灣完全沒冷漠的人，但你在台灣迷路需要協助，九成以上的陌生人一定會幫你，甚至幫你帶路，手機，錢包丟了，非常高的機率會找回來，純粹就是幫忙，沒目的性，因為台灣人的公德及特有的利他主義是無償幫助的主因，真的來台灣體驗真實社會現象再來說嘴吧

[@ericchang8543]

每個人價值觀不同，我非常喜歡去日本旅遊，但生活的話還是台灣好，很舒適悠哉，能做自己，日本規矩太多了，尤其職場，而且乾淨及守秩序程度台灣雖然是比不上日本（嚴重潔癖的民族性），但屌打大部分歐美國家，除了日本，有哪個國家可以像台灣人一樣這麼守秩序的愛排隊，尤其是搭乘各種大眾交通系統或吃美食時

[@ulie8009]

Taiwanese don't get defensive or annoyed if you didn't speak the language. So many times I see them trying to fish out their vocabularies, going above and beyond to help you. It's the effort and the willingness for me that set Taiwanese apart. If a foreigner do speak a little Mandarin or even 台語 generally would be responded extremely well in return. It's awesome. The many times I traveled to Canada alone I also find people warm, extremely chatty, and helpful. To me it is a country I'd always want to go again and again. 😊

[@heyyyyayyy6443]

哇！巧遇霧眉老師🤣

[@ulie8009]

@@heyyyyayyy6443 HI hi~ 😁

[@rogeryu9944]

謝謝妳分享日本與台灣的不同，我也居住過日本，的確像您說的一樣，無論在日常生活與物價上。 但我還是喜歡台灣自由自在、無拘無束的生活，也希望妳在台灣順心愉快，有美好的回憶。☺️

[@raquelchen604]

That absolutely true that taiwanese people really friendly and kind... if they really know that you need help they are not hesitate to help you right away... I am married here in taiwan and base on my experience here staying for about 22 years, taiwanese people really so kind and helpful and they treat all the people here fairly... no rich people and poor people here... People here are so humble and treat eaqually

[@mikaljan]

In Taiwan, the attitude regarding tattoos is more like "hey, it's your body, do whatever you want". Honestly, no one will judge you differently.

[@Jccumin]

But there’s still someone with the tattoos will show their bad manners to anyone at any place, and unfortunately this kind of ppl are quite alot

[@LayersOfJenn]

I’m sure there are a lot of people with bad manners that don’t have any tattoos as well.

[@mikaljan]

@@Jccumin The point is Taiwanese people don't really care if one has tattoo or not.

[@bellalin6839]

I am Taiwanese but mostly raised in America but I go back very often. In 2019, my sister and I went back by ourselves over summer and we each carried a BIG suitcase. We were at a really busy underground station that had many small steps inside and it was extremely inconvenient to haul the suitcases around. At one part, there were about 6 ish steps to go up and my sister and I couldn’t drag our suitcases up since and it would often almost tumble back down when we finally went up a step. A middle aged man immediately came up to us and simply said “I’ll help” and grabbed both up by himself 😅. After that, we thanked him but he asked if we knew where to go to buy our tickets. We told him where we were going and he said he’s going the same route so he let us follow him the whole time, often looking back to make sure we didn’t lose him. That was like, the first day we were back that time. It was so heartwarming and I forgot that one of the things I always miss most about Taiwan is the people.

[@LayersOfJenn]

I love that!! I experienced something similar in the HSR. A middle aged man walked me to one of the lines in Taipei Main Station & showed me how to refill my easy card. I already knew how to do all of this however BUT I didn’t mention it to them 😂 because I didn’t want to discourage his helpful attitude in the hopes that he will continue to do that for others and not think “oh, maybe they already know like that person before” Maybe I just think too much 😅

[@bellalin6839]

@@LayersOfJenn HAHA nice, I probably wouldn’t mention it either 😅 you’re definitely not thinking too much! Also in the MRT, I’ve seen so many instances where 2 or more people get up for an elderly or a pregnant woman especially during rush hour and although this behavior is probably really common, I still always love to see it.

[@LayersOfJenn]

I love those little moments on trains!! I’ve seen it happen in Japan too in the trains sometimes. In Japan, when you announce you’re pregnant to city hall, they give you a little badge to wear on your bag/purse saying “there is a baby in my tummy” in the hopes that others will see it and give you priority!! I wonder if Taiwan has something like that !? 🤔 I’m curious for future reference haha

[@fion1654]

@@LayersOfJenn 有的,捷運服務台有愛心貼紙, 如果是孕婦或行動不方便者,不能久站者,都可以去服務櫃台跟他們拿愛心貼紙,來貼在身上,要貼在容易看見的地方,例如手臂或胸前. 今天第一次看到妳的頻道, 雖然是題外話,不過現在全球都在為烏克蘭祈禱,希望世界永遠和平🙏

[@LayersOfJenn]

@@fion1654 also praying for ukraine

[@yoely6163]

分析真得很仔細又正確,代表妳已經開始融入台灣的生活了!! 恭喜妳~

[@LayersOfJenn]

謝謝哈哈 😆

[@江明-w3k]

感覺的到，您是客觀的從異鄉人角度，觀察台灣和記錄在台灣的生活，並提供旅遊資訊給外國旅人參考。 相較之下，您更能幫助文化和觀念交流。 希望您能在台灣留下美好的回憶。

[@jessyyeh3596]

As a native Taiwanese who grew up in western Canada in my teens and twenties, landed a job in the US (NYC) and lived there for twelve years and three years in Japan (Kansai), I can totally identify with your experiences (with a fresh eye observing the various cultures.) For me language is the medium to open the gate of learning a culture. Prior to breaking the language barrier I always feel like a foreigner to those places. With effort to master the languages and to fit in, I can see myself accustomed and adapt to a new culture. Every time I speak these languages I feel a slight shift in my own character, partially reflecting the cultural essence, partially taking on their inherited style of expression. The funny thing is, once a while I am teased by the local Taiwanese for being a foreigner. Perhaps I am bit too mixed up.

[@LayersOfJenn]

Haha sounds to my like you’re a child of the world!! You must have so many interesting stories and life experiences

[@aureliusjiang3831]

The frequency of hearing car horns in Asia countries. India > China > Malaysia > Taiwan > Japan The density of convenience stores Korea > Taiwan > Japan > Malaysia > Indonesia

[@LayersOfJenn]

I do love how there are a lot of convenience stores in both Japan & Taiwan!!!!!! Makes life so easy ✨

[@desperado8790]

Very accurate observation.

[@shitephen]

In Kyoto, the hornof a car is converted into the sound of the engine accelerating. (Just talking a joke)

[@redlipspepper]

interesting video ! i love the free side of taiwan in terms of PDA and tattoos and yes people are SO SO SO kind ! i cannot count the number of time someone in Taiwan asked me if i was ok while i was walking in the countryside, or helped me with so many stuff during my stay ! just to know i'm going back to taiwan in september makes me happy, you helped me remember those many nice aspects ! I still was a bit shocked by the table manners in Taiwan, as i am French and table manners are really important. it wasn't too bad, depends on the people and age as well but sometimes i just couldn't finish my meals in front of people who spoke with their mouths full and all. too difficult for me ahahah

[@Ebathora]

I'm Taiwanese American and talking with a full mouth is so real! My family loves talking during meals and it's usually loud and boisterous with a lot of laughter. It's pretty gross when it's a mouth full of chewed mush. And it's always the elders you can't talk back to who don't realize they have the habit. I like the trade off though for the good vibes at mealtime :)

[@jerometsowinghuen]

During my trips to Taiwan, every Taiwanese citizens are friendly and nice to help each other. Such as my cousin arranged a driver, who is very friendly, to take us to almost everywhere in Taiwan, since we chose to travel by ourselves. And then, he/she chatted and explained the destinations with us for the whole trip, which was interesting and amazing. As an university student from Hong Kong and a new subscriber of your KZbin channel, there are still more places in Taiwan that I have not been before, I wish I can travel to Taiwan again in the future. And it also has an international country for foreigners to live, study, work and travel, which are affordable.

[@juley86]

In my personal experience, Taiwanese are friendly,even with a local Person. I am a Taiwanese. When I traveled in Tainan before, they helped me. I felt warm.

[@LayersOfJenn]

I love getting help here 🥺❤️

[@thecookingcouple-foodtravel]

Totally agree with all you said about Taiwan....love Taiwan

[@LayersOfJenn]

Life is just so.. nice here haha. I’m *very* much enjoying it. I still love Japan, don’t get me wrong but, I love Taiwan too ✨

[@thecookingcouple-foodtravel]

@@LayersOfJenn To me Taiwan has everything I need, helpful people, traditions, culture, scenery, mountains, the ocean, the modern and old cities, and the absolutely amazing food. Love it all.

[@LayersOfJenn]

That’s an amazing way to put it for others ✨✨✨

[@Abooo48]

I'm a Taiwanese, and I'm disgusted by people who don’t wear headphones when watching movies or listening to music in public places...According to my observations, most elderly people have this problem. Recently, public transportation also broadcasts propaganda that they should wear headphones. To avoid affecting others🥺🥺

[@LayersOfJenn]

Haha I mean it doesn’t happen often but I was shook when I first seen it. As I said most people on IG told me it’s normal.. I’m just weird because I lived in Japan where it’s relatively quiet 😂😅

[@maggie198333]

Maybe because some elderly people are hard at hearing and headphones might not be suitable for them. Just want to put the possible reasons out there.

[@LayersOfJenn]

Def for sure it is good to hear other sides!! Sometimes we are just stuck in one though process (my included) so thank you for that~ I mean if it really bothers me… A lot a lot then I’ll just get up and move ~

[@皮皮-b2c]

That is a very bad hobbit from the under civilized Chinese in the old time. Even now in China, many youngsters still do the same thing but no one is dare to correct them.

[@MaximSupernov]

Agree, this is the type of behaviour that get on my nerves. But recently I see more young people displaying such behaviours playing mobile games on public transports.

[@jackson224]

Yes,many people said that taiwan is influenced by Japan,however many things are different, people are more casual and liberal,however I think people are too casual sometimes a little bit sloppy（its okay I'm Taiwanese I could criticize my country,I have to say the truth）I think the custom culture in or Japan is a good culture.

[@LayersOfJenn]

There are def some pros and cons to both. And talking about criticizing your own country… Actually my list for criticizing Canada is massive 😂😂😂

[@azndude508]

After a night out, my friends dropped me off near my airbnb in a quieter area in Taipei but I realized later I left my phone in their car. I didn't have any other devices with me but found a cafe that was still open late. The nice staff let me use one of their laptops so I could get in touch with my friends to meet up the next day.

[@LayersOfJenn]

That was really nice and helpful of them. Imagine what would have happened if they didn’t help you out 😣

[@johnklin]

I just came across your channel and this video and found it interesting. A fellow Taiwanese American friend of mine did a stint in Taiwan for her company, and when she returned, she was just so amazed that even for her, people in Taiwan are super friendly/helpful - the Taiwanese are definitely known for going out of their way to help people. Glad to see that you thought the same!

[@leyu22]

I agree with your takes! Taiwan is an awesome country. Really like how well Taiwanese people speak english too, makes it super friendly for international tourism.

[@西南愛你]

台灣人大部分覺得在公共場所不戴耳機看影音類型的這個動作很不禮貌，但是頂多給白眼而已，不會強力去勸阻，這點日本做的比台灣好。

[@LayersOfJenn]

A few others commented as well that others think it’s impolite to watch/play with smartphones and not have headphones! I do love a quiet train haha. I think that is why I like the HSR :)

[@rogeryu9944]

出門帶耳機太佔空間也不常用，如果手機可以用三天，我想台灣人連隨身電源都懶得帶。😂 但公眾場合帶耳機，我覺得是禮貌，還是該建立起來，畢竟會吵到人。

[@aaaac4260]

公德心問題，放出來聽的是少數，但是敢放出來的都開滿大聲，好像重聽，沒人制止不會收斂

[@jonhomln]

@@aaaac4260 說到重點 偶最近常遇到"這種人" 粉倒楣 ............

[@aaaac4260]

台灣應該立法規定大眾運輸和公共場合禁止手機等聲音外放出來

[@elisal7216]

I must say, you are so refreshing! Positive vibes.

[@LayersOfJenn]

Thank you for that 🥺❤️

[@sakuravoyage]

I was hoping you’d do this video! Interesting points - and yes Taiwan’s fruit selection is amazing yum... I’ve lived in Japan 1yr & Taiwan 3 months, and I definitely noticed that in Taiwan people are much much more casually dressed & have less pressure to not have a hair out of place, of course especially pressure on women. I liked the laidback vibe in Taiwan but also missed seeing the attention to fashion in Japan. Do you ever feel like you’re standing out when you wear really fashionable outfit/ / strong makeup in Taiwan? - Also I’d like to hear/see you compare café & bar culture between the two countries! :)

[@LayersOfJenn]

Ohhh that’s an interesting video topic too. Thank you~ And I do like how people are a little bit more laid-back here… It’s less pressure for me as well. Sometimes I do feel like I stand out a little bit but I don’t mind… In Taipei, sometimes in some areas .. I feel like I’m the one underdressed lol 😂

[@woodlakeview]

It is very nice of you creating English Vlog in Taiwan. People could watch it ererywhere worldwide.

[@chunwenteng9833]

so good! 還好妳在台灣所體驗到的經驗大部分都是正面的。歡迎待久一點囉！

[@hendribeukes]

Spot-On! Mostly my experience too, except English wasn't widely spoken when I first arrived 3 decades ago. I found culture shock is not so much about all the new, but an absence of the old and familiar. Thank you for sharing. Hope your time here in Hsinchu is blessed.

[@LayersOfJenn]

Wow 3 decades !! I wonder what Taiwan was like then.

[@bradaltemeyer4472]

back in 1990-93 when I was at the MTC, English was widely studied but no, not widely spoken, there used to be just one neighborhood where if you walked into the 7-11 they would just switch to English (Tien-Mu)

[@hendribeukes]

@@LayersOfJenn Not as fast-paced, but every bit as friendly and generous with their time and food... people going the extra mile when helping and always making sure you've eaten well. Back then a common way to greet someone, friend or stranger alike, was - Nǐ hǎo, nǐ chī bǎole méi? 你好，你吃飽了沒? Which means, “Hi, have you eaten yet?” or literally, “Hello, are you full?” TAIWAN is indeed Paradise! Besides its beauty, the people make it one of the best and safest places to call home. Blessings.

[@LayersOfJenn]

Love that!! Thank you for sharing lol. I should remember that sentence !!

[@hendribeukes]

​@@bradaltemeyer4472 Correct. Seems we arrived around the same time. Summer of 1990 was my first visit that lasted a month, then in Spring of 1993, I moved here for good. Though I lived in Taipei and Taichung for brief periods through the years, Hsinchu has been my home for most of my life - I arrived at age 19 and I'm still here... Now a proud citizen, too. I'll never leave... I LOVE TAIWAN!... (LOVE The People & The Place) Blessings to you Brad and to you Jenn. TAIWAN won't disappoint.

[@IAMRINNIE]

As a Taiwanese Canadian who loves Japan, I totally agree with the mentioned points! PDA, the quietness on transits, the apparel, etc! Love your videos😊💛 Glad you’re liking Taiwan💜

[@LayersOfJenn]

You understand my perspective then 💯💯

[@BlackDragonTiffany]

Thanks for this video. My wife can understand more before she moves there 🙏❤️

[@MaximSupernov]

If you see guys with orange uniforms managing the traffic during rush hours, those are not police but volunteer taxi drivers who do it time to time. Police are the ones with grey uniforms.

[@LayersOfJenn]

Ohhh noted!! I never would have known that so thank you ✨

[@hey54088]

@@LayersOfJenn yeah, they are voluntary traffic police. Mostly taxi drivers but not all. They assist the police during peak traffic or if there is a large gathering. eg. concerts or parade etc.

[@travelingswede5774]

You’re tempting me to move from Japan to Taiwan haha it sounds so nice

[@shachede6828]

I JUST ARRIVED TO TAIWAN TODAY. In my quarantine hotel now.

[@LayersOfJenn]

WELCOME !!! ✨

[@shachede6828]

@@LayersOfJenn thank you! I hope to see you some day! Your channel really helped prep me and show me a lot! Thank you!

[@ZoeysMusings]

Loved this, Jenn! You were respectful to both cultures but truthful to your personal experience. 🙂

[@maggie198333]

As we all know that you will be shushed if you talk loud on the train in Japan. One funny thing is that once i was taking a train in Taiwan, and these 2 Japanese businessmen just talked so loud in Japanese on the train. I thought it must be so freeing for them to be able to talk on the train. That’s why they were so loud.

[@LayersOfJenn]

Hahaha I mean it could be true!! I haven’t been shushed in a train in Japan BUT I’ve had friends who have been shushed lol.. also in cafes to be quiet!

[@CHChen-iu9vk]

Haha, I can totally relate to that. One time I was in China taking the MRT, and there was no rule saying that you can't eat or drink on the train, so I had my first ever bite of food on the MRT there. But I should probably not be proud of that :S

[@LayersOfJenn]

I could see a lot of people probably acting different outside their country. Especially if it is vacation mode 😂

[@Plasma1iTV]

To keep it short: I would say Taiwan is between Canada and Japan culturewise when you compare them but closer to Japan.

[@LayersOfJenn]

Yeah that’s a great way to put it!! I’m def living my best life in Taiwan haha

[@Plasma1iTV]

@@LayersOfJenn Yeah we can see that haha 😂

[@LayersOfJenn]

😂😂😅

[@waynechiang7321]

I'm a Taiwanese, went to Canada for school, back to TW, moved to JP for 7 1/2 because of work and now in California. Totally agreed with all your "Culture shock" things, especially the one that watching video on a train without earphone. That's really annoy to me too. Haven't been back to TW for more than a year because of COVID, miss the vibe!

[@LayersOfJenn]

Wow you have been everywhere haha. I would love to hear if you had any culture shock moments in Canada !

[@waynechiang7321]

@@LayersOfJenn when I first arrived Canada. My friend told me that pedestrians’ safety are far more important. Just raise your hand and point it to the other side of the road, cars will stop and you can across the road. That was something that I never experienced in TW.

[@LayersOfJenn]

I know if you’re hit in a crosswalk you could sue. Also in driving school we learn the most important person on the road is the pedestrian.

[@astoldbykat]

When I moved to Japan from Korea last year, the expensive transportation also shocked me even though I knew about it from previous visits. But one thing I LOVE about the public transit is that, for the most part, people aren't shoving me to get on or off the train (unless it's rush hour). In Korea, older people were pretty infamous for just shoving their way past you -sometimes even just shoving you yourself. I like how most of the time people here line up and wait patiently.

[@LayersOfJenn]

Ohh okay!! I didn’t know that. To add onto trains and rush house etc.. I was very surprised during rush hour in Taipei.. nobody packs onto the train and no squishing in like in Japan. My husband and I were surprised about that in Taiwan bc we are so used to busy trains in Japan. Could be a population density thing but, I remember thinking that ✨

[@astoldbykat]

@@LayersOfJenn oh man that sounds like HEAVEN. Korea used to squish in too; luckily where I have to travel for work now in Yokohama the train traffic isn't too bad from when I go to and leave work, but it can still get packed in the mornings....

[@LayersOfJenn]

I used to go to in the opposite direction of Tokyo every morning for work & always felt bad for the ppls on the opposite side rod the track on the keihin tohoku line 😅

[@astoldbykat]

@@LayersOfJenn same! I'm on the same line going opposite of Tokyo, and when I see how packed that other train is....I'm especially grateful I don't have to deal with it now, given the situation

[@yu-hsinlee6218]

The older people issue is often being mentioned. For Korean culture is deeply influenced by Confucianism, older people are treated with respect and people tend to tolerate them, they can have their way without being criticized like cut in line or scold younger people for no reason. Thankfully few years ago, I saw the younger generation have brought this up and discussed it.

[@andrewcarnegie5805]

Taiwanese people are really friendly and helpful, and they love visitors.

[@aaaac4260]

Liberal Taiwan, and not too much, in many aspects! Taiwan is my dear and wonderful country. Welcome to Taiwan!

[@chuckhuang4359]

Having opportunities to live in different countries in the world would probably be priceless and hard to find. To see is to believe. I guess different experience would enhance a person's mind to appreciate alternate beauty in daily life.

[@LayersOfJenn]

Ohhh I love when you put it that way ✨

[@catlike1]

As a Taiwanese American who has visited Taiwan maybe 8 or 9 times over the years, and Japan twice, I think your observations are quite accurate. Average Taiwanese person speaks more English (and is more willing to try to use it) than the average Japanese person. It's taught in all schools starting around middle school. Taiwanese people are also very friendly and helpful. Like Japan, it is is collectivist society and social norms are strong, but the norms have loosened up over the decades and Taiwan has been quite open to the world and external influences. It's definitely more casual and informal these days. Taiwanese culture does have its Japanese influences, having been occupied by Japan for half a century between 1895 and 1945. You see it some of the architecture of old buildings, the education system to a certain extent, and the food. And even in the language. Not sure if it is still used today, but when I was a kid in the states, Taiwanese folks would use the word "obasan" to refer to an old lady. Which I believe is Japanese for grandmother? You didn't mention one of the similarities: 7-11 and convenience stores everywhere! I surprised you're finding food shopping more expensive. Could be the large supermarkets charge a premium. I do think eating out is super cheap in Taiwan and probably cheaper than Japan?

[@LayersOfJenn]

Yeah I didn’t mention any similarities but others asked for a video about it things I find similar to each other. Not sure if I’ll do that or not because I feel like it would be a touchy subject. But yes as you mentioned convenience stores are everywhere in both places! Also alcohol being told at grocery stores and convenience store in both planes. Where I’m from in Canada, you can only buy alcohol at government funding liquor stores (NSLC) And you’re right, obāsan is grandmother in Japanese

[@catlike1]

@@LayersOfJenn You are probably right. Taiwan has a very complicated relationship with Japan. In fact, growing up in the US, my mom wouldn't buy a Japanese car until we convinced her to get a Honda, in part because they were made in the US. Where in Canada are you from? I grew up in Seattle, so Vancouver was less than 3 hours away by car. And Montreal is one of my favorite cities.

[@LayersOfJenn]

Oh I’m from the opposite side of Vancouver haha. I’m from Nova Scotia! (Eastern Canada)

[@josephchiu408]

@@LayersOfJenn If someone asked me where is the farthest place from Taiwan on earth, I would say Nova Scotia, in distance and possibly in culture.

[@chibichumon]

OMG! Finally! :) please do more of these comparison videos! It’s always informative and they’re a great way to better appreciate what we have or what we should improve upon. Thanks!

[@LayersOfJenn]

Ohh okay noted ✨✨

[@menghong3669]

Friendly People are the main reason I love Taiwan ❤❤❤

[@LayersOfJenn]

Yes definitely very friendly !

[@mlcsj9162]

很精彩的影片👍 謝謝妳喜愛台灣

[@heyyeyaaeya]

臺灣夏季太濕熱，不是不想打扮，是打扮好沒多久就變得狼狽。不適合多層次穿搭，不少人都以穿舒服為主，去家附近也穿拖鞋出門。 的確有時候看起來會邋遢，但換個方向想是大家以舒服為便，不會弄得很彆扭也不以貌(穿搭)取人。

[@LayersOfJenn]

台灣的夏天很熱！ 夏天，我也將少穿幾層衣服。Summer in Taiwan is very hot! In summer, I will also wear fewer layers of clothes.

[@pai3172]

對，化妝後一小時變土石流，穿的漂亮的洋裝後滿身大汗，洋裝也不好看了

[@andy_in_taiwan]

What you shared makes total sense! I spent a month in Japan and I just moved to Taiwan. The differences are so interesting! But cool similarities too!

[@seikokan3]

Hahaha... A very precise insight into the culture differences between Taiwan and Japan. Good job for a Canadian living in Taiwan for just half a year.

[@lesjune]

I’m glad you are having positive experience in Taiwan! Taiwan is a hidden gem in Asia that lots of foreign travellers missed. There are lot of places to explore, and lot of food to enjoy, hope you get to love this country!

[@jasenliu]

Taiwanese hospitality is definitely very different to many other countries but as an overseas Taiwanese, when I look back, sometimes we are a little bit too much into a stranger personal space but a lot of them have good willing. However, aware your surrounding is still important in a foreign country.

[@user-BigOrangeCat]

It's fun to hear you share your life experience in both Japan and Taiwan. Look forward to hearing more about your life here!

[@heyyehhey]

I am Taiwanese. I don't like people in Taiwan talk loudly on the phones or listen to music, watch youtube without headphone either. THEY ALWAYS MAKE ME FEEL ANNOYED！！！！ I am totally ok with PDA. but as for noise on the transportion, someone may just take a rest on their trip and so many people don't respect others in the public.

[@tomhorace]

Thank you for your observation and analysis of two cultures. I have been visit Tokyo countless times, and I often stay for more than a month. Many observations are the same as you. My friends who live in Tokyo did really enjoy to come Taiwan and they can be free to be themselves. And finally, let me tell you that Taiwan is really the kingdom of fruits. There are so many different fruits in every season all year round, cheap sweet and delicious. Enjoy your time in Taiwan. the best !!!

[@yuchiao_i]

I'm a Taiwanese who lives in Japan for over 12 years now and I totally feel you about people making noise in the train which makes me uncomfortable lol I do feel it's good to wear whatever I want to wear when I was in Taiwan but I also like to dress up and wear full make up for going for shopping in Tokyo. Sometimes it feels weird and people might look at me if I dress up and wear a glem make up in Taipei. Hope you enjoy your time in Taiwan😊

[@LayersOfJenn]

Haha I still kinda dress up sometimes anyways and just let the stares happen 😂. And I glad you understand my and the train noise. I think it can be hard to grasp for somebody who has never really lived in Japan and experience just how quiet it is lol

[@Lance58]

非常細膩的觀察，還有一點，台灣的交通很可怕，請務必小心。 希望妳能在台灣獲得更佳的生活體驗，也歡迎妳繼續在台灣與我們一起生活，台灣歡迎妳！

[@gwengalic5989]

I really found this vlog interesting. I love that each country is so different and I think you have really fit in to the Taiwanese culture.

[@mtsu8858]

“I am just a girl on internet who film herself.” 🤣 As you can probably tell, people like your videos. One thing I find your channel interesting is that you are very observant and sensitive to cultural differences. So I enjoy this video as a thicker dose of compare and contrast. It takes an outsider to look at our ordinary life in a fresh way.

[@LayersOfJenn]

Haha I am just a well, I guess woman at age 31, filming herself 😂👌🏻

[@miayle9545]

The biggest culture shock in Taiwan vs Australia is that in the library in my Uni in Au, you can eat (lots of smells!) and talk in groups in the library, and there are people lying on the couch or anything that you can lie on., really different.... their layback style is another level....(I’m Taiwanese, I’ve studied Uni in Tw as well)

[@imspider123]

日本人重視穿著打扮讓人看起來舒服，台灣人穿著隨性讓自己感覺舒服

[@LayersOfJenn]

是的！ 我很高興地說，即使在 11 月，我現在也穿著涼鞋。👌🏻

[@julientyt]

The secret code for Taiwanese is left no foreigner losing weight or direction.

[@LayersOfJenn]

Wait lol. To clarify you mean if a foreigner looks lost, help them or if we are losing weight, recommend them food or something !?!! 👀😂

[@katecpr]

@@LayersOfJenn Your interpretation is (somewhat) correct. I'm from southern Taiwan. It's basically a disgrace if you let your guests leave without a food baby lol

[@LayersOfJenn]

@@katecpr LOL sounds like I need to go to the south hahahaha

[@katecpr]

@@LayersOfJenn well if you do decide to come, you're more than welcome to hit me up. Would be very happy to show you our hospitality😄

[@chrissyh7706]

@@LayersOfJenn Taiwan Southerners are known for their hospitality. Especially grannies. Grannies will not only feed you till you die but will have extra food for you to take home. haha

[@wendylam8128]

Taiwan is one of the most developed country. You are welcome. The cities are super clean and you can enjoy the high technology everywhere.

[@miadudu]

？

[@湯尼盧]

很多時候台灣人都會用喇叭溝通🤣 不管是謝謝、我先讓你過、朋友們結束開車分開時打招呼都會按， 我以前在學校有做過刺青相關的紀錄，以前觀念真的沒那麼開放，現在滿多台灣人都會把刺青當藝術看待 台灣生活、旅遊的便利真的很棒，半夜之後不怕找不到吃的，疫情爆發政府的應對讓我們生活還是跟平常一樣，希望偶爾可以跟其他外國youtuber合作探討台灣不一樣的地方，不管是壞的還是好的👍 從你第一次來台灣就開始看你了，在其他國家生活辛苦了，加油！ 希望台灣能給你舒服的生活

[@LayersOfJenn]

政府對covid的反應是驚人的。 I love how life if almost normal here! I love reading that tattoo culture in Taiwan has become more about art. I think Canada is similar.

[@ericku718]

I lived in Taiwan for 6 years before moving to Japan last year and I can relate to so much of what you're saying (but from the opposite perspective)

[@ericku718]

Especially the point about tattoos (as a person with tattoos myself)

[@LayersOfJenn]

I’m glad you can relate to me even if it’s the opposite !! 👌🏻💯

[@cathydegrasse9696]

You should include “Taiwan” in the title of all of your travel video titles... you seem to get more hits when it is... love your videos!

[@mushiimushiilove]

I can definitely relate to the culture shock being in Germany from the U.S. My biggest shock was on how there are a lot of natives that speak English and fluently. I live in the country so I wasn't expecting that versus a bigger city.

[@LayersOfJenn]

Ohhh so a lot of Germans speak English then!? I’ve heard that German grammar and English grammar is very similar but I can’t be certain!

[@mushiimushiilove]

Yes! Even the little ones have awesome grammar and pronunciation! I think so 🤔 I’ve been so bad with studying it.... 😓

[@TT-zd6nr]

@@LayersOfJenn That was a surprise. English does not decline nouns or have noun genders. However our pronunciation is very similar, or so I felt when I worked there. The big surprise was how deep German voices were. Us English chaps felt we had higher pitched voices than the German girls we would like to date. Luckily I had a cold :)

[@h5642007]

all those points you mentioned in the video are true and interesting. Especially dressing style I feel. I heard about the importance of dressing and wearing makeup in Japan, but I didn't really understand it until I went to Japan, even though I just stayed there a few weeks. The social norms made me feel, I have to 'well dress' and 'wear makeup.' It's also fine, but I just need to wake up earlier. lol Both sides have different cultures. It's amazing to learn the differences and embrace them. :) Meanwhile, being glad that we can easily adjust ourselves to fit in a new environment and culture! Guess that's why traveling/living abroad is always that charming!

[@LayersOfJenn]

“Need to wake up earlier” lol.. I feel that deep in my soul 😂. Sometimes I feel like the pressure to “dress well” in Japan can only really be felt if you travel there or live there. And yes def interesting to learn about both of the cultures (& how a few overlap slightly)! Living abroad is all about adopting… So if you can adapt to your situation then you can live abroad (I think!!)

[@h5642007]

ohh i actually don't like people talking loudly on transportation. If it's just a quick phone call or short chit-chat, then it's understandable. But sometimes I got really annoyed when people watched youtube without a headset, or even talk with a speaker. If I can't stand on it anymore, I would kindly ask them to low the column or put on an earphone. I thought this is the limit every human can do. However, I found teenagers in Germany even lift it to another level They just play music with a speaker while walking on the streets. 🤣

[@LayersOfJenn]

Excuse me!?!? Music on a damn speaker lol... my eye is already twitching in annoyance 😂😂😂

[@MegIgarashi]

Taiwan sounds amazing!! 😍😍😍 Can you do another one like Japanese VS Taiwanese food?? The food there looks bomb!!

[@LayersOfJenn]

Ohhh that’s a good idea !!

[@johnstevenson4611]

Great video! Enjoy your sit down videos. Please do a vlog spring or summer week. Love your vlogs.

[@LayersOfJenn]

Vlogs coming ~ ✨

[@游惠曲]

看到過外國人說：6個月是新鮮期，然後開始要學著習慣好的壞的。1-2年後才可能真的知道能不能習慣當地的生活。 希望你可以習慣，好的、壞的，需要改善的，只有住在這的人知道。

[@a7788995a]

@@Owjdnskoakansbskk 台灣很歡迎任何人種成為我們的一份子 但大部分的非華人通常都不會是長期居住,這就會造成"非華人=外國人"的刻板印象 不過我相信隨著定居的非華人越來越多,這個況狀一定會逐漸改善

[@喵喵喵-v2v]

@@Owjdnskoakansbskk 其實不是這樣的 而是台灣過去真的太少外國人了 整個社會並沒有完全習慣罷了

[@alicenorvilas7183]

Awesome video 💯 Come on, never get tired of listening.... Great job, girl 🥰🥳

[@LayersOfJenn]

Thank you always 🥺❤️✨

[@lolastoryteller]

Wow I found your channel two days ago and I realize you may live so close to me!! Maybe I will run into you on the train someday anyway hope you enjoy living in hsinchu!!~💝💝💝

[@LayersOfJenn]

Maybe! I try my best to not disclose online where exactly I’m living 😅 If you ever see me stomping around, please do say hi ☺️☺️

[@maplesushi]

Awesome video! It’s so interesting getting your opinion considering you spent so much time in one culture and then moved to another!

[@LayersOfJenn]

Thanks bb!! This is my bestie from Canada yall ✨❤️ Can’t wait for you to get back to Taiwan one day !!!

[@hey54088]

@@LayersOfJenn subscribed to your bestie!

[@LayersOfJenn]

Yayyyy ✨

[@desmondlow1245]

Hahahaha!! I really enjoyed all your videos!!! I had almost watched most of your videos on Taiwan as I am planning for my year wnd trip. Thumbs for all your videos. Sometimes, i just forgot to like as i moved to your next video.

[@LayersOfJenn]

Ohhh how exciting ~

[@wendysing3030]

Very detailed comparison, very interesting

[@pattychiu9408]

It is amazing to see your gesture here did not reflect that you were in Japan for years. You still keep yourself as a westerner in Taiwan. You are a lovely lady too!

[@ometofu]

glad i found this channel. 4 years of videos perfect for continuous covid life. sigh

[@LayersOfJenn]

Stay safe ✨❤️

[@lienelsa175]

Hi Jennifer 我跟妳一樣 23歲去日本住了7年回台灣 人生最青春的歲月在日本度過 謝謝妳的分享 你的分享很有趣！！

[@baryl22]

我一直注意到電視的直播，溫暖的火柴會有燃燒劈啪聲，感覺很溫暖，可是接下來的幾個月妳會想播放下雪的景象，太熱了😂

[@miayle9545]

I watched Taipei mayor’s KZbin video the other day talking about MRT fares, they haven’t raised the fee for 25yrs, trying to make it very affordable, but actually losing money from that, so they selling souvenirs and collect rent from stores to make ends meet.

[@LayersOfJenn]

Oh really!? Kind of the mayors office to do that. I wonder how long that can be sustainable 🤔

[@yllin1710]

@@LayersOfJenn kzbin.info/www/bejne/p5mTfY13rNxoprs 在影片中有相關的介紹

[@mandapanda9005]

When my partner and I lived in Taiwan we both had to cover tattoos at work! We worked in a buxiban, and it seemed like students and young colleagues/parents didn’t care, but we were told lots of grandparents pick their kids up and they’d have a heart attack if they saw tattoos 😅 My partner has tattoos on his forearms and had to wear UV sleeves EVERY DAY going to teach, and you know how hot it gets lol.

[@LayersOfJenn]

Ohhh okay!! Thank you so much for giving your input because as I said… I don’t work here so I don’t really know. Maybe because teachers are viewed differently? I know in Japan, teachers are viewed slightly differently and also Garner more back from people so sometimes you have to live or show your life a certain way. And I can only imagine how hot it gets lol

[@katecpr]

@@LayersOfJenn Teachers are defo held different standards here in Taiwan and I believe government employees aren't allowed to have visible tattoos either. Not sure if they changed this though. I was shocked to see police with whole sleeves of tattoos in Australia when I lived there

[@LayersOfJenn]

@@katecpr ohhh okay!!! ill take your words for it~

[@katecpr]

@@LayersOfJenn I love how you put "~" at the end of a sentence. It's such a Taiwanese thing to do😂 Or at least Aussies told me it's weird when you type like that in English

[@LayersOfJenn]

Really ? I don’t know how I picked it up but for me, I think if it like a playful way to end the sentence

[@eduardochavacano]

I love your humility. That makes you sound like an expert then.

[@yp86n009]

全聯和家樂福的蔬菜、魚、肉、水果價格真的比傳統市場貴很多~

[@Melessenz]

Trains are quite in japan but supermarket are soo noisy. 😵 Always when i go to taiwan i drink a lot of watermelon juice 😍

[@LayersOfJenn]

That’s my nightmarket drink of choice! I love watermelon juice ~ And I miss my old OK store song 😂 I really liked Japanese grocery stores. Always so neat & my grocery store cashier ladies were super sweet!

[@BenLaiChinaUSBA]

Thanks for your sharing, it’s great to hear the culture different between Japan and Taiwan from a foreigner ‘s point of view .

[@LayersOfJenn]

Thank you for watching :)

[@BenLaiChinaUSBA]

I was born and raise in Taiwan and living in US for more than 40+ years ,I recommend my students to go to Taiwan get master degree and learn Chinese language ,several are from Japan ,I’ll show them your video ,thanks.

[@XLittleXRed]

I think maybe in Japan people are more helpful towards foreigners in the countryside. I lived in the countryside and people would pull over when I was walking home cause my work was in the middle of nowhere and it was a long walk and I had to be like "thaaaaanks I'm not lost I just live here"

[@Its-Kat_]

I've experienced people going above and beyond helping me outside Kanto especially in the smaller areas and in Kyushu.

[@LayersOfJenn]

One of the places I sadly didn’t get too before leaving 🥺 I hope to travel there on a trip back to Japan it international travel when it’s a thing. I know others have had amazing experience with others in Japan. @heratlas I know has had a ton !!

[@PhilipJames360]

Jenn, cool video topic 💯. I lived in both 🇹🇼 🇯🇵. Curious to hear your observations after a little longer in Taiwan. PDA.... Mexico City is the winner 🏆

[@StudyAusRadio]

It is tough to leave a long-lived country to another! But wonderful life experience too.

[@LayersOfJenn]

Exactly!!! Cheers to learning more and having new experiences 🥂✨

[@henrydelta1165]

I lived in Canada during my childhood and stayed one year in Japan during colleague, I think your observations are very accurate 😂 For English speaking I think it depends on the region, I find the folks in the Kansai region are more confident about speaking English than the folks in Kanto, and Taiwanese in Taipei are just as confident as the people in Kansai. Overall, I would say that Taiwanese (and also Canadian) would act more accordingly to our true feelings both in public life and private life while the Japanese would tend to draw a line in between to make everyone feel comfortable in the public domain while hiding their private feelings. Therefore as you mentioned, Taiwanese would show affection in public, we make more noise on the public transportation, we won't consider invasion of privacy as much when we go help strangers and of course we honk our horns when we feel angry about the traffics XDDD As for the tattoo thing, in Japan traditionally yakusa would tattoo themselves to let others know their rank, so having a tattoo is connected to these negative image, thus the strange restriction for having a tattoo.

[@desperado8790]

Interesting chitchat, not boring at all.

[@wesleylin2400]

Like this video. Great analysis.

[@saramhere]

Why is this making me want to leave Japan though 😩 super interesting! Learning so much about Taiwan from you!

[@LayersOfJenn]

Japan is still great in many ways~ I am really enjoying the change of pace here in Taiwan however ✨

[@黃豐淞-w2l]

follow your own heart to do what you want to do. you are the unique one in the world. Welcome to Taiwan

[@Shuads0]

One of my friends from Japan. He told me. Taiwan is the country most similar to Japan. If you try to go the another country, you would feel much difference.

[@allenyu5118]

Love this video thanks for sharing!!!! It’d be very interesting to see what’s the similarly between 🇯🇵 & 🇹🇼, since people said TW has the closest value to the Japanese. (and Japan has huge influence over TW too)

[@LayersOfJenn]

OHHH that would be an interesting video for sure. I’ll have to start thinking and making some notes ~

[@Piyoduck]

Hi Jen, thanks for sharing the view of the points. Japan are pretty close to us in many ways back to our history and geological distance. so such article are really attracting to us to know about, especially from a foreigner's point of view. Like your smile and voice while introducing in video! hope you'd love more while living in TW. Cheers

[@joywang3308]

I truly think our dear Jenn did a great job on this topic~~ Like California, tattoos n sandals are welcomed in Taiwan!! Jenn~~ any point of view coming from a sensitive n well mannered person like you would only be seen as a jewel~~~

[@LayersOfJenn]

Thank you 🥰 I get nervous making these videos because there are just so many differing opinions 😅

[@hedge4hopper]

Note that a soft, short horn honk is sometimes like a "thank you" in Taiwan.

[@LayersOfJenn]

Oh really !?

[@maggie198333]

@@LayersOfJenn I think a short honking is basically a non-offensive way of communicating by honking. For example, if you are driving and waiting at a red light, then the light turns green but the car in front of you doesn’t move for while, you can give them a short honk to tell them to move.

[@LayersOfJenn]

Exactly!! I hear like that a lot. Or like a heads up is someone is reversing and you’re behind them, just a quick honk to be like “hey I’m here”