Japanese REACTS to ABROAD IN JAPAN's "12 Things in Japan That DON'T Make Sense"

In this video, I share my thoughts on Abroad in Japan’s popular video, “12 Things in Japan That DON’T Make Sense.” While his channel is widely appreciated for introducing Japanese culture to an international audience, I believe some points in the video might benefit from additional context to better reflect local perspectives.
Having spent over 10 years living in New York City, I’ve gained an appreciation for cultural differences and the importance of letting people within a culture take the lead in addressing change. A “Local in Japan,” as I reflect on cultural respect and discuss how we can have meaningful conversations about differences without imposing a single viewpoint.
Thank you for watching!

[@shoheikondo]

Funny how I get comments from “Chris defenders” when I share my opinion in my video, just like he shared his in his. I believe in freedom of speech and equality. He “criticizes” Japan from his perspective, and I reacted to his video from mine as a local in Japan. Hope you enjoy! Also if you happen to see these far-right-wing propaganda cars in your area (mostly like not) in Japan being loud, you can simply call the police since it’s not election cars:)

[@acidpool-ap]

It's a one thing to criticise and to share your opinion. Another thing is saying something along the lines "Not your business" (4:38)

[@bridgetdavis9752]

This is an excellent video, thank you. I learned so much! I am subscribed to Chris' channel, and I want to be sure you know that he is considered a comedian, not a documentarian. We call it tongue-in-cheek. It is clear that he loves Japan and it's culture. Thank you again, this was fun and informative. Now I'm subscribing to you! ♥♥

[@stevegonzales527]

@@acidpool-apthat’s an opinion though. You just proved his point.

[@suga4831]

@@matt4at And even then, this doesn't matter 😂because he doesn't need to belong to the band, he doesn't need to know whether X other country has weird band names. He's free to say whatever he finds nonsense from his own point of view of Japan, you can be keen in music taste and still find band names weird, or goofy, or bad, etc. Imagine not criticizing other topics in life just because someone comes in and gives you the "Not your business" line, that's super condescending, it denies debate and your input into the matter.

[@s14tam]

Funny how you criticize people criticizing you when you criticize someone else.

[@erikofthenorse]

I think when chris says "things in Japan that don't make sense" he just means they are perplexing as an outsider

[@haganeelric98]

Exactly. That video is not about wrong or good things, but about strange things (always from a foreigner point of view). Strange or with not so much sense doesn't necessarily mean bad or good per se.

[@teamshaboobalu2887]

Chris is a bit of a pompous git and also a whiner lol. He's far from having any sort of Samurai Spirit ...

[@opheliamunroe1110]

​@@haganeelric98 Uh. Nope. People of his demographic that go to different countries and then frame them as being "weird" are perpetuating negative stigmas about that country. There are absolutely people that discuss culture shocks that they experience in other countries but they aren't COMPLAINING about it. This dude straight up started this video by complaining about political advertising because he didn't like them. There is a difference between someone simply discussing their experience and complaining about their experience. He is complaining and spreading negative and half arsed stigma about what Japan is like.

[@Nordicsz]

Yeah, ofc they make sense to the Japanese guy. But the idea that anyone would drive around in a truck with speakers shouting vote for me, no matter what time, is crazy. The idea that you'd just name your band random words that don't make sense together, is also crazy for an outsider. It might make sense to the Japanese. But if I named my English band 鳥瘤石 the Japanese people would think I am a moron for naming my band Chicken Hump Rock.

[@HyattHyatt3179]

Yeah, like the band names are funny from an English speaking perspective, but that doesn't mean that they are bad names. There are some English speaking bands with names that don't make much sense either, both because they're named after items that clashes with their music style, or because they named themselves after something they didn't understand, or because they put dots over their O's and A's and didn't realize that it changes the way the letter is pronounced. Examples: Skillet, they make rock music but share the name with a cooking utensil. Möthly Crüe (Ö is pronounced similar to the U sound in burn in a posh English accent) and Ü is pronounced similar to a short Y.

[@riffgroove]

There is something that a lot of people aren't getting. Snide sarcasm is a staple of the English language, especially in Britain,which is where Chris is originally from. In Japan, the whole concept of sarcasm generally isn't even understood by most people. "Why would you even say something that you don't mean?"

[@HyattHyatt3179]

Idk I just think the type of sarcasm differs, or rather they have other ways of being witty or cheeky that are used in similar ways/ situations. It's kind of hard to put your finger on, but a similar type of clever and slightly snarky humor does very much exist. Although you're right that straight up sarcasm is sort of seen as a bit rude

[@riffgroove]

@HyattHyatt3179 I just finished reading Chris Broad's book,who has lived in Japan for over a decade, and he has repeatedly stated that he's had to explain the whole concept of sarcasm to everybody that he's become friends with. It's not a thing there

[@vainpiers]

As a brit I've had to train myself to laugh or smile after saying a sarcastic joke because people just weren't getting that I was joking.

[@riffgroove]

@vainpiers I have a very "serious" face. I've had complete strangers come up to me in stores and ask if everything is alright. I'm always saying "It's just the way my face looks. I'm not actually scowling." So I've learned that I have to make it VERY obvious when I'm being sarcastic. Otherwise, people easily take it the wrong way.

[@201hours8]

Didn't sound like sarcasm AT ALL

[@herrfantastisch7489]

I feel like people are approaching this with the wrong mindset and making it about two teams. These two are adults from different walks of life who live and have experienced Japan differently. Both of their experiences and opinions are valid. And another thing that people are taking the wrong way is Chris’ sarcasm. He’s British. That’s how they speak. Whether you like it or not, that’s how many Brits are brought up. He might come off as rash, especially to Asians where sarcasm isn’t really a thing, but he’s not trying to be, and if you’ve seen how he interacts with Japanese people, he’s mindful of it. In a video, he literally claims that he loves Japan, and if you love something, you’ll criticize its flaws and want it to be better, or point out the stranger things. There’s nothing wrong with him pointing out what he sees as strange coming from a foreigner’s perspective.

[@facetioussausage]

Yeah I would say that the guy reacting does seem oddly defensive which probably explains a lot of the negative comments.

[@Moonastronaut]

Agree with this comment. Chris's video just isn't that serious...

[@TOMIGA621]

問題は、イギリス人的なユーモアを本気にする人が世界にはたくさんいるということですね。 なので、こういう動画も必要です。

[@JustAChili]

What? But this isn’t about “how you view Japan” when Chris was talking about political trucks the guy reacting would say “no no no no” without yet knowing what Chris was even mentioning exactly. Even though he clearly just meant any truck that’s political and blasts noises. That’s not a difference in viewpoints or experience 😂

[@WizardOfOss]

Those band names are kinda like western people getting tattoos with random Kanji they don't know the meaning of. And end up with 七輪 etched onto their skin for the rest of their life. It's just kinda silly...

[@loodgack]

I take Chris' words with a grain of salt, BUT he's definitely one of the people who overall respect the culture and the people who surround him. he has great documentaries about Japan as well, he's interesting to watch. nowadays, I found some locals who happen to speak English too and they make vlogs about japanese life, culture and food. I'd say, use reliable sources for learning, not clickbait channels. that's a good start imo

[@agamersinsanity]

Tbh i would rather watch Abroad in Japan compared to the clickbait channels x)

[@Yaravae]

I dont think Chris is saying the Japanese people using english like the bands for example is a bad thing, he's sarcastic and he's pointing out how it'd seem silly for fluent speakers of english that wouldn't get what the names means, i get what you also mean about them trying to have a unique band name. Good video from both of you guys, nice to see 2 perspectives

[@pheunithpsychic-watertype9881]

It's similar to foreigners slapping random kanji and hiragana on their clothes and using then as tattoos

[@CygnusUren]

If you watch Chris' whole video, after saying why these thjngs don't make sense to him as an outsider, he then goes on to say why they are that why, and actually do make sense for Japan. This part seems to have been missed out!

[@now2knigz]

The parking rule makes a lot of sense. One of the reasons I love visiting Japan is how well-organized the car situation is. If you come from a country where cars are parked everywhere, you really start to appreciate Japan’s parking rules

[@YEBISU38]

Yeah, I think it's one of the most sensible rules in Japan. lol

[@DonCheadl]

I don't think he was saying "these things should change." The video was more about highlighting lesser talked about things in japan that are weird/confusing to foreigners. For example he did say that he wants squat toilets gone, but he never said he wants mascots gone, they're just strange to foreigners.

[@SherrifOfNottingham]

If you've been watching him for a long time you realize he's already made all of these points in his past content, and most of the points he points out that it "actually makes perfect sense" even though it's strange initially. Also I'm seeing a lot of people take this video as "12 things I hate about Japan" which is why people are acting like he's being so critical of Japan when he's not.

[@Perelandra5205]

The car park attendants are fantastic actually! They help you get back on the road from the parking area by stopping the traffic, otherwise its so so hard to get back on the road between the traffic and the pedestrians

[@CozybreadEndeavors]

As an American who enjoys learning about Japan, I am glad to see videos like this. Thank you for sharing a Japanese person’s insight and providing clarity on some of these topics. Also since you mentioned music, one of my favorite musicians is Masayoshi Takanaka!!

[@shoheikondo]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@MathiaArkoniel]

As soon as I saw the title of this video, I feared you might have "Chris defenders" in your comments. People confuse liking someone with being their champion. I really like Abroad in Japan, and also, I really like your channel and videos. The two can coexist, but it's sometimes hard for people to not champion a 'cause'. That said, I loved this video and hearing your opinions. Thanks for sharing.

[@s.sweetland5074]

Yeah the original video was basically just about things in Japan that don't make sense "to non-Japanese" (which is the perspective Chris Broad is looking from) and as such was entertaining. I also enjoyed seeing the same things from the perspective of a Japanese person. It was interesting to see which things actually do make sense to you and the fact that some of the things he mentioned also don't make sense from your perspective. :)

[@uglyorc]

I don't think anything you said was against Chris,odd that people would think so. I enjoyed the video! Funny side note I paused at 17:47 (you might have to pause it few times to see it haha) to type this comment :). Enjoy

[@99ff00]

Thanks for the video! Your videos + Chris' videos = best combo for valuable tips in Japan

[@RinaC92]

When he said NYC usps, there is no God. I felt that. 😂😂 our usps no matter what area you're in, is the absolute worse

[@デヴィン]

If this is your first time seeing him, I believe Chris got really popular from his original Journey Across Japan series. Its worth checking out and I personally loved it. He traveled all around Japan only on a bycicle and made videos showing off different towns in Japan

[@Kazza_8240]

Plus, he's lived there for over a decade, if anyone can say what doesn't make sense to foreigners in Japan it's him! ....I find it a bit weird this guy is making a retaliation video, opinions aren't right or wrong, they're subjective. Going into this video I'm fully expecting this guy to be butthurt over Chris's views and opinions.....being a foreigner in japan....who's the best versed to talk about things you'd experience AS a foreigner in japan?

[@loodgack]

exactly! I can only recommend those videos. obviously, sometimes he makes sillier ones, or top 10-12 whatever videos, but the channel overall is quality.

[@professionaltable7504]

1:54 this whole segment was hard to watch. You cant listen to someone's first hand experience and tell them something didnt happen and that theyre wrong. Also you kept saying 'no thats yakuza car thats different.' His point was that those types of cars in general are annoying, doesnt matter if its yakuza or political, hes on about the car itself. Blasting noise at 8am about politics would rightfully annoy most people. Every now and then in the uk big music artists run those promotion trucks and its often made fun of by most people here because of how much of a bother they are.

[@overthewebb]

Yeah, he was confusing the video used by Chris of the car, but it's clear Chris was just using that as a general political car video in the edit. He wasn't meaning that that particular car was the one he saw. It could have been from any party

[@smari3290]

​@@overthewebb 　私は今は脱退したけど、参政党の党員でした。　党を批判するのだったら仕方ないけど名前を隠すとかしないのは現党員が見たら問題視されるかも。　選挙戦だったら現行の法律で許されるからです。　言いつける事はしませんよ(笑)　　I was a member of the suffragist party, although I have now left the party.　If I were to criticize the party, I would have to, but not hiding my name or anything like that might be seen as a problem by current party members.　If it was an election campaign, it's because the current law allows it.　I won't say anything lol.

[@iiTzXDXDXD]

Hop off any time bro

[@Freddy3Jersem]

lmao as u can see you actually can :D

[@YEBISU38]

@@overthewebb The point is, Chris must know that it's not "a general political car."

[@SAIKOsean]

Homie. Leave the context in the video... if you want to criticize afterwards then fine. But don't cut, hunt, and peck for clips.

[@adithyavikram3479]

I was just about to comment this.

[@lieu7enan755]

Make your own channel if you don't like how he does his videos 😂

[@SAIKOsean]

@@lieu7enan755 Maybe he shouldnt make responses and not include all information. Just a thought.

[@bluesamurai3535]

@@SAIKOseanhe can because it’s his channel. Feel free criticize but we can retort back.

[@Dreamerlilly]

I appreciate seeing your perspective on Chris’s video and the elaboration for some of the things. Thank you for your explanations. I learned things I didn’t think about or know.

[@mcblend5236]

Im from switzerland and Originally Albanian Blood and every year when i visit japan im stunning how ppl are saying why japanese can‘t talk english ? Dont expect that your in Japan amd if ypu want to talk to them lern japanese like i did even if youre not good they are so happy and glad and help you even more ! ENGLISH HAS NOTHING TONDO WITH JAPAN …. Thank you . And i really like your videos Shohei! Gambate !!

[@NottJoeyOfficial]

I adore Japanese website design. As all the English speaking websites start looking the same and all blend together, Japanese websites are still fun and unique! They just have that quality that has been lost over the years on the English side of things as corporations want standard instead of unique.

[@loubertus]

About the nonsensical band names you removed the part where HE explains that is done because it sounds good and don't care about the meaning. The fact you explain the same thing, don't point it out end edit it out makes me think you do this in bad faith and it's disappointing.

[@NekoArts]

I frankly got that feeling from the whole video to be honest. It didn't feel like he even listened to what Chris was saying about each thing he brought up before reacting to it..

[@MonkeyBrainMcGee]

The point he made about showing your presence at work, I agree that it’s happening everywhere - and I dislike it lol. Employers disliked remote working so much that now you have to go show your face in the office even though you’re typically able to be more productive at home.

[@ShaiyanHossain]

thats more because big corporations have to justify spending enormous sums of money on office spaces and related expenses.

[@ByTheStorm]

@@ShaiyanHossainThey would save a ton of money not needing to worry about building codes, air conditioning or electricity needs if they simply sold the space off or broke the lease instead of massaging the egos of office managers who need to feel in control over others like dogs. Why care so much about the consequences to any of the surrounding businesses in their offices’ locations? Why fight to be less efficient and waste money? Businesses left urban centers before, it’s not a new thing. The only reasoning I can see is the offices become an easy way to funnel money and to influence a city’s politics. But even that could be done much cheaper since lobbying/bribery is a thing anyways.

[@MonkeyBrainMcGee]

​@@ShaiyanHossain I absolutely agree with you. I have heard managers say that exact thing. Plus, it's easier to "control" your employees when it's face to face. Ugh.

[@infernaltrys]

There's also the fact that while you might be more productive at home, that's not the case for a lot of people. I sizable portion of them while absolutely have their performance drop when not kept in check by the pressure of physical proximity.

[@byghostlight1]

I think both are interesting videos, because it is two well considered people expressing their opinion. From two different upbringings. The thing I always like about Chris is that, in spite of some exceptions, his opinions come from a place of being educated and informed and (most importantly) interested in understanding Japanese culture and has done for over ten years. Unlike the other TikTok creators who you have featured recently. He isn’t just some vacuous KZbinr who is only making Japanese content because it is currently trendy. He has spent over a decade to get to this position. That doesn’t mean he is faultless. It’s fun watching locals ads further depth or disagree with some.

[@kingmanic]

I think it also might be megacity bias and smaller city bias. A lot of stuff like this is stuff Chris noticed when he was in the countryside which may be different than in a major city. The whole "they never do this in the morning or in residential areas" bit may not be so in rural Japan where Chris spent a lot of time.

[@Sunshineattacks3]

I feel like he mixed up the political cars because he knew he was talking to Americans/canadians/europeans and didn’t want to go into the differences of both. He just wanted to complain that he found them annoying if that makes sense.

[@Bunnyroo7]

Never, ever underestimate the ability of the British to have a moan about something.

[@GamerKatz_1971]

It doesn't matter if the car is different if they are all screaming about politics. :) But in my view, many Japanese seem to take any criticism of something in Japan as 'not respecting the culture'. Granted, it is not as bad as India, but it ranks up there. Chris was born in England and just like in U.S. Americans, British, Europeans in general love their freedom to be able to criticize something if in their view it needs it. But most of the time this is not meant as a slight. It is an observation. The theatrics, exaggerations and the like he puts on are for his videos, he does not actually act like that off camera. He also has a sarcastic streak, which I enjoy because I cannot stand false people who say what they do not mean and hide behind manners all the time. Peace. :)

[@sugarzblossom8168]

I quite agree with you. I have seen Japanese people in so many comment sections of different videos acting like a youtuber has insulted Japan and made the whole world think it is a bad place for a small person critism or opinion given. The person doesn't even need to make Japan the main focus it could just be their own experience at a restaurant, hotel, shop or in general and Japanese people in their comments will be offended not to mention the plenty of non-Japanese viewers who somehow get offended too even when they haven't been to Japan themselves or have just gone once so think that everyone's expirence will be like theirs. I do wonder why. Is their defensiveness cultural? Is it nationalism? Even then I don't see Americans get that offended at people saying they had a bad expirence in a restaurant in American and call you a liar just because you happened to have the bad expirence in America. So you might be right, freedom of speech may play a part.

[@CheeseMan1944]

@@sugarzblossom8168 inferiority complex born from the american rule after ww2

[@SherrifOfNottingham]

The thing that gets me is that anybody that's watched him for a long time is able to easily read that the video is *NOT* "12 things I hate about Japan" He's talked about band names in the past, he knows that UK band names aren't that much better, and he actually appreciates the "fun" aspect of them. He and his sense of humor are British so he underscores the absurdity of these things for laughs, though the video starting with him talking about the politics car didn't really help the 'haters' understand the premise of the video was not about criticizing Japan at all.

[@bluesamurai3535]

Bullshit, I know some Japanese influencers got shit on a lot when they went to London and complained how bad the hygiene there. Or Europeans (brits in general) bring up American shooting spree in response to the brits having bad teeth

[@Xia-hu]

I think these are things that don't make sense to a foreigner because they are not used to it. :) I'm pretty sure if you go to the UK, you will also find a lot of things that don't make sense to you. And sometimes listening to people who were not brought up in that culture may actually improve things, because we are usually stuck in our routines and culture and might not see how something could be improved. I like getting iinformation both from foreigners living in Japan and Japanese people in Japan, because you can get both sides of the coin.

[@totsphoenix8147]

All your arguments are great exactly because you are a local Japanese, and he presents his points from a western view thus the disagreement. For example I come from Lebanon I see a lot of videos about Lebanon and somtimes these video don't cover the whole picture. But what I like about Chris and makes him different from other creators is that most of what he says is something he experienced and tries to understand and not something he heard and repeated. His comments as well must me taken in consideration with his backround.

[@szasza8583]

Kondo says those cars won't go into residential area. YET I alone saw three different cars in residential areas from politicians just in Chiba.

[@-_Andreas_-]

They are a general nuisance where I live as well. When they are not stopped infront of a mansion/house/station and screaming, they are instead driving around the areas with the speakers on.

[@Mell0we]

I think it's good that the video shows a different perspective. Different opinions and experiences in Japan from people who have been in the country for a long time. Not like the typicel 10 things not to do in Japan: “don't tip”, “don't eat on the street”, “be quiet on the train”... Thanks for the great video!

[@MamaMayin]

I agree! Especially since Chris is an entertainer as well, the sarcasm and exaggerations are normal and shouldn’t be taken as serious all the time by his viewers. I was just happy to be entertained and learn something new from both creators :)

[@HowlWorks]

Narita’s airport mascot is one of my favorites!! So cute, I got a plush when I was there.

[@mcgeorgeofthejungle6204]

To be fair I don't see how the "Welcome to Japan" gaisensha truck is right wing. Surely it would be "Get out of Japan you dirty Gaijins" lol

[@デヴィン]

Right wing in America is often different from Right wing in other countries

[@ayyylmao5668]

“Get out of Japan you dirty foreigners” isn’t right wing to you? Lol

[@kingmanic]

@@デヴィン Currently it's very similar to early Nazi Germany.

[@fullblownmind1551]

He should retitle his video 12 things shohei is sure to disagree with.

[@tangente00]

The band name issue is equivalent to foreigners having nonsensical kanji tattoos. Do you still think it is not weird?

[@haterodiadordeplantao.680]

Are you seriously comparing something that will be written on your body forever with the name of a band? It's poetic freedom. It's the same as naming a book. The band could be called old lady poop and Nobody gives a fuck.

[@Sourrags7]

​@@haterodiadordeplantao.680almost all bands in the west have werid names, stuff like the Beatles is a pun on incests

[@SashaBaker]

He’s basically saying that if a Japanese person were to see a tattoo with Kanji and it doesn’t make sense…they would say…THAT DOESN’T MAKE ANY SENSE!!! I’ve lived in Japan(Osaka) for 11 years and have heard some Japanese people talk about Kanji tattoos that don’t make sense!! A variety show in Japan made fun of Ariana Grande’s Kanji tattoo!!! It’s literally the same thing!!! Should we also say “oh it’s for foreigners who don’t know the Kanji, not for Japanese people”like make it make sense. 😑

[@tangente00]

@@haterodiadordeplantao.680 I am just saying either you are fine with both or you are not fine with both. One way or another. And I am pretty sure this influencer would ridicule kanji tattoos on foreigners.

[@bluesamurai3535]

@@SashaBakerexcept the weird Japanese band names are intentional. They made it weird so people notice them. The tattoos are basically scams

[@寝坊太郎-h5j]

Actually, I've experienced these cars in residential areas, far away from the station. The last time it was a car from Komeito.

[@NekoArts]

Same here. I live in rural Aichi and they go by constantly during election season. Drives me nuts. It's especially fun when you've just managed to put your baby to sleep and one of those drive by and wake your baby up again..

[@electronsauce]

Its the "The" in "Maximum The Hormone" that makes it sound crazy (but honestly pretty awesome) to English speakers. "Maximum Hormone" sounds like full on emotion. Maximum The Hormone sounds like a hormone named Maximum lol Referring to customers being arrogant in restaurants. The custom (everywhere) to get the waiter is to yell すみません！！！！ It took me about 6 months with my wife just demanding that I call the waiter / waitress to get comfortable with it. lol, now I'm rude in America ;) As far as the toilets, its funny because only when I first came here did I experience a floor toilet like that. I was like ughhhhhhhhhhh... Is this really a thing? It's not. Everywhere I go, epic toilets. You know what's even more surprising to me is that the toilets are generally higher than toilets in America. I'm a tall guy so its very welcoming :) Most seats and stuff here are lower.

[@KantoBassTV]

in Ibaraki prefecture in a small town where i live, senkyo car do go to residential areas from 8am - 12nn and the from 1pm - 3 pm every election. it really is annoying when they pass by my apartment in the mornings on my dayoff (35 minutes walk away from train station). but fortunately its only for a few days.

[@p.c.1019]

I’m getting some serious hater vibes here. Sounds like 2 people with different opinions. Japanese and sarcasm don’t mix.

[@Gold_Lightan]

This is a good video! As its more about opinions on a topic or correcting what Chris "maybe" didnt know. The video practically agrees with many things in Chris' video, and calling out what Chris got wrong (understandable as he wasent born here). I do agree with the pillow situation, as i have one myself, and they are the best and great for summer, i think its a bit over exaggerated in Chris' take. Also the English names for bands, I'm pretty sure Chris knows this is the uniqueness of japanese "Engrish" which is why we love japan (unique English), its the reason why in this video it shown an example of "SuperDry" as this brand is owned by a foreigner and stores outside of japan, which again chosen a name that is unique.... Which doesnt make sense for both foreigners and japanese. 極度乾燥 (superdry), I think the kanji is a better translation in Chinese. Anyway, my opinion. 😅

[@frankerck]

Thank you for this video. It was a good learning experience. Every culture is quirky; a result of history and national reactions to this history. I think you explained this well.

[@kyleclawson8130]

There are plenty of native English speaking band names with non-sensical names, like Neutral Milk Hotel. Bands are always just trying to stand out, no matter the culture. Also, I'm half convinced each American would be 20 lbs lighter if we all had squat toilets

[@alcor4670]

Bro that's kinda mean. How're they supposed to get up? You don't expect them to roll out of the stall, do you?

[@kyleclawson8130]

@ we gotta do what we gotta do to make America skinny again

[@smari3290]

最近私は膝と腰を悪くしてますが、ネットの友人のコメントで和式トイレがあった時は自然にスクワットをやっていて運動嫌いの人も足腰が丈夫になってたと思うと言われました。　Lately I've been having knee and back problems, and an online friend commented that when he had a Japanese-style toilet, he did squats naturally and said he thought it would have strengthened his legs and back, even though he hates exercise.

[@VegaIllusion]

I don’t know why some people are being so negative in the comments. I think that you managed to provide good informative content for most of the video. For example, when talking about mascots, I think that you gave a very good rationale for why things are as they are. At the same time, me, as someone who has never been to Japan and has only experienced the culture by proxy, believe that the over saturation of mascots can get annoying, and the same applies to yokai despite loving them (also why do you need to have both bakeneko and nekomata?) However, in some of the points you did come off as more opinionated (which isn’t necessarily a problem). Obviously, most people take issue with the point about political cars. I think that there was a slight misunderstanding there. Chris provides mostly entertainment first, and information second and while basing everything on his own experience. I think he might of misunderstood the definitions of the trucks and combined to similar but different concepts into one. I also think that the picture he used were meant to be just illustration and were not selected specifically for what the trucks in the picture showed. The second point was also valid. People don’t like seeing their language misused. “Maximum the hormone” is a grammatical incorrect sentence that was probably written by people who do not fully know the language (they really could of just written “Maximum - The Hormone” or “Maximize the hormone” tbh). It’s like seeing someone speak poor Japanese in media. Sure, it isn’t a huge issue but it will make an impression on English speakers, especially first language speakers. Lastly, the points about the pillows and toilets are 100% based on Western standards and expectations, and that is exactly what Chris can provide in his content, the Western perspective for Westerners. I myself hate when people talk about my country, and have seen some very atrocious content from news channels (they literally accused my country of selling teenage girls as brides and said it was part of our culture, which is literally not even close to our traditions, kinda similar to what Ubisoft did with Japan). So, I do understand how such content can be provocative for a local. Hell! I myself am very critical of the country that I live in and the locals, who don’t experience half of what I experience and are taught to not criticize the country, freak out every time I comment about the country’s issues. All I’m saying is to keep in mind when reviewing content similar to Chris’s content and continue with the informative content that you present in your videos.

[@Sourrags7]

You say there are too many mascots but you saying that with out coming here, when you are here each town has their own so there is not loads just a few at a time.

[@VegaIllusion]

@ my point about the mascots is based on exactly what Shohei presented about Shinto. Them animating everything creates a lot of “mascots” (in this case yokai). This is very uncommon in the West. The closest I can draw from my personal experience is the overabundance of saints. So, by that metric, if having all those saints feels like too much, anything that is equal or greater to that number will also feel too much. If we follow this logic (just how Shohei presented) the logical and consequential conclusion is that for a Westerner like me, and apparently Chris, the amount of mascots does feel overwhelming despite not being necessarily problematic. Another example could also be the overabundance of football clubs in some countries/cities in the West, which I also find obnoxious, like London alone has probably enough teams to fill up two leagues. Same logic.

[@slickshoesfan19]

MAXIMUM HORMONE is a great name, but they should drop the 'THE' as it's unnecessary and makes a cool name sound awkward...

[@alexredner7205]

Not a "chris defender" but I'm confused about your very first criticism of his video. You said the vehicles are completely different. Ones an election vehicle and ones a far right vehicle. So aren't they both election vehicles then since they're both politically related? Seems a little odd but genuinely asking for clarification.

[@Otaku-Emin]

Japan is one of the most unproductive countries in the world. Because of the long working hours and having to stay at work even after one has finished their work. There are several studies out there on the topic which you can look up.😊

[@Miyakolover]

5:01 This actually makes perfect sense when you're living in the hell of car centric cities that has no regulation on car ownership, the easier it is to buy cars means you need to make more spaces for parking spaces, which if you ask me is a waste of space and money when you can build more parks of shopping centers or anything much more interesting. I'll stick to trains any day.

[@HaohmaruHL]

They actually do the political car thing in my rather quiet residential area in Osaka, right in the hood where I barely see even up to 5 people outside at once. They stop at a random spot between manshon buildings and blast their speeches. I'm 15 minutes walk away from the station btw so it's not just public areas in front of the stations. I can't focus on doing anything until they are don because the walls in Japanese buildings are paper thin and it's very loud. It's baffling how such things are considered the norm and are publicly accepted while if a resident of a building makes a little bit of noise other than being completely silent as if they aren't even there it will make the neighbors flip out and call police on you for noise. And considering the thin walls I'm talking about walking across your room or sitting on bed levels of "noise". Not even listening to music. I actually forgot how it feels listening to music without wearing headphones since coming to Japan because of this. I even have to speak at half the volume of my voice during online meetings because when neighbors have a call of their own I can hear everything they say as if they're making a call in one of my rooms. Japan is truly the land of contrasts.

[@-_Andreas_-]

Very true. They stop in front of the building I live as well and then blast that shit on full volume.

[@strikerzac]

Just a reminder that this is 12 things that don't make sense to Chris Broad. Not factual just opinion.

[@shoheikondo]

And this is my opinion:)

[@jonathanvue6502]

So… can you highlight when he was saying Chris’ opinions weren’t valid?

[@lezhibou3044]

This was very interesting. It was instructive to have developed some points through your experience, knowledge or point of view. For the over-packaging of food, I heard a story that would possibly be one of the factors that pushed for the implementation of this system: it would come after cyanide poisoning cases in 77 (with Coca-Cola bottles and later, in 85 with energy drinks like Real Gold containing herbicide, the case being sometimes linked to the "Monster with 21 Faces" of the "Glico-Morinaga" affair). Companies adopted double and even triple packaging for safety. Another energy drink company that found itself with poisoned bottles even developed a single-use opening system to prevent any new cases with their product. Thanks for the video ;)

[@GrimmFields]

This was interesting, I learnned a few things. Like the definition of animism! I have believs like that and nobody taught it to me. And that melon bear is a thing, I love you, Melon Bear. The political cars surprised me, I remember that its normal for the police to be called for (what seem to be) very minor things. I.e: laughter or talking. So learning that these are common during election season is kinda funny. Just, you're chilling and you feel a terrifying presence, the aura of politics!! Ahahahah

[@darkmaer]

I just was introduced to maximum the hormone last year and can’t get enough (41 years old dude). I wish they would put out another full album and tour the states.

[@Trinsh]

In Bulgaria we also have squat toilets that are public. I personally prefer them because it is more hygienic. I personally don't sit on public toilets, and if she's not squatting, I'm terribly disgusted.

[@zoepentaleri]

14:56 Maybe true for Europe, but not true for most of America. It's only big cities where you can't.

[@dollygiki13]

May I please know the name of the song at 14:02? Wonderful video, by the way.

[@overthewebb]

Why were you confusing the video used by Chris of the political car, as him meaning that particular car was the one he was talking about? It's clear Chris was just using that as a general political car video in the edit. He wasn't meaning that that particular car was the one he saw. It could have been from any party. Seriously stop being so defensive. Calling Chris not knowing about Japanese culture about mascots is comical, then you went on some rant about Yokai, mascots in every prefecture had nothing to do with Yokai. That is bullshite. No mascot is based on Yokai. It was based on money and nothing more. Kumamon was created in 2010 in Kumamoto and it made millions for the prefecture and after this, every prefecture copied it. It had NOTHING to do with Yokai. If you want to tell me what Yokai Kumamon is from be my guest. Chris is right and you are wrong. You need to learn your own culture ffs

[@overthewebb]

Thing is as well, I like Chris, but I wouldn't call myself a defender of him. A lot of times he annoys me and I love to see him called out. I also like people to at least be honest and correct. I feel this whole video reaction was suspect for so many reasons

[@ImRezaF]

Calm your tits

[@sunshinesucks1355]

Don't ever take away the mascots! They are awesome... and adorable.

[@saldiven2009]

#2 "Nonsensical band names." Like, has Chris ever heard of these bands from the West: Butthole Surfers, Hoobastank (not even a word), Toad the Wet Sprocket, Psychadelic Furs, Squirrel Nut Zippers, King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard, Porno for Pyros, Limp Bizkit, Arctic Monkeys, etc. All of these band names were made by people for whom English was their first language. Some of the bands were very popular during their time. #4 I stayed in an APA hotel last November for the first time, and they had those sobagara (or synthetic equivalent) pillows on the bed, as well as western style pillows. Maybe because they're designed to be used on a futon rather than Western style bed, they were quite uncomfortable for me.

[@-ninjanOodlez]

Pretty cool fact that I just found out for myself a few weeks ago: I have a co-worker whose brother is married to the guitarist of a prominent 90's Japanese all-girl punk band named Super Junky Monkey. Pretty rad. They were actually more famous in the west than in Japan from what I learned upon further reading.

[@martinb1830]

I'm not sure what age Chris is but we used to have those political vans going around in the UK at election time. They would drive around residential areas announcing the name of the candidate/party rather than being static and making speeches as they seem to do in Japan. They seem to be a thing of the past in the UK now.

[@taigaaisaka6305]

@@martinb1830 They do that here in Mexico too and it it awful. 4-5 cars promoting a candidate from morning until like 8pm. I've been in Japan during elections and I've only seen them do that next to station or malls, as that's where the most people gather. Wish that's how it was here. Because yes, being woken up at 7am by a car blasting the awful song a candidate is using and their whole slogan, non stop, on repeat, is hell.

[@facetioussausage]

The video isn’t things in Japan that don’t make sense which don’t occur anywhere else. Those names are all grammatically correct anyway. Hoobastank is a slang word.

[@Nordicsz]

Difference is that most of what you named are big ass nobodies, except Limp Bizkit, which sounds more like a name than anything. The Japanese bands are really popular though. Point me at the billboard top 10 artist with a fucked up name

[@StCerberusEngel]

On his first point, I think it's less about the political affiliation and more about the noise, considering that he doesn't work normal daylight hours, currently. I've had similar experiences with being woken up by loud noises near my house. At that point, you don't really care so much why they're doing it, so much that they are doing it. Everywhere will have annoyances that you have to live with. And let's be honest, ALL political messaging is propaganda. Some of it is just more blatant than others. I also think he's being somewhat sarcastic in this video overall about little nitpicks he finds amusing or annoying, but ultimately is just "taking the Mick" as the Brits say by approaching these things from a foreign perspective. Not that you don't have some good counterpoints, though. And the band names one is kind of silly considering some names of English/American bands. Maximum the Hormone makes a bit more sense than Toad the Wet Sprocket. And the Americas have some ridiculous packaging as well. Ever try to open a package of scissors without using scissors? "USPS: There is No God". That was probably the funniest thing I've heard in a month! And you're right! 🤣

[@JasonDHLJ]

It’s so funny already watch I would say the Office video is quite good and convincing giving the type of topics in Japan that you have a lot of unknown depending on which place you’re at and yes, he travels like a lot in Japan and more coming across random place so much so it is different enough.. Now also a lot of Japanese watching his content because most people don’t travel a lot Japan itself just point the obvious

[@MrEvint1973]

Your channel is about to go viral, Asmondgold just featured your story about Ubisoft! I'm sorry this is happening and I hope your channel does well from this!

[@ZarathosDaimaoh]

We have those local elections cars in parts of France too, so it's funny to see other westerners being baffled by it. Ours do go mostly in residential areas , but there are rules as well for the broadcast hours , the audio volume... and it is forbidden during the week-end and 48 hours before the elections.

[@pandangy4077]

Ah bon? Jamais vu de tels camions dans ma résidence perso...

[@ZarathosDaimaoh]

@@pandangy4077 depend surement des regions , aux Antilles cela reste courant

[@sevenember3332]

I just wanted to say that while I know about the health benefits of squat toilets, I’m not sad to see them being phased out. My perspective on the matter is of someone with disabilities which make using a squat toilet at the very least, impractical. Having seen what passes for a handicapped version of a squat toilet where it’s “hold on to the bars and pray for the best”, and knowing in some places that’s all that is available, it makes me reluctant to travel to Japan due to accessibility concerns. I wouldn’t be able to use a squat toilet without needing assistance, which takes away my dignity and independence as compared to a western toilet

[@NekoArts]

I've never been a fan of them but I don't think I've ever hated them as much as I did when I was pregnant last year. I understand the anatomical thing but I just don't think they're practical for a lot of people. I assume it's the same for the elderly as well.

[@sevenember3332]

@ That was one of my thoughts as well. Hip and knee pain are very common complaints and makes me wonder how people manage if that’s the only option. Another thought was about wheelchair-bound people who cannot walk but that’s a whole separate set of issues as well

[@C0ldIron]

So is the difference based on what party/backing the car has or what?

[@よに-h6y]

It is unfortunate that Since you criticized tktcer for misinforming people about Japan in the video you posted a while back, this video must have been mistaken for criticism of Chris as well. As far as I know, Chris's channel presents “Japan from a foreigner's point of view” in a flat manner with no other intention than to be sarcastic without being too serious. I consider him more of a journalist than a tktcer or KZbinr who just wanted buzz-worthy. And this video you made, Shohei, is merely supplementing the parts that Chris muddled with sarcasm with additional information and truth. I can't deny that some parts sound a bit critical. In Chris's video, he introduces the “differences in culture and values between Japan and the West,” but I don't think he imposes values such as “Japan should do as we do” because “Japan is strange here. I feel goodwill and respect that he likes Japan including what he considers “strange” from a foreigner's point of view. And then, sometimes he dosen't explan to “why it is so or how it came to be,” so Shohei's supplemental (corrective) information may be useful. However, don't forget about there are differences among regions, and I think you'd be better to avoid a total denial or judgment since there are parts of Japan that you does not know about. e.g.In the countryside where I live, campaign cars come to residential areas, and I have only seen a few street speeches in supermarket parking lots. The area in front of the train station, where only a few trains come every hour, is always deserted, so there are no street speeches. And I have decided not to never vote for any candidate who disturbs the peace my day off.lol I know I'm at the end of this post, 🎍A Happy New Year.202🎉 Glad to see your videos again this year. Please take care of yourself and do your best not to overexert yourself.

[@StormCrusher94]

While I don't know Chris knows the difference between the cars you mentioned, I'd assume he had that experience while teaching English in Sakata, Yamagata prefecture. Well overall I don't think Chris comes from a place of hate or saying it is bad (at least not for all things), but more from the outsider perspective as to what is quite different to western (or UK) world, so people won't be as confused when they come to Japan and are culturally shocked.

[@nathanksimpson]

Major Korea used to have a similar UI 13:31 but these days most Korean websites have slowly simplified.

[@SherrifOfNottingham]

I feel that he makes good points, but it is from that perspective of a 'foreigner' it's not really things he doesn't like, but stuff that just seems to... well not make sense. It didn't really help the rest of the video that he starts with one of the most viscerally annoying things (a thing that has been banned in many other countries). Most of the other stuff he just points out how it doesn't make sense, not how he hates it and thinks it should be banned, but that it just doesn't make sense. He's actually talked about how charming some of the band names are in the past, he's hyperbolic, as most KZbinrs are, but for the most part he's not "hating" these things. I tend to skip his "list format" videos because it's often rehashed content. He's literally already discussed all of these things in previous videos, literally reusing footage from those videos most of the time, but what's important is that I know he doesn't hate Creepy Nuts, but I also know he's aware of UK band names being similarly nonsensical. I've already heard all of these points from him, and he's not really criticizing Japan at all, he's being his usually grumpy british self while pointing out things in Japan that... don't make sense. He's got a rough edge around him when he's being "british" about things that makes people think he's being super critical, but he's not actually being critical.

[@ksl-988]

The Japanese culture of having a "job for life" is meant to protect the worker though. You can't be laid-off or fired in Japan unless you do something really bad. It guarantees the worker job security. I agree that it is too restrictive though and is going away more now with start-ups and gig workers.

[@UmamiPapi]

I never thought of Pokemon or mascots originating from animism. Very interesting.

[@BrotherDoesStuff]

Thanks for recommending Eiichi Ohtaki - A Long Vacation it's a Great album

[@ThunderHOWL16]

I just watched this video the other day and was wondering what your reaction would be

[@c6q3a24]

Good video, but the man is not saying these things are "bad" - he is just saying that they are strange, or unique, or weird to a western person.

[@nianiapizzaria]

Im not sure why you are so defensive in the beginning, especially when Chris’ video was respectful and educational. I would encourage you to watch a few more of his videos. He has such an appreciation of Japan.

[@shoheikondo]

Can you just point out here what make you think I was defensive in the video?

[@lessonslearned2569]

We have the same thing in Puerto Rico when election time rolls around. Except that it involves a whole convoy of vehicles. Less common in the capital area but very much a thing on the countryside.

[@JeSuisKomé]

Public toilets in Japan are the cleanest so far but I’m really scared of the squatting ones cuz I heard someone fell into that thing back in school. Also putting a stool under the feet while sitting on the toilet does the trick

[@sevenember3332]

Yup, we have a stepstool nearby for that purpose

[@Dryrey]

Why look like he tries to defend until the most meaningful thing about japan on chris video?

[@PeteLeong]

Straight away incorrect. They drive through even rural areas blasting their crap during voting time up and down every street. Ive experienced it each year for the last 25+ years.

[@dannil9878]

In Europe many countries try to implement fewer work hours. Europeans are the most efficient -especially the Nordics.

[@missionari]

If you need to be humbled, go to any USPS in the country and they will certainly put you in your place 😂

[@ShuajoX]

I thought Pokémon was more influenced by Tajiri Satoshi catching bugs as a kid. Aren't beetle battles a pastime for young boys in Japan as well?

[@niravdarmesh5278]

I still have an original pillow from 1996 or 1997 made with real buckwheat husks. And I love it! And I figured that you were going to say it, but I was also thinking, before he made the demonstration, that he was probably using it wrong. Surprise, he was!

[@Simonmac-u1t]

As you just recently said ( you had to be right to bad customers??) As a former employee of a customer run business why can’t you say that you clearly state any bad customer instead of being anti gaijin ??

[@dkr2154]

Presumably because they attribute alot of incidents to Gaijin (which includes non-Japanese Asians). Native Japanese are expected to confirm due to strict societal pressure.

[@ThotPatrolSlayerWarrior]

Triggered?

[@acidpool-ap]

Why being so antagonistic towards Chris in some spots of the video? It’s his list of things that doesn’t make sense to him personally. And he is being respectful and mindful about this as well.

[@huynhyurivanvladamir7978]

Chris fanboy here

[@HaohmaruHL]

Because Japanese people can't take criticism and are very anal about any opinion a foreigner ever voices, taking everything in as a personal attack against Japanese culture. It instantly turns into "us vs them" if the same criticism just said by a Japanese is suddenly said by a foreigner (a non-Japanese person). And considering that most Japanese don't even know anything about the outside world and other cultures, and keep living like in a matrix and thinking their daily life is the default and the only acceptable way of doing things any deviation from the norms or from the script they are so used to is seen as a malfunction or a threat. Didn't like your famichiki put in a plastic bag? You must be hating Japan then! Thought inkan or meishi are outdated? You must be hating Japan then! Didn't like waking up to loud yelling trucks? You must be hating Japan then!

[@ferdfarkle8626]

I ordered a CD from Japan. Beautiful packaging. There was an extra charge that seemed to amount to, someone had to make sure the CD felt comfortable leaving Japan.

[@1Manimation1]

So, did Japan influence the minimalist fashion aesthetic in home decor and clothes? Because that's rad! Now I have an idea for home decor. Since I love vintage/Rococo/Victorian decor aesthetics, but at the same time I hate maximalism/clutter and big bulky furniture, I will hire a Japanese friend to help me pick the vintage/Rococo/Victorian decor since their brains are hardwired to minimalism, meaning that they will decorate the maximalism of the vintage/Rococo/Victorian interior design to a balance. Not too minimalistic and not too maximalistic.

[@aly061]

♥️♥️♥️ another video yayyy btw I am very glad you got the other video back, copyright on youtube is trash. 🥳

[@shoheikondo]

I’m so glad too! Thanks for comment!

[@clairruckman7674]

Pretty sure you are missing the tongue and cheek humor of dry British humor. Over exaggerating for levity of an annoyance type thing. He's kind of us westerners you'll love her, but if you are used to goose down pillows the different pillow going to kill you . I've tried buckwheat pillows before and yup my murican norm couldn't adapt.

[@dfhgghf-b2j]

Fake news and misconceptions about Japan are spreading on western social media because of silly humor by Westerners. For example, there is a fake news on social media now that the Japanese government is handing out breeding visas to foreigners, which originally started as a joke tweet by someone. Abroad in Japan is a huge influencer and his statements are influential, so there is nothing wrong with the Japanese correcting his wrong statements. Westerners may just want to talk shit about Japan, but from the Japanese point of view, it's just annoying.

[@SirClerihew]

I’ve always liked the band name “Mass of Fermenting Dregs” Reminds me when punk rock was actually a thing in the US

[@victorgiers]

Regarding the idea of plastic recycling: Nature has developed its way to deal with it - there are now two kinds of plastic-eating microbes. They have developed independently on both land and sea. They turn the plastic into carbon (dung, basically) and energy. Let's make plastic-eating bins that produces electricity and dung!

[@emilioaniba6457]

For the elections, he was staying in a small village that's why he heard the elections cars! Pop groups names are in English so they should make sense to English speakers! I agree with you for the pillow. I have had the best night of sleep on a Makura! About work, the UK is the same as Japan lol😂

[@lostpunkrock]

So I moved to Japan in 2023 and I def noticed the look busy thing at my schools that I was teaching in. Legit would look at teachers open a spreadsheet and click and then zone out staring at it for like 15 mins doing nothing. Staying back after work to "correct papers" when I corrected all the homework and classwork for them already. Its all about the appearance of looking busy. Had one teacher flat out tell me that they stay back until the vice principal leaves because it looks bad to leave before them. So she would legit just spread out her work to cover herself until 8 or 9 pm daily.

[@fotonapapa]

Election cars do definitely drive through residential areas. They might not stop and do speeches there though. But yes, the mixing them up with uyoku cars is pretty painful...

[@TammyTheTiger]

as someone who has never been to japan i am definitely under qualified to speak on Japanese culture however I've been following Chris's youtube since he started youtube. so i have some opinions. i think he understands that the far right propaganda truck and a regular election truck are different but to someone visiting japan as a tourist or someone who knows nothing about Japanese elections these things seem to operate the same way they give speeches from the road about upcoming elections. i also think he might be a tad bit out of touch when it comes to work life balance in japan. he hasn't had a normal job in a decade a. so what he says in his last point might be a tad inaccurate.

[@TammyTheTiger]

i would also like to add that im not defending chris here i just share my opinion on his content. some of what he said might be simply wrong. i completely agree with shoheikondo on the mascots thing they are cool to me and a super unique Japanese culture quirk. im visiting japan for the first time in 2025 and cant wait to soak it all in!

[@BlehBlahBlegh]

Can you tell us why your English teacher was so bad? What you disliked about him? I’m so curious! lol I have a ton of friends in the US who taught English in Japan and they all talked about how wonderful it was and how much they miss it

[@JustAChili]

Brother… I get we are defensive about our countries. But you were saying “no no no no” when he said Gaisensha.. then you proceeded to say ok yes the truck on screen is a far right wing truck.. he didn’t say it wasn’t?? I think he just meant in general these trucks. Right wing, yakuza, election trucks whatever… any truck that’s political and makes loud noises. You assumed that he meant Senkyo car before he said anything. It appears that he, again, meant political trucks in general.. I don’t mean to be rude 😂 but why are you saying no no no no, we’ll yes, but no no no this is right wing car when he hasn’t yet specified what he was talking about.

[@thomassmoot-x7i]

so i know a lot of people in the west don't sleep on their back because of sleep paralysis. also a lot of people have sleep apnea and it can be worse when sleeping on your back. Aight be a more western thing. so the pillow would be confusing to foreigners.

[@noongey]

Chris speaks in British satire, and that seems to be missing in this interpretation. As a foreigner who lives in Australia myself. I understand where Chris is coming from and laugh at his humour. Please don't take Chris's videos literally.

[@enigma790]

My new favourite channel releasing another beautiful video. I love it.

[@shoheikondo]

Yay! Thank you!