Yakuza Takes Me To The Hostess Club In Japan (

[@SabbaticalTommy]

Check out ground.news/sabbatical to stay informed on breaking news as it’s happening around the world, compare coverage, and know where your news is coming from. I've been demonetized many times and there's a chance this video could be too. Sponsors really help make these videos possible.

[@greggmartinii1464]

are you still alive man? yakuza dont kill you?

[@alfredomunoz8361]

No worries brother do what you gotta do. We got your back. Keep making great content.

[@jmas225]

well done on the advertisement choice, I think this is the first time I have genuinely been interested in a sponsor. Very cool .

[@Reth_Hard]

I think you got very lucky to not lose any fingers after this karaoke! lol

[@wilhelmhesse1348]

Subbed to Ground News KZbin Channel 💯

[@PalmBeachesPaul]

No fancy camera work, no fancy editing, just a guy with a camera exploring a country and getting face to face with people, absolutely brilliant

[@sospeso]

@@aaronnoone8541 I was about to reply but you said it perfectly

[@aaron2424]

The best youtuber

[@nhlanhlahawksleynyuswa6245]

Straight up!!!!

[@ClipCoyote]

@@aaronnoone8541 Anyone can be a polyglot but not everyone is willing to immerse themselves in the culture, which I can honestly tell you makes a language much easier to study. English, Spanish, Italian and Portuguese here working on French, but while in Mexico I became fluent 100x faster than I would have back home.

[@JaffaGaffa]

Bald? Kind of the same style... Kind off :)

[@papytofu3796]

At first I thought you were a youtuber specialised in Japan because your japanese is quite good. Then I noticed you are actually going around the world and also speak swahili, spanish and other. Wow! As another polyglot and traveller who speaks some languages in common with you, to some varying levels of fluency, I have massive respect for you.

[@CycOp]

In one episode in Africa, he was conversing with a taxi driver (who had studied in China) in Mandarin.

[@AudieHolland]

I noticed he was also reading the lyrics aloud during the karaoke session. So he also knows how read Japanese characters. Don't know which characters they were using though, looks like simplified kanji?

[@CycOp]

@@AudieHolland Just above every kanji character, you can see hiragana characters to help with pronunciation. Because many kanjis pronounce differently depending on the context (some as many as 6 or 7), so can be very confusing for non-Japanese.

[@harmonicposting]

@@CycOp To add to your point, for those who dont know, those “helper” kana are called furigana, usually found around beginner Japanese textbooks or elementary school level literature

[@CycOp]

@@harmonicposting ah yes, the furigana. Forgot about this, it’s been almost 20 years since I last visited Japan. I remember many application forms have furigana section just above the name section for those with rare names or with Kanjis that can be easily confused. This is also useful for those names Chinese characters that Japanese have difficulty pronouncing.

[@elcrucius]

Sabbatical: What was your hobby back then? This dude: I was a sex machine 🤣☠

[@Exton_Z1]

💀

[@zoltanb1221]

I think this might have been mistranslated, because the guy was very serious when talking about this.

[@Mindcroscope]

The guy must be a guaranteed orgasm-machine.

[@xenophis6851]

@@zoltanb1221 He was very serious about being a sex machine.

[@josueramirez7247]

@@zoltanb1221 I don’t think so. I just think they are more open about sexual stuff in Japan than in the United States. Like it’s not a shameful/embarrassing topic as much as it is for Americans.

[@himez123]

Him missing the finger really sold the whole video. What an insight!!! Great video overall!!! Thank you

[@roadboat9216]

Very interesting an nostalgic for me. I was in Japan, Osaka, in the sixties and went to places like this. I was in the US Navy but as a musician, I had a blast. Rock and Roll was quite new there and we formed a band and were a hit wherever we went. Always had club to play in. The best part was that the owners of the clubs took us to there homes and fed us amazing food. The cultural experience was wonderful. I found the Japanese to be very friendly. 😊

[@dougstersmcfresh181]

Been In the Airforce almost 10 years now doing contracting in Japan. So far it has been quite the adventure in these few months I’ve been here. I have 4 years to go. I want plenty of exciting stories like this 🫡 thanks for your service

[@sirwalksoftly]

Awesome story

[@ccox4669]

Japanese are very friendly…on the surface. It is very hard to form meaningful, deep friendships with them however. And their distaste of foreigners is still there, simmering just below their every interaction. Such a shame, because I love the geography, culture, food, language, and people.

[@bobbyhorsman9963]

that must have been an amazing time.

[@Eminence_1337]

@@ccox4669”honne and tatamae” they will never treat you as one of them, still with that being said they have amazing hospitality

[@Hanjhob]

The girl saying “how are you?” to show off her English too was adorable 🤣 you know she was holding that in the whole time the other girl was talking

[@ericpherala9723]

I am fine, thank you. And you?

[@archaic1]

fr

[@mitagamingst2642]

666 likes

[@Jombozeus]

How does this guy just show up and speak Japanese fluently enough to understand and carry entire conversations?????????????? He said he started learning last month? If that's the case, that's insane.

[@Moemuntz]

Watch his video on how to learn a language fast. You don’t need to be very fluent to carry a. Conversation, but it’s a proven strategy. Experience and talent helps.

[@xpo2k9]

CIA agent

[@Sango-po5pi]

Hes not He's far from fluent. It seems as though he prepares himself with questions and vocabulary before hand, and just translates whatever he might not understand in the post production sibtitles. I can tell, because im fluent in japanese and when he went to the bar with the other hostesses, they all slowed down extremely to talk to him in baby Japanese and even translated to english for him. But he's got the right idea. Langiage is all about heart, as long as he keeps going out there and pushes himself he will get better and better until he gains conversational fluency.

[@Blissey047]

he said he knew a bit before, he just really went at it for the month prior to visiting. I wouldn't even say he is really conversationally fluent. but he knows enough to piece together what people say.

[@thedragonofechigo7878]

@@Moemuntz which video because I want learn

[@blacklite911]

The hostess in the red dress did a really good job, I didn’t even know she was a hostess until she changed. She came across as very normal, which is good .

[@sonofsarek]

After visiting Japan and watching videos like this, I think it is very hard to read Japanese women. Their body language is very confusing. It’s like the polar opposite of Latin American women.

[@karmathebrit7856]

That was the lady they ate with before I think, same earrings

[@wookieeMan06]

hostess in red seem very cold

[@SharkWithFreakinLaserBeam]

Yeah either she's really really really good at her job, or she wanted the d. I honestly couldn't tell, but I have a feeling she would've been down for anything with white guy. But then he might have had to be killed as well.

[@blacklite911]

@@SharkWithFreakinLaserBeam she’s a sex worker bro

[@intelligence0321]

I found the interaction between former Yakuza & "the fan" VERY interesting. It was almost as if he feared for his life letting go of the Yakuza hand too quickly. The way he also bowed several times in a way I haven't seen other Japanese men or women do to others as well... that bit said a lot. I was actually blown away by the respect & fear level of "the fan". I've never seen that kind of interaction in the United States between two people. That's saying something and yeah, I'm FROM NYC myself.

[@spaceflights]

Yes. Totally not a plant for the camera. Who knows? I jest

[@Nellielle007]

Yeah I also doubt that man to be just a fan, probably he said that to avoid exposing the other person's relation with him.

[@katsu9582]

@@Nellielle007 But yuyuma was just passing by the streets, and he came from the back how can he have fear from him? i mean he bowed hard and couldnt let go of his hand. after all we wont know aand speculating can be wrong too.

[@YaMadaIsAho]

Like a made man with his don

[@迫田聖也]

I'm from Japan I've seen that multiple times. He respects and fears at the same time

[@mikehunt3530]

he seems like a good dude who’s very passionate about telling u the history. can only imagine what life has been like thru his eyes, what he’s lived.

[@krisstopher8259]

there could be a movie about his life

[@zerorespect9475]

I live in Osaka. They’re tons of guys that are like him who are shells of their former selves. There’s one costumer who comes in at a bar I work in Dotonbori who was a former oyabun until he was sent to jail for 12 years and when he returned he said most of his friends and subordinates were borderline homeless. He explained that due to certain laws and regulations anyone who was and is in the yakuza can’t even get a phone line service or open a bank account. Also that includes finding a home which leads to several other issues that raise their chances of committing a crime out of desperation for survival both physically and socially. I can’t say anything bad about the guy but he is very polite and surprisingly generous. But if you’re around when he’s hammered you’re gonna see several sides of him both outrageously funny and equally intimidating.

[@JohnSmith-nz2yq]

Why not live in poor villages and small towns then? They are rejected by society in big cities who do not want that kind of gang culture back in. Desperation is not an excuse to commit crime.

[@muammer276]

Thanks for sharing

[@jamesdanko2915]

Exactly; Yokohama here and I didn't buy it. For us that speak fluent Japanese he was just a local local with a frontal tattoo. I owned a few bars in Roppongi back in the bubble days and tossed these clowns out like bags of spoiled rice. I got a laugh about the flower sales or the photo on the wall crap that they used to peddle; the only part of this video that was accurate. Yakuza are dead in Japan; its over. The young Jiyagiya "speculators" are way ahead of them now.

[@luizsantos9737]

True

[@luizsantos9737]

Many Yakuza formers are homeless, mental issue after many years in prison

[@MonacoSpeed]

Nice video, I’ve lived in Japan for 27 years. Many of those years was working for the Yakuza. When I say working, I don’t mean in the ( gangster ) sense. They have many legitimate businesses. One time, I took one of them to OZ. He was wearing a very thin shirt so all his tattoos were visible. I had to vouch for him at customs. If you come to Japan for a holiday, don’t be afraid of the Yakuza. They have nothing against you, and will never hurt you if you are not involved in their business. In fact, they will prefer your friendship, as the locals tend to dislike them.

[@krisstopher8259]

my friend in japan is married to yakuza

[@johnhendel1964]

“That man, he’s either gonna show up in a suit or track shirt. I bet money on it”. Dude shows up wearing jeans and a sweatshirt. That’s why I love this channel. Hey Tommy, from one long islander to another, I appreciate the New Yorkness that you bring to your adventures. BTW, I’m planning a trip to S. Korea next year and I would love to see you do some Korea videos to help me prepare.

[@Mike-uy9hw]

But the shades what the cherry on top honestly

[@mikatimonen5449]

I had a collegue whose uncle did a academical research on Yakuza. They went to Japan and met with them. They did party with Yakuza. The went to night clubs and sushi bars. When there was a metal detector in a night club they shut it down when they came. And when Yakuza sent a car with dark windows to pick them up at their hotel the staff realized they weren't ordinary tourists.

[@krisstopher8259]

lol cool

[@blususpect]

Mans really taking his joy of Final Fantasy 7 to the next level, he’s already been to Sector 7 😭🇯🇵

[@skarpevindkast]

amazing reference

[@dmtmediabrothers]

🤣🤣

[@evilrulo85]

Good one😂

[@julianawong2169]

As a linguist you are able to travel to every corner of the world. You are brave, venturing to places most tourists will not go. Extending friendship with a Yakuza through Instagram? Amazing. Yuyama-san is so cool. Thank you.

[@aclark903]

I live in Fukuoka. #Nakasu isn’t dangerous 95% of the time, not that I go there at night. But I did see a guy threatening someone with a baseball bat in my street once.

[@philliplord589]

Wonderful, just wonderful. You are a good Man, please keep bringing us such interesting experiences. I have a spinal injury and do not travel anymore. It's good to see people being their selves. Life is an adventure, it's an honor to share in the richness of the life others have known. Am so glad your Friend ("Yakuza") accommodated you in such a great way.

[@michaelfroger1816]

Really good, like how you just dive into the language and try and as a result the conversations just sound very real and genuine. .

[@geo525252]

So glad I discovered your channel. You have a knack for interacting with people. I spent two years in Japan many years ago, 1971-73. Sasebo to be exact. Fond memories.

[@NotGilmore]

How was the Japanese back then good sir? Were you a sex machine too? 😂

[@geo525252]

@@NotGilmore At 19 years old you bet I was. LOL

[@DayAndNightTo2099]

it is very very different now ig, geez that is a very long time ago. yakuza were probably active at that time too, i wish i lived there at that time.

[@soundzrinmygarden3833]

How do you not have 1 million subscribers Tommy? Your videos are 10/10. You are educating people on how to travel and earn respect through being a humble gentlemen, good on you Tommy.

[@tombimashri8149]

Truth he should hit million dubs and more likes. Tommy's vloggs different fun nd educating.

[@blacklite911]

He uploads infrequently. He’ll do a batch and then go away for a bit. It’s bad for the algorithm

[@Hanjhob]

It’s only a matter of time. His videos are slowly getting more and more attention. Imagine the adventures this man could go on with the financial support of a 2 million subscriber channel 😂

[@Moonir6907]

I think he needs an external mic..senheizer would be great

[@bevrosity]

ikr? he's been around for quite awhile and travels to places many wouldn't dare. should have like 10m subs by now.

[@diydame7163]

Thanks so much for your videos on this topic! I am doing research on the Yakuza and this has been extremely helpful!

[@cherifmihoub]

Tommy, I think you were with a yakuza boss, not just a retired yakuza، this is amazing. Congratulations bro 👍everyone wishes to try this in Japan. You were really lucky

[@justinthebeau2590]

He is retired from the Yakuza he was the #2 in his organization at 1 point

[@fmls8266]

Everyone wishing to try this is just a dumb gaijin who think mafia is a bunch of funny dudes

[@karoliskesminas8247]

H😂k, Kmkm#j.vvv 😂😂😄😅😐h​j. . . 😂😂5t @@justinthebeau2590

[@MrRyrywakaka]

@@justinthebeau2590not even surprised, being on camera without any filters showing his full face and all lol gotta be up there. No shrimp gonna be this ballsy pretending to be boss on camera

[@ryukyusun]

As a Japanese myself, this is a very gaijin way of showing Japan to gaijin. The Japanese themselves in the video are not being very straight with him at all. They are what we Japanese call omotenashi or just being nice because he is a guest / foreigner. Regarding the yakuza part, many parts are true but many are how do I say, telling him what his audience want to hear and believe from games and other foreigners. In other words, they are doing the saving FACE play with him.

[@zhipengren]

yes sir

[@Philbyyyy]

Do you think they had fun that night? Or were they quite bored?

[@ryukyusun]

@@Philbyyyy I don't think fun. If anything they were mostly trying to make him happy while keeping their guard up.

[@saudude2174]

@@ryukyusun i think it is admirable to try and "save face" in front of foreigners. It shows you care about the way other nations perceive your people and your culture. Europeans could use a little bit of your "omotenashi", even if its a bit fake. I guess it's all about the balance, finding the golden middle.

[@editking__]

FOR BREAKING THE LAWWWW

[@marinabassi3767]

What I appreciate most about your vids, is that you always invest enough of your time to be able to have a decent conversation with the people, even Japanese, which structure is so very different in every way to indo-european languages... It seems you can even read the kanjis... wow, is the only word that comes to mind!

[@junrosamura645]

Just started watching this channel and while he comes off a little rude at times, I can tell that he's a humble person. To clear things up in the comments, his speaking ability is better than anyone who is visiting Japan but he knows key/common words to use, therefore allowing Japanese to continue carrying a conversation with the assumption that he is fluent. I run into travelers like him every so often. Lots of respect for people who travel the world and enjoying life! Regarding the cabaret club, it takes a lot of money to win a girl over and get "extra" services. Or, (Speaking from experience) if you have a fun personally and are a good talker, extras for free. That only applies to high end places. You can try the Filipina bars for more hands-on fun and services for MUCH cheaper but most of these are ran by a boss and most of the girls are here illegally or against their will. I've seen yakuza bosses in passing or driving around but its a super rare site. The underlings/thugs are a different story. There are plenty of places in the Tokyo area where you can see them walking around. However, you have nothing to fear here. No matter the place or time, you never feel like your life is in danger. So, come and enjoy the sights of Japan but above all, be respectful to the locals.

[@whowhathuh83]

That Yuyama guy is so many Yakuza videos here on YT, dude is cool. Got his life back together after doing time and getting out of the mob, good for him.

[@enterthebruce91]

Yuyama is the real life version of Sato from Tokyo Vice! Also looking forward to the Like a Dragon TV series on Prime next month 👍🏽

[@blueflame3081]

One of your best, Tommy. Thank you for your insights and intelligent honesty. You always ask the questions on my mind. Your ability to fit in yet stay true to yourself is a phenomenal ability. Great stuff. Keep it up.

[@SharkForge29]

This was honestly one of my favorite videos you've done. That was AWESOME. That was an awesome experience. I love what you do man.

[@ehoa1984]

Being Asian /Chinese and raised around Asian gangsters I can tell you how authentic of a gangster/mobster he is. He looks exactly like one of my uncles. The way he Caries himself reminds me so much of my older relatives.

[@user-wp7qo]

There's no way you separate the Asian and Chinese lmao

[@ehoa1984]

@@user-wp7qodon’t get it twisted. I know what you’re trying to say but i said it for the folks who don’t understand that Chinese, Japanese, Korean etc are all Asian.

[@user-wp7qo]

@@ehoa1984 so basically by putting a Chinese there automatically a Asian? Ara you saying All asian are CHINESE? Lol

[@puma51921]

You can tell this guy was somebody with Yakuza. He carries himself completely different than the average Japanese. He walks like a soldier or cop. That meeting withe other Japanese male was interesting.

[@James-gf2ph]

Sunglasses at night, that's the tough guy M.O. 😎 . Hammer and knife, nah it didn't hurt. He definitely had a different body language than the typical Japanese man.

[@rzadigi]

Interesting how he still behaves like yakuza even after he left. Tommy should’ve asked why he left.

[@ALomuZ]

See his fingers, its get cut

[@60svids]

@@rzadigi maybe yakuza's power become dim (he's mentioned when somebody come to shake hand with him ) so you dont need to become yakuza again to control the business

[@batchagaloopytv5816]

did the missing pinky give it away yet 🙄🙄🙄

[@jeremyday9056]

I'll be honest, that's one of the only ad segments I haven't skipped through. You did it well. And as annoying as ads can be, I'm happy to see them here, it means the channel is growing, and you definitely deserve the subscribers.

[@zakkcostales]

This video got me hooked, I didn't even notice it's already 4 in the morning lmao. Awesome and interesting content, bro!

[@philo2189]

I could tell you was kind of nervous lol I would be too. Even though he's not in the Yakuza anymore you could tell he by his demeanor he still carries himself a certain way. Great video man I'm subscribing.

[@hemispace641]

"he still carries himself a certain way" = "Yakuza"

[@JCDenton303]

This is one of the best travel channels on KZbin! Thanks Tommy for delivering no-nonsense, no-narcissism, well-researched and interesting videos. Consider me a new subscriber!

[@JustSomeGuyLV]

This man's storytelling in humble and respectful way while showing the culture of local people and interacting with them, it's fascinatingly great.

[@silviangc8486]

Just found your channel. Nice and laid back, good conversations, a genuine curiosity for exploring, and no fluff. Very refreshing!

[@johnbanwell]

Tommy's channel is endlessly interesting. I'm quite impressed with his language ability.

[@Gbz86]

Hostess lady at the end looks at tommy and says I'll text you ! Lmao love it. This is one my favorite videos of yours!

[@TheHose77]

Yes she did, Happy time for him that is why he was n thehurrywraping the video :)

[@zooknutt]

Shiiii them girls weren't into that guy unless he paying out.

[@soundzrinmygarden3833]

Gary M well spotted, I had to watch that part again.

[@fenderOCG]

The hostesses always follow-up with texts to encourage repeat business, it's standard

[@Doiucbklse]

this is normal for hostesses - they do it to entice the customer back to spend more money.

[@RyanBentz]

"Everyone is like an Anime character that you pay to talk to." - Sabbatical 2022

[@KingDayDayDay00]

Bruh😂

[@CaLi4real]

😂😂😂😂what a way to end the Video

[@morrist8727]

It sums up Japan in a nutshell, it's people are like NPC's.

[@color-head1696]

THAT might be the future EVERYwhere ...

[@morrist8727]

@@color-head1696 I think all Western countries for sure, however certain eastern countries have still kept their traditional values and practices.

[@Velocipedium]

I always skip sponsor sections, but I’m actually very interested in yours! I’ll give them a go. Thanks

[@solorealm]

People in the comments probably don't understand this, if you go to japan , China, thailand ,Korea,Brazil, do not go alone or without any knowledge, especially places like this. Do not get fooled by there friendliness, there job is to suck you dry, infact they encourage foreigners to come in, OBVIOUSLY, they all work in groups , men basically "RECOMMEND" certain places, that are usually tied. Always be on alert mode. My elder brother taught me this

[@dannymars]

I went to Fukuoka 15 years ago. Great city, it was snowing when we were there. Apparently that never happens. Everyone was out in the street in awe of the snow falling in the city. Good memories.

[@bleromafia]

I started replayin yakuza because of you🤣 and now this video is out... amazing!

[@magicbufo4277]

Ayyyyye im playing Yakuza 0 right now lol Games are too damn good and very addicting

[@KingofL85]

​@@magicbufo4277 I played sleeping dogs before yakuza so I couldn't really connect because of fighting style which is too good in sleeping dogs.

[@poppycool2187]

Woohoo you've done a sponsorship, good for you Tommy! Good luck, and keep these vids coming please, your my fav traveler, along with bald and bankrupt and Harold baldr, Loving it, your awesome ol' Tommy boy!

[@MrReymoclif714]

#BaldAndBankrupt!

[@chrisdiehl5903]

He's not a former member he's still current based off of the individual who came up to him and showed him respect. He also showed you respect because you were with him.

[@krisstopher8259]

maybe. let's end it there, lol

[@revelationmd]

Top class content. Fair play, this channel takes some beating.

[@Pablo_minimal]

I live in Fukuoka for almost 3 years and I have to say you are such lucky guy to meet a Yakuza these days. Most of them are pretty hired into Japanese society, and dont like to show up or even appear on videos. Thanks for showing Nakasu area and this cool places, its nice that you can easily interact with locals, only Fukuoka city has this vibe. @Sabbatical

[@randomgaminginfullhd7347]

Never stop exploring East-Asia please. I want you to vlog in China, Taiwan, Korea, Japan. Thanks, love your work.

[@SabbaticalTommy]

Def more Asia to come

[@DjWarp79]

@@SabbaticalTommy Philippines

[@kwijukaderek4682]

Hahahahaaa, don't stop! I dint get enuf of my own home in uganda

[@bruh-db8by]

... china...? we want sabbatical ALIVE

[@edcarlopantastico9347]

pls sabbatical, philippines!! thanks!!

[@mv4463]

Proven time and again.. the world traveling new Yorker... is there no place you can't go... truely loved wherever your feet touch the soil... by all the meet you.. young & old... RESPECT 🙏

[@RippedNerdyKid]

That island that the missionary was ate on other than that he can go everywhere

[@nymetsfan912]

You had an awesome night in Japan meeting the locals! You vibe with people so easily I envy that. Love your channel bro!

[@glitchard3685]

Man. I am loving the Japan videos. I'm so fascinated by their culture. Also. That ramen looked freaking delicious. So jealous

[@joesmitch8639]

This guy is internationally dope. I think most people would have a very hard time doing what he does. I love this channel.

[@solmoman]

hello bot

[@joesmitch8639]

@@solmoman u rang solmomomomoman?

[@rocco_420]

The dude was even missing a couple digits. This was incredibly interesting. You gained a new subscriber today my friend. Keep up the good work

[@marisgoldenhour6212]

Came across a couple of your videos for the first time. I am completely fascinated and my interest was held the from start to finish. Became a fan and subscribed because you seem to come from a place of care and respect. Not to mention, there aren't flashy cuts and you're not out here doing the most. You are genuinely interested in the culture and the cities you visit. Going to delve into your videos of countries in Africa soon. Thank you so much for sharing and stay safe! 😊💙🖤✨

[@jordancrosno9711]

Totally worth it some of those videos I swear, and Brazil, and Jamaica. So many awesome videos, some kinda dark but so educational... just superb.

[@drevil3606]

The Africa ones were the ones that caught me well worth a look

[@jordancrosno9711]

@@drevil3606 100% agreed, amazing work all around. Argentina is another great one.

[@LeRainbow]

I love your videos. Never would've thought to experience a night out with a Yakuza boss, thanks for sharing.

[@LearnSpanishWorld]

I was waiting for you next video amigo! Awesome! Just finished work and now I'm going to enjoy something to eat while I watch your new adventure. Saludos! 😃

[@TFSMikeRath]

I watched a docu-series about different organized crime groups and he was in it for the Yakuza. This guy is awesome! Thanks for doing this and sharing thing side of Japan

[@jupollo4200]

Glad to see you encouraging free thought with your sponsor. Seriously a great thing that people could really benefit from. Some people really need their eyes open, people don't even know what is going on in China right now because of all the censorship. Keep up the good work !

[@nickdb5718]

His Japanese is hardly impressive, he can't even string two sentences together! He'd be a beginner or lower intermediate at best. There were heaps that he's missed out in understanding, especially at the table

[@ChrisVanMiddelkoop]

This is so interesting. I like the meeting and communicating. neither are super good at the others language but they make it work to understand each other.

[@danielreserrunt1109]

Japan sure seems like an interesting place to visit!

[@The_Red_G]

And weird too

[@no_rules_today6131]

@@The_Red_G In a good way though

[@Mr-WesleySnipzzz]

@@no_rules_today6131 also in a bad way trust me i have seen alot of things living here

[@bloodyangel1]

@@Mr-WesleySnipzzz What kind of bad things? I just got back after spending 5 weeks there but didn't really see any bad things except for a drunk guy getting beat up in Kabukicho.

[@Cordycep1]

He did not tell you that all the gangs must be registered with the cops to do business.. so that is why Yakuza call it "strict now"/

[@capelech9032]

Once he showed his tattoos and said he got them removed around his wrist I immediately believed him so much more. Such a awesome experience for you and thanks for sharing!

[@stonecapone7858]

look at his fingers.

[@FUToob]

True, I assumed he was a bosuzuka or just a street tout who maybe worked his way up a bit, but with the pinky tip gone and as it seems, another finger tip as well, I'm guessing he did work up a bit higher than I originally imagined.

[@putraperak5369]

he the boss that place, and then he quit yakuza, mybe he want to change his life from gang stuf to be kind. look he good person, and look he will protect if anything gone wrong

[@itsnathanchamberlin]

Don't they cut off the finger tip as a peace offering to the boss when leaving?

[@realeyesrealisereallies97]

You can easily tell this guy's the real deal, look how confident and relaxed he is, he's a top g

[@chester8459]

This is high quality content, as a former criminal from germany it was interesting with how much honor the yakuza are beeing as criminals. ;D

[@kageshigi1012]

I appreciate you affording me the opportunity to live out my dream of parlaying with a Yakuza boss. Thanks for the legendary content. 🙏🏿

[@nansenscat9315]

You’re questions were at times, pretty bold! Awesome peek you’ve provided, into a fascinating world.

[@john_doe_not_found]

25:50 Thank goodness Tommy makes his money as a KZbinr and not as a Karaoke singer.

[@damienbreslin5781]

Yooo this guy is on another level. Great content. This was like an episode of abroad in Japan without all the theatrics. 👏 👏 👏

[@GeneFever]

This Japan series is great for me to relive the month I spent in JP a lifetime ago. Didn't hang with the Yakuza but I did eat whale (think fishy liver); great video Tommy!

[@peteypete9357]

That part about this being appealing to Japanese salarymen is sooo true. Thank you for trying out the unique experience and giving it honest feedback as many Americans don't find those activities the most entertaining in the world. You treated those ladies well. That type of honesty is exactly what I look for in these videos. I feel I've learned more about the Japanese culture.

[@oocloudoo1549]

This is absolutely my new favorite channel. Dude is living my dream!

[@elmalanmalan2175]

I live in Japan for 15 years and my girlfriend is from Fukuoka we visited her home town early this year . And we stayed in a small hotel near nakasu which is like the Kabukicho area in Shinjuku Tokyo. I wanted to walk the area at night time but my girlfriend warned me from walking alone that are because vis known to be a heavy Yakuza area . But me being Latino from the slums of Caracas Venezuela, I seen dangerous places so not scared at all ,so I told her don't worry I be fine. So I did my little tour in the area all saw was drunk people and sketchy bars and shops and probably some young thug's but that's it They looked at me once that was it. I continue my Latino walk standing tall and fearless not problem at all. The best part was these two philipinos girls trying to get a drunk dude into their bar lol. Anything else Fukuoka is nice city and great food.

[@damiangonzalez7352]

Caracas es como el nivel máximo

[@elmalanmalan2175]

@@damiangonzalez7352 ya tu sabes el mio

[@elkmeatenjoyer3409]

Entiendo lo que dices amigo, yo tambien "vengo de donde asustan" como dicen en mi país. Estos lugares de japon se miran bien tranquilos en comparacion de donde vivo.

[@marrokraff998]

@@elmalanmalan2175 es bastante fuerte y hay delincuencia por todos los lados pero no puedes comparar con Japón. Porque si realmente quieres encontrar problemas. Lo encontrarás incluso en Japón. Y si viviste en Venezuela tu lo sabes. Solo tienes que conocer a la persona adecuada y te dejarán perdido. Pero eso no es la tema de machismo pero el efecto de la cultura, la historia, las economías de escala, las normas sociales, la tecnología y la intervención del gobierno lo que ha estructurado a Japón de tal manera que es casi imposible hacer la delincuencia por ser ordenado. en cambio, en Venezuela, la anarquía no solo se promueve en todos los niveles, el desorden se empieza desde el gobierno hasta grupos mercenarios como Tupamaru en 23 de enero, la guardia nacional, la policía e incluso las pandillas locales, los mototaxis y los malandros. Todos ellos están organizados y pendientes para hacer las próximas trampas en cualquier manera y en cualquier tiempo. Por eso la vida no vale nada. Yo vivía cerca de Metro Cappuccino por 6 meses y conocí amigos que viven en Catia y Petare. Fui en caminó para Maracaibo, Zulia, y los Andes de Venezuela. Cruzó la frontera desde Rubio hasta Cúcuta, Colombia. Y cuándo llegó en Caracas, solo tenía mis maletas y menos de 500$ en total. No conocía nadie o nada, no tenía casa. Lo hizo todo en el aeropuerto. Cambió lechuga verde en el mercado negro allí mismo. Y encontré una habitación sobre Internet en el mismo día. Así empezó mi aventura. Y gracias a Dios qué todo se salió bien. Imagínate cuántas cuentas que tengo caminando para todos los lados en Venezuela por 6 meses con mis pies. Yo lo vi todo incluso muertos en la calle. Por eso te digo que en la vida todo se puede suceder si tienes mala suerte. Even in Japan chamo. Life can be unpredictable even in places where the vast majority of time things are expected to be orderly. But you know what! Despite Venezuela being the way it is. There is no place like it. The people are lovely. The culture is beautiful. Nature is magnificent. And whenever I think about Venezuela it only brings joy and warmth to my heart. In a crazy way I really miss it.

[@elmalanmalan2175]

@@marrokraff998 bro yo no estoy comparando estoy compartiendo mi experiencia, pero el nivel de peligrosidad vamos a estar claro que no es lo mismo. Claro que hay gente mala y de que pueda s encontrár problemas aquí o a donde sea lo puedes encontrar. Yo vengo de Petare y y vivi en new Jersey en los estados unidos y allá también hay sus sitios y gente mala. Pero ahora vivo en este increíble país (Japón) y nunca me sentido tan seguro pero como todo no es un país perfecto porque que tiene cantidad de problemas pero me siento agusto aquí de paso que mis hijos son de aquí y mi novia es japonesa . como dije tengo 15 años aquí y estoy bien adaptado a su cultura.pero no te voy decir que no estraño mi Venezuela y mi ciudad Caracas siempre la llevo en corazón . Bueno mano solo queda dar gracias a Dios por estar vivo y estar en este maravilloso país, saludos y que tengas un excelente día

[@ShinGabrius]

Bro your delivery is everything. I've always wanted to try my hand at being a travel vlogger but thought that I wouldn't sound "rehearsed" enough - my style is more like yours, just very casual and real.... I'd much rather watch you discover new places than watch someone who pretends that they know everything

[@ShinGabrius]

Also - for someone who is obviously still learning Japanese, your accent and pronunciation are ON POINT.

[@SabbaticalTommy]

Good to hear. がんばります

[@FF-lx2ro]

The Gentleman nice is enough to take Tommy around is a straight killer (meaning killer instinct, knows what your thinking or what you may do 5 moves ahead), the respect he demands and his demeanor, and he just stopped being Yakuza like “yeah I’m not doing that anymore” Rock Star!

[@thegmunkee]

my eyes were glued on Nozomi-chan the whole time. not gonna lie. xD still, awesome videos there's this certain 'umph' from the rawness of the video. with that, you just got yourself a new subscriber!

[@NIROSAN19]

best POV-TRAVEL youtuber atm! love it. just want to travel to japan

[@grassywasss6978]

I like how he starts acting a little nervous and shy when the girls are surrounding him 😂😂

[@fenderOCG]

I would be too, you're surrounded by sharks who will clean out your wallet whether you have a good time or not

[@noureb3833]

He’s on warning mode , he don’t want to be screw up by a girls . You can lost lot of money

[@koraegi]

That's a good way to act in places like host clubs or room salons That shits shady asf bro Embarrassing for countries like Korea and Japan making these things regular

[@R0C4I]

The girls are so gorgeous there

[@alispeed5095]

Genuine guy

[@gasso1377]

Wow one of your greatest most interesting episodes.thankyou for bringing us with !!!! Nothing like this in iowa, usa

[@p.muskett2931]

Dude this is like what VICE used to be!

[@johnglow7845]

Right? I'm thinking to myself "do people know how big this is???" It was casual so idk if people missed it but there really aren't any videos like this of yakuza just chilling, every one in these videos was MOB or former even the girls... Crazy!

[@kafei762]

Well said

[@shaynewaldan4978]

Aussie Shayne Yea 1 of the best Vids I have seen ! Good on ya Cobber I learnt a lot from you when I just watch 2 of your vids. Your a natural Buddy and the Asian girl in the red dress is very pretty, beautiful personality and spoke English. I've been wanting to go to Japan for years now but been a bit concern, as to being on my own there. So thankyou Cobber you helped me make up my mind now !! Look out Japan here I come.

[@mrmagoo2255]

Shityeah mate, it's deadly AF

[@gnturibi]

Thank you for asking her the question that was on our minds... I'm surprised the ex gangster was so free talking without fear. Probably still has clout in the hood especially the way that guy came to kiss his ring

[@LivingNomad]

So cool you can actually speak Japanese and connect with the people makes your travelling videos 10 times better then others who just travel and explore

[@vegasmike966]

I wish I had learned Japanese during my 2 years of being stationed in Okinawa !! Always wondered what they signs said for different bars and clubs. But I do have great memories of living there the AMAZING food, the beautiful country and nice people !!

[@vipstylerida]

nice.. was stationed on Kadena. what base were u on?

[@vegasmike966]

@@vipstylerida Futenma

[@Big5mokE719]

Sabbatical is such a socially awkward person lol it's not a put down I honestly think it's a good trait to have. I used to gang bang and used to be in the music scene and done a lot of stuff but the people that would come around and have too much personality or try too hard to be cool and accepted or would have too high of confidence are the ones that we'd watch or wouldn't fuck with at all but the ones that were just happy to be there and were a little awkward were the ones that always got in more and would get along a lot better. I think it's what makes these videos better

[@rzadigi]

That’s all true but I gotta say I wish Tommy would loosen up a bit and enjoy himself. I’m sure his companions were expecting to have a bit more fun.

[@Anonymous-kw4jf]

Interesting point but weird 😅

[@Abakaschi]

@@rzadigi please elaborate. How to loosen up? I ask because I'm exactly like Tommy. I hate this part on myself to come across as too serious and "intellectual" but never as fun or entertaining.

[@Chris-ey8zf]

@Azrael I mean... he's taking youtube videos while doing it. He's technically at work.

[@trentbateman]

I read gang bang as gangbangs so your comment was really odd initially 😂😂

[@fbimartybyrde7810]

Excellent video, doing an analysis on yuyama, apparently being a yakuza, he made mistakes by his hand, if you can see them, he made the yubitsume on 2 occasions, this guy earned my respect, the truth is, not everyone goes and records an ex-yakuza, excellent video and the way in which they behaved as normal

[@WretchedHero]

Funny that you are mentioned the Yakuza video games. Right now I play them and stumbled across the Host Club thing. So I was courious and ended up here. Wired that this (the clubs) are a real thing. Youre video was good to learn about it.

[@gregmock6808]

That really took me back to my two decades living in Asia..I wandered into one of those hostess clubs thinking it was just a pub where I could get a beer and thought...these people are so friendly and they keep bringing me drinks.....little did I know, I was picking up the tab....lessons learned. That tab equaled 4 months rent in the town I was living in. Yeah...only bosses go to those places...wage workers can't afford them. A lot of Amei girls, (one of the largest of the 18 aboriginal tribes) from Taiwan go to Japan to work in those hostess clubs. The girl in the red dress really looks like an Amei tribe Taiwanese girl from eastern Taiwan.

[@tdtm82]

Noticed how she kept pushing Yamazaki (now insanely expensive but when I started drinking whiskey in 2006 it was cheap) the bottle was still full and unopened. It's a ruse to make rich men feel more attractive about themselves whilst the club takes in a lot of money. $200 dollars a night as quoted; just for the basics I would imagine. I like how she said 'other' when he enquired about services. They were very-well trained and experienced at hustling but also the Yakuza guy was watching and they weren't going to take advantage so it was a great experience from something which could have been so much more expensive.

[@antonioc7186]

When you work and play with people minds enough. The desired effects start to show. It’s like going to a 4 years college only to to find out you could have paid for cheaper classes at the same level at a community college😅

[@rascalman7]

Dude... I can't stop watching your videos. Not sure what it is, but it works. There is some magic tension in there that you create with your audience. An unexpected journey.

[@MaheshWalatara]

Wow this is better than a Netflix Documentary on Japan's seedy side.

[@johnglow7845]

It was so casual! No frills I've never seen this side if the yakuza incredible.

[@moto.munchies]

Your curiosity is inspiring mate, keep exploring!

[@raizen4271]

this what vlog is no bullshit editing just straight to the point and face reel time and reality its finest!

[@vindictii]

I've heard stories of the Yakuza working with the Italian mafia in Canada. They would ship manufacturing equipment that had other things hidden inside as well. A mix of legal and illegal activity

[@matteo4096]

As an Italian, it is so sad to know

[@vindictii]

@@matteo4096 From what I know, the Italian mafia was much preferable to what we have now. They actual had honour and moral standards. They controlled the drug trade but kept hard drugs out of their neighborhoods, much like how the cartel produces fentanyl but you cant buy it in mexico. Jewish mafia and biker gangs like Hells Angels have replaced them and now every major city is full of junkies and overdose deaths

[@matteo4096]

@@vindictii In America you have Ndrangheta witch it came from the South of Italy, Calabria. Now they trade only cocaine from the South America, they do not have a moral code instead they can be really ferocious; especially when they collide with other clan. They are also in the high finance this is why you probably hardly hear of it, because they make the BIG money so they don't usually target the journalist or typical citizen

[@vindictii]

@@matteo4096 They're the ones bringing all the coke into Europe right? Big in high finance because they supply the London bankers with all their coke. Financial mafia might be the worst of all

[@matteo4096]

@@vindictii Not only in Europe but all over the world, they take the cocaine from the producer, and they sell it to other organisations. They basically buy in bulk

[@YHUNIIQ]

very rare insight, much appreciated & you being able to speak Japanese so well definitely increased immersion for everyone involved. Glad the ex-boss was cool and decided to do this as well.

[@9485881]

Imagine walking around Japan asking everybody if they’re homeless or they know the yakuza….lol

[@Evanderyg]

😂😂😂😂

[@asir9129]

I like this, just walking around showing the place and telling some facts, chill, this is nice

[@anticlickbait]

24:40 that was probably the first time he heard "kakoi (cool)" about his tattoos since they are highly related to Yakuza

[@DominarRygel-XVI]

17:33 LMAO This was so cool. Love your videos Tommy!

[@xadionwc3]

your japan vlogs are by far the most interesting of all the videos you have ever posted; for me at least. the japanese people carry some sort of mystery on them for some reason which i, as a foreigner, find hard to decipher. they are very non expressive people, their faces are hardened and introverted. however when it comes to actually speaking to them, then this changes gradually.

[@T3rr0rByt3]

Almost positive that guy at 14:31 was trying to pickpocket his watch but grabbed the wrong arm he kept feeling for it on his wrist lol then glances at the guys other hand..lol

[@petlove4life]

Your so good with learning new languages! Love your content.... Inspires me to travel.

[@gringoholandes]

Wow I was never so early to see one of your videos!! Greetings from Brazil my friend 🇧🇷