Word Association with “Japan” before arriving in Yokohama:
Yoshi from Super Mario, Sushi, Kobe Beef, Hideki Matsui, Hello Kitty, Harajuku Girls from Gwen Stefani, Cell Phone Accessories, Sumo Wrestling, Samurai, Geisha, Toyota
As one can see, my perception of Japanese life primarily revolved around food, cars, technology, and fashion. To a certain extent those notions were dead on. Japan was a whirlwind of hi-tech devices (my BlackBerry, an eighteen month old Curve, was not technologically advanced enough to function), intense fashion, and seafood dishes. On the surface the typical American tourist (Alex Pop being one of them) would revolve his or her stay around said associations. However after having now seen Japan I understand or at least think I understand more of what the country is all about.
Japan is an extraordinary country with deep history and cultural traditions. It is a place of respect, discipline, and determination. Looking back as little as fifteen years ago Japan was the face of Asia and an extremely developed world power. Though it is still at the forefront of global prominence, it has taken a backseat to China and developed some potentially fatal problems. Women are choosing professional careers over marriage- as a result the birth rate is majorly declining. If it continues Japan will not be able to replace its current workforce. It is also apparent after being in the country for five days that Japan’s general population is aging. These problems need to be resolved for Japan to regain its position as a world power.
Apart from those fact-based observations, I noticed a type of youth revolt. I would see numerous children dressed in school uniforms all over Japan. The idea of conformity is clearly present in the collectivist society, however it is being challenged. It was clear by walking in Shibuya that many teenagers and people in their young twenties are rebelling against that conformity. The loud styles, colors, shoes, and haircuts were not only wild but intense. It was unbelievable to go from seeing Japanese professionals in black suits and ties on the subway, trains or streets, to seeing the younger generation who blatantly sought independence through their outrageous outfits. It is hard for me to believe that the Japanese kids my age will ever conform to Japanese culture the way their parents did. Tradition and culture are being challenged.
Moving on from the societal observations about Japan it is time for me to share my story. I’ve decided the best way to present Japan to you from my eyes is to divide it up into blog posts based on cities: Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Kobe, rather than giving it to you all at once. The trip consisted of five days (February 9- February 13), four cities, countless subway/train rides, a lack of sleep and an amazing experience. I can only say that I hope my recollection of Japan gives my actual experience of it justice. I’ll do my best. By the way, notice the NELP backpack in the picture- who knew my Maine wilderness gear would come in handy again.
Also quick thanks to Myra, Miku, Max, and Abby for all providing me with itinerary and food advice. In a country where English really is not spoken, it was much appreciated.
Yoshi from Super Mario, Sushi, Kobe Beef, Hideki Matsui, Hello Kitty, Harajuku Girls from Gwen Stefani, Cell Phone Accessories, Sumo Wrestling, Samurai, Geisha, Toyota
As one can see, my perception of Japanese life primarily revolved around food, cars, technology, and fashion. To a certain extent those notions were dead on. Japan was a whirlwind of hi-tech devices (my BlackBerry, an eighteen month old Curve, was not technologically advanced enough to function), intense fashion, and seafood dishes. On the surface the typical American tourist (Alex Pop being one of them) would revolve his or her stay around said associations. However after having now seen Japan I understand or at least think I understand more of what the country is all about.
Japan is an extraordinary country with deep history and cultural traditions. It is a place of respect, discipline, and determination. Looking back as little as fifteen years ago Japan was the face of Asia and an extremely developed world power. Though it is still at the forefront of global prominence, it has taken a backseat to China and developed some potentially fatal problems. Women are choosing professional careers over marriage- as a result the birth rate is majorly declining. If it continues Japan will not be able to replace its current workforce. It is also apparent after being in the country for five days that Japan’s general population is aging. These problems need to be resolved for Japan to regain its position as a world power.
Apart from those fact-based observations, I noticed a type of youth revolt. I would see numerous children dressed in school uniforms all over Japan. The idea of conformity is clearly present in the collectivist society, however it is being challenged. It was clear by walking in Shibuya that many teenagers and people in their young twenties are rebelling against that conformity. The loud styles, colors, shoes, and haircuts were not only wild but intense. It was unbelievable to go from seeing Japanese professionals in black suits and ties on the subway, trains or streets, to seeing the younger generation who blatantly sought independence through their outrageous outfits. It is hard for me to believe that the Japanese kids my age will ever conform to Japanese culture the way their parents did. Tradition and culture are being challenged.
Moving on from the societal observations about Japan it is time for me to share my story. I’ve decided the best way to present Japan to you from my eyes is to divide it up into blog posts based on cities: Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Kobe, rather than giving it to you all at once. The trip consisted of five days (February 9- February 13), four cities, countless subway/train rides, a lack of sleep and an amazing experience. I can only say that I hope my recollection of Japan gives my actual experience of it justice. I’ll do my best. By the way, notice the NELP backpack in the picture- who knew my Maine wilderness gear would come in handy again.
Also quick thanks to Myra, Miku, Max, and Abby for all providing me with itinerary and food advice. In a country where English really is not spoken, it was much appreciated.
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