I'm an Australian high school girl. I'm going to Japan (probably around Tokyo) for the start of the next school year and I've heard that teenagers there are very judgmental. I'll be in the first year of senior high school. What do most school girls do at school? How do they act? How do they mutilate their uniform? How will I be treated? Enough questions for you? lol thankyou =)
2007-03-06 16:27:35 · 8 answers · asked by Anonymous in Travel ➔ Asia Pacific ➔ Japan
I don't want to be exactly the same as the Japanese, haha I know I'm going to be different.
Maybe I should have asked what shouldn't I do if I want to have friends?
Advice from anyone Japanese would be awesome =)
2007-03-06 16:53:38 · update #1
Japanese teens are very interested in fashion, but I don't think they are overly judgmental. You are Australian, a foreigner, so you will naturally stick out a little. Many people will be interested in you, because you are a foreigner, though. I think the best way to "fit in" is simply to learn Japanese. It is difficult to be a part of a group if you don't understand anything.
As far as uniform "mutilation" is concerned, I think that the best way to deal with that is to learn from your Japanese friends once you get there. The girls would probably think it was fun to make you "trendy" (kind of like giving you a makeover). A good bonding activity. lol.
I think it's important to keep in mind that the Japanese EXPECT you to be different, because you aren't Japanese. If you went there and acted just like everyone else, I think they'd be disappointed, because an Australian teen should be different than a Japanese teen. They will be interested in learning about these differences, so don't try to hide it! Sometimes being different helps you to fit in!
2007-03-06 16:41:32 · answer #1 · answered by Rabbityama 6 · 2⤊ 1⤋
Learn to speak japanese as well as possible. They will respect the fact that you took the time to learn to speak Japanese. Being a caucasian, they do not expect that from you. You will be more easily accepted into their groups. Beyond that, you're in high school enjoy it.
Hey, all teeangers are judgmental. That's part of growing up. Japanese can be very judgmental. I am a japanese american, they see my face and expect Japanese coming out of my mouth, the few words and phrases I can say, no problem. I actually, understand more than I can speak. You should see their faces when I speak english.
If you have to speak english, speak slowly or write it down. All japanese were taught the written english.
Good luck.
2007-03-07 02:05:09 · answer #2 · answered by gbdelta1954 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You cannot fit in as one of the Japanese kids,so don't even try.
Instead, try developing and offering your own talents to others.
Most people love to learn about other culture and interesting ideas that they've never encountered.
Take some things about yourself that make you uniquely yourself and uniquely Aussie and then make friends by sharing those things. Also be willing to learn from your new classmates.
I envy you this great opportunity to go and study in another country.
Good luck & have fun!
2007-03-06 16:37:59 · answer #3 · answered by Croa 6 · 2⤊ 0⤋
I would just act as yourself but accept,respect and partake in their customs. You will be repsected for respecting their culture. Being yourself will allow them to see/feel your culture and believe me they will be interested. Maybe introducing them to some of your music or fashion may get you more accepted for sharing.
Don't believe everything you hear about Japan, there are a lot of myths. Most people that do have a bad time there are inflexable, arrogant and probably wouldn't be happy anywhere.
Good luck, hope you have a great time!
2007-03-06 17:15:33 · answer #4 · answered by Burado 2 · 4⤊ 0⤋
Just try to be yourself and try to be kind to others as you would in your own country.
Try not to object to things just because they are different from what you're used to. Try to think why they are they way they are, then ask questions if necessary, not the other way around.
You will not be the same as everybody else; nobody is, and you'll stick out because you're not Japanse. But that can work to your advantage, too. Don't worry too much & enjoy your stay!
2007-03-07 01:24:20 · answer #5 · answered by flemmingbee2 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
pretend like Japanese teenager
2007-03-07 05:54:21 · answer #6 · answered by Devil Driver 3 · 0⤊ 3⤋
jus try to act cute. even though u r not. dress crazily. like u are from Mars. ya. and bow wherever u go, even if u have to knock against something :)
2007-03-06 16:36:11 · answer #7 · answered by sylll 3 · 0⤊ 5⤋
just be polite to everyone
2007-03-06 20:34:44 · answer #8 · answered by anderson 6 · 1⤊ 1⤋