How Japanese Elders Feel About Foreigners Living In Japan

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[@takashiifromjapan]

🌙 🍡Use code "TAKASHII" to get $5 off of your first #Sakuraco box: team.sakura.co/takashii-SC2308 or #TokyoTreat box: team.tokyotreat.com/takashii-TT2308 now! Experience Japan from the comfort of your own home!

[@NicEphesians611]

Love hearing what everyday people have to say in your videos. This video makes me want to go and check our your country even more! 😊

[@21Kikoshi]

Thanks Takashii! So interesting to see the concerns of the senior Japanese population about immigration, unfortunately I fear their fears may become a reality. Just as those before that had concerns about everyday people wearing Western clothing instead of Japanese clothing. I don't know if we are doing enough to preserve Japanese culture as it slowly fades away...

[@Jackie535]

Please do a video about their favorite Japanese martial arts and Karate….I heard and seen there are variety style of Karate such as Okinawa’s Karate and Shotokan Karate and I’d like to delve more into them….

[@21Kikoshi]

@@Jackie535 most Japanese people don't do karate or know about different styles

[@DumplingDaddyJ]

My brother, father and I are visiting Tokyo, Hiroshima, Kobe, Osaka, Nagoya, Kyoto for 2 weeks from 9/2-9/16, from the United States. We'll be in Tokyo during the first week and would love to participate in one of your interviews. I find your channel very informative and helpful in preparing to visit.

[@kimikowoo]

wow❤ my friend happened to find my dad in this KZbin. and the first guy is my dad!!! so happy to see him and very proud of my great dad and dear grandpa of 4kids❤ thx Takashi san and thank you for a great compliment of him ❤️❤️❤️

[@partiallyhydrogen8ed]

Your father seems like a great guy

[@kimikowoo]

@@partiallyhydrogen8ed thank you! he is strict as well but he has taught me and my sister how to have global mindset since when we were young :)

[@partiallyhydrogen8ed]

@kimikowoo has he ever gotten upset with how you or siblings talk? I don't think he likes how young people act nowadays 😉

[@ShinjiTomi]

no wayyyy, ur dad is amazing~

[@fantasyfinale6976]

he seems awesome, he reminds me of my own dad, who also complains about how the youth speak and write lol. similar complaints from different countries.🤣

[@exploringandstargazing]

I love the first gentleman. He seems like a really nice guy.

[@LumiSlime]

Same...

[@morlarav602]

yeah here and thereafter you could meet that kind of guys in JP, the opposite of them guys is the real villians that straight jumped out from anime

[@lindamar5267]

Same here . Well educated , appreciate tradition yet open minded . 🫶🏻

[@carolynsilvers9999]

Me tòo

[@kirstyliancolminar8340]

Yappari, only the people who’ve tried living outside Japan can be as open minded as the first man he interviewed.

[@mandyads]

The first elder is such a good example of someone who takes pride in their culture and reinforcing the stability of their culture, while also being vastly open to share is with others. It's nice to see a person who believes in both of those things.

[@HillLuvJump999]

Reminds me of my grandpa rip :< very smart man very cool

[@amiesports]

he's obviously extremely smart considering he's 82y/o. Supposedly so are his daughters. In no way possible will I ever make it outside my country for work. Too stupid for that.

[@coreym8145]

its more interesting that people seeing this opinion coming from a japanese man is considered what you though, someone taking pride in their culture yet open. yet if we have that opinion about others coming into our country its considered racist etc.

[@mandyads]

@@coreym8145 I think we are talking about different people?

[@mandyads]

@VikVaughnMISC I have a hard time believing that we've ever interacted or even that you've ever seen an interaction I've had with another person. That be said, I call upon the evidence of me not extending openness to persons of any culture, ethnicity, race, or nationality? Or any other background for that matter. This comment thread is not the place to make over-arching statements that have nothing to do with the conversation at hand, myself, or you for that matter. If you have grievances with uncourteous or unopen people, I recommend you bring those grievances to them rather than strangers whom you know nothing of. Though I do not know you at all, your uncalled for response to me displays similar behavior to what you are seemingly displeased by. Assumptions based on vapors... very odd.

[@TheCrazyMiss]

I’m learning japanese and I find that the lady with the dark umbrella is so well spoken and her voice is very soothing

[@ObradPopovic-cs8if]

She said she is in her 60ies,but look at her skin,she looks at least 10 years younger.

[@enjoyslearningandtravel7957]

@@ObradPopovic-cs8if that’s what I thought too! I want to know her secret

[@simoneammon9874]

Yeah I agree. She is very gracious and refined too ❤

[@daan9058]

@@enjoyslearningandtravel7957the umbrella is one of the secrets! Japanese people (especially the women) try to avoid direct contact with the sun since the UV rays accelerates the rate at which your skin ages. So the umbrella and also the high quality of SPF and other skincare products keeps their skin young and healthy.

[@notDinsss]

she's very pretty and well-spoken, really makes sense that she's in sales.

[@e.b.4379]

When I lived in Japan a few years ago, my favourite people were of the older generations. I'm in my forties and all my Japanese friends were in their 60s and 70s. In my opinion, they carry so much of the true values and traditions of Japan that's it's an honour to spend time with them.

[@LordOfel]

I can atttest to that. I distinctly rememer one older guy who happily started a conversation while a friend and I went to a small onsen. We were cought super off guard but it was a nice experience !

[@DaftRaincloud]

When I was visiting Tokyo a few months back we had an elderly gentleman who was out on a walk say good morning to us (he made a point to say it in English) and say thanks for visiting his country. It was really nice, and we showed respect back by thanking him in (our broken and very poor) Japanese.

[@polionly9632]

Agreed. I am of the middle-aged Japanese generation and I feel our generation is weak in every way. I find the generation that knew Japan before it became affluent to be more attractive as human beings. The generation they lived may have been materially poor, but I feel that they were culturally and humanly richer. Perhaps this may be a common tendency throughout the world.

[@catherinehowell7893]

My neighbours in Kyoto became like grandparents to my son. They help him with his homework, buy cakes for his birthday, give him treats, money for travelling and give him affection. When he goes to their house he calls out "I'm home!" They said that they loved him when we left.

[@chanchan5349]

I had an older lady who was my Oba-chan when I was growing up. No blood relation but she felt like my Oba-chan and I loved her as though she was. I’m old now but she has always stayed in my heart.

[@TheLaymanCollector]

Amazing story - hope you guys are still in touch with them even after leaving. I was there as an adult and didn't need any help but an elderly neighbor ALWAYS checked up on me. Never had a single bad encounter with anyone there and everyone was very helpful. It's worth noting that I was in the inaka.

[@catherinehowell7893]

@@TheLaymanCollector Yes. We make an effort to visit them each year and spend time together.

[@UnstableYT-u7k]

I think that would be a good topic for a video where you interview Japanese elders, and ask them how much Japan has changed, compared to when they were growing up.

[@ghausullah6433]

Interesting

[@blarxej]

I second this!

[@_HanaPanda]

I third this! ❤

[@paylode3111]

I fourth this!

[@cheriecheung5889]

fifth this! I love the little insights the first man had..

[@Lucifersfursona]

It’s really interesting to hear the political mixture of feelings happening in other countries’ old folks.

[@Lucifersfursona]

The fourth woman you spoke to is frankly based

[@Amins88]

There doesn't seem to be that much difference in opinion. They all pretty much say, "Yeah, it's cool as long as you follow our rules."

[@gordonbgraham]

@@Amins88 Which is cool

[@jow6845]

Isn’t it - and I thought that last woman seemed like she’d be so much fun and she might have even been a bit of a rebellious teenager 😁👏🏻

[@Lucifersfursona]

@@Amins88 sometimes people don’t know even one political buzzword and that’s fine ig

[@jcolazo]

Just wanted to say that it is quite amazing how Takashi has grown as an interviewer, how he selects and handles his interviewees, the quality of his questions, and how he gently nudges them to dig deeper and showcase their points of view. I sincerely hope he keeps doing this and take it to the next level.

[@ronaldfarnig8012]

I like what the first guy said about living in the countryside rather than in a big city like Tokyo. I've lived in Nagasaki for 4 years and I enjoyed living in the countryside. So peacefull, so quiet, sorrounded by nature and you're like living in a frozen time.

[@geraldineconway1865]

What a lovely man the first guy is. So resolute in his welcome, I’m sure his son-in-law was delighted.

[@takashiifromjapan]

This is nothing to do with this video, But I’m currently in West Europe for a month. Check my instagram where exactly I’m staying! If you ever see me on the street, let’s talk a bit! (Asian guy in black with AirPods)

[@din3832]

Takashi make a video asking elders what they think have changed in japan in the last 30 years

[@alexisflower9868]

If you need a place to stay in Cologne let me know.

[@tkrdg7885]

Couch surfing 🌊?

[@8HCPT]

When will you be in Berlin?

[@seijuhussari6347]

@@8HCPT I think he's there right now! Go find him!😁

[@bani_niba]

Wow, the elders you interviewed were quite cosmopolitan and open-minded, having visited multiple countries. I was quite impressed.

[@SturmDwarf]

Open mindedness is not a good thing all of the time and conservation of values, tradition, heritage and race is important, without it Japan would not be the Japan we love.

[@viciousoz4188]

@@SturmDwarfBetter than them being racists and bigots

[@dehistoriapisciumfish7639]

@@SturmDwarf Race? And Japan is not doing too well right now, partially because they take in so few immigrant workers

[@HowDo_IKnowBruh]

​@@SturmDwarf Open minded is not unfiltered minded, it's a big difference.

[@dudermcdudeface3674]

@@SturmDwarf Open mindedness is not the opposite of holding to what you already have. Anyone who thinks that way is simply stupid.

[@doxfire]

This video was great and insightful, I'm African American and I've been to Japan a few times and what I noticed more than anything as a foreigner is that if you respect the customs/culture of japan the people welcome you with open arms. I can completely understand why someone would have reservations about foreigners moving into their country etc..... That is common in all countries. During my last trip I spoke with an elderly man at a ramen stand ( google translate helped because my Japanese is very basic ) and he told me he has no issues with foreigners as long as they are respectful people which I completely understand and respect.

[@AUCKata]

I really love these types of videos. As a foreigner I find it very intriguing especially about the Japanese people who have their reservations about foreigners who move to Japan in regards to Japan is such a kind, tidy and respectful country that follows rules where as while we do have some foreigners like that, there are also a lot of foreigners who have no problems running red lights, littering, being loud and belligerent etc as its such common place in other countries. I'm visiting Japan for the first time in December this year for 3 weeks and want to be as respectful and tidy as possible.... holding to my rubbish if i cant find a rubbish bin nearby for example. Can't wait 😃

[@krisb-travel]

i love that first man, what a cool guy, no hatred in his heart. LOVE IT.

[@slothsarecool]

But no drinking out of cups 😅

[@FortniteBlaster2]

Third guy is the smartest one out of them all. First one is too naïve.

[@SoSodawgindahouse]

@@FortniteBlaster2nah

[@Bristecom]

It's usually not a matter of hating foreigners. If you love your country and fellow countrymen, then you don't want to see it get replaced by foreigners and foreign culture. A little bit is ok but we are seeing some countries being almost completely destroyed by too much immigration, especially when it's immigrants who disrespect the natives and take advantage of their welfare and good graces.

[@nicolasmeca4797]

@@FortniteBlaster2 I think naive is calling others naive when you don't really grasp the full conception of naiveness

[@MarioDTD]

The first man talking about Singlish made me kinda happy. And i’m glad he loved Singapore.

[@IkaayEbi]

The third guy didn't just say "...that'd be too subjective of me to say" at 8:07, he said 差別 as in, "I can't be against that, ...it would be discriminatory" which I think is important to have in there. A lot of people seem to think Japanese people don't have the same understanding or context for discrimination/racism that people in the West do but they're well aware!

[@tournaline3448]

Correct - it’s basically the Japanese way of saying “I’m not racist but (insert racist comment)”

[@AoChile]

i also got that part, but that makes me feel like they avoid saying anything that could be seen as discriminatory so they're not being really honest

[@gordonbgraham]

@@AoChile Few people are "really honest" when being interviewed on video

[@battousaimode8022]

@@tournaline3448 bllsht

[@tournaline3448]

@@battousaimode8022 I’m of mixed heritage, Japanese and English. I live in Japan and am fluent in Japanese. It is not BS at all.

[@bodhiutah4501]

My in-laws at the time I started dating my now wife were not happy their daughter was dating a white man from America, and a soldier at that. I asked her not to tell her parents that I am fluent in Japanese, so when we first met in person, so many years ago, they were so happy that I could speak their language. Also, it kept them on their toes I think. Where I live now is my wife's hometown, and honestly I feel so at home here, and am happy our daughters have a chance to grow up here.

[@tayshow5642]

You guys bring mental problems and western habits

[@bodhiutah4501]

Not all of us my friend. As I said, I speak the language fluently, have now lived in Japan for over ten years and all is good here. I'd never go back to the US, this is my home.

[@dirkaloha]

As if Japanese do not have their own mental problems. As far as western habits, no one is forcing you to accept them@@tayshow5642

[@bodhiutah4501]

Oh, no worries, we are doing very well. Thanks for caring, we're not all crazy people, but no worries.

[@deckardshaw6696]

You brought freedom and democracy to that family 🦅🦅🦅

[@ThugLifeWarrior]

The first gentleman....wow whata sweetheart and practical person. Enjoyed his open nature towards life. ❤

[@amystarke3317]

I'm an older person and I always appreciate it when you interview other older people!

[@MageThief]

I really like how talkative these elderly are and their perspective on things and the world is always interesting. So please do more videos with elderly people.

[@RealmsofPixelation]

I love the insight that the older generations can provide us. Honestly, it's very interesting to see the differences in age groups. You should do a video where you only interview people from generation X. That's my generation. I would love to hear their opinions on foreigners, music, art, etc. Thank you for another excellent video. Also, the first gentleman is the man!

[@ravenevebyfleet4618]

The lady with the umbrella seemed so nice and accepting of all walks of life and open minded . Older generation in the UK feel the same way , but we don't respect elderly as much . I think as long as Japan doesn't become too westernised because that would be a shame , I think at the moment things seem nicely balanced , you have amazing history , culture and traditions it would be a awful for that to die out .

[@siddhanttambe4066]

I honestly adore the first guys energy. Loved the grandpa's vibe. Huge fan of everything that japan stands for from India

[@marcelojunior4429]

Loved the interview to the elderly, it was great to hear about their experiences and what they loved the most about Japan as well as their views on foreigners!

[@taylordiamond]

This man is absolutely right, there are some BEAUTIFUL lands outside of the city to admire.

[@brianmessemer2973]

Another excellent interview premise, Takashi. My wife and I spent these past 2 months staying with her family in Utsunomiya as we do each summer, and we’re flying back to NY tomorrow. My wife’s parents accepted me into their family back in 2008 when we got married and their open mindedness certainly shaped my life. The words of the people you interviewed resonated with me and reminded me of my in laws. I didn’t expect such thoughtful responses from people out on the street. Takashi’s good listening, and interview skills brought out their thoughts.

[@ZeZwede]

That first fella seems like a treasure. i honestly believe travelling around the world and meeting different people and cultures makes you a more open and better person.

[@hunter_crackdown]

Ya cuz opening the borders is doing wonders for the US and EU....

[@erroneous6947]

@@hunter_crackdownthat has absolutely nothing to do with what he said. At least make an intelligent comment.

[@hunter_crackdown]

@@erroneous6947 that's literally what he said. Keep Japan a homogeneous country. Clearly you're another lost cause

[@hunter_crackdown]

@@erroneous6947 obviously you support open borders huh? Yup you're obviously "intelligent" yourself

[@thesushifiend]

The sales lady after the ad break has welcoming smiling eyes and a beautiful smile. It’s very pleasant to listen to her speak.

[@Baranoeda]

This is the kind of content that you really have to be grateful that its free. We can enjoy these fantastic videos by Takashii.

[@MrShem123ist]

The first old man really had the best answers for me, but all of their answers are still good though. Thank you for another incredible video, Takashi san! 素晴らしい！！！

[@crisclaudiomolina7850]

🎁🎁🎁

[@hunter_crackdown]

Please show me where opening your borders is doing wonders for others.... I'll wait😑

[@amindfulnomad]

The First Gentleman knows what he’s talking about and has legitimate reasons to welcome foreigners. Great video Takashi!

[@cottoncandykawaii2673]

not really, his experience was in Singapore which is a majority East Asian country despite having different East Asian ethnicities living there (also it's majority Chinese ethnicity, almost 80%), it's not at all comparable to what we know of "diversity" in Western countries

[@nedranella8765]

Lmao so only the first guy knows what he’s talking about because he said exactly what yoh wanted him to? Even though is is perfectly reasonable to assume foreigners could ruin their country if they aren’t dealt with properly? okay bro 😂

[@NissanSkylineVR30]

Foreigners will not improve work force nor population. A lot of foreigners don't speak Japanese at a high enough level to work in Japan. And Japan isn't like the USA where you can get away with work without knowing English. On top of that, cost of living will restrict people from having kids, like in any expensive country.

[@theovanhurtere]

@@NissanSkylineVR30 then they better start having sex.

[@amindfulnomad]

I only said his reasons seemed legitimate, like he had thought his answer through. I've never been to Japan so I'm not sure what the situation is there. Appreciate everyone's responses because that's how I can learn about a country I've never been to :)

[@HeliogabalusMishima]

The lady who worked in customer service was so refreshing in her openness - inspiring person!

[@whereis.mishuu]

The first ojiisan was so kind and warm! I love how some old japanese people like holding random conversations with you if you're a foreigner. I appreciate how hardworking and full of life they are! Lovely video.

[@maburwanemokoena7117]

I have so much respect for old people, I love them so much, and given time I love to listen to their life experience. They have got so much to teach !

[@ragsoh]

Hi Takashii san. Singaporean here. Your interviewees were all very knowledgeable and all were very polite. Just subbed your channel. The first gentleman worked in Singapore for many years. We love people like him - respectful and mild in manner. Singaporeans love Japan and we always respect the Japanese people for their discipline and diligence.

[@donfatale]

Takashii, that was really great. I liked how the people were nostalgic about the places they visited and worked in. As I'm studying Japanese for my trip in November, I found it good for learning the language. Of course it's still difficult for me but I pick up more words every day.

[@brvhtxxbxk]

The last man,i never expected him to say Belgium,im from Belgium and its so nice to hear foreigners liking our country so much,even at a young age!

[@filo5930]

the first sir was amazing and so intelligent too, thanks for welcoming foreign people and respect us!!!

[@Mohamed-rg7dn]

Hey, I am from the Netherlands and I just came back from a one month trip to Japan. I absolutely love Japan en its people! You really feel the great historie of the country whilst being there. I love your videos because you learn a lot about Japan and its culture! Keep on the good work

[@strife2746]

Blijf nou maar gewoon uit Japan. Jullie verpesten NL ook al met je islam, Japan hoeft dat niet te hebben.

[@UbermenschOst]

Mohamed "FROM NETHERLANDS"

[@kumarharsh2704]

​@@UbermenschOsthe must be an immigrant

[@exposedclickbaitaRblx]

Probabl but the way his name is written "Mohamed" like this means that he is probably iranian, afghan, or central asian or maybe north african, if his name was written like this "muhammed" then it means that he is from africa or middle east and if his name is written like this "mehmed" he's european muslim from bosnia or albania or turkey or russia

[@gamer-fj6sf]

If you are born somewhere it is where you are from regardless of name​@@UbermenschOst

[@Nicholas1994]

Hey Takashii. I always appreciate your interviews. In your next video with Japanese elders, I think it would be intetesting hear their opinion on what the biggest problems facing Japan and the world are, and if they have any suggestions for future generations to fix these problems.

[@DanielleBaylor]

That first guy seems so interesting! I'd love to listen to him talk about his opinions and his stories from his life, or join his tour group. I need to hurry up and get fluent in Japanese lol. Loved this entire video. Was smiling the whole time ❤

[@L.RangerFord]

I like your discipline and how you guys are following the rules of society or laws which are given. Big love ❤ from Germany 🇩🇪

[@lalafang2157]

I am happy to understand more about the older generation of Japan through the interviews! I' ve met a Japanese old man in Nepal last year during the hike. Even he's around 8x years old, he was brave enough to take the challenge to hike alone (with a guide). And he speaks fluent English so that's why I can know more about him. Maybe the older generation is more strict, I am more than happy to learn more from them. :)

[@strati5phere]

Takashii san, Some really great questions and answers! It seems like you didn't just read from a list of questions but also listened to their answers and used the context to ask relevant questions. I think this has been the most interesting interview video for me personally. Thank you very much.

[@statostheman]

As a foreigner, if I come to Japan for work, the first thing I would do is try to learn the language. As a Finn, we see often Japan our close relatives. We made songs and honored the Japanese sprit. Specially, when the Japanese kicked out Russia in their behind. There is also a famous finnish painting called "The Finnish Maiden", where a girl holds the finnish flag and the other hand she points out the old Japanese imperial symbol. When you search those Finnish songs that sang about Japan, you must wrote these words: "Uraliin" and "Banzai - Finnish Nationalist Song".

[@ConsoleCombatant]

Very nice people. You can see their love for Japan and the way they deal with foreigners makes Japan the most honorable country in the world

[@Regdor]

I could listen to that first man for hours. What an interesting man and a wealth of insight!

[@kevinn1158]

What a delightful group of people. I esp loved the first man. He's so easy going and graceful.

[@carolgerman4578]

The First Gentleman you interviewed was Extremely thoughtful and expressive in his opinions. Wish you could interview more of him.❤️

[@hunter_crackdown]

Please show where opening their borders did them wonders?😑

[@nelsing1978]

Always had an interest for Japan and your videos are real nice since you get to hear what "normal" people think and feel.

[@gujit]

everyone interviewed talked about the production of society and how it would benefit japan as a country. that's a great way of looking at things on an objective level. everyone was so nice and welcoming, surely there would've been some interviewees that don't like foreigners

[@CelticSeer]

Thank you @Takashii for this video. People are more similar than one thinks. One should always make an effort to read up and understand the culture and the history of the country you are visiting. I’m assuming that is part of the reason you are visiting the country in the first place. Everyone regardless of background wants to be treated with respect. Visiting this beautiful country is definitely on my bucket list. Will need to learn some basic phrases to navigate my way around. ~Pax (Heiwa) 🕊️

[@ilovelife3328]

As long as the culture isn’t lost or compromised! Japan should continue to work hard to preserve its amazing culture and history!

[@Utriedit215]

The thing is culture is supposed to change it’s supposed to evolve it’s not supposed to stay the same do you really want them to go back to live in like feudal Japan cause that’s the culture

[@thishereischannel]

@@Utriedit215 Culture elsewhere is devolving, let's be honest.

[@hozz]

@@Utriedit215 but keeping the core components of a culture is important. This world would be boring under just one culture. The changing and evolving of a culture can be beautiful or devastating.

[@tapsman1967]

​@@Utriedit215who would care about Japan if it were just like everywhere else? Japan doesn't need to be inundated with the rapid social decline of the West.

[@Owlet..]

​@@Utriedit215wt.... culture is identity. Losing culture doesn't mean not evolving it means keeping their core identity, festivals Language and knowledge. I would want Japan to not lose their culture. Especially to outsider religious foreigners that like to preach and convert a lot. Japan is cool the way it is and will work on it own problems by itself. Hope the foreigners that come also respect that and not try to change their culture.

[@francy80]

🙂 Great video Takashi! The people interviewed were all very kind, funny and intelligent, especially the first gentleman who was so refined, up-to-date and open-minded. ありがとうございます。 See you soon! 😉

[@hannah60000]

I agree with the last speaker. Knowing before going truly brings things too life. I haven’t always been the best at this task. However, I am interested in Japanese history and went to Hagi city in Yamaguchi Prefecture during the 250 year anniversary of the Meiji Restoration, it was amazing. Hagi city is a beautiful place, but to be there around that anniversary was a special feeling. A very full circle moment as the Meiji Restoration was one of the first parts of Japanese history I was introduced to/learned about.

[@joxerthemighty9148]

it's nice to hear about places they like , both in their own country and others they've been to. That was a good choice to include in your interviews.

[@KoolKats5]

The people of Japan seem to be extremely nice and open to foreign peoples visiting their country. I would love to see Japan one day and have the pleasure of meeting and interacting with it's lovely, friendly residents.

[@bobfranklin2572]

I thought the first gentleman's comments about places outside of tokyo loosing their dialect and distinct cultures was quite interesting and I'd love to hear more!

[@bobfranklin2572]

@matthieuschmitter6676 ofc defending and wanting to preserve those local cultures is probably considered "racist" by your president and some others. So sorry to hear that Matthieus.

[@craiggibbons8228]

The first guy is a legend. Calm, knowlegable, and understands nature. He is the guy you make friends with 😊

[@hunter_crackdown]

Legend at wanting to open this borders to a homogeneous country?

[@dcar6530]

I love the first two elders are gorgeous, so open-mind.I hope the young people can go aboard and widen their horizons, and bring new ideas to further develop the society. The future belongs to them.

[@CEOofWasrael]

The lady in the striped shirt reminded me of my old neighbor. He was from Japan & whenever he would go visit his family he always brought us a cool gift. Wherever you are hope you’re doing well Yoshi.

[@miked2662]

These elders are so awesome. Bless them.

[@kmdreacts]

Big Up to the 1st Ojisan interviewed. I have the same thoughts on when I visit/move to Japan.. Hokkaido or Kyoto were my destinations. It's more the countrysides of Japan I wanna see and experience and I'll visit Tokyo for a day or two. Hiroshima and Nagasaki for their historical aspect ofc, and then, spend 2 days atop Fiji watching the sun rise and fall.

[@Zakuru12]

The first guy and umbrella lady were absolute gems. When the first guy was saying how the Japanese language was getting worse and his gripes, was it like, the customs/etiquette are being lost and the language itself is changing?

[@Justcetriyaart]

Might be the same thing that english teachers have problem with slang. I'm learning Japanese and I can pick up older people talking but the youth I can't pick up much of anything

[@acolyte1951]

I assume it's not just slang, but the mannerisms of society's way of communicating has become too casual and informal. He compared today to the showa era, where people supposedly spoke with more sophistication/polite language. What has become acceptable to say in public (maybe in private as well) is much more open than it was before. I assume this includes etiquette and many micro customs as the language evolves alongside the rest of society.

[@hozz]

Takashi, I appreciate your work spreading the word of the average japanese person. 👍

[@seanspartan2023]

I enjoyed the interview with the first older gentleman very much. I was impressed that he can be very traditional and conservative with his culture, yet still keep such an open mind and be welcoming to foreigners who choose to live and work in Japan.

[@itr6540]

I love and respect the elderly people very much, they are full of manners and wisdom ❤️

[@tymeamora]

That's a meaningful change of perspective, well done Takashii. Next up would be an equally interesting interview or mini series with people aged 40- 60 (average of Japanese workforce and socially active) about Japanese work culture, family values, social issues, globalization of Japan, etc.. I look forward to your interaction with the Europeans during your european tour . Have fun!

[@shandagreen3979]

I would love to see more videos about this subject matter as well.

[@victoriab.6601]

really interesting video.. It would be great to know what values they feel are important for Japanese culture to maintain

[@NorthWolf97]

I'd love nothing more than to live in a traditional styled house in rural Kyoto. Like in Nantan or Yosano. It's incredibly beautiful there in the summers.

[@Monsoon-r5n]

not your home, stick to your nation

[@frogdog3856]

@@Monsoon-r5n what if they buy the house

[@Monsoon-r5n]

@@frogdog3856 don’t care they are illegal. It’s not thier culture, thier land of origin

[@frogdog3856]

@@Monsoon-r5n yeah but how will you stop them

[@sillysputnik]

@@Monsoon-r5n my honest reaction when people move around on the planet that we all inhabit (humans have been doing this for thousands of years)

[@Webtoon4u]

The thing about traffic lights is that in some countries, atleast in India, red light signifies the stop sign for vehicles instead of pedestrians. So pedestrians have to cross the road at red light and stop at green.

[@ThePorritZ]

I like the Lady with the parasol :) she had some good points, especially when it came to the skillset comment, i think that way of thinking is great, also she looks fantastic for someone in their 60's!

[@AndIwandermuch]

Great interview! Well-traveled people are typically more open-minded. Can you do one of the Japanese elders outside of Tokyo?

[@ChronoMoogle]

Recommending the Yasukuni Shrine to foreigners is a dangerous take.

[@1eyeddevil929]

I'm a gaijin from Singapore. I've been to Yasukuni Shrine. I've no problems with it, despite the controversies

[@sheebertoniii8723]

I would be interested in hearing what they think about foreign married couples moving to Japan and starting a family there.

[@JohnnyInJapan]

Lol you're talking about Pewdiepie

[@sheebertoniii8723]

@@JohnnyInJapan what’s pewdiepie?

[@timothysmcnamara5925]

One of the most annoying people in the world.

[@JohnnyInJapan]

​@@sheebertoniii8723nope. Not buying it.

[@JohnnyInJapan]

​@@timothysmcnamara5925YOU are annoying and clearly jealous

[@potbelliedpothead]

Shout out from Antwerp, Belgium to the last person saying he loved Belgium! Was happily surprised. I'm taking his advice on reading up on history before visiting a country, as I'm planning on going to Japan next Spring!

[@ahm_767]

I love the first gentleman, absolutely agree with all of his sentiments. Beautifully put.

[@raysar7882]

Im stationed here in iwakuni. I met alot of foreign skilled workers here. They told me japan has a shortage of engineers and highly skilled workers and they too are having a hard time because of short staffed. I noticed that young japanese people move to bigger cities like osaka and tokyo when they graduate high school because i only see young people unless they are in high school or below. I hope they find a solution for the manning shortages. Thank you takashii for sharing the population problem in japan. Your video may help spread awarenss of this serious problem across japan.

[@nosotrosloslobosestamosreg4115]

really? I sthere a surplus of engineers and high slled workers in middle east and africa?

[@raysar7882]

@@nosotrosloslobosestamosreg4115 i met filipino engineers and nepalese and filipino skilled workers. But my place place is considered the countryside amd totally different from osaka and tokyo. Its so beautiful here. Its great for families and the locals are friendly. I hope they like the military but i will never know unless takashii does an interview with locals here and how they feel about us.

[@raysar7882]

@@nosotrosloslobosestamosreg4115 im sorry i misread your question. I dont know anything about a surplus of high skilled workers in the middle east or africa since i dont live there. I cant answer your question. Sorry about that

[@AnnDale-ie3jn]

Bringing in immigrants is not the solution to the problems of a shrinking population Japan should ration it's shrinking working force and use technology but the long term solution is to have more babies

[@nosotrosloslobosestamosreg4115]

@@raysar7882 I mean, those places have an average IQ below 85, even 70 is high IQ in Equatorial Guinea, not mentioning the inbred muslim populations. Japan will crumble down, just like Europe. And forget not the "regression to average" factor from immigrants' offspring.

[@jody024]

Good Sir: San Fran is anything but safe.....

[@justlive5387]

They probably wouldn't mind if FOREIGNERS come, BUT THEY Must have RESPECT for the natives of Japan and their CUSTOMS and ways OF LIFE, THEY MUST BE RESPECTFUL AND ADD TO THE JAPANESE PEOPLES, NOT TAKE AWAY FROM THEM OR DISTURB WHAT THEY HAVE ALREADY BUILT.

[@Youyellowchinks]

Hope they at least have learned something from the States and Europe. See what happened over there all these years

[@hunter_crackdown]

@@Youyellowchinks it's very sad with what's happening over here.... hopefully Japan never opens their borders 😬

[@bjornnz2367]

We hosted Japanese English language students in the 90s in NZ. The Japanese people are very respectful and loyal. These interviews remind me of their values and openness. The Japanese love for Hawaii had me laughing though 😂. Keep up the good work Takashii.

[@darkgeologist]

japaness people are very kind and i love thier politness , living in japan and working ther eis one of wishes i have

[@LMLification]

I think it is something that just will not work out for many Westerners because there are just so many unwritten societal norms and lots of indirect communication among other challenges. It is not a society that promotes individualism, and the people, on average, are inept when it comes to dealing with people of various backgrounds simultaneously. Even the foreigners who do manage to assimilate will never be able to fully integrate into society because of looking different. Appearance is one of the first aspects to be judged here. Plus, with the exchange rate being so bad, it is not worth it for well off or skilled people to come over to perhaps make less money or only slightly better salaries, considering the terrible work conditions on average.

[@RegeDop23]

i nearly spit my water out when that last guy suggested the yasukuni shrine for those who might not know, yasukuni is one of the most controversial shrines in the country due to its enshrinement of over 1000 war criminals and somewhat unapologetic stance regarding japan's role in WW2

[@AoChile]

same here, well at least he's open about his political views without saying it directly lol

[@ItoHirobumi-tk1wq]

And 3 million Japanese who died in wars. Everyone should go to Yasukuni

[@techyintelo9556]

I don't think it's bad. In the West there are a lot of status of criminals (but they did good for their countries).

[@asdfghjjhgf]

Yasukuni Shrine is a place where not only war criminals but also teenagers who died as Kamikaze pilots are buried. Most of them died purely to protect their country and families. Yasukuni Shrine is not a place to worship war criminals and justify the war, but rather a place to mourn all the war dead and reflect on the war. Why are people so sensitive about Yasukuni Shrine when there are war criminals' graves all over the world?

[@jl5973]

yeh, he knew what he was suggesting lol

[@eightsix754]

They all had valid concerns, but were also open-minded. I don't even live in Japan, but worry that the influx of foreigners will degrade the daily respects they give each other; those respects are what makes Japan so safe and comfortable. It would be a huge loss for Japan, if the wave of new comers destroys that and turns Japan into America or any other craptastic place.

[@HentsSauce]

Or like France 💀

[@xtr.7662]

@@HentsSauce sweden would be a better example it was like japan in terms of safety just 10 years ago and look at it now

[@cottoncandykawaii2673]

@@xtr.7662 there are no good countries in the West anymore due to "diversity" pick any country and it's been demographically ruined

[@yo2trader539]

Japan has always been selective. Immigration rules were designed to discourage people who couldn't survive in Japan (or people who we didn't want). For instance, a foreign/international student who graduated from a Japanese university or grad school will almost automatically receive a 5-year work visa, because they are fluent in language/culture, educated, and most likely to succeed. Conversely, Japanese immigration will only issue 1 year visas (or sometimes less) to those who have limited language fluency or technical skills. Japan's worst fear is exactly Europe, where we can see ethnic ghettos, Islamic extremists, gangs, or homeless migrants living off of handouts. Limited language and technical skill, usually results in limited probability to succeed. The concept of new visa schemes such as J-FIND and J-SKIP are based on this belief that we need to attract more educated or highly-skilled professionals. In reality, we've experienced the increase in crime and violence for decades (which is why Ministry of Justice, Immigration, and Police are always very conservative when it comes to visa restrictions). It was mostly crimes by Koreans in the 20th century, particularly after WWII and Korean War period. They were later usurped by Chinese who started coming around the 1980s and 1990s. Iranians came too but they were in heroin business so most of them were asked to leave. Nikkei-Brazilians, Nikkei-Peruvians were always given special preference over visa allotments because of their Japanese ancestry. Currently, Chinese and Vietnamese make up 60% of all crimes committed by foreign-nationals in Japan. The rest are mostly Koreans, Brazilians, and Filipino. Nowadays, a lot of attention is on the ethnic Kurds in Saitama. They're only 2,000 Kurdish asylum-seekers in Japan, yet they create so much chaos and havoc, locals desperately want them deported. Around the same number of Ukrainian refugees are currently in Japan, yet they cause absolutely no problem and are well liked. I don't know how to explain the stark contrast in their respective behaviors. But I do suspect that change in Refugee Law was targeted for easier deportation of declined applicants.

[@LawrenceChua-i8z]

They are all very kind and likable, even the guy who had critical comments. I love how candid they all are.

[@hunter_crackdown]

What if someone didn't want their borders open would you say otherwise?

[@bethjackson8723]

TAKASHii! Hello from Columbia,Tennessee USA. Thank you for this video. We are heartbroken hearing of the New Years tragedy. I hope you are safe and your friends are OK. I hope these elders are unharmed. Wish you well

[@radionmynayev865]

Does an average Japanese person knows how many jumps and hoops Japanese immigration made for foreigners to actually stay in Japan? Maybe for spouses it is easy to come to Japan but to the first gen to go through all the requirements and paperwork...mostly best of the best manage to stay long term I think 😅😂😊😅

[@gordonbgraham]

I had no issues coming to Japan as a single person of 28 in 1988. All that was needed was verification of employment.

[@mnmaddict37532]

They need to filter the rift raff out as any good country will

[@ender8759]

​@@gordonbgrahamIts not easy to get a job there as a foregner 😂

[@gordonbgraham]

@@ender8759 It depends on your skills and your level of Japanese. Of course, if you can only read AND write at an elementary school grade 3 level it most certainly would be difficult to find work in Japan. Just as it would in America, Canada, Australia etc. if you could only read and write English at a grade 3 level. Like anywhere in the world, your ability to find a job largely depends on your "human capital"...meaning what you know and what skills you have that people are willing to pay you for.

[@dartzz597]

Why not ask what do japanese people think about anime in japanese society, do they fill like anime has been for the best or the worst on how foreigners see japan, just saying 😊

[@mariothibau1070]

Japan is a really difficult place for a foreigner to immigrate, first the cultural barrier is already enourmous, the lenguage barrier itself already filters a lot of people that can’t speak Japanese and last but not least the immigration law is one of the most rigid and restrictive. If Japan desires to keep having an economic relevance in the world they would do well to lax the immigration barriers

[@DmitryIsc199]

Dunno. If you're a weeb, it wouldn't be difficult. Generally if you're a random person... what did you forget there?

[@g_rr_tt]

" If Japan desires to keep having an economic relevance in the world they would do well to lax the immigration barriers" is that why America has a sinking economy? They need to let more Latin American in!!!! 👃

[@gordonbgraham]

Japan became the 2nd largest economy in the world with next to no immigration. How does having an influx of immigration equate to economic relevance? Japan currently offers 3~5 year work visas for any labour shortages. All forecasts indicate that 50% of current jobs will have been made obsolete within the next 20 years. An influx of permanent foreign labour would only mean greater strain on the public coffers in the near future. That's not a very prudent solution to economic concerns.

[@mariothibau1070]

@@g_rr_tt don’t conflate the issues American’s economy is sinking because of socialism and feminism. The immigrants are not the issue, the Native Born Americans on the other hand, big issue

[@mariothibau1070]

@@gordonbgraham this is not about the workers though it is about the consumers. Japan doesn’t need foreign labor but they do need foreign consumer markets and capital. The immigrants are a fast track to bringing more consumers to the domestic economy which is were Japan draws its economic strength

[@grudeman]

The first guy was 82 yo, wow he looks incredible, what a positive outlook on life he has👍 love the channel ☘️

[@nachosftw113]

What a wonderful man @4:20. Such a bright soul, and I loved the Ganbate! at the end. The world would be better with more people like him.

[@unixtreme]

The lawyer that handled my PR wasn’t too stoked about foreigners until I reported my 2022 earnings and he looked at his assistant and told her “maybe foreigners coming here is a good thing” lol.

[@Marcel_Audubon]

because it was so laughably low they would have someone to look down on?

[@BOZ_11]

Americans often conflate money with culture

[@Marcel_Audubon]

@@BOZ_11 huh???

[@BOZ_11]

@@Marcel_Audubon @ unixtreme

[@gordonbgraham]

What PR would a lawyer have to "handle" in Japan?

[@sc98_]

Third person has a point, he welcomes inmigration as long as they behave properly and it's limited to a point that Japanese are not replaced, makes sense.

[@tournaline3448]

You need to be more honest with your translation. The guy in the green shirt basically said he didn’t want to say what he truly thought cos it would be considered racist / discriminatory.

[@afterthe3bears]

No, the translation is accurate. The explanation was that he didn't want to be discriminatory--not that he didn't want to be considered discriminatory. He never says he didn't want to say what he thought either. That's just putting words in his mouth.

[@tournaline3448]

@@afterthe3bears I understand where you’re coming from as an English speaker, but that’s how we say it in Japanese. Generally speaking, the vast majority of Japanese people are afraid to speak their mind unless they have the safety of their computer screens or smartphones to hide behind. Having an English father means that I was brought up a little differently from most people in Japan and learned about accountability and being self-responsible.

[@afterthe3bears]

@tournaline3448 No, you're essentially twisting the words to fit your interpretation. The man says 差別になってしまう not 差別と見なされてしまう or 差別と捉えられてしまう. Stop being dishonest with the translation.

[@roronoasully1890]

That first gentleman is very smart and a good reason why we should listen to our elders!

[@stevensew88]

Such thoughtful answers. Even the people who had some reservations about non-Japanese people living in Japan had good explanations for their views. Really an excellent set of interviews. Well done.