Any japanese here? Need some clarifications please?

Question

Im a chinese from malaysia, me and my fellow friends love japanese culture very much , from food to japanese language :) we take japanese classes too

we'd like to visit japan after graduation, and we need to know,
on general basis how will the citizens in japan treat chinese tourist? i mean lets face it, racism is not something new to this world, so im just looking for hints and tips on what to do and where to go to ensure our trip will be a dear one.

oh yeah, what is this "shops that hangs 'japanese onely' sign" that i heard about in japan ?

thanks in advance and have a nice day ;)

Answer 1

I'd say that Japan is distantly friendly to guests no matter where they come from. The only people I've known to be mistreated here were large muscular thuggish-looking types who aroused suspicion just because they stood out so much. But in Tokyo, Yokohama, Kyoto and many other cities, there are lots and lots of Chinese tourists, so you won't stand out.

Japanese only signs are rare. I saw a couple in Hokkaido--they sometimes have problems with rowdy Russian sailors up there--and I've heard of a few posted near US military bases and in smaller communities with concentrated "ethnic" populations of poorer Filipinos or Brazilians. In any event, the signs correspond to areas that have concentrations of perceived foreign "trouble makers." In big cities and most small towns, you won't see the signs: businesses are eager to have your money no matter where you come from.

Answer 2

your last question first: i would be very, very surprised if you encountered any shop that says "japanese only." I have never seen one. most people are very happy to take your money :-)

secondly, there is racism in Japan, especially toward other asians, but as a tourist i would be very surprised if you encountered it. most people encounter such discrimination when looking for a job, looking for an apartment and so on. as a tourist this wont effect you.

as far as getting the most out of your trip, i would recommend staying at youth hostels and similar places rather than hotels. they can be a little militant (like getting you up at 7 am whether you like it or not) and the food isnt so great (understatement) but you will meet a lot of people your own age--japanese students travelling around japan on their summer or spring breaks. they will be very interested in meeting and talking to people from other countries.

finally, try to get out of the tokyo region if you can. japan changes a lot and the countryside is worth experiencing. dont forget the onsens & have fun!

Answer 3

Usually if you are not rude, then there should be no problem, but that pertains to EVERYONE in any country.

I have never seen a Japanese only sign, but I have seen "no tattoos" signs at bathhouses.

Come to Japan and enjoy.

Answer 4

The only places that I know of that have Japanese only signs are near some U.S. military bases.