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I understand the cringe factor of watching yourself, especially in the early days with less production value. But I have very fond memories of discovering your channel and watching these early videos and being excited to see Japan through your experiences. So no shame, Chris!
I actually remember watching this video back in the day. My close friend had just married a japanese girl and they were moving to Japan. So i started searching for youtube videos on how life was for westerners in Japan, and I came across your channel. Been a fan of your channel ever since. And the content has only gotten better and better through the years.
I realize this is an older video of an older video, but seeing how you went from being very homesick and struggling to where you are now has been super helpful for someone who just moved to a new country far from home also. Thank you for your videos!
Don't be so hard on yourself Chris! As a long time subscriber, there was something weirdly charming and comforting about that video. I can't really explain it, but it felt like a mate was explaining how things worked in Japan. Really great video even if you aren't too happy about it. Thanks you Chris sama for the great content over the years! Cheers from Quebec.
Haha, it's not really sense of humour, I'm kinda the same, lived on mostly take aways for nearly a decade while I lived in Ireland lol, now covid forced me to move to very remote part of Norway so I'm forced to cook, tho it's mostly frozen ready meals like pasta and stuff, and yeah, I'm in my 30s 🤣🤣🤣
@@REALRyanCorrado That's why it's good though, "it's funny because it's true". I've lived in Ireland my whole life so this kind of self-deprecative yet slightly sarcastic humour is very familiar to me.
@@retsuza Yeah, well in countries like UK and Ireland, you kinda have to find humour where possible, when it's pissing outside, it's almost instinct to say "ahh wow, lovely weather we got here" it just comes naturally 🤣
To be honest, this is one of my favorite videos of yours. The original, I mean. Whenever I get fed up with Japan, I come back to that video and try to remember the times that everything felt new and fresh. Don't ever delete it! Cheers from Sapporo.
Chris, even though 10 years have gone by you're still the same creative and hilarious person as the guy in that green shirt. Thanks for not letting UA-cam change you.
I'm currently living alone for the first time ever. Its really lonely, not having anyone to come home to, but i do put on things to brighten my day. I come home to you, Chris. And you help me through. Thank you.
That layer of tissue paper is what's left from I'm going to make a wild guess and say was an anime girl cutout glued to the mirror. The paper would have left behind a thin layer of paper on the glue when they attempted to take down. Good to know the knowledge I gained from all those times I had to remove things that were glued down by the kids I taught as a preschool teacher paid off by me being able to tell you something you probably don't care about. lol
Honestly Chris's main channel may not be very big compared to other channels in the million subscriber league but I think he is the GOAT. With every high quality video that is released on the main channel or second channel, I am excited to click on in immediately and its never a let down. I will glorify Chris for eternity.
You're way too hard on yourself Chris. The video is charming and actually pretty fun for your very first one. It's easy to look back with the benefit of experience but don't hate 2012 you, you'd not be where you are today without him 😉
I think it was a tad bit of tongue in cheek comentary. I feel a bit like Chris nowadays (I am still considerably young though 22) and when I look back to my highschool days I feel like that guy is someone else i don't know. The years had been a bit though on me. I don't exactly know why do I am telling you this internet stranger but well I like Chris' channel and I am not quite sure if I'd be still around if it wasn't for his videos. Well Merry Christmas!
Man UA-cam really is a time machine, from Chris back then being unsure what he was doing these videos for to now having his own Blade Runner Ramen Shop in Japan is true character development
I actually have a special little connection with that video as it was the first video I saw of yours, which was about 3 months after you uploaded it and stayed since then, growing my interest to go to Japan and making it seemingly in reaching distance. I knew I wanted to teach and just be there, in Japan teaching English from years of culture exposure through media but I never knew how to "try" and do it if that makes sense? it's how i found out about the JET Programme was through your videos! it took me years of trial and error of UK colleges and university to get the all approving degree that JET wants and I aim to apply when Visa's open up again and the JET programme is available. A big part of my hunger to go there is through the very videos you make and show to the world and it made Japan not 5'700 miles away culturally but only in distance.
@@20Ix from my pamphlets it says that a graduation from any field is a minimum requirement but it's competitive so you have to be very active outside of just having a degree
@@20Ix Any degree. They don't care about what you studied; they just require you have a bachelor's degree. All they want to determine is are you capable of teaching? Are you adaptable? Open minded? They don't want to invest time and money into people who, once they get there, will experience culture shock and homesickness and then decide to go back.
@Ethan S yeah but iirc the experience isn't so heavy grammatically as an ALTeacher, you are partnered with a teacher who focuses on grammar. It's almost like a cultural delegate, making lesson plans surrounding that of native western culture activities and customs. But i'm just recalling information from JET guides and Chris' videos from way back :D
I feel such a connection to this channel. 11 years ago I also moved to Japan and I too made the obligatory ‘look at my tiny apartment video’. I watched your early videos while I still lived there. But I came back and you stayed. Im always curious how my life would be had I not come back after a couple of years.
Why did you go back? Also your comment feels really nostalgic to me - because I think I also get this feeling of “I wonder how my life would have been if I had done X instead” almost like an alternate life I never had
This video hurts my stomach. I miss Japan so much, it freakin hurts. I was weirded out the first few days sleeping on a futon, but ended up LOVING it. My husband and I both loved it so much, that for an entire year after we came back to the States, we slept on a futon in our apartment lol. It's funny, because Japan truly is a caricature of itself. Beautiful scenery, crazy tv, amazing food, insane fashion at Takeshita Dori, gorgeous temples, anime ice cream bars, konbini every 100m, it really DOES feel like you are living in a movie. If someone asked me to list every single thing I miss/love about Japan, the list would be endless.
Hey! Sorry for responding so late on your comment, but could you tell me some places to visit in Tokyo? How did you find getting around? Train is best? I'm visiting in October (pending covid) from Canada, so I'd love to hear any tips. Thank you!!! Cheers!
@@thetinypotatobun no problem!!! Yes, the public transit in Tokyo(well, ALL of Japan, really) is absolutely stellar. Are you just staying in Tokyo, or are you planning on using Shinkansen to go to other cities? If you are city hopping I DEFINITELY recommend the JR pass. It's a few hundred dollars, but VERY WORTH IT if you are going to be taking the Shinkansen more than a few times. Otherwise, if you are sticking around Tokyo, I just recommend a Suica pass, you just get the card, load it up with however much Yen you want, and swipe it at each station. And the trains are super easy to navigate, too, and Japanese people are so incredibly friendly and hospitable, more than a few occasions someone would politely offer to help us find which train we need to take(seriously, Japanese people are some of the MOST welcoming and generous people we have ever met). I know there is an app(I forget what it is called) that translates signage and pretty much any kanji/kana/katakana into English(or whichever language you prefer) just using your phone's camera, it REALLY helped us. As far as places in Tokyo, definitely head to the south end of Yoyogi Park at two pm on Sundays, you will find the greasers there, awesome dudes. Takeshita Dori is a must, Odaiba is awesome. Also Akihabara. If you like kebab, check out Akiba style in Akihabara(hopefully they are still there. Absolutely deeeeelicious kebab. Also gotta try shabu shabu, there is a restaurant called Nabezo that is fantastic. I might think of a few other things!
Even though Chris hate reaction type of video, he certainly know how to make a good reaction video. No screaming at the camera and fake enthusiast, only pure commentary and genuine reaction.
Nothing to cringe about Chris - it's actually pretty charming to see where you started. You were young, brave and this was the start of what has become one of my favourite ever UA-cam channels. Thanks!
Wow what a journey! It’s hilarious that Chris can’t recognise the sheer brilliance of the no-frills production, it is a style that has become a rare delicacy these days!!!! But perhaps more hilarious is that despite him and his approach to production changing in many many ways, the things he says embarrass him the most are things that have changed the least! “If that doesn’t excite you nothing will” could be a quote from literally any of his vids aha
I genuinely don't know how long I've been following you on youtube, but I'd say about 6-7 years. Maybe more. Genuinely consistently been one of my favourite youtubers, always bring a smile to my face 😊 You absolutely deserve all the subscribers you have, you're a pleasure to watch 😁
How far you've come Chris. From sarcastic British guy in a tiny appartment to sarcastic British guy in a ramen shop. Bet in ten years they'll find a sarcastic British guy somewhere in a mansion or something.
The moment chris said "when u get homesick put smth funny " i laughed hard bc i am watching his videos for that. I am away from my family for the first time in life, for college, in a really big city and bc of this period i can t even hang out with friends or make friends. So shortly thanks chris, your videos help a lot!
As someone who just started living without roommates a year ago I totally understand the whole “feeling sad” when someone isn’t there to wake you up thing. It is a rather weird experience
@chris broad About the tissue paper on mirror: a girl used to own this mirror who used the tissue paper to draw an outline of herself in her ideal posture. This way every morning she can look at herself in the mirror and immediately see whether she gained or lost weight, and if so which areas of the body were impacted.
I'm truly impressed by the commitment it took when you first moved to Japan, I'm 23 from the UK and the thought of moving to another country alone scares the crap outta me and I don't think any amount of Rodney and Del Boy could probably fix that.
Well, it helps a lot when you're doing it as part of a government program that holds your hand the entire way. I'd be more worried about trying to just visit another country on my own than I would be moving to it permanently lol.
I never really thought about it but I guess living alone can feel different to other people. First time I lived alone I felt like I was on cloud nine for weeks. Maybe it was the growing up with family of 8, but having my own space with no room mates just felt so relaxing. Never having the that freedom or responsibility before just felt so refreshing. I thought bit hard on self because for a first video was still very entertaining and could potential of being a entertainer.
I remember discovering your Kanji Video filmed in this very apartment and watching it when I was 13 YEARS OLD isn't that completely insane, since then I have been watching your Channel. Now at this very day, I am 21 Years old, I basically grew up with this channel. It's mental to think how long ago this actually was, thanks for all the amazing content over all these years, from one Chris to the other.
Seeing this is actually super inspirational though. Recently moving to Japan and starting my own channel, my presentation skills are about at equal level as your original, and I just keep thinking “ah maybe I’m just incapable of being an enjoyable person” but now watching this I can see that I can at least be mildly enjoyable eventually! All jokes aside, been a fan for years and appreciate the content and growth and always looking forward to the next video!
You can do it, Sam! Just think, in a few years time, how much you have improved on your skills and experienced by living in Japan. Maybe one of these days, we will see you sharing a drink with Chris
hey keep going, i saw a few videos of yours and I liked especially the one in Nikko. your skill in photography also helps you when it comes to making yt videos :)
Disregarding my previous silly comment, this was incredible fun, Chris. So cool to see how far you've come! Living for your 12 Days of Christmas series and can't wait to see where it takes us next!
Awww it’s crazy to see this because I found the channel when I think there was only a handful of videos so it’s surreal to see how much Chris has grown as not only a director/presenter but as a person. Also makes me cringe to see how much I’ve also changed in the same time span 😂 watching someone for so long you get a weird sense of like maturing with them even though you’ve never actually met. I feel like a lot of people feel the same way with Abroad in Japan and other UA-camrs who they have followed for years.
Somehow when you opened that sliding door and the sound of Japanese summer (aka crickets) came through, it took me back to when I first started living alone in Japan too. Super nostalgic 😁And I did the same thing! Decorated my balcony similarly, never used it ahaha
Duuude don't call it cringe it's so enjoyable honestly I've watched it several times (as with almost all your videos) Used to be a pateron too but sadly can't afford it as I'm a master's degree student atm Please keep going with the content, honestly the best youtuber covering Japan out there no doubt!!!
Everyone is their own harshest critic, you know the insecurities you have and had far more than anyone and know exactly what to look for to worry. Everyone always thinks people notice things far more than they actually do.
I respect the hell out of you for never ever getting a sponsor for your videos. That level of not selling out really shows your loyalty to your fans and more importantly your own high standards. Cheers to you chris
I love how this 12 days of chrismas is letting you make a lot of videos you'd otherwise never make while also making content people are interested in seeing.
I could really relate to your first video! I’m the same age as you, and I moved abroad as well at the exact same time and also been here for about 9.5 years now. Seeing your growth story in a foreign country, and now watching you ‘review’ your first video when you had just arrived, brings me back to my own past in 2012 when I was in the same situation! Always see the journey you’ve gone through and like you said, if you met your 2012 self now it would be hard for him to believe how much one can experience/learn/grow/succeed in less than a decade :) kudos!
No, it's because he's new and he keep expecting that he's more likely to run into a new thing instead of what he is familiar with. That's why he is cautious and some remarks seems redundant or overcomplicated. It happens to me whenever I start somewhere new, everything I see I think of it as a new input, sometimes even excessively so...
You know, this video and your colab with Ryan where you guys talk about teaching English in Japan, was the reason I decided to get a job in Japan. I still believe it was the best decision of my life. Thank you.
You've certainly taken a bullet for those of us not brave enough to record our growth! Loving the content as always, looking forward to your future and best of luck. I wish I could grow the way you have!
Oh, this is so nostalgic. The 上を向いて歩こう song, the scenery, the simplicity... great first video. It probably wasn't the first video I ever watched on your channel (I wish I remembered which one it was exactly and how I found it, but it's quite some time ago...) but fell in love with the channel right away and watched all the videos that were available, and I still like going back to your earlier videos once in a while. Your channel now is fantastic to say the least, but I sometimes like re-watching the simple old videos, too. Driving in Japan, your weight loss challenge and walks, your Kanji lessons etc., I have fond memories from all these videos. The scenery there in Yamagata was great. I really want to take a walk there someday, too. Anyways, thanks for all the wonderful videos over all these years. From your _Japanese Apartment after Arriving in Japan_ to _Like a magic_ to _Journey Across Japan,_ it was great, and I'm looking forward to more. Thanks for everything, Chris :)
My roommate back at highschool introduced me to Chris through this video, now I'm doing my PhD. It's astonishing to see how much Chris has improved in terms of editting and presentation, yet he is very much the same sarcastic Brit from all those years ago. Never change Chris!
I remember when I first watched this video in an internet café in Syria when it first got posted. From then my love for Japan grew and I followed your journey. Hopefully I'll be able to work and live in Japan one day too. Thx for the memories .
I like to imagine that you'd go back in time and tell your younger self he's gonna have his own ramen shop, and your younger self would take it literally, give up on teaching, give up on youtube, and start training full time to become a cook.
We all start somewhere, and no matter how cringy, how embarrassing, how humble the beginning of the AIJ YT channel was it was also the start of something amazing! I can say that it made, and still makes, my life better. So thank you Chris! :)
It seems you've always been a great entertainer Chris! Sure you've improved a lot, but you had many of the important things we like about you even back then it seems! Here's to many more decades of Abroad in Japan!
Chris you have really developed very strongly. I mean look at you! Not only the videos but also the charisma, the way you perform. It's really amazing how almost a decade has been captured on UA-cam. Keep up the good work! Greetings from Berlin /Germany!
I started living alone for the first time this year, so I really appreciate the advice about watching comedies. And this video just so happens to be one!
First CDawg uploads with Chris then Chris just gives us more delicious content a few hours later! Now that's service! Also, Chris' opinion of the Drip jacket is legendary and will go down in history!
That first video introduced me to you as a person and made me love your videos. The hawk, the sarcasm, the tax joke and the sukiyaki song all give me major nostalgia vibes. You've come really far and it's great seeing how you've settled and how you're doing what you love in a foreign country (which is not an easy thing to do). Def looking forward to many more of your videos!
Been watching you for a few years now and you've inspired me to want to travel and live in Japan. Got accepted into the JET program and now I'm flying out there in Jan. 2022. Thanks for being a significant part of my life and helping to start a new chapter in my story. Cheers!
Hi Chris 👋 Just wanted to say thanks for the random note of wisdom at 12:40 (about watching comedy shows). I lost my grandma earlier in the month and was having a hard time lifting my spirits during what’s supposed to be the happiest time of year. On a whim I loaded up some of my favorite comedies and it instantly helped. Stay awesome and happy New Years!
Oh hey we got another cameo in our reaction to Abroad in Japan! YT is definitely rather inconsistent in the copyright realm…great video to reminisce on how far you’ve grown! Sarcasm transcends space and time!!
I arrived the UK for my PhD study in September 2012. I found your channel and it give me a feeling like we share an adventure living abroad. I have been watching all your videos since.
I took a drink every time I saw Chris take a drink, even during the christmas post credit, it was genuinely much more entertaining this way, ty Chris you're an absolute genius
I honestly found it interesting to see your oldest video. It's a good retrospective on how far you've come from those days. A lot of improvement has been done over the years. Keep up the good work, Chris! :D
I really have a lot of respect for you Chris. It’s amazing how despite your angst and insecurities you still pulled trough and lived up to your goal! I am so glad you did. I love your content. Have a great weekend Chris.
The copyright issue really resonated with me since at one point I had over 100 videos with me doing Japanese cover song until the copyright claims rained down upon me.. I started watching your videos around 8 years ago and genuinely can't believe or don't want to believe that it's been that long ago... Keep being you and stay healthy! :)
I enjoyed this video alot! It's always nice to take a look back on how much someone changes in their own life especially if you progress in a positive way. I think most of us cringe at ourselves whenever we look back on things we did or said back then. This video made me go look back on past videos and photos of my life and laugh my ass off so I thank you for that Chris! CHEERS!
Chris: "Let's cringe at my first video!" Also Chris: *actually agrees with everything past!Chris said* And much the style is still the same, really. Just Chris' way of talking. The "xyz, BUT..:" or the sad aside ("alone.... oh. alone."). And let's be honest, Chris, you still do that "unenthusiastic British sarcasm" thing, just a bit more... sophisticated.
Lol, just in October, I was doing an Abroad in Japan marathon, where I watched your videos back from the beginning to the latest. It was amazing, watching how you evolved in your editing and presentation but still retain that sharp British wit. And it's nice to see your thoughts and comments here.
I remember watching this video years ago. Even though it was awkward believe it or not Chris your personality shines through and has kept me watching ever since. Don’t doubt yourself keep it up. Always good watching. 👍🏻
Well, no one argue that you haven't come far, Chris. I'm proud of what you have been able to achieve over the years and my admiration for content continues to grow.
NOTIFICATION SQUAD: Let us never speak of reaction videos again.
🎄Subscribe to the Chris Abroad channel & Don't Miss the 12 Days of Chrismas!
🐈And in case you missed the previous episode: ua-cam.com/video/eZUo1lqXchI/v-deo.html
I don't have notifications, I just know when people upload. It's a skill you pick up when you've been watching for 12 years.
@Doki Oke he mentioned that he made videos for family and friends back home, he did not really expect his channel to blow up.
So how's your sleeping pattern look like Chris
I still love this video and your attitude. Pure content.
Ive watched two different men, in different timespace fields, doing stuff. Now I'm confused.
Chris : I'll drink when I cringe at my old self.
Also Chris : Just drinks the whole time.
He's lucky it was only a small one too.
He need to stay hydrated. Drink enough "water" guys!
It’s hard not to cringe the entire time when watching yourself.
@@IndicatedGoodLife I’m out of water can someone recommend some I should try?
Its just water
"I felt like I was living in a movie or something," says Chris, as he sits in his own personal movie set.
I love the way he just made the version of Japan he wanted
😂
Young Chris shows that there was always a middle aged man trapped inside him.
... And now at the age of 31 Chris has totally released his geriatric inner beast 🧓
Chris was born a boomer.
Ikr hard to believe that he was 21 years old when he did this video lmfao
Phrasing! BOOM!
Burn
I understand the cringe factor of watching yourself, especially in the early days with less production value. But I have very fond memories of discovering your channel and watching these early videos and being excited to see Japan through your experiences. So no shame, Chris!
Seconded. I took offence when Chris said that he hates the video. I was like "Oh hey now! Watch it! >:("
well said and agreed
I actually remember watching this video back in the day. My close friend had just married a japanese girl and they were moving to Japan. So i started searching for youtube videos on how life was for westerners in Japan, and I came across your channel. Been a fan of your channel ever since. And the content has only gotten better and better through the years.
w
I started binge watching Abroad in Japan chronologically just this month. So damn funny
such a cool comment!! thanks for sharing that story 😊
Like your name bud
and yet he still sounds the same throughout the years.
I realize this is an older video of an older video, but seeing how you went from being very homesick and struggling to where you are now has been super helpful for someone who just moved to a new country far from home also. Thank you for your videos!
Chris showed us around Japan. Just like he said he would. Man of his word.
“I drank a lot of water back then, and I still do” A+ commentary Chris
20:42 There is so much awkward charm going on in that good bye. The clap, the double thumbs up and the ducking out of frame 😀
Iron, you're everywhere man... love your videos, keep it up dude
ayy Haigs, time to mark off Abroad in Japan on my "What's Iron Armenian commenting on now" bingo sheet
🎉🎉
The fact he left the camera rolling (“…now why did I do that…?”)
Don't be so hard on yourself Chris! As a long time subscriber, there was something weirdly charming and comforting about that video. I can't really explain it, but it felt like a mate was explaining how things worked in Japan. Really great video even if you aren't too happy about it. Thanks you Chris sama for the great content over the years!
Cheers from Quebec.
I agree. Plus it can help to see where you started. Didn't help me but some people take inspiration from it
No one can roast Chris better than Chris himself.
I'm here for A Roast in Japan
😂😂😂
sooo true 😂
The next dish he'll teach himself how to make 😅
Roasting in Japan 🍳
I laughed so hard I’m wheezing 😅
At the very least, pre-timeskip Chris definitely had an elevated sense of observational commentary/comedy.
"Learned to cook complicated dishes like omelette and chicken breast" lol this is the sense of humour that's kept me watching this channel for years
The sad part of it all is that he actually means it 😢
Chris' omelette and chicken breast and Connor's chicken and broccoli, that's a full meal right there.
Haha, it's not really sense of humour, I'm kinda the same, lived on mostly take aways for nearly a decade while I lived in Ireland lol, now covid forced me to move to very remote part of Norway so I'm forced to cook, tho it's mostly frozen ready meals like pasta and stuff, and yeah, I'm in my 30s 🤣🤣🤣
@@REALRyanCorrado
That's why it's good though, "it's funny because it's true". I've lived in Ireland my whole life so this kind of self-deprecative yet slightly sarcastic humour is very familiar to me.
@@retsuza Yeah, well in countries like UK and Ireland, you kinda have to find humour where possible, when it's pissing outside, it's almost instinct to say "ahh wow, lovely weather we got here" it just comes naturally 🤣
To be honest, this is one of my favorite videos of yours. The original, I mean. Whenever I get fed up with Japan, I come back to that video and try to remember the times that everything felt new and fresh. Don't ever delete it! Cheers from Sapporo.
The energy lacking 2011 Chris mustn't have yet discovered Dr Jelly.
I think Natsuki boosted Chris' energy like crazy 😊
I think having a top 14 iTunes hit boosted his energy like crazy
YES!
6:18 Ooof. I know that feeling.
but Masako...I'm trying to see you turn Chi-Chi into the protagonist!?
Chris, even though 10 years have gone by you're still the same creative and hilarious person as the guy in that green shirt. Thanks for not letting UA-cam change you.
100% agree! such a chill and creative dude!
But now at least he has drip or so he says 😉
This has to be the most savage comment I have ever seen.
This is more of an insult than a compliment.
Not so sure if Chris would see this as a compliment. LOL
I'm currently living alone for the first time ever. Its really lonely, not having anyone to come home to, but i do put on things to brighten my day. I come home to you, Chris. And you help me through. Thank you.
That layer of tissue paper is what's left from I'm going to make a wild guess and say was an anime girl cutout glued to the mirror. The paper would have left behind a thin layer of paper on the glue when they attempted to take down. Good to know the knowledge I gained from all those times I had to remove things that were glued down by the kids I taught as a preschool teacher paid off by me being able to tell you something you probably don't care about. lol
*What*
that would make sense, the glue or tape was placed around the edge of the picture so when torn off it left those bits behind.
i'd be staggered if that weren't the case
@@jaycowper Me too
Honestly Chris's main channel may not be very big compared to other channels in the million subscriber league but I think he is the GOAT. With every high quality video that is released on the main channel or second channel, I am excited to click on in immediately and its never a let down. I will glorify Chris for eternity.
You're way too hard on yourself Chris. The video is charming and actually pretty fun for your very first one. It's easy to look back with the benefit of experience but don't hate 2012 you, you'd not be where you are today without him 😉
I think it was a tad bit of tongue in cheek comentary. I feel a bit like Chris nowadays (I am still considerably young though 22) and when I look back to my highschool days I feel like that guy is someone else i don't know. The years had been a bit though on me. I don't exactly know why do I am telling you this internet stranger but well I like Chris' channel and I am not quite sure if I'd be still around if it wasn't for his videos. Well Merry Christmas!
Man UA-cam really is a time machine, from Chris back then being unsure what he was doing these videos for to now having his own Blade Runner Ramen Shop in Japan is true character development
I actually have a special little connection with that video as it was the first video I saw of yours, which was about 3 months after you uploaded it and stayed since then, growing my interest to go to Japan and making it seemingly in reaching distance.
I knew I wanted to teach and just be there, in Japan teaching English from years of culture exposure through media but I never knew how to "try" and do it if that makes sense? it's how i found out about the JET Programme was through your videos! it took me years of trial and error of UK colleges and university to get the all approving degree that JET wants and I aim to apply when Visa's open up again and the JET programme is available. A big part of my hunger to go there is through the very videos you make and show to the world and it made Japan not 5'700 miles away culturally but only in distance.
What are the approving degree that JET wants ?
@@20Ix from my pamphlets it says that a graduation from any field is a minimum requirement but it's competitive so you have to be very active outside of just having a degree
@@20Ix Any degree. They don't care about what you studied; they just require you have a bachelor's degree. All they want to determine is are you capable of teaching? Are you adaptable? Open minded? They don't want to invest time and money into people who, once they get there, will experience culture shock and homesickness and then decide to go back.
@Ethan S yeah but iirc the experience isn't so heavy grammatically as an ALTeacher, you are partnered with a teacher who focuses on grammar. It's almost like a cultural delegate, making lesson plans surrounding that of native western culture activities and customs. But i'm just recalling information from JET guides and Chris' videos from way back :D
God I love this series so so much. Chris, you're genuinely one of the most likeable and charismatic people out there
Lol, those early days were truly Chris England: A Boring In Japan. It's been an amazing transformation through the many amazing journeys.
I feel such a connection to this channel. 11 years ago I also moved to Japan and I too made the obligatory ‘look at my tiny apartment video’. I watched your early videos while I still lived there. But I came back and you stayed. Im always curious how my life would be had I not come back after a couple of years.
Gudetama lol
Why did you go back? Also your comment feels really nostalgic to me - because I think I also get this feeling of “I wonder how my life would have been if I had done X instead” almost like an alternate life I never had
I love how Chris kept his sense of humor along the years, he was capable of making me laugh he still quite is
Some of these jokes are identical to the kind of jokes he puts in his current videos.
This video hurts my stomach. I miss Japan so much, it freakin hurts. I was weirded out the first few days sleeping on a futon, but ended up LOVING it. My husband and I both loved it so much, that for an entire year after we came back to the States, we slept on a futon in our apartment lol. It's funny, because Japan truly is a caricature of itself. Beautiful scenery, crazy tv, amazing food, insane fashion at Takeshita Dori, gorgeous temples, anime ice cream bars, konbini every 100m, it really DOES feel like you are living in a movie. If someone asked me to list every single thing I miss/love about Japan, the list would be endless.
Hey! Sorry for responding so late on your comment, but could you tell me some places to visit in Tokyo? How did you find getting around? Train is best? I'm visiting in October (pending covid) from Canada, so I'd love to hear any tips. Thank you!!! Cheers!
@@thetinypotatobun no problem!!! Yes, the public transit in Tokyo(well, ALL of Japan, really) is absolutely stellar. Are you just staying in Tokyo, or are you planning on using Shinkansen to go to other cities? If you are city hopping I DEFINITELY recommend the JR pass. It's a few hundred dollars, but VERY WORTH IT if you are going to be taking the Shinkansen more than a few times. Otherwise, if you are sticking around Tokyo, I just recommend a Suica pass, you just get the card, load it up with however much Yen you want, and swipe it at each station. And the trains are super easy to navigate, too, and Japanese people are so incredibly friendly and hospitable, more than a few occasions someone would politely offer to help us find which train we need to take(seriously, Japanese people are some of the MOST welcoming and generous people we have ever met). I know there is an app(I forget what it is called) that translates signage and pretty much any kanji/kana/katakana into English(or whichever language you prefer) just using your phone's camera, it REALLY helped us.
As far as places in Tokyo, definitely head to the south end of Yoyogi Park at two pm on Sundays, you will find the greasers there, awesome dudes. Takeshita Dori is a must, Odaiba is awesome. Also Akihabara. If you like kebab, check out Akiba style in Akihabara(hopefully they are still there. Absolutely deeeeelicious kebab. Also gotta try shabu shabu, there is a restaurant called Nabezo that is fantastic. I might think of a few other things!
Chris is such a high quality presenter. I love how he does not put out cheap content. Thank you for holding yourself to a higher standard than most
Untill it is about cat culture of Japan
Even though Chris hate reaction type of video, he certainly know how to make a good reaction video.
No screaming at the camera and fake enthusiast, only pure commentary and genuine reaction.
Nothing to cringe about Chris - it's actually pretty charming to see where you started. You were young, brave and this was the start of what has become one of my favourite ever UA-cam channels. Thanks!
Wow what a journey!
It’s hilarious that Chris can’t recognise the sheer brilliance of the no-frills production, it is a style that has become a rare delicacy these days!!!!
But perhaps more hilarious is that despite him and his approach to production changing in many many ways, the things he says embarrass him the most are things that have changed the least!
“If that doesn’t excite you nothing will” could be a quote from literally any of his vids aha
I think so too- i love his observational slightly ironic commentary, it really gives his videos a unique feel
Chris: "And people say I don't have enough drip!? That's a pink shirt there!"
Also Chris: "Don't think I ever wore that once."
Most potential drip maybe
Chris: "I have more drip than the River Thames"
Also Chris: _Every shirt is a polo t-shirt_
I wanna see a Chris drip transformation
22:10 yes he did!
Akane!!!
I genuinely don't know how long I've been following you on youtube, but I'd say about 6-7 years. Maybe more.
Genuinely consistently been one of my favourite youtubers, always bring a smile to my face 😊
You absolutely deserve all the subscribers you have, you're a pleasure to watch 😁
Just checked, it's been 8 years 😁
How far you've come Chris. From sarcastic British guy in a tiny appartment to sarcastic British guy in a ramen shop.
Bet in ten years they'll find a sarcastic British guy somewhere in a mansion or something.
Totally underrated comment.
Tbf sarcasm and British go hand in hand
The moment chris said "when u get homesick put smth funny " i laughed hard bc i am watching his videos for that. I am away from my family for the first time in life, for college, in a really big city and bc of this period i can t even hang out with friends or make friends. So shortly thanks chris, your videos help a lot!
I can't believe Chris is so funny and living the dream. I never had the guts to try. 😁
I've never had the guts to try being funny either
There be time for growing guts yet, me hearty.
Chris inspired me to start my own UA-cam channel on Switzerland. Swiss Jack. But I am scared to try to be funny. At the moment just taking it slow.
I never had guts, need alot of surgery
Life is like a Nike commercial, just do it!
It reminds my first experience as an expat, when I move to China. Same feelings, same challenges. Good stuff Chris, thanks!
Ya gotta admit, having a hawk for an alarm clock is pretty badass.
Another good thing about your first video is that we all can see how far you've come, your hard work paid off and it's inspiring.
As someone who just started living without roommates a year ago I totally understand the whole “feeling sad” when someone isn’t there to wake you up thing. It is a rather weird experience
@chris broad About the tissue paper on mirror: a girl used to own this mirror who used the tissue paper to draw an outline of herself in her ideal posture. This way every morning she can look at herself in the mirror and immediately see whether she gained or lost weight, and if so which areas of the body were impacted.
I'm truly impressed by the commitment it took when you first moved to Japan, I'm 23 from the UK and the thought of moving to another country alone scares the crap outta me and I don't think any amount of Rodney and Del Boy could probably fix that.
Well, it helps a lot when you're doing it as part of a government program that holds your hand the entire way. I'd be more worried about trying to just visit another country on my own than I would be moving to it permanently lol.
I never really thought about it but I guess living alone can feel different to other people. First time I lived alone I felt like I was on cloud nine for weeks. Maybe it was the growing up with family of 8, but having my own space with no room mates just felt so relaxing. Never having the that freedom or responsibility before just felt so refreshing. I thought bit hard on self because for a first video was still very entertaining and could potential of being a entertainer.
I remember discovering your Kanji Video filmed in this very apartment and watching it when I was 13 YEARS OLD isn't that completely insane, since then I have been watching your Channel.
Now at this very day, I am 21 Years old, I basically grew up with this channel.
It's mental to think how long ago this actually was, thanks for all the amazing content over all these years, from one Chris to the other.
I watched that first video like 4 times and it's still interesting. It's got some magic in it. Feels so genuine.
Seeing this is actually super inspirational though. Recently moving to Japan and starting my own channel, my presentation skills are about at equal level as your original, and I just keep thinking “ah maybe I’m just incapable of being an enjoyable person” but now watching this I can see that I can at least be mildly enjoyable eventually!
All jokes aside, been a fan for years and appreciate the content and growth and always looking forward to the next video!
You can do it, Sam! Just think, in a few years time, how much you have improved on your skills and experienced by living in Japan. Maybe one of these days, we will see you sharing a drink with Chris
hey keep going, i saw a few videos of yours and I liked especially the one in Nikko. your skill in photography also helps you when it comes to making yt videos :)
@@NKABoX 🙏🙏🙏 really appreciate that I’ll keep going!
Disregarding my previous silly comment, this was incredible fun, Chris. So cool to see how far you've come! Living for your 12 Days of Christmas series and can't wait to see where it takes us next!
Awww it’s crazy to see this because I found the channel when I think there was only a handful of videos so it’s surreal to see how much Chris has grown as not only a director/presenter but as a person. Also makes me cringe to see how much I’ve also changed in the same time span 😂 watching someone for so long you get a weird sense of like maturing with them even though you’ve never actually met. I feel like a lot of people feel the same way with Abroad in Japan and other UA-camrs who they have followed for years.
Somehow when you opened that sliding door and the sound of Japanese summer (aka crickets) came through, it took me back to when I first started living alone in Japan too. Super nostalgic 😁And I did the same thing! Decorated my balcony similarly, never used it ahaha
Duuude don't call it cringe it's so enjoyable honestly
I've watched it several times (as with almost all your videos)
Used to be a pateron too but sadly can't afford it as I'm a master's degree student atm
Please keep going with the content, honestly the best youtuber covering Japan out there no doubt!!!
Yeah but personally it's probably cringe for him
Everyone is their own harshest critic, you know the insecurities you have and had far more than anyone and know exactly what to look for to worry. Everyone always thinks people notice things far more than they actually do.
I respect the hell out of you for never ever getting a sponsor for your videos.
That level of not selling out really shows your loyalty to your fans and more importantly your own high standards. Cheers to you chris
I love how this 12 days of chrismas is letting you make a lot of videos you'd otherwise never make while also making content people are interested in seeing.
I could really relate to your first video! I’m the same age as you, and I moved abroad as well at the exact same time and also been here for about 9.5 years now. Seeing your growth story in a foreign country, and now watching you ‘review’ your first video when you had just arrived, brings me back to my own past in 2012 when I was in the same situation! Always see the journey you’ve gone through and like you said, if you met your 2012 self now it would be hard for him to believe how much one can experience/learn/grow/succeed in less than a decade :) kudos!
"why do I overcomplicate things? It's just a rug..."
Just another reason why you are so damn great Chris 🤣
No, it's because he's new and he keep expecting that he's more likely to run into a new thing instead of what he is familiar with. That's why he is cautious and some remarks seems redundant or overcomplicated.
It happens to me whenever I start somewhere new, everything I see I think of it as a new input, sometimes even excessively so...
You know, this video and your colab with Ryan where you guys talk about teaching English in Japan, was the reason I decided to get a job in Japan. I still believe it was the best decision of my life. Thank you.
You've certainly taken a bullet for those of us not brave enough to record our growth! Loving the content as always, looking forward to your future and best of luck. I wish I could grow the way you have!
Oh, this is so nostalgic. The 上を向いて歩こう song, the scenery, the simplicity... great first video.
It probably wasn't the first video I ever watched on your channel (I wish I remembered which one it was exactly and how I found it, but it's quite some time ago...) but fell in love with the channel right away and watched all the videos that were available, and I still like going back to your earlier videos once in a while. Your channel now is fantastic to say the least, but I sometimes like re-watching the simple old videos, too. Driving in Japan, your weight loss challenge and walks, your Kanji lessons etc., I have fond memories from all these videos. The scenery there in Yamagata was great. I really want to take a walk there someday, too.
Anyways, thanks for all the wonderful videos over all these years. From your _Japanese Apartment after Arriving in Japan_ to _Like a magic_ to _Journey Across Japan,_ it was great, and I'm looking forward to more. Thanks for everything, Chris :)
My roommate back at highschool introduced me to Chris through this video, now I'm doing my PhD. It's astonishing to see how much Chris has improved in terms of editting and presentation, yet he is very much the same sarcastic Brit from all those years ago. Never change Chris!
GTO is a life lesson. Loved that anime
I remember when I first watched this video in an internet café in Syria when it first got posted. From then my love for Japan grew and I followed your journey. Hopefully I'll be able to work and live in Japan one day too. Thx for the memories .
I like to imagine that you'd go back in time and tell your younger self he's gonna have his own ramen shop, and your younger self would take it literally, give up on teaching, give up on youtube, and start training full time to become a cook.
We all start somewhere, and no matter how cringy, how embarrassing, how humble the beginning of the AIJ YT channel was it was also the start of something amazing!
I can say that it made, and still makes, my life better.
So thank you Chris! :)
14:59 Chris: "Don't know where the pink shirt went..."
22:09 Look who's wearing a pink shirt
It seems you've always been a great entertainer Chris! Sure you've improved a lot, but you had many of the important things we like about you even back then it seems! Here's to many more decades of Abroad in Japan!
I don't think young Chris was cringe. It was just very real. I miss those dramatic horse noises.
Chris you have really developed very strongly. I mean look at you! Not only the videos but also the charisma, the way you perform. It's really amazing how almost a decade has been captured on UA-cam. Keep up the good work! Greetings from Berlin /Germany!
Awww! Little baby faced Chris! I just wanna go back in time and give him a hug! 😍
For saying One Cup Sake is Chris least favourite drink, he drinks it a LOT.
I started living alone for the first time this year, so I really appreciate the advice about watching comedies. And this video just so happens to be one!
First CDawg uploads with Chris then Chris just gives us more delicious content a few hours later! Now that's service! Also, Chris' opinion of the Drip jacket is legendary and will go down in history!
It feels good to know and see how far Chris has come
That first video introduced me to you as a person and made me love your videos. The hawk, the sarcasm, the tax joke and the sukiyaki song all give me major nostalgia vibes. You've come really far and it's great seeing how you've settled and how you're doing what you love in a foreign country (which is not an easy thing to do). Def looking forward to many more of your videos!
I loved your dry sense of humour back then. The unenthusiastic way that you are speaking really matches the humour.
Been watching you for a few years now and you've inspired me to want to travel and live in Japan. Got accepted into the JET program and now I'm flying out there in Jan. 2022. Thanks for being a significant part of my life and helping to start a new chapter in my story. Cheers!
Good luck out there. Remember to do the "obligatory my Japanese Apartment video"
Get ready to work 12h a day with shity payroll
I think your first video was really sweet, it's great to see how you've grown over the years. Keep up the fantastic work Chris!
I love how Chris slowly comes to relate to his former self. Like "Yeah, actually this dude is ok".
Hi Chris 👋 Just wanted to say thanks for the random note of wisdom at 12:40 (about watching comedy shows). I lost my grandma earlier in the month and was having a hard time lifting my spirits during what’s supposed to be the happiest time of year. On a whim I loaded up some of my favorite comedies and it instantly helped. Stay awesome and happy New Years!
"lots of water" your humor was already spot on since your debut Chris
Oh hey we got another cameo in our reaction to Abroad in Japan! YT is definitely rather inconsistent in the copyright realm…great video to reminisce on how far you’ve grown! Sarcasm transcends space and time!!
Chris: "Every time I cringe at myself I'm going to take a shot of my least favorite drink"
Also Chris: *constantly sipping for 20 minutes*
I found it very interesting the exact timing for these sips.
I arrived the UK for my PhD study in September 2012. I found your channel and it give me a feeling like we share an adventure living abroad. I have been watching all your videos since.
Dont be too hard on yourself mate, the most important part is to look how far youve come!
I took a drink every time I saw Chris take a drink, even during the christmas post credit, it was genuinely much more entertaining this way, ty Chris you're an absolute genius
I honestly found it interesting to see your oldest video. It's a good retrospective on how far you've come from those days. A lot of improvement has been done over the years. Keep up the good work, Chris! :D
12:44 I was in this situation when we first arrived in Canada. I was on my own and the one thing to keep me company was that comedy series - FRIENDS..
I really have a lot of respect for you Chris. It’s amazing how despite your angst and insecurities you still pulled trough and lived up to your goal! I am so glad you did.
I love your content. Have a great weekend Chris.
The copyright issue really resonated with me since at one point I had over 100 videos with me doing Japanese cover song until the copyright claims rained down upon me.. I started watching your videos around 8 years ago and genuinely can't believe or don't want to believe that it's been that long ago... Keep being you and stay healthy! :)
Humble beginnings, how far we've come. Proud of you, Chris!
his channel is amazing!!!
I enjoyed this video alot! It's always nice to take a look back on how much someone changes in their own life especially if you progress in a positive way. I think most of us cringe at ourselves whenever we look back on things we did or said back then. This video made me go look back on past videos and photos of my life and laugh my ass off so I thank you for that Chris! CHEERS!
Chris: "Let's cringe at my first video!"
Also Chris: *actually agrees with everything past!Chris said*
And much the style is still the same, really. Just Chris' way of talking. The "xyz, BUT..:" or the sad aside ("alone.... oh. alone."). And let's be honest, Chris, you still do that "unenthusiastic British sarcasm" thing, just a bit more... sophisticated.
I haven't said it yet, but ever since the set reveal video. I can't get over it. It's so freaking cool!
I remember that first video. You've come such a long way. Congrats, you deserve all your success! :)
No you don’t
Lol, just in October, I was doing an Abroad in Japan marathon, where I watched your videos back from the beginning to the latest. It was amazing, watching how you evolved in your editing and presentation but still retain that sharp British wit. And it's nice to see your thoughts and comments here.
I remember watching this video years ago. Even though it was awkward believe it or not Chris your personality shines through and has kept me watching ever since. Don’t doubt yourself keep it up. Always good watching. 👍🏻
It's the first time I saw your first video and it wasn't that bad; the sarcasm and self-deprecating humour was already there! Good work!
Well, no one argue that you haven't come far, Chris. I'm proud of what you have been able to achieve over the years and my admiration for content continues to grow.
That song has been on my spotify Playlist since I watched this video myself all those years ago. Keep making great content Chris!
INCREDIBLE you've been at this for 10 years!! you deserve all the success that you have achieved. let's see where you are in another 10 years 🎉 😂 💰