Do japanese people visiting usa really care if you speak japanese?

Question

They always seem to want to speak english, and don't care if you speak japanese. That's been my experience. And it's specially true if the people are advanced in english. But i think it's pretty rude to ignore your interest in their culture and language. Why do they do this? Why can't they share, and speak in two languages. that's how i view it whenever i speak to a foreigner, i like to share and learn from them too.

Answer 1

well Ive known several japanese people and I can tell you that the japanese ( asian race in general ) think they are the most pure and best race and must succeed at everything or they are nothing.
They really dont care about anyone in else in general, this is from what I've witnessed so if you';ve witnessed something else than great

Answer 2

If I were visiting Japan, I would not expect for people there to be interested in speaking English with me (even though I hear they are). In fact, I would anticipate having a completely different cultural experience because I'm making the effort to go to their nation. I imagine that the people you are talking about might be feeling something similar.

That's perhaps a simplistic answer, since Japanese people sense (like people all over the world) that English is a language of power due to the great economic and political power of the United States. So it would seem natural to them, also, to conform to the ways of English speakers. Also, being in the States gives them a chance to practice and improve their English, which they can use to their advantage when they return home to Japan.

I think it's fantastic that you are interested in learning and sharing. I wish more people were like you.

Answer 3

I know what you mean, but think of it this way. Like, if you went to Japan and spoke Japanese pretty well, wouldn't you just want to speak Japanese with them? To show them that you took time to learn their language in their country and like respect their culture. I don't think they are being rude, but maybe they just want to show you that they can speak english and they're now in America and feel like they should. Also, maybe they want to practice their English, haha. I think the last thing they are trying to do is be rude. =)

Answer 4

Japanese grow up studying English as a required subject in school. When they travel abroad, it may be one of the few times in their life that they can apply what they've learned and develop it further. The trip from Japan to any English-speaking country is long and expensive. They are there (usually) because of their interest in that country and it's language and culture. Those are the people that might take an interest in you as a "foreigner", but they would prefer to speak to you in English.

On the other hand, there are also plenty of Japanese who were not able to master English in school, and they may be travelling just for sightseeing and shopping. They are the ones staring blankly at guidebooks and maps, eating in Japanese restaurants while traveling and relying on Japanese-speaking tour guides. Hook up with some of them. They'll be glad to speak Japanese with you, but they may not take as much interest in your foreigness as you would like.

Answer 5

They don't get to practice their English much with native English speakers so they prefer to speak in English especially if they are visiting for a short time.

Answer 6

Diego has got it right..! When you go to another country, and you speak the language and want to practise it, WHY would you let the natives force you to speak your own language???

Once you've come to Japan, and found that many people STILL force you to speak English when you want to practise your Japanese, THEN you can come on here and complain...!!
; D

But be realistic - your Japanese may not be as excellent as you believe ..... maybe they can't understand you!?!