Why I fell in LOVE with Japan. The country suits me, and I explain why.

[@thadtuiol1717]

I liked it because I'm a natural introvert, appreciate people behaving themselves in public and thinking about others, and the toilets flush and the lights stay on, most of the time. So many other countires/cultures seem unable to manage even those basic things.

[@ash3rr]

Well, I am introverted, but I think there is a difference that can be missed. People tell me that Finnish people are introverted, but after spending 3.5 years living in Poland before moving to Finland, I definitely prefer the people in Poland. Nearly all Europeans are introverted, but Finnish people tend to be more withdrawn. There is warmness to the culture that is missing, a respect towards others rather than an aversion. That is entirely lost in translation when people tell you they like living in a country because the people are introverted...

[@EvgenyUskov]

why japan suits me: 1. for a physically not strong, not big and not a tall person, japan feels more safer than russia (in russia i was scared to walk on streets because of junior high students approaching, and demanding money - in japan there is no such fear) 2. in russia, you can have a good and affluent life - but you need to WORK HARD and be super proactive in all your undertakings (i.e. ONLY strong people have good life in russia) - in Japan you can have more or less satisfactory existence (even compared to other japanese) just by staying within the broad average 3. psychologically, i feel like i am on a quest everyday (like in a video game)

[@Exjapter]

I love #3 - you say it perfectly. Even mundane things often feel more meaningful somehow.

[@bailey309]

Any longterm foreign resident in Japan knows full well that there are some parts of the culture that grates on their nerves even after decades of living there. However, there are so many things that Japan has which are pluses and far outweigh the negative BS we sometimes have to go through as gaijin living there. Recently, Japan has become “the” country to visit and I am so very happy and proud to be a resident here. Good video as always. Keep ‘em coming!

[@TheShrededward]

There are three stages to living in Japan. 1. Wow!!! I love this place!!! 2. I hate this place and can't wait to go home. 3. Meh, it's okay. Not perfect, but better than where I came from. My advice is to move from the big cities like Tokyo and Osaka. Then the most important aspects of living in Japan are rules for what garbage to throw out on which day, and does this really need to be washed before throwing it away?

[@Exjapter]

Thank you!

[@ARKSAAXX-ys9gz]

Yeah, looking at social media these days, I feel like Japan's negative aspects are getting too much attention. Because of this type of content, some people even think of Japan as a shithole, like any other third world country.

[@gameboi360]

Man oh man, I'm planning on a holiday potentially next year to Japan and I feel like I'd never want to leave! Culture, anime, nature, food, it's all so gorgeous!

[@consistenc51]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts about Japan so passionately. There is no perfect country but, having been to Japan 9 times and living there for one year, I can definitely vouch that it is a unique culture and one in which I'm hoping to retire in someday!

[@Exjapter]

Thanks for the comment. Best of luck with that!

[@mayviolets]

When I arrived here 29 years ago (after I met and married a Japanese grad student in Chicago) I never dreamed that Japan would become a popular travel destination. Where I live, Kyoto, is absolutely packed with tourists. I also felt the way you do, and never stopped loving this country deeply. This country is just a match for my personality. Certainly, for me, there is a something about the "enchanted world" feeling here. Enchanted trees, enchanted stones, enchanted rivers, enchanted springs.....The shimenawa (straw ropes) indicates a god/spirit resides within! That's real enchantment, not just marketing or skin deep. Nature is sacred here. I think that's what's missing in the States and it's making people sad there.

[@Exjapter]

Enchantment everywhere, it's true. When I pass an interesting looking Torii gate I have never seen before, I can't help myself and I want to explore it.

[@BrantRaven]

Thank you for a great video. You explained things perfectly! Honestly it was like listening to my own mind. I first went to Japan in 2002 and fell in love with the place so hard. At the time I was starting my career and I did try to get work there, but sadly that didnt work out. I visited Japan twice more and was still in love with the place...but life moved on. 20 years passed...and earlier this year I visted again with my family. I had thought that I may not like the place...I had changed, Japan had changed...but NOPE!! Fell back in love again....and really hard. Everything you said really resonated!! I dont think it is some wonderous fairly land where everything is perfect!!..but what I will say is that it is perfect for ME!! Everything you explained was exactly what I have felt..all made sense. Now...in my 50s, as I sit here and write this comment...all I feel is sadness! Most likely, I will not live in the place that quite deeply in my soul I actually call home!! I am however glad for you!!

[@Exjapter]

Thank you for the heartfelt sentiments. Maybe Japan can still be a home for you in the future? Sometimes things just work out. Best wishes!

[@paullondon9972]

Hey Paul, great video. First visited in 2019 and walked around Tokyo residential areas and alleys. Every day my voice said..I want to live here. I doubt that can happen due to me being over 60, not having the finances or language skills but Japan is in my thoughts weekly. On my return from that trip, one word resonated...Civility, that's what i loved. Am in Osaka next week and everything will fascinate me again..happy days. May your love affair be long and healthy.

[@Exjapter]

That civility is going to be part of what I have to say about Japanese people (why the Japanese are lovely people) in an upcoming video.

[@slangelands4255]

I love Japan and am currently learning Japanese. However, my father experienced the utter brutality of a Japanese occupation during WW2. That spectre of WW2 Japan continues to haunt much of Asia. How could such a deeply civil society perform such atrocities then? One can say the same of Germany as well. Seemingly, in a blink of an eye people can become monsters. And yet, now Japan and Germany are some of our (U.S) dearest allies. Perhaps a lesson in the confusion of duality. :)

[@Exjapter]

Japan certainly has a history of changing itself when a new era dawns. Imperial Japan is so different from Japan today it's sometimes hard to believe they are of the same place.

[@Suedeash]

Nice video man, glad to see that Japan still sparks your curiosity after 20 years. It just reminds me that time is so short, we should be getting out there and finding places that resonate with us while we can

[@HaiTomVlog]

You always do a great job of explaining things, Paul. It’s sad that some people can’t accept the fact that - yes, there are negative things about Japan (and every country). The same people who say “go back if you don’t like it” are usually quick to to point out negatives in other countries in the same breath… I’m going on my 3rd year here now (5 if you count my time in the 80s), and there’s plenty I don’t like - but it doesn’t mean I hate it here… I love it.

[@Exjapter]

For some people Japan is a place that shouldn't be criticised, or more precisely, shouldn't be criticised by someone who isn't Japanese. That's why I try to strike a balance and not just hit "hot takes".

[@noruman2356]

Thank you for making these videos showing all of Japan. It’s been my dream to live and work in Japan, and it motivates me that someone like me is making it happen.

[@Exjapter]

Thanks for the comment, and best of luck in that pursuit!

[@DerekHurstMusic]

Great video, totally vibe with your feelings on Japan.

[@Exjapter]

Thank you for the comment!

[@user-yc4qj7vz1u]

I enjoyed watching this video for the first time, very passionate about japan , thank you so much for sharing deep love towards Japan and its culture, to me this is like greatest compliment , arigatogozaimsu 🙏

[@Exjapter]

Thank you for the comment!

[@toshis1933]

Hi Paul, What a great video! I left Japan over 30 years ago to the States, I have exactly same feeling what you described feeling of Japan. Although US doesn't have too much cultural history but I love the society based on diversity and plenty to learn different culture just living here... Looking forward to see more of your video. Thank you.

[@Exjapter]

I think the US has a very interesting history and culture, but in a completely different way.

[@Cunningstunts23]

Idk about the naysayers but I appreciate the nuanced view you bring. When I visited Japan a few times I was left with nothing but amazing things to say about Japan but that’s coming from someone who doesn’t live there. So it’s nice to have a balance Thank you for the video! I look forward to these every week

[@Exjapter]

As always, thanks for the comment. What were the best things about Japan that stood out to you on your visits?

[@Cunningstunts23]

@@Exjapter among other things I really loved the trains and scenery 😅 taking the Shinkansen from Sendai to Hiroshima was like something out of a Ghibli film. Amazing.

[@scruffy2629]

Waiting all week for this one and it was a goodie, thanks Paul, that was a super interesting insight, im so looking forward to experiencing and exploring japan, and spending the next chapter of our lives there, and im so thankful i found your channel, :)

[@Exjapter]

I appreciate your support. As a small channel, it is gratifying to see that what I am doing is appreciated. Thank you.

[@done.6191]

This video has me yearning to return to Japan… you’ve put into words what I feel every time i think of this special place. It’s inexplicable. I didn’t grow up with a broad experience of Japan or Asia in general. But for some reason, once I was exposed, it has never left me. When I’m not there, I feel a longing for it the way one might for missing someone you love. Mixed feelings this morning.

[@Exjapter]

I call it stolen nostalgia. I get this as well. This poem by Basho gives me strong feelings, 京にても 京なつかしや 時鳥 In Kyoto, hearing the cuckoo, I long for Kyoto.

[@StudioHoekhuis]

I've been studying Japan (as an amateur) for 15+ years now. I started out with the honeymoon-fase where Japan was a utopia and couldn't see any negatives. Through the years I've developed a more balanced view with positives and negatives. As you said, no place is perfect. I guess people who reacted on your last video don't want their honeymoon-fase to end. But I thought your video was very well thought out and showed what it's like from a foreigner point of view.

[@Exjapter]

Japan for whatever reason holds a "rose colored glasses" place in many people's hearts.

[@isabellekawaivincent4764]

Being half Japanese and half Australian, I relate to that despite the negatives, such as discrimination and the unaccountable of organisations, I still am inspired to create art here. Hence, I return on a regular basis.

[@Exjapter]

Unaccountable organisations - yes, that's an issue I should take up someday. I remember my co-worker (from Australia coincidentally) saying, "In Japan you are more likely to be robbed by someone in suit and with a customer service smile than on the street."

[@cooliipie]

Have you spoken to BSP Japan? He just made a very similar video. I really like both your channels!

[@Exjapter]

I am not familiar with BSP Japan, but I will look them up.

[@ClefairyFairySnowflake]

I'm glad that you never fell out of love with Japan. It's wonderful that you were able to live there for so many years and made a life for yourself! It's awesome! I'm happy for you! Happy 20th anniversary of moving to Japan! Looking forward to seeing your many adventures in the future! 😄 🥳 Have a great day! 😊✌️

[@Exjapter]

Thank you!

[@flookaraz]

Those negative comments... there are so many very strange, troubled, and misguided people with access to the internet and you can almost always find them in KZbin comments saying ridiculous or negative things. I'd take it with a massive grain of salt.

[@Hay8137g]

Huh? You can say anything abt Japan?

[@BushidoDevilDog]

This. The great thing about the internet is that anybody can say pretty much whatever they want. The unfortunate thing about the internet is that anybody can say pretty much whatever they want, no matter how verifiably, factually wrong, irrational, or just plain willfully stupid it may be. 😳🤔🙄😅

[@Hay8137g]

@@BushidoDevilDogpeople’s opinions are stupid? I don’t understand. Not everyone is hooked on Japan. Some of its culture is very goofy not always beautiful… tachinbo girls

[@Hay8137g]

Many Japanese don’t like their own culture so it’s ok.

[@BushidoDevilDog]

@@Hay8137g "people's opinions are stupid?" Correct. Most opinions, especially in KZbin comments/on the internet, are stupid, because most of the people giving them are unintelligent and/or simply do not know what they are talking about. The worst ones are those that state their assumptions or mere opinions as if it's an indisputable fact, or are just clearly trolling/saying dumb things just to say something/get attention/whatever. 🙄

[@etsukohanajima9526]

私達、日本人が当たり前のように享受しているこの国の全てを、そのようにポジティブにとらえてくださっている事にとても感動しました。どうもありがとう。いつまでもここで楽しく暮らして下さい。❤

[@najstephy5565]

Great content man, it wasn`t racist at all. Haters guna hate. Keep up the great work love it.

[@Exjapter]

Thank you. Cheers!

[@GK-up6xz]

Paul I very much enjoy your videos. Ive been living in Tokyo since 1989. I'm so surprised that there would be negative comments about a topic as real and impactful as discrimination. I wonder if it has something to do with the recent trend to see Japan in almost a cartoonish way of 'convenience store novelties' and instagram-able snap shots? Someone that truely understands a place, understands its intricacies- both bright and dark.

[@Exjapter]

Japan exists now in enthusiast's minds as some sort of perfect utopia, and there are also conservative types that see it as a holdout against multiculturalism that must be protected. I expect it, but it is still annoying when people argue against an avatar of me they constructed from one video.

[@OnlyOneNights]

Congrats on the 4K subs, dude! You earned it. Keep up the great work!

[@elenakursteiner4729]

Great video,Open minder and in Love with Japan:)Thank you so much!Great Job! Looking forward for the future videos about a Ghost Stories or Mystery❤

[@Exjapter]

I have one in mind as we get close to October!

[@elenakursteiner4729]

@@Exjapter どうもありがとう

[@deanb7512]

I'll be visiting for the first time in March I'm so excited

[@Cunningstunts23]

That’s exciting! Where are you going? Hope you enjoy 🎉

[@deanb7512]

@@Cunningstunts23 Tokyo for 4 days, Kyoto for 3, Osaka for 3, then back to Tokyo for a little over a week. Those are just loose plans though. Luckily I have some Japanese people to hang out with because I used to help with Japanese exchange students at U of WA in Seattle and take them around to see stuff in Washington. Time to call in some favors 😁

[@Cunningstunts23]

@@deanb7512 ayyyy that sounds like a great time. Enjoy

[@deanb7512]

@@Cunningstunts23 thank you

[@jonathansakura]

Greetings from Tokyo finally moving here 🙌 😊

[@Exjapter]

Hey, welcome! How's it going so far?

[@jonathansakura]

@Exjapter so far so good 👍

You said my thoughts and feelings well, my twenty years have been great and I call myself a “Lifer”. You’re right there are negatives, just like other countries…but, the positives far outweigh the negatives. But, I also can’t put a finger on why exactly I love it here…hard to put in words…without it seeming strange.

[@Exjapter]

Thanks for the comment. It is hard to explain - while I was editing this video I was thinking "this isn't making any sense, but ok!"

[@LaoSoftware]

Greetings from Laos. I enjoy watching your videos. I learn a lot about Japan.

[@Exjapter]

Thank you for your comment! I want to visit Laos someday.

[@Budinky]

Everywhere has pros and cons. Just because you’re born in a certain country doesn’t mean it’s for you. Some places just resonate more with who you are: Japan is one of those places for me personally. When the cons start outweighing the pros, then you should move on. Congrats on reaching 4 k subscribers 😊.

[@Exjapter]

Thank you! Japan is truly special, and I wont back down from that assessment

[@Hay8137g]

@@Exjapteryep goofy too

[@kojamaru5430]

Japan has its downsides, but you’ll understand if you live here. At the very least, I don't want to leave. I want to help preserve the peace and nature of this country.

[@Exjapter]

The positives far outweigh the negatives, in my opinion.

[@Hay8137g]

@@kojamaru5430 white?

[@jwaters3998]

Nice video. Thank you for this post. Good things to think about.

[@Exjapter]

Thank you for the comment!

[@kristyl8133]

I just discovered your videos and love them! I live in Alaska and like the mountains as well. I have a disability and can't explore as much as I used to so these videos really help me!

[@mimosa9638]

You are simply a person who lives with passion. Whether in Costa Rica or Marocco, a person who lives fully with open eyes and open heart with his environment and its people and culture will be just like you.

[@Exjapter]

I also think I probably would have become completely absorbed with any country I ended up in, to be honest. So the question becomes, why do I not have the same attitude about where I grew up?

[@Hay8137g]

@@Exjapteryou can really immerse yourself anywhere. Your wife is there, so it helps. obviously you exploring an old civilization but it’s all interesting, even white culture.

[@Exjapter]

"White culture" is a weird term. Russia and England are historically white, but their culture and traditions are very different. Even with all of the crossovers, I wouldn't say Japan and China are the same "culture" just because they are both East Asia.

[@akina1053]

Haven't you guys noticed? Nowadays, it's like a status symbol for people when they've lived in Japan. I was bullied for being half Japanese in my childhood. But now it seems cool to have any sort of affiliation with the country. Interesting times.

[@Hay8137g]

No it’s because white people have infiltrated. Why are they so latching onto Japan??

[@Exjapter]

Japan holds pretty high status these days, it's true.

[@donotsu6378]

Thank you for opening up to us. Very interesting ….nice video also. But in this post…you’re not in Yokohama anymore? Have you moved

[@Exjapter]

I was in Yamanashi, in the town where I used to live, and I had some time to film.

[@shocktimetownzer]

You spoke about your brief return to the states for grad school, and how it was a period of purgatory for you, knowing that you would immediately be returning to Japan after. I can relate! I lived there from '20-'22, and returned to the States for various reasons. Long story short, my family and I are returning to Japan at the end of this year :)

[@Exjapter]

Love my family, like my hometown, but being back there when Japan was where I really wanted to be was tough.

[@done.6191]

New sub here! Great, real content.

[@Exjapter]

Thank you for the comment and sub!

[@kagaika]

感銘を受けてチャンネル登録をしました！今後の動画も楽しみにしています。 ウィスコンシンって大統領選挙の激戦州？日本にいても郵便で投票できるでしょうか？

[@Exjapter]

Thank you! Wisconsin can be a swing state, but I don't know where it stands between Harris and Trump at the moment.

[@brendadegroot]

I think I understand what you mean. Japan perhaps just fits your character. I also think that this honeymoon-culture shock-adapting graph is not the same for all people in all situations. For example, I moved from Europe to the US last year, and immediately hit the culture shock phase: the culture is so unfitting for my personality and values that it hurts, and I know for certain I will never be able to experience this country feel like home (despite that I love American people). I went to Japan for an internship for a few months and it immediately felt like it ticked all (ok, most of) the boxes--even those I missed in Europe!

[@Exjapter]

This is really interesting, thank you. I wonder about where I could have gone and ended up having the exact opposite experience.

[@brendadegroot]

@@Exjapter Mmm since you're already from the US, good question! I'm curious how you find Europe (the Netherlands in my case)--I feel it is an average between American and Japanese culture.

[@Exjapter]

Interesting. I have only been to Spain, France, and Italy, and didnt find them to be like America or Japan, but I am not sure I could define them as in-between. Interesting idea!

[@MissionSilo]

I like this channel

[@Exjapter]

Thank you, I appreciate it.

[@MissionSilo]

@@Exjapter i dont like subscription limits

[@katecobb9278]

Thank you for sharing your story. Everything you said has resonated with me. My family and I love Japan deeply too. We made the decision to leave there after 13 wonderful years in order for one of our kids who has special needs to attend a sheltered workshop here in Australia. Although they attended a special school in Japan we knew that for their future it would be better here in the long run, with extended family. Thanks again for sharing.

[@Exjapter]

Thank you for the comment! Japan still leaves a lot to be desired with how they handle special needs cases, unfortunately.

[@Zenitsutruthfully]

Bro i have so many questions , how the university environment looks like? Are you married or not? And what is your job in japan , can you afford life very well? And i wanted to say i love your videos , thank you for guiding all curious people on the internet

[@Exjapter]

First question is huge, needs to be a full video. Married. University job makes life decently affordable but not luxurious.

[@Zenitsutruthfully]

@@Exjapter thanks for answering ❤️

[@r.s.4554]

Glad to find out you like Japan. Were you interviewed at Chicago?

[@Exjapter]

Yes, I was.

[@r.s.4554]

@@Exjapter I was in the office from 2004 to 2006, before being posted in Ethiopia. We may have friends in common!

[@Exjapter]

Former JETs or people there? The only person I really remember was the guy who was the lead interviewer, although I would be hard pressed to remember his name...

[@nechanchannel4112]

I believe it is just part of your "縁 (En)" or fate/ destiny. Nice video!

[@村上りんね]

日本の政治はポンコツだし、経済・教育も問題山積。でも私はこの国が好きです。 日本をより良い国にしたい。力を貸してください。（追伸：ライファーという表現は面白いね） Japanese politics is a shame, and the economy and education are filled with problems. But I like our country. Make it a better place. Together. PS: the expression "lifer" is interesting.(^_^)

[@BobtheMoneythedbr]

Can you talk about your relationship and experience with learning Japanese

[@Exjapter]

That should be its own video. Thanks for the idea!

[@tsi4service]

Whats not to love of a country that has respect in its DNA

[@shogun2679]

I'm going to guess that you have seen Koyasan?

[@spartan.falbion2761]

A very inspirational but inversely depressing video because I dislike where I live more and more everyday and often dream of living in Japan.

[@Exjapter]

Sorry to hear you are despondant about where you are. Any path to Japan?

[@lauriey6089]

:01-:04 funny face says it all

[@kingmaafa120]

No mention of the ❤women what 😮it’s true 👍 TBH not gonna lie Initially at least it was the case for me SORRY🤫

[@Exjapter]

Dating and getting a girlfriend in Japan are videos I have never done. Why? I ended up marrying the first girl I dated here (20 year anniversary this year). So...I am woefully low on the experience necessary to talk about that topic, lol.

[@kingmaafa120]

@@Exjapter well said friend So I’d imagine you have a deep relationship with her family.. which I advise anyone blessed enough to find a Japan 🇯🇵 lady or for that matter any lady 👍 I shall return ltr this year for my last and final--OKUNOHOSOMICHI ❤️ M Basho “For I who leave, to you who stay two Autumn’s.”❤️ * At some point I’d like to put things in📕form and dedicate it to the Japan 🇯🇵 ppl THE GOOD THE BAD AND DOWNRIGHT OUTRAGEOUSLY INSANE TIMES 😂 B blessed

[@tatsumasa6332]

Regardless of what you say pabst blue ribbon from your home is the best in the world to me.

[@Exjapter]

PBR ASAP! haha. I do miss MANY of the beers in Wisconsin.

[@stickyfacts3021]

Hi how to get jobs in japan without Japanese?

[@Exjapter]

English teaching (and other languages) is the most obvious. Foreign companies. Companies that need certain skill sets where Japanese isnt a must.

[@Peekingduck]

Never mind the trolls man.

[@TheShrededward]

I hope you didn't include me in your remarks about discrimination, since I disagreed on almost every count. I've just been here so long, that you're a newb. What I would really be interested in is your take on the JET programme, specifically how that transitioned you to the country. I've always had a bit of a beef with you guys since you were so aloof back in the 90s. There were those of us already here, and we got along great, no matter the visa or reason we were here. Then came the JET boyahs, who went to their own table at the bar, got offended at people smoking, more offended at girls we were with and pouring beer and lighting our smokes... Generally, my question is if this is still a thing? Back in the day, there was a very real discrimination from JET participants when it came to interacting with those of who weren't. I think a lot of them were thinking we were eikaiwa or juku instructors, which was true to a degree, but when they found out I was working for a national university, there was still a wall between the JET people who came here, went through their week of instruction on how to be assistant teachers with each other, and there was no way to bridge that gap. We still couldn't hang out together, which really soured me on you guys for many years.

[@BushidoDevilDog]

That sounds mostly like a that clique/that group/that area issue, not a pervasive JET Program issue. Like Paul, I am also an ex-JET (1998-2001), and in the town I was at (Ota-shi, Gunma) there was no high school-esque ‘We’re the cool-kids’🙄 attitude among the JETs at the two local hangouts that were popular with the JET/Eikawa teachers. As the unofficial mantra of the JET Program goes, “Every situation is different,” so I think it’s quite a stretch to think that the unfortunate attitude you seem to have experienced was shared by all JET Program participants.

[@beverlyhills7883]

The arrogance of many LBH (losers back home) types in Japan defies belief. They are still here, and it's come to a point that I don't bother talking to Westerners, as I once did. And they aren't all English teachers, I might add.

[@Exjapter]

@TheShrededward no, you're cool. I have enjoyed your comments. And I actually agree that some JETS can be insufferable pricks, and I am sorry that was your experience. But like @BushidoDevilDog says below, your mileage may vary with the type of JET in your area. Where we were in Yamanashi, it was such a positive experience that almost everyone I know from that time is still in Japan or maintains a strong relationship with the country in some way. Meanwhile, on the other side of the mountain range in Kofu, there were a lot of party-we-are-so-cool types, and those of us on the Fuji side didn't really get along with them.

[@Hay8137g]

are the lovers of Japan here all white people??

[@oleksandrfabry8497]

I know many black people who love living in japan, south americans too

[@paolocruz8392]

It's not worth living in the Philippines. Even Filipinos will leave if given the chance. It's terrible here.

[@Exjapter]

What makes you say that?

[@figgettit]

the gaijin solipsism

[@Hay8137g]

But who really cares? You seem privileged

[@TokyoXtreme]

High IQ privilege combined with privilege of genetic camaraderie and a desire to better the future generations.

[@scruffy2629]

@@Hay8137g seems like he's made his own luck in life with the decisions he's made, doesn't really seem like privilege at all.

[@Exjapter]

It has been a great privilege to experience Japan as I have.

[@Hay8137g]

@@Exjapteryes it has you are privileged