Connecting with Japan’s Culture

One of the things I connect with most in Japan is the food culture. People here take so much pride in their work, whether it’s a sushi chef perfecting each cut, a ramen shop owner spending years fine-tuning their broth, or a bakery shaping bread with care. I really admire that dedication to craftsmanship, and it makes me want to put the same effort into what I do. I also love how polite and considerate people are. There’s a calm, respectful atmosphere in public spaces that I’ve grown to appreciate. And the cleanliness here is next-level, the streets are spotless, and even public bathrooms in busy train stations are well-maintained. Plus, I’ve always enjoyed anime and manga, so seeing how much pop culture is embraced here feels exciting and familiar.

What Parts of Japan’s “Deep Culture” I Find Most Challenging

While I’ve connected with a lot of Japan’s culture, there are parts of its “deep culture” that have been harder to adjust to. One big challenge is the unspoken “no talking” rule on public transportation. It’s not posted anywhere, but it’s something everyone just knows. I found this out the hard way on my way to campus. My classmate and I were chatting about class, and someone nearby put their finger to their lips to shush us. They weren’t rude, but it definitely made me feel awkward and aware that I’d stepped outside the norm. Another challenge is the lack of public trash cans. In Japan, you’re expected to hold onto your trash until you get home. It makes sense for keeping the streets clean, but it can be inconvenient if you’ve been out all day. Lastly, I’ve had to adjust to how openly adult content is displayed in public. It’s far more casual and visible here than in the U.S., and that’s been a big cultural shift for me.

How I’m Navigating Cross-Cultural Situations and How It’s Impacting Me

When I’m in an unfamiliar situation, my go-to strategy is to watch what locals are doing and follow their lead. Whether it’s how to line up for the train or how to act in a certain public space, observing first helps me avoid unintentionally breaking cultural norms. These interactions with locals and other program participants have made me more aware of my surroundings and more mindful of my actions. I’ve learned to be quieter in certain settings, more respectful of shared spaces, and more considerate in general. Living here has shaped me into a more patient and thoughtful person, and I know I’ll carry those habits back to the United States.