Walking Into Japan's Most Feared Yakuza Slum (#135)

Well, this was a change of pace. After journeying across Africa, I hopped on a flight from Uganda to go across the globe all the way to Japan. The Japanese government had just opened the borders to foreigners, and I, being the cunning Gaijin that I am, knew that it was time to go and fulfill my dream of becoming a Yakuza.
First stop? The Nishinari 西成 slum in Osaka. Known as Japan's last remaining slum, it has an infamous reputation across Japan as being it's most chaotic, sketchy, crime-filled neighborhood. There were multiple Yakuza offices, or headquarters, based in the area. But were all these stereotypes based on the past? I was willing to go and investigate.
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Instagram: sabbatical.tommy
Patreon: www.patreon.com/sabbaticaltommy?fan_landing=true
#sabbatical #japan #osaka

[@SabbaticalTommy]

UPDATE: KZbin demonetized this video because I showed a Tenga and discussed the Red Light district in Nishinari. To get it remonetized, I had to cut these parts out of the video, which is frustrating. I'm posting the full, uncensored version of the video on my Patreon if you're interested: www.patreon.com/sabbaticaltommy?fan_landing=true Thanks for all the kind words. 頑張ります

[@Aurora_Animates]

Yoo

[@BakerWild]

Japan! I'm so prepared for this!

[@LearnSpanishWorld]

Awesome amigo! What a nice surprise! Japan!...I like how you cover unique, different sides to every country you go to...And you speak Japanese too!!! Wow

[@bigglo6855]

Yes!!

[@Johnny-Michael]

The strong dollar allows you to go Japan for half price of what it was a few years ago. So stay awhile you jew.

[@Scopatone]

Yakuza are a very "Don't mess with us and we won't mess with you" kind of group most of the time. I used to live in Musashi Kosugi in Tokyo and locals said Yakuza watched over the area and it was so quiet and safe all the time. Being that I had 2 tattoo sleeves, a group of Yakuza struck up a conversation with me on the train in Shibuya one night and we compared tattoos before one took a giant bottle of whiskey out of his jacket and started drinking it right in the train to the dismay of everyone around him who immediately cleared the area. They were unironically some of the nicest people I've ever met in Japan, just don't get on their bad side and you're good

[@MariNate1016]

That’s because they have a code.

[@boiiofboii6736]

I heard they are incredibly racist towards foreigners.

[@brattingprincess]

@@boiiofboii6736actually it’s because they don’t discriminate many Korean-Japanese ended up as Yakuza

[@kitsunerinkan]

Some are very racist towards foreigners and some aren’t. I’ve met some who are really nice and seen the super right wing trucks that go around blasting super racist and awful messages, mostly towards Koreans. On the whole, it’s a decent country, and very safe. I’ve gone through the Osaka “hood/slum” places, Kanagawa ones, Saitama, but mostly Tokyo. I’ve been to the nicer areas too, of course, but I’ve been to the not so great areas, and talked to a lot of people. I’ve met kinda batshit people, walked past yakuza offices, seen cult people galore, etc. He likely met many more yakuza than he realized, just from watching his videos. 😂 They have a very strict code of: “don’t eff around, and you won’t find out”. Outsiders are outsiders, but one thing he said is super true: Osaka on the whole has the nicest and most cheerful population. Very open and friendly. Definitely wouldn’t whip a camera out near a known yakuza controlled area. They also have cameras all around their buildings. They see it all. Source: lived here 20 years, mostly in the Kanto area, around Tokyo. I also feel 100% safe walking around places like Kabukicho, hoods/slums, etc here.

[@PeaknikMicki]

Reminds me that Tokyo is the only place where I've handed my DSLR camera to a punk rocker with mohawk so he could take photo of me with group of other punk rockers. Wouldn't do that anywhere else.

[@ChoeDave]

This bar interaction is so wholesome on so many levels... How a single guy brought everyone together

[@imjustarando7054]

Definitely, i dont understand what they are saying most of the time but i like their vibe lol

[@nomaschalupas2453]

Actually…. That group was together and he joined them. So the group allowed and brought him in. It’s amazing that a group of people could make ONE stranger feel like family. Instead of giving him the side eye and asking him to leave your group alone like most would in my country. Recently in my country you could get attacked from behind for just being Asian.

[@dannypants0000]

x1000% I've had interactions with Japanese locals just like this, and simply being curious and trying to speak any phrase that I have learned does wonders in building rapport.

[@nomaschalupas2453]

@@matsci5130 even worse because it makes 2 so called free countries shitty for a stranger, or asians. im in the US

[@BabyBirdFOH]

@@nomaschalupas2453 no one is attacking Asians in America bruh.

[@Mellowmellowmarshmellow]

I loved the fact that some random guy saw you recording so he stopped and did the peace sign,literally just made my day!

[@gravyhippo]

I really love the way this was filmed. Authentic and no annoying music edited over. This feels vintage almost haha

[@MCStairsOfDeath]

10000%

[@nagato2201]

A classic old style vlog

[@kingtvt973]

Try Tokyo lens aswell he’s not that bad

[@gravyhippo]

@@kingtvt973 cool! Thanks

[@Slavik07]

Great point! ❤

[@pnoyboi916]

6:02 he waited his whole life for this one moment

[@folonrng]

and it was worth it. peace dudeeee.

[@TYLOTYLOTYLO]

PEACE DUDE

[@Davavo]

Peace homie

[@MrLAli-ro5ir]

PEACEEEEEEE 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@adrianhilltobar3690]

lmaoo i liked the video at that exact moment then checked comments

[@johnzamma5248]

Just some notes from a random Japanese ;) The church-ish building you can see across the street, is a Pentecostal church. It's a famous site among people who like sketchy buildings. I mean you can't describe the feeling it gives you when you're right in front. Nothing special tho, Just an old church. The place where Tommy was encouraged to take his camera down is Japan's biggest red light district, Tobita Shinchi. They highly resist being filmed, since prostitution is illegal in Japan, and they're technically breaking the law. However it is a huge market, and many tourists come and spend a ton for the experience you can only get there. The guy on the wheelchair afterwards is explaining that the god of Tobita district is praised at the shrine, so basically that would mean it's shinto but as in many cases, you can't completely separate shinto from buddhism in Japan. By the way I have lived almost my whole life in Japan, and I've never seen anyone study Japanese JUST for a month and speak so well. Big props!! Looking forward to other videos❤️

[@maegalroammis6020]

we have no good reason to go in your country.

[@waltertodd4479]

Thank you for that insight...

[@maegalroammis6020]

i am honestly disgusted about how they are in Japan. i learned they wouldn't help foreigners if they get starved or get homesick, but when they loose objects or look lost , they force still themselves to help them. They don't mind being discriminative , but they still mind being criticized about it. Pathetic. Many Japanese told me "we're sorry if we're like that, but we hope you'il still enjoy our culture" but i have no reason ! Especially if they refuse to show their natural side and prefer to impose us their mechanical side and their systematical shyness! They wouldn't forgive badly spoken japanese! Good reason to strongly dislike them!

[@pocketsocrates6140]

That part towards the end where you took the middle seat between two different groups and immediately made everyone sociable and have a good time - that's a great trait to have. Like a real life superpower.

[@BlueZirnitra]

Used to be called charisma lol. Superpower¿

[@cameronsaunders9020]

@@BlueZirnitra right lol "superpower" is wild

[@alphaeligon9226]

More like eloquent charismatic carismática 😇😇😇😇😇😇😇

[@giannilyanicks1718]

it's a beautiful country , but full of superficial people who fool foreigners. i don't understand its locals, they allow themselves to criticize foreigners they doesn't know , but when we criticize them they do mind about it. over the years i have seen so much of stupid comments left by some japânese , they literally annoy people who has their right to leave negative comments and saying the truth about their culture. they defend their compatriots but they don't recognize their numerous cultural flaws . they ask us to SpEaK JaPaNesE , but what if we speak it poorly? not anyone has the courage to learn it during decades. some says we must get to know them so they can correct us our japanese , BUT HOW can WE do that?! especially if they refuse to share their feeling and showing us their personality , to always behave like automatons? i have enough of these nonsensical replies and these excessive mysteries, i wants answers said reasonably and honestly!

[@LeBronyaJames]

It’s sad that normal socialising is considered a superpower

[@Chrisb8s]

I remember going into a “dangerous “ area in Tokyo there was a loud speaker warning people not to be taken by scammers. I guess it was the “adult” area. I felt safer than anywhere in the United States. The most dangerous thing for me in japan is overeating and becoming a sumo

[@Spacedawg879]

I bet the most dangerous thing there is getting slammed by a sack of rice

[@xVongolaXth]

@@Spacedawg879 You're talking about china.

[@leonardmulrooney3806]

I live in Japan. The most dangerous place in Japan is 1000% safer than any late night diner in the US.

[@andyptv1996]

Yeah Japan is statistically one of the safest countries in the planet. Even the majority of Yakuza clans have moved into legal business now.

[@exudeku]

@@xVongolaXth nah, its a common scene in Asia. Each adult Asian-born people you know are 100% got an accident with a sack of rice

[@CarlosOliveira-zs9yl]

"Japan's most feared slum" is probably better off than Brazil's least feared upscale neighborhood

[@John_on_the_mountain]

Especially since those upscale Brazil neighborhoods are where the thugs go to rob and kidnap lol

[@DavidSmith-eh9im]

Having lived in Japan for many years I can relate to everything in this video. It's so real. Sitting in a small bar and chatting to everyone happens all the time, with everyone being so friendly and engaging. His Japanese isn't perfect but who cares? He can speak enough to have a conversation with the locals, which is what it is all about.

[@gundamux83]

Best way to learn Japanese imo

[@McFwoupson]

@@gundamux83 best way to learn any language. Live in a country with a foreign language for a year and you'll learn much faster than if you took a class. It's especially good if you study and also live in an area with a language you don't speak. I really want to learn a second language. Practiced Spanish for a while and then just forgot about practicing it.

[@excalibro8365]

Only happens if you're white...

[@beatnik6806]

@@excalibro8365 yeah that happens almost everywhere, whites have a good reputation behaving themselves around the world. There is expections but anyway.

[@buzz5969]

Most JNs went out of there way to practice their English when I lived there for almost 15 years.

[@BradTrimas]

I love when they talk about the most dangerous area's of Japan and I can find a far more dangerous area here in Las Vegas within minutes from my home.

[@marcbernicker206]

Blacks are not represented there

[@mingchenwei1978]

People always hyping up japan as this superior gangland 😂. The most amount of crime you’ll see here is like a shoplifting

[@chocolatechipslime]

And the thing is, small cities in America will record more murders than the entire country of Japan will

[@wuhhlfarg5578]

Well that's because the US sucks Especially big city's But hey i guess thats what happens when any random idiot can get his hands on guns 24/7

[@creamydistortion]

America is obsolete.

[@Ichigoyeager.exe1]

The fact that they call this is a "slum" is just a flex tbh. I mean the houses look more better than the depressing block of flats you find here in central london.

[@michellelloyd4811]

And in the US!!!!!

[@huntersedlacek7495]

Makes you wonder why the borders are so open in most European countries and the US. I mean we all know that 13% of the population makes up half of the crime in the US. So it probably wouldn’t help us. 😂 If you know you know.

[@304sg]

I know right… I kept waiting for the “slum” part. I live in Appalachian U.S.A.

[@ryanimpink13]

Much nicer than some middle class neighborhoods in Brazil

[@Jakob.Hamburg]

It is not a flex. Other people have other standards and other feelings towards things.

[@Big5mokE719]

It's amazing how a lonely stranger from across the world can sit down with a table of quiet drinkers and over a beer the whole mood shifts and everyone gets loud and starts enjoying themselves more than ever. I don't know if it's a testament to beer or just the power of human interaction but it's cool as hell

[@ayylmao2202]

Beautifully said!

[@ex0duzz]

Lol course it's beer. Why do you think people drink for, it allows them to open up and be more "loose". Even sexually.. surprise surprise /s

[@cathoderay305]

Alcohol allows Japanese people to lower their inhibitions because it provides an excuse for a more natural, less controlled behavior on their part. I shared drinks with many of them while stationed out of Sasebo and taking even a small sip of beer or whiskey gave them an opportunity to blame any ill or uncontrolled behavior on the booze. Inviting them out for drinks is a great way of becoming friends in Japan. Also, Japanese women really enjoy being treated to ice cream.

[@BlueZirnitra]

He's just a wildcard. Locals in a bar get bored of each other after a while and run out of stuff to talk about. A fresh face with an outgoing personality will bring much needed life to the situation.

[@cornstarch4575]

I used to this all the time when living in Japan, it's so easy and I miss it a lot. I'm from Australia and you just don't see that here.

[@ye1i]

i have really bad social anxiety, so the way you can just sit down at a bar in a foreign country and strike up a conversation is amazing to me! i was in awe the whole time!

[@glockdude5472]

Just start talking to people, what’s the worst that will happen by speaking to a stranger?

[@wilsondassumpcao2089]

Me too, and I live in very social country ,Thailand.I could not do what he did due to my social anxiety.

[@mits9991]

The guy at the store knew exactly what finger u could use to apply the pressure 😭😂😂😂

[@vilhelmkron7455]

@@wilsondassumpcao2089 yes you could. You believe you can't, that's the only thing thats stopping you. Slowly rewrite your brain. Don't take the easy road

[@yz2553]

Stop beating yr junk and social anxiety will be minimized

[@michaelpriddis7726]

I lived in Sugamo, a suburb where many Yakuza families lived. It was peaceful, safe and charming. Yakuza only harm other Yakuza, and they do it privately. This isn’t Bogotá or a Rio slum. Tokyo is the safest city in the world. Those girls weren’t laughing nervously, they were laughing at the hapless gaijin who was lost.

[@Coldberg]

What an incredible Bad Video, sorry to say that but i could Not believe it. Zero Input

[@maegalroammis6020]

japanese just use foreigners as wallets or dictionnary

[@LeBronyaJames]

⁠@@maegalroammis6020You’d be in for a shock when you discover taxes and GLOBAL tourism industry

[@andyptv1996]

Absolutely mad how much of Osaka I instantly recognise the location because of the Ryu Ga Gotoku/Yakuza game series. I never fully appreciated how realistic the layout and details are in those games until I saw videos showing the locations which they are based on.

[@pfftnuffinpersonalkid1541]

Really feels like you've actually been there. Like I know where the Don Quijote is and everything lmao.

[@miesmuschel]

Ditto

[@okmon9215]

Been binging the games and as soon as i saw the double bridge I knew where he was

[@calebscalzo]

Those games are the best series of all time IMO; have them all, even the first 2 on PS2

[@Levittchen4G]

I also instantly recognized the bridge in the first Yakuza Majima plot

[@yungjamez312]

I live here and tbh, there really are no dangerous areas. You won’t find a single area that you’ll feel “unsafe” or feel like you have to watch your back, like you have to do in most American cities at night.

[@davidclaro152]

You're right. In my area in Japan as I mentioned about talking about them, you can walk around that neighborhood at night and not much of anything will happen; especially if you're a foreigner. As I also said, they just stick to themselves. The scary and violent setting that the media and documentaries are promoting really is just hype. I know because I've lived in the area for about 20 years. Nothing really happens with the locals.

[@rubyy.7374]

What about compared to other parts of Japan?

[@lilgreen12]

White people forget that your a foreigner were ever you go. It might be safe but you have to be respectful of their culture. If this did get robbed he would act shocked like what you expect when your looking for trouble for clout. And your right he wouldn't survive walking around watts or Chicago doing this.

[@yungjamez312]

@@lilgreen12 there’s legit like 1 robbing a year in Japan bro. Pickpocketing on the other hand

[@lilgreen12]

@@yungjamez312 yeah you have to be on your guard no matter what. It's probably because I'm from California but still crazy people are everywhere my friend got jumped in korea which is supposed to be a calm place.

[@gottheruns9693]

I love how you don't have annoying music playing in the background, just genuine interaction.

[@emmil8788]

What

[@krunkle5136]

True. So many other places in other countries seem to blare music so no one can think.

[@PuffOfSmoke]

You really go up to people to ask them if there neighborhood is safe and if the Yakuza lives there? Damn. You straight up a savage Gaijin. 😂

[@Qqxx22]

hes straight up rude or ignorant lol

[@nurtbmtv]

Pretty rude if you ask me. This is Asia not america

[@vermiculus3848]

@@nurtbmtv I don't understand, he wasn't intending to be disrespectful, just curious. He cut off the conversation after he noticed her laugh and mentioned it directly after in the video. If he continued prying and asking and being invasive, that would be ignorant or rude.

[@8SugarRayRobinson8]

@@vermiculus3848 It's considered rude in Asian culture, like if a person walk in a random black neighborhood in the US and suddenly you ask them, is this place dangerous? Are there any Bloods offices nearby?

[@vermiculus3848]

@@8SugarRayRobinson8 you just gave an example of how you would see it to be offensive, interpretation is subjective based on cultural norms and societal implications and one persons/countries way of conversing might be different. But I'd argue that he recognized his mistake and corrected himself ASAP. I understand that it could've came off that way and was rude but he noticed it and addressed it. This doesn't make him a horrible person or a KZbinr not worth watching, it makes him a human that made a mistake...

[@calumvaughan8690]

oh man, I'm so excited for the rest of this! I feel like Japan gets missed off the travel vlogger circuit because it's a fairly mainstream country, but it's also one of the most interesting and best for videos! Love your stuff dude :)

[@soohyunkim678]

I am Korean and watching people from my two most favorite countries, the U.S. and Japan, getting along makes me really happy and cheerful. Thanks for this great video.

[@SinfullyHera]

Only took America destroying their culture and oppressing them for it to happen

[@heckincat1406]

Respect to you three🇯🇵🇰🇷🇺🇲. Greetings from 🇸🇪

[@javiruiz8365]

🙄

[@maegalroammis6020]

koreans are naive.

[@maegalroammis6020]

koreans have that arrogance

[@kranzonguam]

Now you're in my backyard! Your Japanese is good! It always amazing how surprised many Japanese are that foreigners speak at all, and how appreciative they are when people try! Have good fun!

[@SPMUAYTHAI]

19:00 That bar sequence is absolutely amazing. This is everything I love about Asia and that I remember from my first trip in Thailand. I'd say that I was pretty surprised to see this happening in Japan. Perfect exemple once again not to believe everything people say about this or that country until you travel there or watch/listen people's stories there. Going to Tokyo in January. Can't wait. Subscribed right away.

[@MCStairsOfDeath]

How is it?

[@maegalroammis6020]

thais and japanese aren't good to socialize.

[@SayHelloToOblivion]

You are so brave. When you asked if you can sit at that outdoor bar with all those people, I about died. My social anxiety could never. I truly wish I could, but I could never.

[@STAMPER-DESIGN]

Just when I thought I couldn't love a culture more in Africa, you go to Japan and do it again. Thanks Tommy!!

[@Visible-jb2ew]

Africa has many cultures it isn’t just one.

[@strandkorbst9643]

Africa? What kind of culture is that supposed to be??

[@whygamingwhy2404]

Gotta absorb other countries culture since he's American, they basically don't have one lmao.

[@MetaITurtle]

@@strandkorbst9643 I don't think they meant anything by that. Probably don't know another way to express themselves.

[@moonstryder1740]

​@@strandkorbst9643 stealing probably

[@soundzrinmygarden3833]

You have a great gift Tommy. The way you mix with people from all walks of life and get their respect. You do know that most people can't do that, and you do it with ease. Japan seems like such a beautiful country already.

[@pikapikaachhu]

As someone with social anxiety who’s also going to visit Japan in a few days, these videos help me be less afraid of interacting with people. It’s really inspiring how you can make friends with locals anywhere on the planet, I aspire to be like that!

[@AidenParker]

Me too I leaving to go on the 8th of june

[@pikapikaachhu]

@@AidenParker Aye good luck on your trip!!

[@SirAuron777]

Hey, how was your trip? Assuming you went or are currently there?

[@AidenParker]

@@SirAuron777 yeah I’m here currently made it yesterday so far it’s been pretty cool

[@SirAuron777]

@@AidenParker oh nice, did you travel from the US or Europe? Any Japan travel tips so far?

[@evanperkinns9039]

I'm around your age and from New York as well - born in Flushing, but out on Long Island now. I've never been outside of the US, but your videos make me feel like I'm on a trip to the other side of the world. I only found your channel a few months ago but have been enjoying going through your backlog. You're now for sure my favorite travel blogger. You introduce these interesting places without exoticizing the people there, which is something that too many other travel bloggers are guilty of. I hope someday I will be able to visit another country when it's in the cards for me, maybe even meet my own "Tom Hanks". Thanks for the hours of entertainment and education. Much love, Evan.

[@polygonkilla]

Yo you kidding me - you in NYC - the world is right there. Wanna go to Korea, go to parts of Queens, wanna go to South America, go to Junction Blvd and Roosevelt Ave, in Queens, Wanna visit Guyana or India go to Richmond Hill again Queens, Russia/Ukraine Brighton Beach, Brooklyn. The world, its people and its food are right at your doorstep.

[@xensensei]

@@polygonkilla I'm sorry but going to those places is nothing like visiting the countries itself. You can't compare Korea to parts of Queens.

[@polygonkilla]

@@xensensei Yes thats obvious but, if you cant afford to go to all these places - these neighborhoods are the next best thing.

[@smithjeff3002]

From Flushing too, man: born Flushing Hospital!

[@capitalb5889]

Buy a plane ticket and go somewhere - not even Canada is very far away!

[@darioshub]

Any country you visit, you speak their language. One of the reasons I follow your channel. Great content!

[@lyhthegreat]

his japanese level is probably at around n5- n4

[@emauf]

@@lyhthegreat He can interact thats all thats matters

[@MariNate1016]

@@lyhthegreat facts mfs act like he’s fluent

[@lyhthegreat]

@@MariNate1016 wouldn't say he's acting but his command of the language is definitely rudimentary.

[@whitemike-vm7oz]

I got in a fight with a Yakuza ten years ago in shibuya...later he came into an afterhours I was in with five Yakuza. Hebought me a drink, apologized, and I did in return. He showed me his tattoo wrap with a translator, we had a great time. They don't murder unless they need to. The most honorable mobb in history, respect.🙌

[@Cloudnine422]

“They don’t murder unless they need to.” Bro can’t tell you how much relief i feel rn 🫱🏻😮‍💨

[@RedsBigRig]

I love how it seemed the bartender person was this quiet background figure but was ALWAYS right there in the mix when it came down to a celebration and a DRINK 🤣😂 what a fun little place

[@RoverStover]

This guys travel vlogs are raw and real and such a breathe of fresh air in a time when so much travel content online is overproduced, glamorized and all the same. Reminds me a bit of Vagrant Holiday, just real and fun.

[@higon99]

A foreign looking man, after seeing a man in wheelchair freely wondering on the street, asks a random woman walking alone. "Is the neighborhood dangerous?" "There are Yakuza offices here?" Hey. YOU ARE THE MOST DANGEROUS ONE, TOMMY.

[@thefantasyreview8709]

lol. Japan is arguably, the safest country in the world.

[@spar0035]

"There's trash on the escalator, we must be in the slum." That is so true in Japan, it's mostly spotless and you can practically eat off of the floors and sidewalks 🤣🤣🤣

[@beedee8185]

In a world where every “reality” series seem to be staged, this was SUCH a breath of fresh air. The chat with the Japanese people at the bar was amazing incredible

[@MetaITurtle]

It's videos like this where you can see the difference between real and fake

[@giannilyanicks1718]

othing of genuine.

[@upstatenoizepollution7342]

This is the first video I ever saw from you. I had NO idea who you were. Also being from the Empire State, 2 seconds after hearing you talk I said to myself " this f***in' guy HAS to be a New yorker" . About 18 minutes into your video when you was having some cocktails with those folks and you said where you was from...I said out loud "I KNEW IT, I KNEW IT!". My son came out of his bedroom because he wanted to make sure I was ok ! (He thinks I'm whacked outta my skull LMFAO) I'll tell you what, that seems like a real cool place to relax and meet some good people! Nice folks, food and drink, hospitality (like the old country) anyway- I know i'm rambling but you got this old man smiling my friend! Great video- Thank you!

[@rebeccatayler]

Love love love when sabbatical uploads!and to see he is in Japan is such a treat!safe travels dude from UK 🇬🇧

[@charlesdaniel353]

Absolutely Rebecca, where are you viewing from ?

[@rebeccatayler]

@@charlesdaniel353 I'm viewing from the UK 🇬🇧

[@charlesdaniel353]

@@rebeccatayler hopefully we’ll get too know each other more

[@DarkDeviant]

@@charlesdaniel353 creep

[@hamishmcqueen5499]

Lived in Kamishinjo in Osaka in the late 80's. It brought back a lot of good memories. Your character & personality fits in well with the locals. Great clip.

[@Tristamus]

Really enjoyed this video. I've been to Japan 3 times and every time, I felt like this man does. Even in the shittiest parts, there's a charm and safety. Japan is a beautiful, sweet & fun country and it deserves all the praises it recieves.

[@jonathanseiersen513]

Japan reminds me so much of my own country, Sweden. People are very reserved and usually don't start a conversation with a stranger but if you take the initiative, we open up. Much like in this video.

[@scottvermeulen7805]

Just Japan is not completely flooded with (northern) african "refugees" that just come to rob the place and abuse the social system. And any place in Japan is way safer as Sweden is in general.... Even areas where there is Yakuza located you can walk around without feeling unsafe at all.

[@alexlarsen6413]

Definitely. You open up even more when you're drunk on the streets of Copenhagen, lol

[@jonathanseiersen513]

@@scottvermeulen7805 oh, grow up.

[@mymusic6384]

And in Poland :)

[@adamt5]

I wish it were like that in the west instead of having to smile at everyone. It is not natural.

[@garethwilkins1695]

This is really good, it's nice to see a little in depth Japanese culture and it was good to see you sit down and have a drink and talk with a handful of people, in general very friendly people.

[@adamq123]

I'm impressed that you manage to speak and understand so much Japanese. I assume you only had short time to study it and can already make yourself understood so well. Wonderful! Especially when considering that you have been studying so many other languages in similar short time frames. I'd be dead curious and hope you'll release a video some day describing your strategy/method for learning languages in such short time. 🙏 Safe travels and have a great time in 日本!

[@ricklanders]

Very interesting to see this side of Japan. I was surprised by how much the people at the bar opened up to you, that didn't fit my image of the Japanese people as being more reserved. Looking forward to more interesting videos!

[@FreddietheFly]

After a few beers people begin to let down their inhibitions. I travel by myself and the best way to meet people is to do what he did here; go to a bar. After a beer or two my shyness disappears and I can strike up a conversation with the person next to me.

[@Just.A.T-Rex]

The Japan youth and younger generations in general are so fun and inviting and friendly! The night life is top tier!

[@mecha_genki]

Osaka is a very friendly city. Being a foreigner helps too.

[@brandon2559]

This is a cultural thing in Japan. I forgot the words, but you have your public personality and your private personality in Japan. When you go to the bar you can be more yourself so people need a place to let loose other than just at home or friends houses.

[@jeanniebilliejean]

You're so chilled and inviting. And I'm only a couple minutes in. :)

[@COOLBEANSOFFICIAL]

3:51 The little kid peaking in and promptly walking away from the adult only section is so funny

[@MrMuppetbaby]

Absolutely amazing. Thanks so much for the walk along with you, bravest guy I now know. You are hero material for the rest of us that have just never gotten out I guess. You are an adventurer. Thanks! Tod in Las Vegas :)

[@luissantana4994]

Finally been waiting for this trip, bless you Tommy. These videos are special

[@paranoidhumanoid]

You made it! がんばれ、トミーさん！

[@Graceless]

The experience you shared with the family at the little bar was so pure. So happy you got to have that, I hope to share a similar one in the future

[@DaddyNoNotThereIAmTheRapeBaby]

I’m gunna Spank u harder than my nan spanks her nan

[@justmyself1000]

Your channel just keeps getting better! Your language skills are amazing and I Love how you respect the cultures by learning their language. I'm supposed to be taking care of various chores right now....but your channel ropes me in! At least I'm learning things!

[@prodbygunter]

21:00 looks like a fun time. I had a smile all the way through!!

[@Omarinthefield]

Hey Tommy, such great content, you honestly deserve more subs , and the way you switch from Africa to Japan it's amazing, love it , keep on go

[@effectrix]

Your mic on the phone is much better than your other cam's mic. You should use a separate mic because it is pretty hard to hear the discussions and it is to bad considering that for instance I am following this channel because your ability to speak in so many languages! Cheers from Transylvania..to your travel experiences! 🎉

[@AscendedWalrus]

The scene at the little outdoor bar was so wholesome

[@justinspringstun5836]

Still classically super nice Japanese people, even in the slums. Very cool video man, keep up the great work!!

[@tylererck1]

I have been too Tokyo before as an English teacher. including Roppongi, Yokohama, Shinjuku, Shibuya. Your videos are going too be amazing and might make me cry. Best people I have ever met in my life. 💚From Oregon

[@meverlo]

You do solo very well. Great observational narrative. Very personal and random in a fresh way. Thanks

[@makotoshepherd568]

I find it really hard to believe that you learned Japanese to the extent you are speaking in 1 month! If you really did you are a quick learner being intelligent for sure!

[@makotoshepherd568]

By the way, ¥3,800 is not $15, $15 gets you about ¥2,000 in todays rate

[@SirAuron777]

Is that what he said? In 1 month? How? Lol

[@GlenT333]

Its very impressive. I've been learning Japanese for 6 months and no where as good as him.

[@megasocky]

​@@SirAuron777probably learned a phrase "x wa doko desuka" or "kore wa x desuka" and then picked up other words for just going straight into the country. People who perceive you as a foreigner will try to translate a few words back (like substitute densha for train). Best way to learn a language is by going to that country and use it daiy

[@zachary_attackery]

most of what he's saying is really basic beginner stuff and the people talking to him are talking more simple and slower than they normally would with each other

[@globefloppingwithadri]

Cool video!!! I lived in the "used to be" ghetto and slums near Osaka called Amagasaki for 5 years. Even the most notoriously dangerous areas in Japan are absolutely wonderful and I had a great time there!!

[@SirAuron777]

Can you tell me how you moved and lived in Japan for 5 years? Always curious to see how people did it. I wouldn’t mind living there for like half a year after visiting to see what it’s like

[@zion5115]

bruh what is a dangerous area like in japan?? like one knife attack a whole night? nothing happens in Japan, u do anything out there you will be locked for life

[@Miamama197]

Japan is a very respectful place as a person whose lived here basically my whole life and has traveled to other countries. If you respect them, they respect you.

[@dusty_doggg]

Stayed a month in Nishinari a few years back. I love that neighborhood so much, part of me is always there. Thank you for making this it brought back a lot of wonderful memories.

[@clayton19931]

I love these videos, raw unfiltered Japan, I lived there for two years and had many similar bar experiences

[@harumitsu3014]

The part where you ask the Korean guy about the whiskey then say sorry in Korean... so good. Instant like and subscribe from me. I've only watched two other videos but your style is amazing and so down to earth. I love that you're showing the real life interactions

[@tharp42]

Dude, be careful. The last time I was in Osaka I was out drinking all night (we started in Nishinari) and at one point ate raw chicken liver. Like you I thought, "This is Japan so it has to be safe" but later ended up with the worst food poisoning of my life. It was brutal.

[@exudeku]

Oooof remember never eat something thats from a chicken meat or innards raw. Those are peak salmonella experience

[@tharp42]

@@exudeku Yeah, exactly, but I was about 15 beers in at an immaculate little bar with a Japanese friend who swore that it was safe. Famous last words.

[@allenswackhamer5450]

@@tharp42 probably was the 15 beers not the chicken. Also the time it sits out is a huge factor for chicken sashimi

[@allenswackhamer5450]

@@exudeku very low chance of salmonella on sashimi chicken. Probably like 1 in 50 or 1 in 100. If you eat it everyday yeah probably. But a conservative 2% chance means it's very rare to get salmonella!

[@tharp42]

@@allenswackhamer5450 Nah dude, wasn't the beer. I'm a seasoned beer drinker. I actually didn't get sick until two days later and had alll the symptoms of salmonella. Had to be the RAW CHICKEN LIVER.

[@al3xm]

man you truly make every country look so fun.

[@wymanrtaylor]

I’ve gotten in so many fights in Sotenbori, going all the way back to the 80s. Just recently went again after faking my own death

[@f9qo]

I was in a crowded public bath in Japan once in a fairly rural area, when I walked in, all the small areas where you sit and wash yourself were full up except one, then I noticed why there was an empty stool, sitting next to the vacant space was a Yakuza. I could tell he was a yakuza by his tattoos, it being before tattoos became a fashion thing, What the hell I thought, so I sat down. I speak the lingo well enough, and we ended up having a very pleasant conversation after he instigated it. Both of us being outsiders within the culture of the common sheeples, is my interpretation, so we had something to talk about and got along well.

[@simonpowell2559]

I lived in Japan kyoto for 2 years. Every night the bath house, We were on "the wrong side of the traks" met a lot of Yakuza. Just great normal people, no big deal. Just accepted as part of the way of life.

[@f9qo]

Part of an inn, I was in a hot spring bath house once, and a yakuza brought with him a woman when he came into the men's bath. Never have seen that happening before, an unusual occurrence I'm sure, these days you don't find many public baths that allow males and females to bathe together. That bath is supposed to be separate for men and women as well. She wore a bathing suit and they kept to themselves over in a corner. Frolicking around, they were enjoying themselves. Nobody running the place came in to object if they knew about it, and very likely nobody taking a bath at the time would have. I've always thought that the people running that bath which is near my residence, might have yakuza leanings or such, so perhaps the couple were friends or associates of the management. Whatever, no harm no foul.

[@dominos6576]

Every time I hear people speak Japanese, I melt. It sounds so beautiful and sleek.

[@hectichive889]

Damn, that bar scene was super wholesome! I’m ngl I skipped through until that part because this vid just popped in my recommended, but they welcomed and talked to him like they were friends all along lol. Was nice to see. Drinking a few shots myself to this vid, so cheers 🍻

[@rockogawky5982]

The slum looks very nice and well kept.

[@GL-iv4rw]

Yes indeed, for a slum! Actually the standard of Japanese slums is more or less equivalent to the level of the most developed and well kept urban area in China.

[@orfeo793]

right? it looks better than many urban neighborhoods in US cities lol

[@ShaunOfAllTrades]

I always admire your ability to make friends everywhere you go. I want to go to Japan so bad...

[@RaidenDragonClaw]

I’ve always wanted to go one day

[@ciaran3629]

​@@RaidenDragonClaw I'll take you 😊

[@RaidenDragonClaw]

@@ciaran3629 perhaps one day

[@ciaran3629]

@@RaidenDragonClaw I'm being serious I'll 100% take you ✌️

[@longwhitemane]

I caught myself smiling as I watched the bar sequence. What a lot of fun! 😃

[@TeusTudor]

Your videos always make my day when you upload them. I'm so looking forward to Japan!

[@Kaygee79]

Welcome to Japan brother! I've been to Japan a number of times, I am sure you're going to come across many very unique cultural norms that anyone from outside Japan will find surprising! Don Quijote is cool, I've been in a few of those! From the top of Japan, places like Sapporo down to Okinawa, there is so much to see and experience! Excited to see more! :D

[@ladybuggy11]

I'm going to Japan in late June with a group of other kids my age, and it's nice to see someone with the same level of fluency as me be able to get around well. Loved this video, keep it up.

[@cloro-8243]

Cool video mate, as usual. In Japan it is almost impossible to have problems, even at night. In Japan women can walk around alone at night without the risk of being bothered. Jakuza has a role in all of this; they don't want petty crime problems so they can take care of their business (which is on other levels).

[@MattyEngland]

And the fact that Japan doesn't allow in endless immigrants

[@rusty5078]

Wtf are you talking about? You clearly know nothing about Japan. Unwanted sexual touching on public transport has been experienced at least once by 48.7 per cent of women over 20, while as many as 70 per cent of younger women report being groped on trains. They have female only carriages now because of it 🤣 you clown. Also you wanna talk problems? sarin gas attacks in 1994 and 1995 on the Tokyo subway and in Matsumoto - both of which killed 12 and injured more than 1500; the killing of eight children and injuring of 15 pupils and teachers at an elementary school in Osaka in 2001; a mass killing using a knife and car in a busy shopping street in Akihabara in Tokyo in 2008; the stabbing of 55 residents in a care home for disabled people, killing 19, by a former employee; and an arson attack on an animation studio in Kyoto which killed 36 and injured 34 in 2019. Don't talk about things you're clearly clueless about

[@monkeymoment6478]

@@MattyEngland Right. At one time, I know it’s hard to believe, but European countries and the US used to be pretty safe as well.

[@Holland1994D]

@@MattyEngland It depends where those immigrants are coming from.

[@sumo._]

Yeah most of your problems in Japan will relate to your mental health and sense of well-being since birth rates are plummeting and suicide rates are skyrocketing, but let’s keep simping for Japan because it’s homogenous 🤡

[@luiz8098]

Man, I love this! Excited to explore Japan with you, Tommy!

[@tracycraft2971]

Such an amazing video! Wow! Loved this! I so love Osaka!!

[@doubledeei2631]

I like how one can just sit at a little outdoor bar in Japan and enjoy a few drinks. Pretty cool how you guys toasted for every little reason lol

[@bossefroberg1334]

This was my first time watching one of your videos and it was great! Looking forward to watch more videos from Japan.

[@lukaswirmsberger6260]

The old man at 13:40 called the place a 御宮 which is in fact a shinto shrine. There are are different words for the different types of buddhist or shinto temples / shrines. Before ending the conversation he actually said he doesn't quite understand what you're saying. He's speaking the local dialect.

[@無名-t4c]

Personally, I would avoid asking questions like 14:50 to people you don't know. It can come across as rude, especially in a low-income area. She didn't say "well it's not completely safe," she said "what do you mean by danger?"

[@majordelays4909]

She held her bag tighter 😮

[@upendo.3570]

@@majordelays4909 shut up.

[@jumpda5]

Japan is arguably the safest country in the world in terms of crime. I myself am half Ukrainian half Russian and I lived in Japan. after the post-Soviet and CIS countries, I felt like a paradise in Japan, especially in terms of security. here no one will ever steal anything from you and will not try to provoke a conflict. and the Japanese are very polite and worry about how not to cause discomfort to others

[@gurdis]

（As long as you are white)

[@mecha_genki]

@@ProjectC204 I lived in Japan, you don't see it because you are Japanese, but it is a very racist country. I love Japan so I am not meaning this to be horrible, but it is a reality.

[@gurdis]

@Flower7 Hey Flower7,could you tell something about why you want to get away from Canada? Cause I'm now living in Japan (as a foreigner) and Canada is the place I want to go after here.

[@jumpda5]

@Flower7 I heard that Japan is supposedly a racist country. but living there and talking with some people who also live or lived there, I concluded that this is more like a myth or it is very exaggerated and there is no more racism in Japan than in any country in Europe or America. i talked with people from India and latin america with dark skin and they said that they had no problems there

[@mecha_genki]

@Flower7 I've never seen a shop that doesn't let foreigners in

[@SMoldie]

I do enjoy living vicariously through you.😁

[@insigpilot]

- Thick American accent - Random dude peace sign @ 6:01 - FF7 Sector 7 Slums, on point This guy is awesome.

[@Croop9203]

Fascinating, feels like you're walking through pre cyberpunk suburbs... The architecture and all.. Almost surreal.

[@ajs6036]

Does kinda feel like Deus ex or something lol

[@benjismith593]

If I ever go to Japan...I'm going straight to that "slum". My kind of place! And damn Japan is just straight out of a video game.

[@Drewski777]

I loved that bar interaction so much 😭😭😂😂💕💕

[@OliverKelso]

Asking him to explain how to use that cup was fn hilarious to me.

[@guybuddy1]

Yeah the guy must have felt really embarrassed. lol

[@rusty5078]

Is it for my finger, was the part that got me 🤣

[@YourOwnDamnVault31]

This guy has balls of steel. From attempted kidnapping in Brazil to Yakuza hideouts.

[@boondockersaint6199]

I'm still dissapointed he didn't go to tivoli garden in Jamaica though

[@hatenonme1212]

Very enlightening and interesting video of people from Japan and simply another world and culture. Great to see the interactions. It's understood that most people in the world are genuinely peaceful and want to live a normal life without all the extra dramatics

[@cbbhvjc]

I wish I had Sabbatical-san's linguistic talents, I want to travel and meet-and-greet too!

[@totaka5145]

This is my first video I've watch in your channel,i love this!!

[@レジスト]

Just discovered your channel. I like your personality and how you talk to people. It's really enjoyable to watch. I'm hyped for more Japan content :)

[@BryanHernandezBTGoSTG]

The guy in the back at 6:02 made my day 😂

[@slizzfx__]

Fr😂😂😂

[@mushy_biscuit]

I was looking for this comment

[@hayleyxyelyah]

@@mushy_biscuit sameeeee ive literally been looking for this comment too lmao

[@ifiwasyourain]

@@mushy_biscuit same LOL

[@MP18.7]

That place is much safer than most of the towns around the smaller town I live in here in Germany

[@rusty5078]

This is gonna be epic. Seeing Japan is always amazing.

[@hettel_visual]

Sitting here in Seattle (a very introverted city) this Osaka jovial openness is incredible to me. People talking all together just randomly at a bar?? Lol people in Seattle tend to treat you like a stranger, and this is the opposite.

[@hettel_visual]

@@screbbels It seems like a breath of fresh air

[@Big5mokE719]

I find the Yakuza extremely interesting. I grew up pretty much idolizing the American (Italian) mafia and reading, watching movies and documentaries, and studying them (my grandpa knew a couple of the local monsters. They weren't low level but also not the don lol) but at the same time have always been infatuated with Japan and it's culture and always say in my past life I was Japanese. So Yakuza is a mix of the both but also a complete different breed entirely. I couldn't imagine the mafia registering their territories and where they do business from or especially reporting their earnings (wasn't touched on in this video but Yakuza report their earnings every year). It's amazing how out in the open they are while also being closed off.