Society & Culture
Insights into Japanese society and culture from a foreign perspective, including social norms, values, and unspoken rules. This category explores how cultural differences affect everyday interactions and long-term life in Japan.
Japan’s 2026 Election: Why Your Future in Japan is on the Ballot (Even if You Can’t Vote)
Kyoto’s “Polite” Trap: When a Smile Means “Get Out”
The “Zero Racism” Myth: The Silent Reality of Discrimination in Japan & How to Cope
Have you ever seen the Reddit threads titled “Japan Zero Racism” attached to a photo of a “Japanese Only” sign? It’s a bitter piece of irony that circulates the internet every few months. Many foreigners arrive in Japan with stars in their eyes. They hear about Omotenashi (hospitality), the low crime rate, and the politeness […]
Why is it So Hard to Make Friends in Japan?
You live in Tokyo, a metropolis of 14 million people. You are surrounded by crowds on the train, in the streets, and at work. Yet, you find yourself eating dinner alone, scrolling through social media, wondering why it feels so isolating. If you are feeling this “social isolation,” let me tell you two things immediately: […]
