Unexpected Encounters and Cultural Insights in Japan

Traveling in Japan can be a fascinating experience, but it also offers unexpected encounters that can be both enlightening and amusing. In this article, we will explore several of these encounters and how they provide valuable cultural insights.

Dealing with Racism in Public

During a trip to Japan, a young man was being quite racist about me and my family while we were on the underground train. He used derogatory phrases such as, "Why don't those monkeys go back to where they come from." Little did he know, I understood every word he was saying. I took a bold step by sitting next to him, putting my arm around him, and asking if he had something to say in Japanese. I didn't plan to intimidate him but, at that moment, he needed a lesson.

I addressed him firmly, asking if he felt comfortable when foreigners treated him with the same disrespect. I shared a personal experience, saying, 'If the roles were reversed, and I was doing this to you, you would hide and get scared and curse us all. ' I continued, 'Lucky for you, most people in this country have been nice to me, so I will let this go just once. Pray I never see you again.' The man immediately apologized, and I let the matter drop after the tram reached my stop.

A Misunderstanding About the Title "Sensei"

While teaching English in Tokyo, one of my Japanese students introduced me to her brother using the Japanese word for teacher, which is "sensei." My student's brother responded with, "Sensei jania teacher!" This response surprised me as I was under the impression that "sensei" indicated a high level of expertise or a master in a certain field. It was a valuable lesson in the cultural meanings behind words.

Personal Experiences in Public Restrooms

One of the most eye-opening experiences in Japan occurred in a men's restroom. As I was using one of the stalls, I heard two cleaning women, both female, discussing various job tips. Initially, I was relieved, as I did not understand Japanese enough to worry. However, the conversation took an unexpected turn. The younger coworker asked an uncomfortable question about seeing male customers. The older lady responded with, 'You see tons of them, big and small. You'll get used to it in no time.' As they continued talking, I left the restroom feeling a bit shy but found it insightful to see that these cleaning women, like anyone else, engage in natural conversations about their work.

The experience highlighted the fact that even in seemingly mundane spaces like restrooms, there are often interesting and revealing conversations happening in the background. It is a reminder that local customs and ways of communication can be as varied and interesting as the culture itself.

These encounters serve as a testament to the rich tapestry of cultural experiences available in Japan. Whether it is dealing with racism, misunderstandings in titles, or the conversations in a restroom, there is always something to learn and appreciate from these unexpected interactions.