Whats japan Like?

Question

I want to go to japan some day and hopefully I will.
But if you've ever been there tell me what it was like are whatever.

Answer 1

I think Japan is amazing. I could spend a lot of time on each city, but I'd rather focus on the country as a whole. It's true that the country is very safe. One can't really know how wonderful that feeling is until you are there. Seriously, you won't find a place in Japan that is not safe. The crime rate is extremely low, and the fact that people don't have guns is also more comforting. The crime that occurs is usually civil, so I guess that wouldn't even be considered a crime because that's not 'criminal'? Yeah, I guess what I mean is the stuff that happens are scandals and what not.

The feeling of the bustle of city life is very unique. Any major city will give you that impression. I won't lie and say it's not crowded, but I will say that is very manageable. I thought the crowds would be overwhelming, but unless you're in a Tokyo subway at rush hour, you won't have to deal with that. Harajuku in Tokyo was the most crowded part of my Japan trip, and even that wasn't so bad. I went to a high school with 2000 students for four years, so I know what crowded feels like. I don't know; never bothered me-just part of the experience.

I think going to Japan after acknowledging these things makes the trip much easier. If you accept the things you hear, it won't be a shock. For example, I expected the crowds, the language barrier (which wasn't too bad since I speak, read and write Japanese) and the summer heat, so they were all fine. But here are two things I found out quickly that were a bit surprising to me, though they are a reasonably understandable part of their culture.

1. Smoking-I think I read that 46% of adult males (20 and over) in Japan smoke. That's quite evident. They have fairly loose laws on smoking. There are some obvious places you wouldn't expect smoking, like trains and many stores, but they certainly could care less otherwise.

2. Pornography-At my second hotel, I opened up my guide to find an ad for certain channels that you could order there. Let's just say that the ad didn't leave anything to the imagination. I was flipping through it so casually, that I really was surprised. It didn't take me long to figure out that every store had it, and most without anything covering it. You are supposed to be 18 or so, but like smoking, they could care less who they sell it to.

That's about it, though. Once you acknowledge that you'll be encountering that stuff, it's not a big deal at all. And with that said, it should be noted that Japan has some of the most beautiful places you could visit. I personally think Kyoto had the most to offer in that regard. I went to Kiyomizudera, Heian Jingu (shrine) and Kinkakuji (golden pavilion) to name a few. Nijo Castle is also a must. The history is very intriguing. What I found really great about these places is that they all serve a place in Japanese history. Fortunately, they have been preserved and maintained so well, and without modern exaggeration. These places also cost little to nothing to go to, so it is worth the trip.

Hmm, what else? Their transportation is very well organized. No need for a rental car. Just use the local trains to get to where you want. Inner cities also offer subways and buses. Many people suggest avoiding taxis. I would have to agree with that, unless you have a grasp on the language and are willing to spend some cash. Actually, yeah, for that reason, I wouldn't take a taxi unless you have three other people to split the cost, like I did. I never had a problem speaking with them, and I used a taxi three times in Kyoto. They all spoke little English, but enough to get by (obviously, my hotel/destinations were Japanese, so that part is all they really needed to know). Maybe I was lucky.

And with that, I would highly suggest studying Japanese. However, with a strong will to learn, you will find that simply going to Japan for a year or two will make you more proficient that someone like me with only a four-year high school Japanese education. That's saying a lot. I know two people, one who went for two years, and one for one year, and they both speak better than I do. They went there with no knowledge, and came back with more knowledge than me. So, really consider that if you can find a way

I hope you've found some helpful info amidst all my talking. Obviously, I love Japan and Japanese, so I tend to write a lot about it when asked. Do your best, and I hope you get to go to Japan someday, too!

Answer 2

I've just returned back from Japan. Japan is such a cool wonderland. Japan is the most advanced country I ever been to. I've a lot of memories there. I miss all my Japanese friends very much. I really wish to go there again.
Well Japanese are known for their good attitude, I absolutely agree this. Moreoever, Japan do have a very good weather. It is also a clean country. It is a safe place to stay because there's less criminal case happen there. Such a peaceful country. ^^ You should check it out the illumination in Japan. It is very beautiful in Japan during the Christmas Day.
Good luck for you.

Answer 3

I lived there for 3 1/2 years. Now that I am home, I realize how much I miss Japan. The people there are so curteous and friendly and willing to help regardless whether or not they know english. Food is great. Depends on where in Japan you would like to visit. I lived in Northern Japan, but did some traveling throughout Tokyo district areas. Places to see/do, Roppongi (nights out), Shibuya (shopping), Mt. Fuji (hiking), Sappora, Japanese festivals, Harajuku (famous for gothic Japaneses teenagers) and their ski resorts through out the country. I loved it!!! Especially during snowboarding season. I highly recommend visiting there. However, it is very expensive.

Hope this helps.

Answer 4

I've spent a significant amount of time in Tokyo, so I can comment on the city, but probably not Japan as a whole country....personally, I *loved* Tokyo. The people are *very* friendly and accomodating and there is SO much to do. Their english isn't the best (say, compared to many european nations) (my theory is that it's because they're a relatively rich and developed nation and don't really need english to be successful, they can be "independently" successful) Anyway---despite the lack of english in many shops and restaurants, lots of smiling, hand gesturing and pointing usually sorts the issue out. The subway system is expansive (it can be a little confusing, so study the colours of the lines carefully...) and it's very easy to get to where you're going using a subway pre-paid card that you just swipe at the entrance and exit gates. The hotel staff where I stayed were very helpful, and you can usually sort out travel questions etc. with them in the comfort of their english friendly lobby. Also, there are so many different "regions" of Tokyo, with so much to do. Shibuya is huge and bright and full of life, for example. Other areas are full of department store shopping, others stand alone shops, others slightly more spacious and "upscale" etc. etc. etc.
It really is hard to capture a description of the city, let alone the whole country, in a few words--it really is so varied that there is bound to be something for everyone to enjoy.

Answer 5

My husband and I went five years ago for our 10th anniversary and loved it. We really overdid it for a 7 day trip- Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Hiroshima & Miyajima island. Very sore feet, got lost several times, too many stairs! everywhere for typical American couch potatos- but still enjoyed ourselves greatly and are planning to return this year.
Tips: research ahead of time what you want to go/do/see, make reservations online, and print out or buy whatever maps and guides you need. Don't count on finding any there in English!
*Leave yourself some flexible down-time in case you get tired or want to take extra time with something. Also to be able to explore those little niche finds you will run across that aren't in any plans- one little shrine was lit up in the dark, in a misty rain, and was unforgettably beautiful- but we never found out what it was called. You will find treasures like this too.
*As another poster said, the people there are more honest (in general) than you expect. Bicycles unlocked- strangers showing us the way in an unfamiliar neighborhood- a genuine spirit of kindness in the big city. There are exceptions- we were stranded for a while after hours in a backwater town and one bus driver refused to take us on- but the next driver went out of his way to get us where we needed to go.
*Some basic japanese is helpful, but we got by with about 10 words most of the time- please, thank you, where (is it?), sorry... you get the idea.
*Any place with a different language and culture is going to be a challenge sometimes. Keep in mind that this is an adventure you are choosing to go on, and any difficulties will fall back into perspective.
*Get in shape, wear good shoes, and pack light! Enjoy!

Answer 6

there is 0 crime. you could leave your wallet on street it would still be there after a week. Some small few do not like amercans, but most love amercans. you will not run into the same person there. because there are so many people. They have the newest electronics in the world. America has to wait three years before they get new stuff. toyko has 400 dance clubs. they have beautiful mt. fujii i climbed it. if you climb mt don't forget to ring the bell at the top like i did. ok don't want to spoil it for ya.

Answer 7

Don't listen to all those people who say "They don't like Americans". They've never been to Japan, and it doesn't sound like they've researched Japan! The Japanese are very friendly to foreigners. SOME will be shy around foreigners, because many foreigners cannot speak Japanese, so they become nervous that they will have to speak English. They will be very patient and try to help you whenever they can!

Japan is a very modern country, but still manages to hold on to its culture.

Answer 8

I'm Japanese .
what I can say is.. don't think Japan is a part of Asia.
The location belong to Asia but about politic, environment , culture are totally difference with other Asia country( Japan ain't look like Taiwan such as poor country)

Answer 9

i've nevr been there but i'll tell you anyway. It's modern, all the comforts of home. Pound for pound wealthier than America. They don't love americans the way some places do, some may even hold some resentment. Sumo shows look interesting tickets may be expensive and you may need to pre order.

Answer 10

Don't know, not curious, only a superficially academic understanding. Best way is the net. Also click on ' Images ' in the search window on the homepage and scroll your little life away.