Japan has its own distinct culture that may be difficult for outsiders to navigate. Certain aspects of Japanese society take time for expats to adapt to, such as bowing as a form of greeting or working long hours.
Be open-minded towards Japan’s cultural differences; rather than resist them, embrace them and your life will become richer and more enjoyable.
1. Language Barrier
Japan is a beloved travel destination with incredible castles and other sites that draws in millions of visitors each year, captivating and surprising foreign visitors with its fascinating culture while sometimes overwhelming them with its strict laws, work ethic and religious beliefs. For some foreigners however, Japan can be daunting and intimidating at first.
Strong language abilities will significantly lessen feelings of disorientation and alienation during your move to Tokyo, so consider enrolling in a language school before arriving or making use of technology apps such as those which translate and teach new languages, text-to-speech technology and voice recognition software as powerful ways of improving your abilities in communicating in another country.
Keep in mind that culture shock is an inevitable part of integrating into a new country, so while it’s normal to miss home at times, make sure to enjoy all that Japan has to offer. An open mind and attitude will make the transition much smoother.
2. Social Barrier
One element of culture shock for some can include adapting to Japan’s social norms and beliefs, particularly its strict code of behavior – for instance never showing emotions publicly and emphasizing work ethic – making life in Japan challenging at first. Foreigners find this especially challenging.
Foreigners unfamiliar with Japan may find some practices such as bowing to each other when greeting each other and taking off shoes before entering homes, buildings and rooms unfamiliar to them to be shocking and unfamiliar. It’s also important to keep in mind that those of color can feel isolated due to racial discrimination still prevalent within its borders.
There are ways to overcome this feeling of isolation. Joining community activities can help lessen feelings of alienation while learning more about aspects of Japanese culture which might otherwise seem foreign or confusing.
3. Isolation
Expats living in Japan may experience social isolation for various reasons. Housing and employment can be denied based on nationality or skin color; those who lack confidence to express themselves may find their sense of alienation compounded further.
Finding local friends is often necessary for expatriates settling into Japanese culture. Apps like Bumble can assist individuals looking for new connections in Japan; getting involved in activities you enjoy is another great way to meet locals who share both joys and challenges of living there.
Be patient and enjoy your stay in Japan – culture shock will pass eventually! Don’t forget to keep in contact with family back home so they know how you are faring and always remember it is okay if something doesn’t feel right – leaving is always an option when things don’t feel right for you!
4. Change
An unfamiliar culture takes time and effort to adapt to. Many newcomers can be uncomfortable adjusting to Japan’s customs and social/ethical standards when trying to fit in, which can be extremely frustrating and emotional for expats trying to adapt.
Over time, however, frustration and loneliness will start to subside. How quickly this happens may depend on your personality and how sensitively affected by changes. People who tend to be more emotional may take longer for this process to complete itself while those more flexible are likely to adapt quicker.
Cultural shock is something nearly everyone experiences while traveling or living in another country, offering new insights into life around you. While certain experiences might cause culture shock immediately – packed trains or futuristic toilets being prime examples – other incidents may take longer to manifest and can even be more subtle in nature.
