So a "radio" program paid for by American Taxpayers is actively making propaganda of how awful and racist America is, while pointing to a handful of highly successful blacks in the most homogeneous country on Earth? Interesting.
Japan has many problems. Technical intern trainees livs in Japan. They are coming to Japan from southeast Asia. They has bad manners . 現在、生活騒音や家賃滞納。 コロナでの不況で、日本の治安は悪くなりました。
I visited Japan for 2 weeks in 2019 after living in the US for 16 years. My experience was so pleasant that I did "NOT" want to return to the US. The only thing that is holding me back from moving to Japan permanently is the language. The food is great, the air is clean, the people are respectful and the country overall is beautiful. As a black man, I did not feel threatened in any way. You may get stares when you go outside of Tokyo which is understandable. This is because many Japanese in rural Japan have never seen a person of color, so they will naturally stare out of curiosity rather than xenophobia.
Most of my time was spent in Okinawa since I was stationed there (4 years). I got a few more stares because I had tattoos on top of being black. Every positive mentioned was definitely the case for me as well, but I often had to entertain extra conversation to show that I didn't bite. I definitely would get different looks if I covered up (not always fun for me in the humid environment) vs when I just wore my normal short sleeve shirts (blank) and some shorts or loose pants. I guess I would go back if given the chance, but I also wouldn't mind if America just adopted some of the same general practices for quality of life.
Many Japanese are scared of having interactions with foreigners because of the language barrier, not because they see them as a threat. The stares and the intention behind it are different, those are harmless stares.
Yea true, this is also true to China and korea. Foreigners stand out to them because they're not used to having people who look different living amongst them. People might think that's racist, but i think it's more like signs of curiosity.
@@weesodusty3974 no, here in China there is a lot of hate against foreigners, and it is even supported directly by the government. In Chinese school we are taught Japanese people are evil and rapists, and that British people are drug smugglers and criminals. As for Americans, we are taught that they are fat and too capitalistic, that they need to fall so that China can rise. Not just this, but there is bigotry amongst Chinese as well, if you are a minority tribe, or if you are either from the north or south part of China, whether you are a migrant worker, etc etc we will find some way to be a bigot against you. The US is the only place where I haven't seen this, it only happens on American media because they like creating conflict to get views, in reality Americans are the least racist people compared to a lot of the world, only some other Western countries are less racist then even that
I'm Japanese and I think why Japanese stares at you when you walk down the street in Tokyo, is that we are curious about different people. Why Japanese tend to avoid sitting next to you on the train, is that we are afraid to be asked something in English, because most of us don't have much confidence in speaking English. We don't change our behavior only because they have black or white skin. We also feel jealous when someone have foreign friends. We actually want to be friends and know more about you and your culture.
Don't be afraid to speak to foreigners. They are in your country because they want to integrate! Many foreigners want to talk to you. They won't care if your English is not good. They will be very happy if you try to speak to them! This is the best way anyone can learn. It goes both ways ➡️🤝⬅️
There’s a reason Japan is 98.5% Japanese. It’s not because you are so welcoming and open to others. What you think you are and what you really are, doesn’t jibe.
I’m Japanese. When I went to America as studying abroad program, I sometimes feel hierarchy or something like discrimination (not so hard one, it’s like ignoring or not sociable for me) from some people. But then African American girl talked to me, which makes me delighted and happy. At that time I was unable to say enough thanks to her due to my poor English. I would like to appreciate it someday when I meet her again. (My Apologies for long sentences and my broken English)
Yes, unlike your country which is homogenized and everyone has the same look and culture, America is a melting pot of many different kinds of people. It’s good to know there is no hierarchy in Japan.😂
I first visited Japan in August 2015, upon arriving, I was greeted by the airport staff, shown where to exchange currency, and guided to the JR station. While standing there, looking visibly confused and overwhelmed, a young Japanese businessman approached ME, and used a translator to ask if I was okay or needed help. He was so polite, he not only showed me where to find my hotel, he actually walked me to the front door despite his stop passing. Every person I encountered during that trip was no different, they really are the friendliest, most organized, well mannered people on earth, I enjoyed it so much I visit every year and hope to move there within the next year. As an African American, I was completely taken by the hospitable nature of Japanese people, the world could learn a lot from them.
i wanna go so bad. i wanna leave the states like yesterday. im sick of it here. Planning my trip for April 2026. Thank you for sharing your story. I hope you get to move there next year!
These stories are exactly like mine. As a black man who lived in Japan for 2 years, I have never ever felt so free in my life. It is not that Japan is perfect, it is just that USA is completly blind when it comes to good race relations.
That a load of BS....you just feel free because you're one of the 2% or something of foreigners and are "special" and "unique" because of it, in the US you were just normal.....let's face it, there's no real racism in the US in modern times, but come here to China, you will see real racism...
Japan has many problems. Technical intern trainees livs in Japan. They are coming to Japan from southeast Asia. They has bad manners . 現在、生活騒音や家賃滞納。 コロナでの不況で、日本の治安は悪くなりました。
@@なややは-s9s It must be a lie. According to the National Police Agency, the number of general crimes in Japan is recorded low in 2021. Most foreigners are polite. 日本の治安が悪化しているというのは全くの嘘です。 警察庁によれば、日本における刑法犯の数は2021年に過去最低を記録しています。 ほとんどの外国人は礼儀正しいです。
When I was a child, there was a black person in the same class at school, so I didn't have a sense of discrimination since I was a child. Skin color is an identity, but it's not a reason to discriminate.
you think it is just a color of someone's skin? that skin color usually comes with a culture and usually it is a really trashy culture that causes crime and makes for terrible neighbors....people don't avoid black neighborhoods for no reason, it is cheap to live in them but people don't care cause they do not want to be stolen from, robbed, or murdered
This is why America can't reach its full potential. It's sad when Americans can travel 6000 miles away from their country and feel more respected than when they are at home. If all Americans truly felt welcomed in this country, we would be an unstoppable force. Instead, America is imploding from the inside because we treat each other as enemies instead of countrymen.
@Awesome Randomguy This is a very lazy statement. The Roman Empire spanned 46 modern-day countries. It included dozens upon dozens of different cultures. It became a world superpower for a millennia, all while having an incredible amount of ethnic diversity. Saying that a society can't reach it's full potential because of diversity alone is a cop-out. It's a lazy way of saying "if people in a society look different, they won't work together". The fact is, we don't know what a society where being an American matters more than race or ethnicity looks like, because we have never tried it. That concept seems foreign because America puts emphasis on racial differences above the idea of being a unified country.
I agree with this because America nowadays is so corrupted with a broken system especially for people with disabilities, it may be a free country but it’s free to racism,bullying,cyber-bullying,greed, and again corruption, I know other countries has these problems but in America it’s worst with it’s people especially for some African Americans. That’s my opinion
You're joking right? Believe me, if this guy was sticking people up, carjacking and assaulting woman, he get treated just the same in ANY country in the world.
fyi, the japanese are as much as racist as the white americans are. Force assimilations of the ainu and ryukuyan has been a thing for centuries. And they're not really the type of people that get along well with koreans or chinese...
Japan has many problems. Technical intern trainees livs in Japan. They are coming to Japan from southeast Asia. They has bad manners . 現在、生活騒音や家賃滞納。 コロナでの不況で、日本の治安は悪くなりました。
@@KalimahWilliams But don't mind the staring.....they are very curious about you. Well about everyone even about each other. Down south we can be darker than African Americans. Up North we are really fair. North-East we look slightly oriental.....So we stare at each other also.....hahhhaaha. we actually have an African community here called the Siddis. They were brought to India as slaves by the British. Most Indians also do not know of their existence. Many people are begining to learn that they are Indians too and has been in India for long time. We can be ignorant but we are not mean.
As a Filipino in living in Japan, what I felt about Japanese is that, they are scared of different things. Because in schools they are teaching being fair and equal is important so when they saw something new or something different, it’s just they are scared of it. But I think that they are open-minded so if you explain things and show it to actions is that they listen to you and look at your attitude and they understand it. And also, i think the people in cities are so busy and stressed that they tend to think “mind your own business”. It’s like “i never minded what ever you are doing and I didn’t bothered you so don’t bother me and you don’t have to mind as well”.
I am Japanese and your thoughts are a true representation of the Japanese national character. What we are taught as children is "don't bother others". By others, I mean people who are not related to us by blood.
That’s the first impression what I had in mind while visualizing "what it is like if I was able to move in Japan" but as a black American. I’m honestly quite surprised that you are filipino while discussing this because in most other Asian countries its just that when curiosity comes to mind it makes me wonder if there are other ethnicities of Asian people would mistreat you if they’re able to tell that you’re not from there and might face discrimination because of it. Just because you’re different from others doesn’t mean they should have the right to treat you differently.
That was exactly my experience. I loved japan and wouldn't hesitate to go back, but if I'm honest, I get rubbed the wrong way hearing all these comments hearing about how friendly and open Japanese people are. Not to stereotype, but my experience with Japan was the exact opposite. If they weren't looking for my business, they wouldn't look at me at all. To be fair, they probably correctly assumed I couldn't speak Japanese and when I initiated the encounter, they were usually respectful in return; but I just culture shocked. Again, I don't have anything against Japanese, they just seem unfriendly as a culture.
Japan has many problems. Technical intern trainees livs in Japan. They are coming to Japan from southeast Asia. They has bad manners . 現在、生活騒音や家賃滞納。 コロナでの不況で、日本の治安は悪くなりました。
@@saltynutsman1 Hmmm I wonder who created racism??? Hmmmm... I mean it would have had to been created by oppressors and whole country stealing and rapping and plundering pure of human incesters from the blood to the bone for generations to generations, conceived only to hate kill and destroy whole human generations brainwashing the entire planet believing that they are the most Superior of all Humans and live as the fathers of most all global genocide. Hmmmmm...... I wonder who???????? -_-*
I am Japanese. I love foreign people and various cultures. It is said that Japan is safe. Of course, this may be true compared to other countries, but it is impossible for all Japanese to be treated kindly. At the very least, there will be people who discriminate or are not kind. If I am asked for directions by a foreigner in English, or if I am in trouble, I always want to help them. It doesn't matter what color skin you have. The world is a big place. I love you all!
I'm a latino man living in Japan. Watching this video made me incredibly thankful to live in such a good place. I'm happy these wonderful people get to share their stories and may they prosper in this country!
I've been here for nearly a year and I'm not gonna lie. This country has given me some serious peace of mind I haven't found elsewhere even with its cons. I'm learning Japanese because not only is it a healthy, beneficial challenge, but I really want the option of living somewhere else in my lifetime. I want to be safe. I want to live.
@@saltynutsman1 I live in Australia and life has gone to shit since I was a kid. Born and bred in Western Australia but since we let in every country to live here crime and drugs have gone through the roof.
From 1994 to 2007, I would spent quite a bit of time in Japan. I was treated with warmth and respect. I was treated like a celebrity wherever I went. The Japanese people that I encountered were very kind to me.
I was very surprised at how bad the environment surrounding blacks in the U.S. is. Japanese people sometimes stare at foreigners. This is because they are rare. Some people stay away from them because they are not confident in their English. But I want you to know that this is not discrimination. We Japanese have been learning about the history of foreign countries since we were children. We are ashamed of discriminatory acts because we know sad stories of America, such as the slavery issue. However, children may honestly point out that they look different, so please forgive them for that. Because they are still in the process of learning. Japanese people dislike foreigners only when they do not accept Japanese culture and rules and act selfishly. There is no discrimination based on race. Some Japanese are terrible. That is a problem that Japanese people should think about.
@@jkjk19010k Im glad to hear someone demonstrate some actual knowledge.. Thank you for saying that.. It gets a little worrying when people cannot stop spouting lies about systemic racism in america.. When you ask them to show you one law on the books that makes it favorable for white people over other races they usually just leave the debate . And lets not get started on affirmative action
Amen! As a black person from living in Japan too, I agree. I really enjoy life living here. I feel less stressed here. My eyes have been opened too. I have come to realize America isn't number 1 like how we are taught in school.
@@AleXoEx0 I think about that too. I watch UA-cam videos about African American people who move and re-establish themselves and their families in places like Norway, Iceland and Ghana. But, me personally I like Japanese culture. Also I got a Japanese minor in university. So, I want to be able to use my Japanese in my daily life so that I don't forget it.
@@adventureswithmichaelakaec7497 And I'm glad the person responded to their sarcasm with honesty. White people have this thing of trying to make African countries seem terrible and think they have the right (based on their own racist stereotypes about African countries) to question African Americans why we "don't move to Africa." I know Nigeria and I think Ghana(?) have programs in place that allows African Americans to visit for a while just to see how we feel there. I've been planning for Nigeria since 2019 but have been nervous of travel since news of COVID. Some African countries even offer free citizenship to African Americans and so many African Americans have taken that opportunity. Even black American celebrities have taken up citizenship in African countries
@@agreshshun5443 "White people have this thing of trying to make African countries seem terrible" Way to miss the point entirely. He's asking why you don't just move to a black-majority country instead of going to one where you are the minority, and complaining about how you are treated there.
In my experience traveling in Japan, you get varying experiences by city. A city like Osaka, they embrace Black people and culture A LOT, it's actually a big part of their niche cultural scene. Tokyo is accepting, but not loved to the extent of Osaka.
In Tokyo, I feel that even Japanese people are indifferent to others. This is not the case in Osaka. It's a matter of regional characteristics. Please come back to Japan again when Corona is settled.
@@machicchi I’m sorry, I’m having a hard time finding the racial demographics for Osaka, I couldn’t find them on the internet. I’d really like to know how much the Osakans “embrace” the black people. I know a lot of Haitian friends looking for a place to live. Any information about your “open” community would be greatly appreciated.
I lived in Osaka for 2.5 years before moving to Tokyo and I say that people are just a lot warmer in Osaka. Even in my current workplace in Tokyo I found that co-workers who are originally from Osaka and Kansai region in general are usually friendlier.
@@cottoncandykawaii2673 The majority of Black people don’t even be thinking about Japan, let alone moving there. It’s always the non Japanese people complaining the most.
As a Japanese person who has lived in LA over 14 years, I totally understand how “feeling safe” is so impactful to the quality of life. It’s a basic needs for every living creatures, but yet, so hard to fulfill in the states. I personally had to pause my career and come back to Japan during the raise of Asian hate crimes… Yes, Japanese people are ignorant Yes, Japan has some issues Yes, some people are racist But Japan is so freaking safe. No guns, no harmful homeless people, no drug dealers on a street, no obvious discrimination against people, and no police is going to try to kill you. Of course, there are some irregular crimes like a former prime minister getting shot this year, but the chance to get shot is soooooooo low compare to the states. And if you’re a Japanese person reading this, you might think that’s normal and nothing special. Trust me, fearing for the death while you are just breathing, just having a normal life, just walking down the street are very very very stressful. And that’s the kind of fear a lot of African American people are forced to deal with in the states… I hope the US become as safe as Japan one day, and people can feel safe in their home…
I have to push back on your comment a bit regarding your statement about “harmful homeless people.” It disparages those who are unhoused/homeless. Rather than see homeless people as a problem, see societal issues as the problem- low wages, the growing income and wealth gap, lack of affordable housing, lack of healthcare which can push people into bankruptcy and poverty, lack of mental health care, lack of employment and healthcare equity for those with disabilities, substance abuse and the ongoing opioid epidemic, funding cuts to social services and safety nets, etc. It’s an entanglement of many issues that impact everyone but especially exploit those who are already marginalized and vulnerable. Sorry to go on this rant, but the language we use is really important and we need to stop “othering” vulnerable and marginalized populations.
wake up LEY the police in america are not trying to kill you or black folks.. guns dont kill , people do (just look at canada where 35 people killed our wounded in a massive knife attack, y'all got swords and knives there right?)... our stupid goverment has an open border policy that allows tons of drugs from china to go to mexico and here into the USA and our homeless populations have exploded... you are plugged into the news which is bullshit and they are manipulating the minds of innocent people who think they are telling the truth....
As a black man that used to live in Japan, I cannot agree more with everything espoused in this video. Living in Japan I felt like a huge weight was lifted off of my shoulders. And I felt truly free for the first time in my life. This was an amazing piece. I really appreciated it.
@@brianbailey462 Come on dude... Good job just replying without understanding a word of what I said. I'm talking about a feeling here not that I am not free to live my life how I see fit. Of course, I am free in the US. No one is saying otherwise. But what I was getting at was that in Japan I was "free" of the racial animus one must deal with on an almost daily basis in some parts of the country. At the time I had only lived in PA, NC and, SC all of these places have a decent amount of racial tensions in everyday life. It's just a fact that black people are treated differently in this country than white people in general and we feel it. Moving to Japan for a year was a breath of fresh air for me because it was just gone. The only racial conceptions of me in Japan were positive. That’s all I was trying to get at. Try asking a question next time instead of assuming stuff about people you don't know.
@@brianbailey462 Also, maybe stop and think that if every person in the comments that has had this set of experiences is saying pretty much the same thing maybe there's something to it. Are you a black person that grew up in the US and then moved to Japan? That is a very specific experience, and I would think it to be fairly rare. The fact that we pretty much all feel the same way speaks volumes.
@@Dannosuke25 the reason why I think so many people perceive this experience is because of the way the media portrays black people and law enforcement. The media is directly responsible for all the riots from the George Floyd incident and the 23 people or so who got killed during those riots. The perception that the police in America are over here hunting down black people in the streets is simply untrue and the statistics do not back that up at all. A white man was killed in the exact same fashion as George Floyd but I bet you never heard of it. That's because the media didn't fan the flames. The media is constantly creating racial tension and it's by design. I'm not trying to say that there isn't racists and idiots out there in the United States but there is far greater problems facing the black community than white racism. I'm not trying to be inconsiderate or shooting from the hip here so I apologize if it appears that way. I have several black friends who are exceeding here in the United States and doing great.
@@Dannosuke25 I think there is a whole lot of confirmation bias going on. If you believe something in your mind you will soon see things that back up your belief and confirm it to you. For example if you were to go to Japan and you just heard the news telling you for the last 30 years that Japanese people are racist you're probably going to go in there and be expecting it. And when you see some it'll confirm that indeed they are racist in japan. And the same is true for growing up in America if you are expecting racism you will quickly notice it when it happens and you will latch on to it mentally and it'll be confirmed in your mind. It becomes ingrained in the culture. I mean, look at black people that come directly from Africa to the United states. They are far more successful on average than black people who grow up here. Why is that?
I think this video records the most realistic answer to the question of whether or not Japanese people feel discriminated against by people from other countries. In Japan, whether black or white, non-Japanese people themselves are in the minority. Depending on the region, there may be Japanese who have never seen a black person in their lives. That is why the influence of TV and movies was so significant. Nevertheless, Japanese people tend to place more importance on social characteristics than race, origin, or language spoken. If we can act in a respectful manner that does not infringe on each other's freedom, it would be considerate and kind. It seems that humans feel fear or anger toward what they do not understand. It is very difficult to make people understand what they do not understand. That is why news reports try to simplify information and give simple answers. But if you don't know something, just ask someone to tell you. So when you come to Japan, you may get strange questions from time to time. But every Japanese person understands that just because we are different races, it does not mean we think or act differently. We do not want to know black people, we want to know you. Please know that we are not trying to insult you, just a little shy or ignorant, which may make your questions strange.
I have to concur with the views of those presented in this excellent documentary. While in the US Navy in the 1990's, I resided in Japan for 3 years in a very small city called Misawa; about 80 kilometers south of the northernmost city Aomori on the main island of Honshu. As a young black man, it simply astounded me how relaxed I was in Japanese society and how much deference I received from Japanese people as compared to whites in the US. Being born and raised in Los Angeles, I had many interactions with Japanese, Korean, and Chinese store owners that were not always positive. However, I must say with conviction, and without contradiction, that living in Japan was the first time in my life that I actually felt like a true human being; where my intrinsic humanity was automatically and unequivocally acknowledged. Certainly, this is not to suggest that Japanese society is some kind of utopia, but it is worth stating that I experienced more racism on a day-to-day basis from white shipmates, officers, and superiors who wore the same uniform and yet, viewed and treated me as if I were a second-class citizen who had no business serving in the military and one with no rights that were worthy of their respect. The aforementioned contrast and contradiction weighed heavily upon me, so much so, that I contemplated staying in Japan for good after being discharged from the Navy. The wonderful stories and memories that I have of Japanese citizens coming to my aide to assist me when I was lost in Tokyo and various other cities or needed help finding the right subway train are too numerous to mention. However, there is one instance that I believe encapsulates all the others and, some 25 years hence, still brings tears to my eyes when I think about it. After having spent 3 days in Tokyo, I had to catch a Shinkansen train from Tokyo Station to Morioka. In those days, the Shinkansen went only as far north as Morioka and I had to catch the local train to get back to Misawa. At Tokyo station, I ended up getting confused and went to the wrong platform for my train. An elderly Japanese woman in her late 70's or early 80's sensed that I was disoriented and approached me. She looked at me intensely and said, "dozo," pointing to my train ticket. After looking at it, she kept it in her right hand and then with her left, she gently grabbed my right hand and said, "dozo" again. She began walking holding my hand and leading me away from the platform where she was waiting for her train to arrive. As soon as we had left the platform, her train arrived, but she kept leading me to another train platform that was on another level. After about 5 minutes, we finally arrived at the upper-level Shinkansen train platform which was the correct platform for me to catch the Shinkansen to Morioka. At the correct point she stopped, turned around looking directly at me, handed me back my ticket with both hands and said, "dozo." I bowed deeply and said, "domo arigato gozaimasu!" She smiled and then slowly walked away until she disappeared into the crowd. I reflected upon the fact that she intentionally missed her own train, so that she could personally take me to the correct platform in order for me to catch the correct Shinkansen to Morioka. I thought to myself, no one in Los Angeles would ever do what she just did since most people are just "too busy" to even say hello, let alone go out of their way to assist a complete stranger. After all these years, I have never forgotten her selfless act and I pray that when I make my final transition from this world that I have the opportunity to meet her again and truly express my eternal gratitude for the kindness she bestowed upon me.
We have so many rules and complicated language. But here in Japan the concept is very simple. Japanese culture is about the respect. Doesn’t matter the races or colors. If there is the respect for Japanese culture, it’s all good.
They don't respect anyone else's culture, hence all the violent crime caused by blacks in America. They only respect their own culture of violence. Someday you too will learn this.
japans not perfect, but after visiting for two weeks, returning to Los Angeles was kind of stunning. the respect japanese people have for their surroundings and fellow citizens is pretty incredible. if america even had a tenth of this quality we would have a much better society.
Eben, so let me get this straight, you’re saying not being inclusive may be the way to go? That a homogeneous society is a better society? Ok, I’m going to think about it and get back to you.
@@saltynutsman1 many homogenous societies don’t come even remotely close to the level of proper conduct Japanese people have. You did know this, right? Another note, Korea is a comparable homogenous society with very high suicide rates. Yes, a sense of belonging is great, but it’s not the end all be all to a society’s prosperity, nor is a lack of ethnic homogeneity the worst curse you can cast upon a society. Integration (and being treated like a human being) is the most important thing
@@saltynutsman1 Switzerland is extremely safe and properous and people are kinda similar to japanese people but switzerland is not at all homogeneous with 25% foreigners (not including migrants with a swiss passport) ... but anyway i'm sure europe won't be happy to take back all caucasians from the world to ensure things are the way how they were ;)
@@binskee677 you’re pushing it with Switzerland, according to google the majority of the “foreigners” in Switzerland are European, German, French, etc. with a small population of Asians and even smaller amount of Africans. I’m not saying diversity can’t work what I’m saying is those people in the video came from one of the most diverse nations in the world (US) to one of the most homogeneous (J) and make claims that the non inclusive country is preferable. Seems a little ironic to me. Would they have found a European country that’s 98.5% monocultural just as pleasing? Discuss.
I've been to Japan (Yokosuka, Yokohama, Tokyo). As a 6'3" black man, can confirm I felt more like and oddity than a threat. Very thoughtful and well done piece!
Yep and thats to expected for such a homogeneous country like Japan. Meanwhile japanese people ill be treated like an oddity still in the u.s still despite being a “melting pot”
I have a lot of respect for Black people, in all honesty, they're a lot more peaceful than other races and have often have had abused by others while getting their country's rich resources stolen by others. It's terrible that countries like UK, USA treat it's colored population with hostility. I think black people deserve respect.
I’m glad you had a good experience but with all due respect, just like this video, aren’t you sugarcoating the Japanese people’s real feelings towards black people. I’m sorry to be so negative, but I’m surprised at how many comments here are not mentioning the myriad of problems that are kind of glossed over in the video. Let’s talk about how no matter how long you or I live in Japan, they would never consider us Japanese or fully embrace us. And don’t even think about starting an interracial family. Just look up how many Japanese parents, and Asian parents in general, have disowned their child for specifically dating a black person. Of course there are white parents just like that in America, but I know it is not as universal as it is in Japan. Japan obviously has great benefits compared to living in many parts of America, but there are different yet equally important problems with being black there that rise above the occasional stare or being considered an oddity. I have many problems with America, but I know many areas, especially on the coasts, where I have and can lead a full life, I think this video is very heavy on the positives and incredibly light on the major negative qualities of life in Japan.
I recently applied for the JET program and this video has put a lot of my reservations at ease! Being black in Asia has always been made to seem like we couldn’t succeed and or be happy I’m glad to see it’s a tangible dream and lifestyle!
Actually you will have more success in Asia. Every Asian country has at least 1 famous black person on TV. They embrace you if you speak their language. Miss Japan 2018 is half black.
I lived in Tokyo for a semester at the beginning of the BLM movement, just weeks after Mike Brown was killed (Ferguson, MO) . I attended several BLM marches in Tokyo while I was there, and have attended several since then in the U.S. The biggest difference was that the police were actually a peaceful presence in Japan. The police walked alongside us, protected us, made sure we had a proper path to do our march and walk through unobstructed by cars. There was even a Japanese toddler that literally held his hands up in the stroller during the entire march! Even if it wasn’t their lived experiences, people understood, were supportive, and people came out in solidarity. My experience as a Black woman in Tokyo as a whole was absolutely amazing, and I truly had the time of my life. Never felt so free and safe in my entire life. I really hope to go back someday.
People in Japan in general are more peaceful and have a more "do not disturb" mindset. Neither protesters nor the police wants to make a huge noice. In the USA its alawys who can shout the loudest game, and that will turn into violence from one side in the end.
During BLM protests in Japan, I felt invaded and scared the fact that so many gaijins were bring your agendas into Japan. BLM tried to look japanese police look bad. Japan is safe and peaceful because 98% of its population is the Japanese.
@@nanajiji765 BLM marches in Japan were never a protest towards Japanese police though… it was standing in solidarity with the movement in general and with what was going on in the U.S. (and other countries) where police brutality is a systemic issue. If you feel that it is an “agenda” at this point in history, I’m not going to spend my energy convincing you otherwise. The exact point of my comment was to say that Japan was/is an incredibly peaceful place, and that I felt completely safe and enjoyed my time there.
@@sydneymichelle8357 Really? They chanted "Defund the police" in Japanese and toward japanese police. There was a video that protesters shouting against Japanese police. We dont need such a movement here. Do it in USA and keep it in USA.
I’ve been to Japan twice, for work, and both times I’ve had a great experience. It’s the most relaxed I’ve ever felt in a major city. I’m on a journey to move there. America is no longer good for my mental health. Many of the people in the country are VERY selfish and misguided. It’s only going to get worse before it gets better. I no longer have the bandwidth to give anyone energy to country that doesn’t care about its people. I will never forget my departure from Tokyo. As we pushed back from the jetway to ground crew waived at us and bowed. Just the image of, what felt like, gratitude, and politeness in the gesture. I will never forget that moment. It summed up my overall experience there.
@Daniel Lapusso Not at all, that fact that you called this bullshit is somewhat proof of it. You're being ignorant to it, as people in the US are ignorant, arrogant, and hateful to not only African-Americans but all races that aren't Caucasian. Though unfortunately, even African-Americans discriminate against other races, even those that have melanin. It's all fucked.
There's no historical context for hatred against blacks in Japan. Most of the animosity within Japanese society is borne out of disdain for those who try too hard to stick out or are defiant and rebellious and rude. If you study their ways and are eager to learn their culture and social protocols and follow them, there is no issue. Here in the US, people are just simply whiney, self-entitled, loud and obnoxious and always wanting to rebel for the sake of being "free" ("Don't tell me what to do, this is a free country..." attitude...) you will never see that type of trashiness in Japan...
@@SyndromeGeneration No matter where you are from or what race you are, you should feel proud and comfortable😃. No race is inferior. It's OK to be proud, what's not OK is thinking one is better than another. So, in your case, I don't think you have anything to worry about. Feel proud that you are Japanese, feel proud that you are Asian and treat everyone with same respect and kindness you would like to receive 😊
This is the way to actually end racism. If people really wanted racism to stop the way they say they do they would advocate for this. You can either stop racism or keep crowding people that don't like each other together and stuff your pockets with money.
@@saltynutsman1 People even collect up in neighborhoods full of people like them, black neighborhoods, white neighborhoods, "China town" you see it everywhere.
Thank you for uploading the video with Japanese subtitles. I am Japanese and have never lived outside of Japan.I have been hurt by discrimination against women and prejudice in Japan. However, I have never experienced such badly treated like this video in Japan. There are many problems in every country, but we have to work hard to make Japan a better country. It is very embarrassing to ask them rude questions just because we are ignorant😢 Hope THE WORLD will be enveloped in kindness.
If I had a black person, I would look at him often. But understand that it's not a discriminatory look. I see that person's style as enviable. Tall people, share your height with me.
@@slyfrailzz I'm not good at English at all, but thanks to Google Translate, I'm able to have some conversations with foreigners, which is helpful. I'll do my best to be good at English!
I lived in Japan and it was just so different, for the mere fact that people treat you as you are. The culture is rooted in respect kindness and consideration. Something that Americans as a whole had never prioritized.
Exactly, I was reading the comments & saw a lot of messed up comments but so far this is the most open minded & accurate one. Aside of politics, both Japan & America have good qualities. & at the end of the day.. you must treat people the way you want to be treated . Here, Japan & anywhere else.
I've noticed that it's sometimes easier to be a racial minority in a foreign country than a racial minority in the country you are born in. I'm Asian Australian. When I go overseas and I'm treated like a foreigner or outsider, it doesn't hurt because I know I am a foreigner in their country (not counting instances of explicit racism). And some cultures welcome foreigners gladly and treat them with hospitality. But sometimes in Australia I'm treated like a foreigner and it's extremely hurtful, because I'm not a foreigner. I was born here and this is my home. And I feel like when I try to affirm my Australian-ness I don't get hospitality, I get pushback. Because I'm a threat to some people's idea of what an Australian looks like. So I think some people find it easy to be kind to someone who is a racial minority if there's an understanding that they are a foreigner. But once that 'foreigner' says, no, I'm the same as you. That becomes a threat to their identity and is met with anger.
as Australians we tend to have this ethos of egalitarianism - that we are all equal at Bondi Beach (of course imaginary because Western Suburbs poor folks have no train line to get there - so they go to Cronulla instead) but I always remember years ago a US Navy ship arrived in Sydney, and crew on shore leave were in dress whites I was coming out of a supermarket in central Sydney and saw this tall black guy in dress uniform whites with polished brass and shoes and he just looked amazing - I just about fell down with respect for this god-like being. I've also heard that black guys in Sydney - because of their relative rarity - can 'get lucky' with the girls here - but that's just something I've heard ... "it's called the American Dream because you have to be asleep to believe it ..." - ua-cam.com/video/rsL6mKxtOlQ/v-deo.html
This is a great observation that I never thought about, thank you! What you said sums up the experiences that a lot of African Americans feel exactly. We’re never really seen as “an American” and that was reflected right up until Jim Crow was abolished which was only one generation ago. I think what you said is why I feel more comfortable and welcome living in Japan as a black man than I do living in my own country America. It’s just understood that I will never be Japanese and I’m not trying to be. But somehow in America I never really felt “American” but more closely connected to the region I grew up in (New York).
@@MercifulTyrant This is another thing. White Australians sometimes see white foreigners as closer to them than Asian people, despite knowing many Asian people around them are born here in Australia! I've even internalized this myself. I noticed that when I met another Asian person, even if they have an Aussie accent and I'm sure they were born here, I'd ask where they're from. On the other hand, I'll have known a white person for months and never ask where they're from. Then later be surprised to here they grew up in France or Zimbabwe or the UK! We are a long way from unlearning the idea that white = default Australian, non-white = other/from somewhere else. Which is why conversations such as this are important.
@@vertigo2894 I think your full of crap. You're either native or foreign. Skin color doesn't have much effect on the equation here. Secondly, don't like your own comment. Looks bad.
Overall it’s really safe in Japan. People will mind their own business and even if they don’t agree to something, they will rarely confront you in aggressive way. I’ve been there twice and people are always nice and courteous, and if you’re lost, they will even walk you to make sure your get to your destination.
Most Japanese are not conscious of their skin color. Nor do they change their responses based on skin color. However, the Japanese great importance on the concept of "when in Rome, do as the Romans do“ Therefore, if you enter a Japanese person's home with your shoes on, you may be discriminated against. Please note that Japanese people do not expect foreigners to understand Japanese culture and manners perfectly from the beginning. Therefore, if you do something against Japanese culture and manners, Japanese people will not be offended. However, if you are living in Japan and repeatedly do things that are offensive to the Japanese, you will be disliked.
I had the most pleasant experience in Japan. One of my experiences was while waiting to cross the street and admittedly being a little lost. It started to drizzle and a kind man ran into the store on the corner and purchased an umbrella for me. He politely bowed and handed me the umbrella. It was just such a sweet gesture from a stranger that I’ll never forget.
I am Japanese living in NY for more than ten years. I was looked at different when covid hit, and also stopped by police for not wearing the seatbelt but of course I had my seatbelt as always. They asked my id and also they left their finger print on the back of my car. Seeing/ Listening to friends and family's stories, or news, I see how things can go wrong easily here. And that makes me angry. Why people look our skin colors? I also have lived in North Dakota for a few years and All people welcomed me...oh except a few. And They treated me with respect and I felt being different was something to proud of. Then In the same time around when I visited Minneapolis, many people looked down on me and felt very uncomfortable. So...what should I say. Seeking different place as a home can be very rewarding to many people. I stopped seeking it as I became a mother of children. No longer depending to other people. I am the home to my family. I wonder when I feel New York is my home. They got so much things that needs to be done.
You understand that police do that to every race, right? It must be confusing to people that feel different, are you being treated differently or are you just seeing the unlikable side of life and are attributing that to race. I read your paragraph and I could have said the same thing without race being involved. It’s a way of thinking that gives you reason in an uncontrollable world.
I know what you mean. They are doing their job, too. I understand. I try not think that way but with all my experiences that I can not write here, I sure feel there is a race discrimination here. So what I want to say is i try to look only around me and my family. Any friends and family involved to me, I love all of them as who they are without what kind of back ground they have. So if each of us only look at around us and small communities become happy, i think all of us no matter what color we are gonna be happy. There is no such word as Happy in Suri tribe in Ethiopia. They get sad only when people or cows pass away. They are happy just being alive and eat food with their loved ones everyday. I feel like we sometimes need to go back to that kind of simple and beautiful thinking way. But then each of us can not be happy if there is a systematic racism. That is something we need to work on, or at least try. Have a great day.
@@Shomom7 would systemic racism include 98.5% of one population being all the same race? That’s IS the definition of systemic racism. And that my friend is your home countries statistics. I think what you’re trying to say is that diversity really doesn’t work. We like it to be so, but unfortunately, groups that are in the minority, will always feel slighted. Even when people are the same race………religion and ethnicity will be the stumbling blocks. Humans haven’t evolved much since the time of tribes. When I was in Japan I was stopped by the police…..I’m was almost sure it was because I was American.
I never said Japan did not have any problem, i think they have much more things that needs to be improved, too. US and Japan both have good and bad things, right? So I believe you should stay and see real aspects of countries, compare and then you should choose if you can. Since college, I have been in the states. Even though I see many bad things here, I still like staying here more than in Japan. I also see great things here, too. I mean I love Japan, too but slightly US culture fits my personality. That is why I said in the first place it is important to seek your home while you can. Like these people in this youtube video. If they are happy there, that is great. hope this make sense.
@@saltynutsman1 oh, I completely understand your point, "humans haven't evolved much since the time of tribes". That is why diversify is so difficult. But I would like to see humanity overcome that kind of wall in the future. Someone said to me, if there is alien attack from space happens to the earth, we all become ONE as "earth" and fight against the aliens. It's an awful idea but has interesting point. Oh well...it was nice talking to you!
The only honesty was that they feel safer in a land where everyone looks different from them. We all know the dangers of their communities back home and the group that preys on them. Of course they could be a little more “honest” but that wouldn’t fit the narrative.
I'm a black woman in my mid 30's and want to move to Japan. I've been studying the language for three years and have done a lot of research. I've visited the country twice and each time felt an indescribable feeling that I can't quite convey to people who look at me funny when I tell them my goal to try living there. The best way I can describe it is, I'd get stares there, and sometimes people would be a bit taken aback - but the stares never felt loaded and I never felt like I was in danger even in the remote countryside for being "out of place". I also had the experience of kind older people treating me like an actual human. The experience of paying for an expensive ryokan (hot spring inn) and being treated the same as the other paying customers with excellent service. There was also no underlying feeling of being othered at that ryokan, that my presence was unwelcome or somehow decreasing the value of the atmosphere, or people treating me like I was lost or something, lol. It was such a stark contrast to when I was traveling in the US, especially in smaller towns. I feel like you just don't get it until you experience it. I know it's not a perfect place, but I still want to give it a try.
Once your done with school ? Hold on bro , you should first get a graduated, or else life will be a living hell in japan ( not only in japan but any country )
I’m moving to Japan too. Where no one looks like me or the culture is way different than mine in many ways and where they oppose any mass migration of anyone that looks like me. Yes, paradise!
It has its flaws, but Japan is wonderful and. And it really does feel incredibly safe there. In the countryside, you can leave your doors unlocked and your bike outside, even with your backpack in the basket. You're also very likely to have lost items returned to you by a kind stranger. I once saw an insignificant red hat hung up on a fence for MONTHS in case the owner came back to find it. These are just normal gestures there.
Im Japanese. I’m so glad to hear that they like their lives here in Japan as they understand that most people don’t see them in racism way. I tend to stare at non Japanese people and/or people speaking in other languages just out of curiosity and cuz I’m interested in languages and actually hoping to talk with them. But also I’m always worried whether you guys are feeling bad about it. Ahh my English sucks cry
Your English is really good. I hope to one day visit your amazing country and spend a few weeks immersed in your culture. Best wishes and respect to you from the United States. :)
I agree with all these interviews. Japan is very safe. I’m only a visitor to Japan and I am happy for these people that feels safe in Japan. ❤❤❤ Just recently visited Japan and I felt like Japan is more open with foreigners but I only went to major cities. I’m not sure about the country side how they treat foreigners. Thank you for sharing this video.
I relate to all these beautiful people's stories so much. I majored in Japanese in university and had the privilege to study abroad in Japan for a couple months. As a Black man raised entirely in the south of America (LA and GA), the experience of being in an environment where the color of my skin did not dictate how I was treated was such an amazing feeling. I unfortunately had to return to America after my study abroad program ended, but my heart never left Japan. I can't wait until I can go back to find the peace that I know I'll never get as a Black body existing in America.
Nice you feel that way. What am a missing? A country that is 98.5% homogeneous, with a handful of people that look like you, with a history of isolation and a strict immigration policy and you feel at home there? I’m guessing it has more to say about you than the actual country.
@@saltynutsman1 it'd be more accurate to say that the cognitive dissonance I've been forced to experience due to systematic oppression and blatant racism here in America is probably the biggest factor that makes me wanna return to Japan. Is Japan basically homogenous? Yes. Has it been historically xenophobic as a country? Yes. But also, can I exist there as a Black man and be granted the same respect, humanity and bodily wellbeing that other residents enjoy? Yes. Can't say the same for America. But that's just how I feel personally, a sentiment obviously echoed by other people of similar background hence why you are even able to be having this dialogue with me. Not sure what you have against Japan, but maybe that has more to do with you than my comment and my personal opinion. Thanks for the food for thought though, friend.
@@HoshikuzuHobbs I get you love Japan, I do, I just don’t understand the racial aspect for the reason. I’m honestly perplexed. Your answer to racism is to move to a more homogeneous society and be more of a minority? That’s your solution to racism? If you were to say Japan is more prosperous and more advantageous to your prospects I’d be with you. To say you wouldn’t face limits in Japan because of you race is being disingenuous. To say Japan is less isolationist with a foreign population of 1.5% is hard for me to fathom, that’s all.
@@saltynutsman1 This man is speaking to his own embodied experience. How are you honestly questioning the authenticity behind that? The experiences these Black Americans are talking about having in Japan are more illuminate of white America than anything else. If moving to Japan felt like a more effective response than waiting around for white people to learn how to not be racist, who are you to question it?
You can find discrimination almost anywhere cause there’s no such thing as a utopia. I have also been to Japan and the Japanese are very polite and courteous, it’s a cultural thing.
When I was living in Europe, I had experienced lots of discrimination as an Asian. It’s made me scared, sad, and want to go back to home, but it also made me want to act polite to others regardless of their nationality. So I’m trying to think not to hate them but to appreciate them to change my mind. I hope all people can be safe and satisfied with their life no matter where we are.
@@SuperSigner10 Europeans are just more self aware and able to talk freely about this, because European Union mostly. but yeah Asian people are also pretty racist, especially with "each others", just like us Europeans really lol
@@vodkaboy Europeans are more self-aware, because of the European Union...? What do you mean by that? And I've never met an Asian person that was capable of being more racist than a European. lol Seems you're blame-shifting here. That's not very nice of you.
Lived in Japan for 3 years while I was in the military, and I can say this with full confidence. If it wasn't for the language barrier I would have stayed and lived in Japan and never looked back.
In Japan, migrants from other countries are considered to be "foreigners" regardless of their skin color. The concept of "foreigner" is equivalent to the concept of "Japanese". However, it is quite difficult to break this barrier of distinction. No matter how many years foreigners live in Japan, they would be still considered being within the framework of "foreigners".
As a Japanese, I completely agree with you. That barrier is very high. Even Japanese people find it difficult to break when they move to another area. In order to break the barrier, you need to study as much Japanese language, Japanese (or local) culture and customs as possible, and spend a long time integrating yourself into the local community.
I'm an African-American guy. Her name was Mrs. Payne & she was my 5th grade teacher. She delivered a presentation to my class of a vacation with friends. In that country day/time were different, books were read from right to left, seating was in the floor, women were dressed in kimono and there was a special mountain called Fuji. It stayed with me as a young adult. Finally, in 2004 I made the first of 3 trips there & I felt so at home each time. While in Hiroshima, I stood on a bridge & remembered my teacher: " I made it, Mrs. Payne." I proclaimed, "I'm in Japan."
Regular Soul Food House customer here ! ! ! So glad she made it on this video. As a hispanic man myself, I found that I grew to love my true self here in Japan as well. These interviews really meant a lot to me. Thanks NPR
last time i lived there was in 2009 for a year and i had come from Hong kong at the time . I am a 6ft3 albino dude. wirh roots in africa so even before living in asia. i knew most of asia find albinism really spooky. i've had people ask me why i wear red contacts eveh though my eyes are that color. folk randomly hiss at me as if i am cat . and they are not doing it the way some countries do it because in spain when people hiss its because they want you to come closer so they can share gossip lol!.
im black and my close friend was from Hokaido. We connected bc we were two struggling students -not because of our skin color. If I could move this minute to Japan,Id go and never turn around. Thanks for this video!!!
This is so cool. I mean I spent my 3 years in NYC growing up and I always have my impression that African Americans people are cool, stylish and fashionable with their great music culture and all. And it’s so cool to see those cool people choose to live in Japan and love living in here.
I was stationed for a year in Japan. They're telling the truth. I could've really possibly stayed there working as a Govie. This is also true in many other foreign countries. I am possibly thinking about retiring abroad (more bang for my buck).
Honestly racism occurs everywhere, whether it be Japan or South Korea etc..but for every non racist ppl lets help each other and stop racism for we are all same and will all die someday. Stay safe
Been in Japan for 21 years straight. Loving it. Married to a wonderful Okinawan woman. The people are nice to me. They have some bad ones but they don't like foreigners in general . Been all over asia. Korea, China and Singapore. I've been spit at in Hong Kong, that didn't end well for that person. Shunned in Korea but never turned away in Japan. That's just been my experience.
Exactly what I was thinking. The Japanese society is very racist, but the target are not black people, the target is chinese, south east asians and middle eastern asians.
This is very true. They are not racist towards black people especially if they are from America or UK. However Japanese are very racist to southeast asian and south asian people.
It cannot be denied that the Japanese have racism too. There are some different levels of racism depending on skin colors and origins. Whites are also subject of racism by the Japanese, such as Russians. But i can proudly say that there is no stigma for being black in Japan that strongly exists in the US.
YES! What I feel was not talked on the video is that the japanese society is very racist too, but the racism is not towards blacks, but towards chinese and indians and arabics
People say Japanese are generally "racist" but I've never felt that way living in Japan for more than 5 years -- I think the right word to describe their reaction to encountering different races is genuine "curiosity" rather than overt racism since there is no historical context for it in Japan (segregation, KKK, Chinese Exclusion Act, internment camps, etc.). Generally, the black Americans I've worked with all felt "free" from systemic racism and were judged on not necessarily the color of their skin, but by their work ethic, language ability, and ability to _adjust_ to the *Japanese way of life* and *social mannerisms.* And this goes for *all* foreigners in Japan -- if you follow their ways, no one really has anything awful to say about you. The key, I observed, is to not _defy_ and _whine_ about the way things are done in Japan, whereas in the US, it seems that the norm is that everyone and their mother complains, whines, and defies everything for the sake of being "free" or "different"! That attitude is generally considered lousy and is bound to cause discord and dissonance within society here in the States and no matter where you go. Stop trying so hard to be different and instead be _practical!_ When in Rome...
ye I feel like it is honest ignorance of others especially blk folk. They have been such a secluded place up until some time ago where they let lots more people in. If you barely see blk folk you would be curious. Also the media (movies, news, jokes, stereotypes) don't help.
Also, the type of racism here in the US can be very rude and cruel. The Japanese are so obsessed with etiquette and protocol that being outwardly racist would be deemed uncouth. 🤭
Lies try being a black student it's different..y'all thinking racism dosent exist cu you're tourists going there for a year or two ..you haven't been living there since birth to truly know how bad life is there as a black person
I live in Germany. There's good old fashioned racism here too, but it is very rare. One day I was lost in München and went to ask for directions, I was given help very nicely. Then later I realise; "I actually asked for directions from COPS!" Something I never dared to do when I was in the U.S. It was just an all around crazy feeling, I didn't feel like I was talking to THE POLICE until I looked at them again and really noticed their uniform. Now you may be thinking maybe it was just a fluke, I thought the same. But after 7-9 (friendly) interactions (I move around germany a lot), come on.
@Python PogChamp some one who has had allot of emigrants enter their country i actually think it has changed us for the better. As long as they learn our lanuage and get jobs i dont see why its a bad thing.
I have to spend some time soon in Japan for business, and this is really good to know. The people on here, especially the men echo my thoughts about life in the US. I'm a big black guy, and I see the fear that people have in me. I hear the door locks slam shut when I'm walking pass people's car, when I'm heading to my car. When you enter places of business, you either get ignored when you need assistance, or you immediately get ALL the attention because they think you are going to steal. When I finally do go to Japan, I hope I get the same reception as those get in the video. It will be so relaxing.
Japanese and English subtitles are now available.
I love Japan I'm gonna live there
So a "radio" program paid for by American Taxpayers is actively making propaganda of how awful and racist America is, while pointing to a handful of highly successful blacks in the most homogeneous country on Earth? Interesting.
サンキュー
@@devoncampbell7073 me too. I love homogenized culture.
@@Mr.Pants45 they are telling you diversity doesn’t work. It’s what this video is ultimately about.
日本人として「日本は安全で、アメリカより自分らしくすごせる」と言われて嬉しいけれど、1番良いのは彼らの祖国でそう思ってもらえることなんだよな…。
本当にその通り。
その通りですね、黒人の友人が日本は安全で暮らしやすいけど、アメリカにいる家族や親戚や友人が心配と言ってて悲しくなりました...
On the contrary in Japan they believe that black people are evil spirits. I think that Shintoism has something to do with this.
Japan has many problems.
Technical intern trainees livs in Japan.
They are coming to Japan from southeast Asia.
They has bad manners .
現在、生活騒音や家賃滞納。
コロナでの不況で、日本の治安は悪くなりました。
@@なややは-s9s
悪くなったって言ってもたかが知れてる程度なんだよな…世界見てみると悪くなったっていったら100万人辺りの犯罪件数が2桁から3桁になったとかそう言う感じ。
日本人が嫌がるのは、ルールやマナーを守らない人で、肌の色は関係がないと思います。
日本で1番危ないのは日本人ですしね
その通りです、その意見の方が偏見と感じました
正解
そうだね、日本は同調圧力大国
잘났다 ㅋㅋ
子供たちの通う小学校には黒人の英語の先生がいます。走るのがとっても速くて、運動会ではいつもヒーローです。子供たちはみんな先生が大好きですよ。いつも感謝しています。
Usain bolt ⚡
I visited Japan for 2 weeks in 2019 after living in the US for 16 years. My experience was so pleasant that I did "NOT" want to return to the US. The only thing that is holding me back from moving to Japan permanently is the language. The food is great, the air is clean, the people are respectful and the country overall is beautiful. As a black man, I did not feel threatened in any way. You may get stares when you go outside of Tokyo which is understandable. This is because many Japanese in rural Japan have never seen a person of color, so they will naturally stare out of curiosity rather than xenophobia.
Just take it seriously to learn the language. You can do it.
Cool
Curiosity my ass. You left Japan for the country. Those rural folks were 100% racist, same as they are anywhere else in the world.
Saying this as if you were able to be accepted by japan. Dont maje a scene we do not need people like you dont bring race problem here thanks
Most of my time was spent in Okinawa since I was stationed there (4 years). I got a few more stares because I had tattoos on top of being black. Every positive mentioned was definitely the case for me as well, but I often had to entertain extra conversation to show that I didn't bite. I definitely would get different looks if I covered up (not always fun for me in the humid environment) vs when I just wore my normal short sleeve shirts (blank) and some shorts or loose pants.
I guess I would go back if given the chance, but I also wouldn't mind if America just adopted some of the same general practices for quality of life.
この人達が礼儀正しくしているからこそ、そんな対応をされるんだと思う。そうでない人たちは排除されるだろうよ。
まさにそう。
国のマナーや言語、有益なジョブがあってこそ信頼される。だから黒人や白人の括りで忌避されるのとは違う。
それは日本人でも同じ。むしろ失礼な日本人より、失礼な外国人の方がまだ許せる。国民性の違いのせいだと思えるから。
ぶっちゃけ黒人がどうかではなくて、その人の経歴とかの方が大事やな。
信頼度で言えば。
同じ考え。そう考えるとかなりナンセンスなトピックに思えてくる。
そういうのが日本人独特の感覚なんだろうかな
Many Japanese are scared of having interactions with foreigners because of the language barrier, not because they see them as a threat.
The stares and the intention behind it are different, those are harmless stares.
so thats why no one wanted to talk to me while I was in kindergarten in Japan lol
Yea true, this is also true to China and korea. Foreigners stand out to them because they're not used to having people who look different living amongst them. People might think that's racist, but i think it's more like signs of curiosity.
@@weesodusty3974 no, here in China there is a lot of hate against foreigners, and it is even supported directly by the government. In Chinese school we are taught Japanese people are evil and rapists, and that British people are drug smugglers and criminals. As for Americans, we are taught that they are fat and too capitalistic, that they need to fall so that China can rise. Not just this, but there is bigotry amongst Chinese as well, if you are a minority tribe, or if you are either from the north or south part of China, whether you are a migrant worker, etc etc we will find some way to be a bigot against you. The US is the only place where I haven't seen this, it only happens on American media because they like creating conflict to get views, in reality Americans are the least racist people compared to a lot of the world, only some other Western countries are less racist then even that
@@chobai9996 Same in Japan and Korea, they teach children in schools that their race is superior to all others
@@weesodusty3974 so no prejudice in Asia only curiosity. We’ve broken thousands of years of human conditioning. Hallelujah!
I'm Japanese and I think why Japanese stares at you when you walk down the street in Tokyo, is that we are curious about different people. Why Japanese tend to avoid sitting next to you on the train, is that we are afraid to be asked something in English, because most of us don't have much confidence in speaking English.
We don't change our behavior only because they have black or white skin.
We also feel jealous when someone have foreign friends. We actually want to be friends and know more about you and your culture.
日本人は根本的に「外国人」に憧れと恐れを抱いてるように感じる。
Don't be afraid to speak to foreigners. They are in your country because they want to integrate! Many foreigners want to talk to you. They won't care if your English is not good. They will be very happy if you try to speak to them! This is the best way anyone can learn. It goes both ways ➡️🤝⬅️
Prejudice
とはいえ「学校で英語の良い発音をしたら笑われた」なんて事例がよくあるようですし、この辺りの意識から変えないと外国の方と自由に意思疎通をするのは難しそうですね…
義務教育を受けたら日常会話の文法ぐらいなら分かるようになるのに勿体ない気がします。
There’s a reason Japan is 98.5% Japanese. It’s not because you are so welcoming and open to others. What you think you are and what you really are, doesn’t jibe.
日本でもたまに警察官の犯罪はあるけど基本警察って市民の味方でそこにいるだけで安心できるような人たちなはずなのに、その警察と話すのにこんなに怖い思いしなきゃいけない人がいるのは酷すぎる………
これは本当に日本人に知ってほしい。
BLMで何故アメリカ黒人が怒ってるのか理解せず、デモ批判する人が非常に多い印象（特にネットで）
アメリカの政府や警察が黒人に何をしてきたのか知らずに黒人を馬鹿にしないでほしい。
@@Yoroi_usagi 誰も黒人を馬鹿にしてないよ。
@@Yoroi_usagi BLMは政府の作り物だからBLMは黒人を騙すから、騙されたあほをばかにすべきでしょう？もししないなら、ばかはそのまま続けて困るから。BLMの直前に国の皆さんはやっと警察改革に同意した。白人も黒人でも、皆は警察に悪い経験あったりするからやめてほしかった。でも警察はそもそも国の政府を守るわけなものだから、政府はその改革を防いでほしくて、民間人の中に内紛できたら改革の対策などは必ず失敗する論理の上で政府はBLMを作ったりして警察の問題は「白人の人集差別のせいだよ！」というメッセージを推進した。マスコミ、大手会社なども政府のいう通りに応じて白人を激しく訴えた。根拠は嘘なのに、自分はそれが嘘だと分かったのにBLMに騙された黒人をばかにすべきでしょう？
@@MaxResDefault2600 根拠のない妄想はやめてください
BLMは白人の人種差別のせいなんてメッセージではないです
警察官の個人的な差別にとどまらず、警察の組織的な差別や法律や社会システム上の構造的差別に対する運動です
だから黒人だけでなく白人も運動に参加していました
長年アメリカの警察はゲットーの黒人を弾圧してきました
その警察の中には黒人もおり、同じ黒人なのに貧困層の街に住む黒人を理由もなく警棒で叩くような黒人警察は白人警察以上に軽蔑されてきました
あなたの理屈は全くのデタラメです
そもそもBLMは今に始まったものではないです
あの地獄のようなLA暴動から30年経った今でも差別構造は変わりきれてないから同じように暴動が起きました
少し違うのは当時のような白人への憎しみは小さいので、今回は白人が残酷なリンチを受けて血まみれで路上に放置されることはありませんでしたし、韓国人への襲撃や銃撃戦もなかったです
@@Yoroi_usagi 黒人に対して組織的な差別法律の例の一つを教えてください。聞きたいですから私の知り狩りで一つもありません。逆に白人とアジア人に対する差別する法律は多いんですが。
I’m Japanese. When I went to America as studying abroad program, I sometimes feel hierarchy or something like discrimination (not so hard one, it’s like ignoring or not sociable for me) from some people. But then African American girl talked to me, which makes me delighted and happy. At that time I was unable to say enough thanks to her due to my poor English. I would like to appreciate it someday when I meet her again. (My Apologies for long sentences and my broken English)
Yes, unlike your country which is homogenized and everyone has the same look and culture, America is a melting pot of many different kinds of people. It’s good to know there is no hierarchy in Japan.😂
your english is good! ^^
Your English is clear enough 🙂 I'm glad you were able to meet someone who helped you feel welcome.
Your English is pretty clear actually ikeda-san. 👌
Your English is better than a lot of Americans I know 👌
言葉も文化もマナーも違う日本を居心地良いと言ってくれる、そのことほど嬉しいことはありません
それなすぎます、、、、
居心地良いと言ってくれるのは嬉しいし、その理由に日本の良さを感じてくれてるのも嬉しいんだけど、一番大きな理由が故郷で虐げられるからなのが悲しいね。
何人もコメントしているけど、日本人が黒人を見るのは外国人が珍しいから。白人だとしても同じように見るよ。
黒人の方が日本を居心地良いと言って来てくれるのは嬉しい🔥歓迎しています🔥
今どき外国人ってだけでジロジロ見る奴がどこにいんだよwww
@@如月-e9g 田舎だったらそうなる
@@如月-e9g 田舎にはいないからな
I first visited Japan in August 2015, upon arriving, I was greeted by the airport staff, shown where to exchange currency, and guided to the JR station. While standing there, looking visibly confused and overwhelmed, a young Japanese businessman approached ME, and used a translator to ask if I was okay or needed help. He was so polite, he not only showed me where to find my hotel, he actually walked me to the front door despite his stop passing. Every person I encountered during that trip was no different, they really are the friendliest, most organized, well mannered people on earth, I enjoyed it so much I visit every year and hope to move there within the next year. As an African American, I was completely taken by the hospitable nature of Japanese people, the world could learn a lot from them.
i wanna go so bad. i wanna leave the states like yesterday. im sick of it here. Planning my trip for April 2026. Thank you for sharing your story. I hope you get to move there next year!
These stories are exactly like mine. As a black man who lived in Japan for 2 years, I have never ever felt so free in my life. It is not that Japan is perfect, it is just that USA is completly blind when it comes to good race relations.
Come from Brasil
@@milleis NOOOOO I DONTWANNA GO TO BRAZIL !!11!!!1
@@innitbruv-lascocomics9910 ok kkkkk
@@innitbruv-lascocomics9910 you can run BUT YOU CANT HIDE 🔫
🎉WELCOME TO BRAZIL🎊
That a load of BS....you just feel free because you're one of the 2% or something of foreigners and are "special" and "unique" because of it, in the US you were just normal.....let's face it, there's no real racism in the US in modern times, but come here to China, you will see real racism...
日本人として素直に嬉しい。·······が､出来れば彼らにとって全てが心地のよい世界であって欲しいと願っています。心の中まで故郷が無く生きていくのは悲し過ぎる。
Korean & Japanese the most rasisme country
でも日本で日本にそこまで関係ない抗議デモ起こすのはちょっと違くね？
日本人として、このインタビューに出てた人たちが、日本で自分らしく生活できることを切に願います
Japan has many problems.
Technical intern trainees livs in Japan.
They are coming to Japan from southeast Asia.
They has bad manners .
現在、生活騒音や家賃滞納。
コロナでの不況で、日本の治安は悪くなりました。
@@なややは-s9s It must be a lie.
According to the National Police Agency, the number of general crimes in Japan is recorded low in 2021.
Most foreigners are polite.
日本の治安が悪化しているというのは全くの嘘です。
警察庁によれば、日本における刑法犯の数は2021年に過去最低を記録しています。
ほとんどの外国人は礼儀正しいです。
@士 武 悲しいけどこういう日本下げをする人って未だにいるんですよね・・・
初期アイコンで名前適当だしおそらく捨てアカでやってるんでしょう。
I like to see the japanese pride, don't let others bring your country down 👍🇧🇷
@@Hiroheim that’s not what they said. Did you read? They hope that they can live their lives. Wtf?
When I was a child, there was a black person in the same class at school, so I didn't have a sense of discrimination since I was a child.
Skin color is an identity, but it's not a reason to discriminate.
you think it is just a color of someone's skin? that skin color usually comes with a culture and usually it is a really trashy culture that causes crime and makes for terrible neighbors....people don't avoid black neighborhoods for no reason, it is cheap to live in them but people don't care cause they do not want to be stolen from, robbed, or murdered
This is why America can't reach its full potential. It's sad when Americans can travel 6000 miles away from their country and feel more respected than when they are at home. If all Americans truly felt welcomed in this country, we would be an unstoppable force. Instead, America is imploding from the inside because we treat each other as enemies instead of countrymen.
@Awesome Randomguy This is a very lazy statement. The Roman Empire spanned 46 modern-day countries. It included dozens upon dozens of different cultures. It became a world superpower for a millennia, all while having an incredible amount of ethnic diversity. Saying that a society can't reach it's full potential because of diversity alone is a cop-out.
It's a lazy way of saying "if people in a society look different, they won't work together". The fact is, we don't know what a society where being an American matters more than race or ethnicity looks like, because we have never tried it. That concept seems foreign because America puts emphasis on racial differences above the idea of being a unified country.
I agree with this because America nowadays is so corrupted with a broken system especially for people with disabilities, it may be a free country but it’s free to racism,bullying,cyber-bullying,greed, and again corruption, I know other countries has these problems but in America it’s worst with it’s people especially for some African Americans. That’s my opinion
You're joking right? Believe me, if this guy was sticking people up, carjacking and assaulting woman, he get treated just the same in ANY country in the world.
@Awesome Randomguy it's economy is declining for the past 30 years what the fuck are you on
fyi, the japanese are as much as racist as the white americans are. Force assimilations of the ainu and ryukuyan has been a thing for centuries. And they're not really the type of people that get along well with koreans or chinese...
生まれた国なのになぜ怯えながら生きなきゃいけないのか。事件のことを考えるたびに悲しくなります。
他のお客さんと同じようにサービスを受けられると言っていたのが忘れられません。
世の中、どの人にも接客のただ少しの時間の間でも平等に接することのできない人がいるのが信じられません。
この動画でアメリカの差別問題について知らない事もあったので勉強になりました。
Japan has many problems.
Technical intern trainees livs in Japan.
They are coming to Japan from southeast Asia.
They has bad manners .
現在、生活騒音や家賃滞納。
コロナでの不況で、日本の治安は悪くなりました。
@@なややは-s9s 数字が大事ですよ
My Grandson wants to live in Japan. I can't wait until we can make our first trip there. He's going to begin learning Japanese in a few weeks.
he gonna be happy as hell until he starts to learn kanji has different meanings for one symbol.
that is gonna have his brain shaking.
Hey come to India....well we are gonna stare at you though....we stare at everybody though....we stare a lot at even white ppl.
@@nikhilharidas87 we’ll have to make time to visit there as well.
@@Menace-To-Humanity Lol. He’s got a young mind. He can take it
@@KalimahWilliams But don't mind the staring.....they are very curious about you. Well about everyone even about each other. Down south we can be darker than African Americans. Up North we are really fair. North-East we look slightly oriental.....So we stare at each other also.....hahhhaaha. we actually have an African community here called the Siddis. They were brought to India as slaves by the British. Most Indians also do not know of their existence. Many people are begining to learn that they are Indians too and has been in India for long time. We can be ignorant but we are not mean.
As a Filipino in living in Japan, what I felt about Japanese is that, they are scared of different things.
Because in schools they are teaching being fair and equal is important so when they saw something new or something different, it’s just they are scared of it.
But I think that they are open-minded so if you explain things and show it to actions is that they listen to you and look at your attitude and they understand it.
And also, i think the people in cities are so busy and stressed that they tend to think “mind your own business”.
It’s like “i never minded what ever you are doing and I didn’t bothered you so don’t bother me and you don’t have to mind as well”.
I am Japanese and your thoughts are a true representation of the Japanese national character.
What we are taught as children is "don't bother others".
By others, I mean people who are not related to us by blood.
That’s the first impression what I had in mind while visualizing "what it is like if I was able to move in Japan" but as a black American. I’m honestly quite surprised that you are filipino while discussing this because in most other Asian countries its just that when curiosity comes to mind it makes me wonder if there are other ethnicities of Asian people would mistreat you if they’re able to tell that you’re not from there and might face discrimination because of it. Just because you’re different from others doesn’t mean they should have the right to treat you differently.
That was exactly my experience.
I loved japan and wouldn't hesitate to go back, but if I'm honest, I get rubbed the wrong way hearing all these comments hearing about how friendly and open Japanese people are. Not to stereotype, but my experience with Japan was the exact opposite. If they weren't looking for my business, they wouldn't look at me at all. To be fair, they probably correctly assumed I couldn't speak Japanese and when I initiated the encounter, they were usually respectful in return; but I just culture shocked. Again, I don't have anything against Japanese, they just seem unfriendly as a culture.
言語も文化も違う日本を心地よく思ってくれて嬉しい。ありがとう。これからも穏やかに暮らしてほしい。
Japan has many problems.
Technical intern trainees livs in Japan.
They are coming to Japan from southeast Asia.
They has bad manners .
現在、生活騒音や家賃滞納。
コロナでの不況で、日本の治安は悪くなりました。
私は日本人です。彼らの話を聞いてとてもショックでした。日本ではその様な人種差別はほとんど起こらないと思います。
私はアメリカ、カナダに少し住んだ事がありますがアジア人差別を感じた事がありました。
とても悲しかったです。
どの人種が優れている、劣っているなんてバカげています。
世界中から人種差別がなくなればいいのにと切に願います。
Your right bro 😭 #racismsuxks #stopracism
人集差別をなくすことは自分の人集の責任だろう。なぜなら人集差別は経験の元に起こることでしょう。アメリカでも人集差別は元々少なかったが、２００８の経済問題を紛らわすためにユダヤ人が持ってる新聞やマスコミが人集差別の問題をわざと促進させた。警官の違反を辞めさせる対策も政府が防ぐことが欲しかったからBLMの作成もした。一般人が皆人種内紛すればエリートの生活は楽になるから。でもその影響で黒人家族が６０年代からほとんど潰され黒人にすごく悪い影響与えた。なので、今のほとんどの黒人は暴力的で社会に何も役に立たないから皆に実際に嫌わるになった。前はそうじゃなかったのに、過去に戻れない。差別を訴えば、冤罪でも黒人はお金もらったり、仕事の厳しい上司が首になったりできるから乱用になった。長い返事すみませんが、マスコミでの話はあくまで間違ってる。私は元々人集差別のことが嫌いだったし、ムームーンと同じように考えたんだけど、悪い経験いっぱいあってからやっぱり「人集差別」と言葉は間違ってる、まるで「防衛機構」で、「人集差別」と使う相手は私の防衛をつぶす裏技の一つだとやっと分かった。
In the U.S.
It's definitely all about race and "teams" on all sides.
Except blacks have been forced after many attempts at unity. When your goverment is against you what's your option?
Not really
It's true
I moved here from japan it is very different; weird feeling being categorized
@@Hevendemo おまえ日本人でわないｗｗ 嘘つきでしょねぇ 😂
It’s called thousands of years of evolution. Maybe we are not evolved enough to overcome it.
日本人の多くは、外国人だから恐れているのではなく、本当に自分の英語に自信がないから話しかけられても対応してあげられないのを恐れているのはまじでそうだとおもう
日本のことをリラックスできると感じてくれたらうれしいです。どんな人種の人であっても。それは日本人にとっても居心地の良い国であるはずだから。
Fair enough but Japan is for the Japanese people.
落ち着くまで相当の時間が必要です。アメリカ生まれの黒人としてそこまで言い及ぼしてもおかしくないかと思います。
@@singhatar0912 Who said it wasn’t?
日本にはいい点いっぱいあるよ！ それ行っても、その遠回しの言い方を慣れるまで時間かかるよｗ。
@@jordiespepsi5354 I know what he said. My question was who said that Japan wasn’t for Japanese people?
Been in Japan before and I've got to say, the best thing about Japan is their culture/people
Another comment that seems to prove a homogeneous culture is the way to go.
@WakaWaka the same people that say diversity matters are the same ones that proclaim the merits of a homogeneous culture.
And maybe, there low crime rate too. This video is pointless if we compare crime rates between US and Japan.
@@saltynutsman1 yeah. its like when people say white european countries are better than america.
Living while blk in America, guy get arrested cashing his own check video
👇🏾
ua-cam.com/video/awlHQnc0vxw/v-deo.html
It's just heartbreaking that you can't feel safe at home.
True. We need to find out and identify who is making us feel unsafe!
@@saltynutsman1 systems of oppression, institutions that are doing what they were designed to do.
@@Nintendo101Channel finally, someone I can agree with. It’s telling that this program was produced by PBS. A US government entity.
@@saltynutsman1 Hmmm I wonder who created racism??? Hmmmm... I mean it would have had to been created by oppressors and whole country stealing and rapping and plundering pure of human incesters from the blood to the bone for generations to generations, conceived only to hate kill and destroy whole human generations brainwashing the entire planet believing that they are the most Superior of all Humans and live as the fathers of most all global genocide. Hmmmmm...... I wonder who???????? -_-*
Ex: rappers getting killed in their own hometowns 🤦🏾♀️
I am Japanese. I love foreign people and various cultures. It is said that Japan is safe. Of course, this may be true compared to other countries, but it is impossible for all Japanese to be treated kindly. At the very least, there will be people who discriminate or are not kind. If I am asked for directions by a foreigner in English, or if I am in trouble, I always want to help them. It doesn't matter what color skin you have. The world is a big place. I love you all!
❤❤❤❤
❤❤❤
I'm a latino man living in Japan. Watching this video made me incredibly thankful to live in such a good place. I'm happy these wonderful people get to share their stories and may they prosper in this country!
👍
Right on my Latino brotha
Saca la bolsita
What's your story? How did you end up in japan? Studies / work?
@@sorcgirl9 long story short: met a wonderful woman in the USA & we decided to move to Japan. Our daughter just turned 1 this fall.
日本人がじっと外国人を見てしまうのは、大抵はかっこいいなとか、素敵だなと思って凝視してしまうからなんです。それが不快に感じてしまうなら本当に申し訳ないんですが、でも本当に、そういった理由で見ちゃうんです。日本人には無い良さが詰まってるから…。
体格が大きいから目立って目が行ってしまうのは事実ですね。そこに差別の意はないですけど
日本人より容姿が良いからついつい観ちゃうんだよね。
国内の道端でマッチョな黒人をみるとすげーマッチョだなぁと思うけど,日本人のめっちゃマッチョな人がまちなかを歩いていてもすげーマッチョだなぁと思う.
このあたりはカラーというより確かに本当に見慣れてないという面が強いのかもしれない...
そうかな？
良いように言ってるように感じるけど
自分は感情とか関係なく「あ、外人だ」ってだけで結構見ちゃう。むしろその方が多いと思うけどな？
普通に人種関係なく人を凝視するのは失礼なので見ないようにしてる
I've been here for nearly a year and I'm not gonna lie. This country has given me some serious peace of mind I haven't found elsewhere even with its cons. I'm learning Japanese because not only is it a healthy, beneficial challenge, but I really want the option of living somewhere else in my lifetime. I want to be safe. I want to live.
Agreed. Diversity is overrated. I too am looking for a homogeneous country that has strict immigration policies.
you didnt feel safe in the USA? are you one of those that think black people are being gunned down in the streets (by cops , not other blacks)
@@saltynutsman1 I live in Australia and life has gone to shit since I was a kid. Born and bred in Western Australia but since we let in every country to live here crime and drugs have gone through the roof.
@@dooley9621 all intentional. Wish you luck.
@@dooley9621 haha an Australian complaining about immigration.You should read your country’s history my guy.You’re an immigrant
From 1994 to 2007, I would spent quite a bit of time in Japan. I was treated with warmth and respect. I was treated like a celebrity wherever I went. The Japanese people that I encountered were very kind to me.
Thanks for proving my point about black people being narcissistic.
I was very surprised at how bad the environment surrounding blacks in the U.S. is.
Japanese people sometimes stare at foreigners.
This is because they are rare.
Some people stay away from them because they are not confident in their English.
But I want you to know that this is not discrimination.
We Japanese have been learning about the history of foreign countries since we were children.
We are ashamed of discriminatory acts because we know sad stories of America, such as the slavery issue.
However, children may honestly point out that they look different, so please forgive them for that. Because they are still in the process of learning.
Japanese people dislike foreigners only when they do not accept Japanese culture and rules and act selfishly.
There is no discrimination based on race.
Some Japanese are terrible. That is a problem that Japanese people should think about.
Right
There are crazy people in every country.
why is it bad in the US for blacks???
@@jkjk19010k Im glad to hear someone demonstrate some actual knowledge.. Thank you for saying that.. It gets a little worrying when people cannot stop spouting lies about systemic racism in america.. When you ask them to show you one law on the books that makes it favorable for white people over other races they usually just leave the debate . And lets not get started on affirmative action
@x86_64 kids will be kids
Amen! As a black person from living in Japan too, I agree. I really enjoy life living here. I feel less stressed here. My eyes have been opened too. I have come to realize America isn't number 1 like how we are taught in school.
Maybe go live in a black country with your fellow kings and queens if you think all these foreign countries are socially hostile to you.
@@AleXoEx0 I think about that too. I watch UA-cam videos about African American people who move and re-establish themselves and their families in places like Norway, Iceland and Ghana. But, me personally I like Japanese culture. Also I got a Japanese minor in university. So, I want to be able to use my Japanese in my daily life so that I don't forget it.
@@MykahCroom If you didn’t notice, he was being a sarcastic prick like a lot of whites do.
@@adventureswithmichaelakaec7497 And I'm glad the person responded to their sarcasm with honesty. White people have this thing of trying to make African countries seem terrible and think they have the right (based on their own racist stereotypes about African countries) to question African Americans why we "don't move to Africa." I know Nigeria and I think Ghana(?) have programs in place that allows African Americans to visit for a while just to see how we feel there. I've been planning for Nigeria since 2019 but have been nervous of travel since news of COVID. Some African countries even offer free citizenship to African Americans and so many African Americans have taken that opportunity. Even black American celebrities have taken up citizenship in African countries
@@agreshshun5443 "White people have this thing of trying to make African countries seem terrible"
Way to miss the point entirely. He's asking why you don't just move to a black-majority country instead of going to one where you are the minority, and complaining about how you are treated there.
日本人は外国人をお客さんとして認識しているのである程度の問題に対して同胞よりも寛容です
しかしそれに甘んじて無礼な態度を取り続けると一転して日本人は外国人を相容れない外敵として倦厭するようになると思います
まさにこれ。
日本を敬って、日本人を敬う限り、我々日本人も外人を敬う。
日本を貶め、日本人に対して悪行を働くのであれば排斥され、日本人は外人を怖がることになる。
寛容っていうか、無関心なだけなのはあると思う
最低限の秩序を乱さなければ赤の他人だしって感じで
This was so powerful to see as I have been wanting to Visit Japan. Now I KNOW I WILL visit Japan with my family. Thanks for sharing...
In my experience traveling in Japan, you get varying experiences by city. A city like Osaka, they embrace Black people and culture A LOT, it's actually a big part of their niche cultural scene. Tokyo is accepting, but not loved to the extent of Osaka.
In Tokyo, I feel that even Japanese people are indifferent to others. This is not the case in Osaka. It's a matter of regional characteristics.
Please come back to Japan again when Corona is settled.
So Japan is like every other country in that racism is very individualistic. Interesting 🤔.
@@machicchi I’m sorry, I’m having a hard time finding the racial demographics for Osaka, I couldn’t find them on the internet. I’d really like to know how much the Osakans “embrace” the black people. I know a lot of Haitian friends looking for a place to live. Any information about your “open” community would be greatly appreciated.
Cant agree anymore as a person who has lived in both cities for many years. Love Osaka .
I lived in Osaka for 2.5 years before moving to Tokyo and I say that people are just a lot warmer in Osaka.
Even in my current workplace in Tokyo I found that co-workers who are originally from Osaka and Kansai region in general are usually friendlier.
The Japanese are fine as long as people respect, follow rules and don’t disturb
一日本人として、彼らが安心して暮らしていることを誇りに思います。
数千または数百万の黒人がやってくるまで待ってください。これを言ったことを後悔するでしょう。
@@cottoncandykawaii2673 ok your seriously racist girl !!
@@amdead4705 cotton candy is simply pointing out that individuals don’t pose any threat, because you can’t form a culture around a single person.
@@JG-to8sp
yeah a few people is not a problem, but when they bring them in on mass it's over, your country is ruined and they will never leave
@@cottoncandykawaii2673 The majority of Black people don’t even be thinking about Japan, let alone moving there. It’s always the non Japanese people complaining the most.
As a Japanese person who has lived in LA over 14 years, I totally understand how “feeling safe” is so impactful to the quality of life.
It’s a basic needs for every living creatures, but yet, so hard to fulfill in the states.
I personally had to pause my career and come back to Japan during the raise of Asian hate crimes…
Yes, Japanese people are ignorant
Yes, Japan has some issues
Yes, some people are racist
But Japan is so freaking safe.
No guns, no harmful homeless people, no drug dealers on a street, no obvious discrimination against people, and no police is going to try to kill you.
Of course, there are some irregular crimes like a former prime minister getting shot this year, but the chance to get shot is soooooooo low compare to the states.
And if you’re a Japanese person reading this, you might think that’s normal and nothing special.
Trust me, fearing for the death while you are just breathing, just having a normal life, just walking down the street are very very very stressful. And that’s the kind of fear a lot of African American people are forced to deal with in the states…
I hope the US become as safe as Japan one day, and people can feel safe in their home…
日本人は無知と言われてもw
主語デカすぎて呆れるわ
日本にいると自分の安全な生活が特別なものだと感じない。だから、他国のいろんな部分を羨んで、「日本は本当にクソだな」って思ったりする。だけど、安全であることを何よりも望んでいる人達がいるんですよね。想像する機会をくれてありがとう。
As a Brazilian, I get the picture, lol.
I have to push back on your comment a bit regarding your statement about “harmful homeless people.” It disparages those who are unhoused/homeless.
Rather than see homeless people as a problem, see societal issues as the problem- low wages, the growing income and wealth gap, lack of affordable housing, lack of healthcare which can push people into bankruptcy and poverty, lack of mental health care, lack of employment and healthcare equity for those with disabilities, substance abuse and the ongoing opioid epidemic, funding cuts to social services and safety nets, etc.
It’s an entanglement of many issues that impact everyone but especially exploit those who are already marginalized and vulnerable. Sorry to go on this rant, but the language we use is really important and we need to stop “othering” vulnerable and marginalized populations.
wake up LEY the police in america are not trying to kill you or black folks.. guns dont kill , people do (just look at canada where 35 people killed our wounded in a massive knife attack, y'all got swords and knives there right?)... our stupid goverment has an open border policy that allows tons of drugs from china to go to mexico and here into the USA and our homeless populations have exploded...
you are plugged into the news which is bullshit and they are manipulating the minds of innocent people who think they are telling the truth....
As a black man that used to live in Japan, I cannot agree more with everything espoused in this video. Living in Japan I felt like a huge weight was lifted off of my shoulders. And I felt truly free for the first time in my life. This was an amazing piece. I really appreciated it.
come on dude... you are free back here in america.... more black people have made a fortune here than ANYWHERE else on earth... drop the racial lenses
@@brianbailey462 Come on dude... Good job just replying without understanding a word of what I said. I'm talking about a feeling here not that I am not free to live my life how I see fit. Of course, I am free in the US. No one is saying otherwise. But what I was getting at was that in Japan I was "free" of the racial animus one must deal with on an almost daily basis in some parts of the country. At the time I had only lived in PA, NC and, SC all of these places have a decent amount of racial tensions in everyday life. It's just a fact that black people are treated differently in this country than white people in general and we feel it. Moving to Japan for a year was a breath of fresh air for me because it was just gone. The only racial conceptions of me in Japan were positive. That’s all I was trying to get at. Try asking a question next time instead of assuming stuff about people you don't know.
@@brianbailey462 Also, maybe stop and think that if every person in the comments that has had this set of experiences is saying pretty much the same thing maybe there's something to it. Are you a black person that grew up in the US and then moved to Japan? That is a very specific experience, and I would think it to be fairly rare. The fact that we pretty much all feel the same way speaks volumes.
@@Dannosuke25 the reason why I think so many people perceive this experience is because of the way the media portrays black people and law enforcement. The media is directly responsible for all the riots from the George Floyd incident and the 23 people or so who got killed during those riots. The perception that the police in America are over here hunting down black people in the streets is simply untrue and the statistics do not back that up at all. A white man was killed in the exact same fashion as George Floyd but I bet you never heard of it. That's because the media didn't fan the flames. The media is constantly creating racial tension and it's by design. I'm not trying to say that there isn't racists and idiots out there in the United States but there is far greater problems facing the black community than white racism. I'm not trying to be inconsiderate or shooting from the hip here so I apologize if it appears that way. I have several black friends who are exceeding here in the United States and doing great.
@@Dannosuke25 I think there is a whole lot of confirmation bias going on. If you believe something in your mind you will soon see things that back up your belief and confirm it to you. For example if you were to go to Japan and you just heard the news telling you for the last 30 years that Japanese people are racist you're probably going to go in there and be expecting it. And when you see some it'll confirm that indeed they are racist in japan. And the same is true for growing up in America if you are expecting racism you will quickly notice it when it happens and you will latch on to it mentally and it'll be confirmed in your mind. It becomes ingrained in the culture. I mean, look at black people that come directly from Africa to the United states. They are far more successful on average than black people who grow up here. Why is that?
I think this video records the most realistic answer to the question of whether or not Japanese people feel discriminated against by people from other countries.
In Japan, whether black or white, non-Japanese people themselves are in the minority.
Depending on the region, there may be Japanese who have never seen a black person in their lives.
That is why the influence of TV and movies was so significant.
Nevertheless, Japanese people tend to place more importance on social characteristics than race, origin, or language spoken.
If we can act in a respectful manner that does not infringe on each other's freedom, it would be considerate and kind.
It seems that humans feel fear or anger toward what they do not understand.
It is very difficult to make people understand what they do not understand.
That is why news reports try to simplify information and give simple answers.
But if you don't know something, just ask someone to tell you.
So when you come to Japan, you may get strange questions from time to time.
But every Japanese person understands that just because we are different races, it does not mean we think or act differently.
We do not want to know black people, we want to know you.
Please know that we are not trying to insult you, just a little shy or ignorant, which may make your questions strange.
I have to concur with the views of those presented in this excellent documentary. While in the US Navy in the 1990's, I resided in Japan for 3 years in a very small city called Misawa; about 80 kilometers south of the northernmost city Aomori on the main island of Honshu. As a young black man, it simply astounded me how relaxed I was in Japanese society and how much deference I received from Japanese people as compared to whites in the US. Being born and raised in Los Angeles, I had many interactions with Japanese, Korean, and Chinese store owners that were not always positive. However, I must say with conviction, and without contradiction, that living in Japan was the first time in my life that I actually felt like a true human being; where my intrinsic humanity was automatically and unequivocally acknowledged. Certainly, this is not to suggest that Japanese society is some kind of utopia, but it is worth stating that I experienced more racism on a day-to-day basis from white shipmates, officers, and superiors who wore the same uniform and yet, viewed and treated me as if I were a second-class citizen who had no business serving in the military and one with no rights that were worthy of their respect. The aforementioned contrast and contradiction weighed heavily upon me, so much so, that I contemplated staying in Japan for good after being discharged from the Navy. The wonderful stories and memories that I have of Japanese citizens coming to my aide to assist me when I was lost in Tokyo and various other cities or needed help finding the right subway train are too numerous to mention. However, there is one instance that I believe encapsulates all the others and, some 25 years hence, still brings tears to my eyes when I think about it.
After having spent 3 days in Tokyo, I had to catch a Shinkansen train from Tokyo Station to Morioka. In those days, the Shinkansen went only as far north as Morioka and I had to catch the local train to get back to Misawa. At Tokyo station, I ended up getting confused and went to the wrong platform for my train. An elderly Japanese woman in her late 70's or early 80's sensed that I was disoriented and approached me. She looked at me intensely and said, "dozo," pointing to my train ticket. After looking at it, she kept it in her right hand and then with her left, she gently grabbed my right hand and said, "dozo" again. She began walking holding my hand and leading me away from the platform where she was waiting for her train to arrive. As soon as we had left the platform, her train arrived, but she kept leading me to another train platform that was on another level. After about 5 minutes, we finally arrived at the upper-level Shinkansen train platform which was the correct platform for me to catch the Shinkansen to Morioka. At the correct point she stopped, turned around looking directly at me, handed me back my ticket with both hands and said, "dozo." I bowed deeply and said, "domo arigato gozaimasu!" She smiled and then slowly walked away until she disappeared into the crowd. I reflected upon the fact that she intentionally missed her own train, so that she could personally take me to the correct platform in order for me to catch the correct Shinkansen to Morioka. I thought to myself, no one in Los Angeles would ever do what she just did since most people are just "too busy" to even say hello, let alone go out of their way to assist a complete stranger. After all these years, I have never forgotten her selfless act and I pray that when I make my final transition from this world that I have the opportunity to meet her again and truly express my eternal gratitude for the kindness she bestowed upon me.
That last part made me tear up man. That's an amazing act of kindness from a stranger. Thank you for your service shipmate.
Same here. Thank you for your service and sharing such a wonderful story! May you both be blessed. :D
It did make me tear up too. Thanks for sharing your story. I’ll try as much as I can to help people in Tokyo like she did to you!
Good comment read.
Since i was a kid i always had a feeling that japan was the place for me. You sir, have just cemented that dream.
人種関係なく、ルールを守るか守れないか。調和出来るかどうかが大切なのが日本です。
We have so many rules and complicated language. But here in Japan the concept is very simple. Japanese culture is about the respect. Doesn’t matter the races or colors. If there is the respect for Japanese culture, it’s all good.
They don't respect anyone else's culture, hence all the violent crime caused by blacks in America. They only respect their own culture of violence. Someday you too will learn this.
japans not perfect, but after visiting for two weeks, returning to Los Angeles was kind of stunning. the respect japanese people have for their surroundings and fellow citizens is pretty incredible. if america even had a tenth of this quality we would have a much better society.
Ok, ok, we get it. Diversity is not our strength but we do our best.
Eben, so let me get this straight, you’re saying not being inclusive may be the way to go? That a homogeneous society is a better society? Ok, I’m going to think about it and get back to you.
@@saltynutsman1 many homogenous societies don’t come even remotely close to the level of proper conduct Japanese people have. You did know this, right? Another note, Korea is a comparable homogenous society with very high suicide rates. Yes, a sense of belonging is great, but it’s not the end all be all to a society’s prosperity, nor is a lack of ethnic homogeneity the worst curse you can cast upon a society. Integration (and being treated like a human being) is the most important thing
@@saltynutsman1 Switzerland is extremely safe and properous and people are kinda similar to japanese people but switzerland is not at all homogeneous with 25% foreigners (not including migrants with a swiss passport) ... but anyway i'm sure europe won't be happy to take back all caucasians from the world to ensure things are the way how they were ;)
@@binskee677 you’re pushing it with Switzerland, according to google the majority of the “foreigners” in Switzerland are European, German, French, etc. with a small population of Asians and even smaller amount of Africans. I’m not saying diversity can’t work what I’m saying is those people in the video came from one of the most diverse nations in the world (US) to one of the most homogeneous (J) and make claims that the non inclusive country is preferable. Seems a little ironic to me. Would they have found a European country that’s 98.5% monocultural just as pleasing? Discuss.
黒人の友達が数人居るが、とても気さくで明るく人懐っこい友達
日本人の中年位の男女で黒い肌に対して冗談で、日焼けし過ぎたのかとか、夜だと目だけ光ってるから車に気を付けてな！みたいな事を差別意識も無く無邪気に発言する人は未だに居ると友達が言っていた
ただその友達数人は来日当初は馬鹿にされていると傷ついたが、今は笑いで返せると笑っていた
それでも見た目弄りは根絶出来る日本であって欲しいと願う
日本人は太ってる人に対してデブと馬鹿にしたり、顎が長い人を馬鹿にしたりする風習があるよね。
@@ゴリラの背中 アメリカはもうしないからデブは多く増えてきて健康の問題や税金の問題になっていく。
母国では想像出来ないくらい辛い想いをされてこられたんだと思います。
日本に来てくれてありがとうございます。
自分のしたいことができる様になってくれると嬉しいですね
I've been to Japan (Yokosuka, Yokohama, Tokyo). As a 6'3" black man, can confirm I felt more like and oddity than a threat. Very thoughtful and well done piece!
Yep and thats to expected for such a homogeneous country like Japan. Meanwhile japanese people ill be treated like an oddity still in the u.s still despite being a “melting pot”
I have a lot of respect for Black people, in all honesty, they're a lot more peaceful than other races and have often have had abused by others while getting their country's rich resources stolen by others. It's terrible that countries like UK, USA treat it's colored population with hostility. I think black people deserve respect.
Nice; I've been living in Yokosuka since 2005
@@Kioki1-x8p Oh you never been through Brownsville then. Come by and visit.
I’m glad you had a good experience but with all due respect, just like this video, aren’t you sugarcoating the Japanese people’s real feelings towards black people. I’m sorry to be so negative, but I’m surprised at how many comments here are not mentioning the myriad of problems that are kind of glossed over in the video. Let’s talk about how no matter how long you or I live in Japan, they would never consider us Japanese or fully embrace us. And don’t even think about starting an interracial family. Just look up how many Japanese parents, and Asian parents in general, have disowned their child for specifically dating a black person. Of course there are white parents just like that in America, but I know it is not as universal as it is in Japan. Japan obviously has great benefits compared to living in many parts of America, but there are different yet equally important problems with being black there that rise above the occasional stare or being considered an oddity. I have many problems with America, but I know many areas, especially on the coasts, where I have and can lead a full life, I think this video is very heavy on the positives and incredibly light on the major negative qualities of life in Japan.
I recently applied for the JET program and this video has put a lot of my reservations at ease! Being black in Asia has always been made to seem like we couldn’t succeed and or be happy I’m glad to see it’s a tangible dream and lifestyle!
I’m guessing “we couldn’t succeed” is probably the biggest reason for not succeeding in any society.
Yesssss, good luck! If you can, would you mind giving us an update once you get accepted? Rooting for you!
@@HoshikuzuHobbs thank you so much! I definitely will if I at least get an interview that would be great! It’s a very competitive program!
I've seen plenty of videos over the years that at very encouraging
Actually you will have more success in Asia. Every Asian country has at least 1 famous black person on TV. They embrace you if you speak their language. Miss Japan 2018 is half black.
I lived in Tokyo for a semester at the beginning of the BLM movement, just weeks after Mike Brown was killed (Ferguson, MO) . I attended several BLM marches in Tokyo while I was there, and have attended several since then in the U.S. The biggest difference was that the police were actually a peaceful presence in Japan. The police walked alongside us, protected us, made sure we had a proper path to do our march and walk through unobstructed by cars. There was even a Japanese toddler that literally held his hands up in the stroller during the entire march! Even if it wasn’t their lived experiences, people understood, were supportive, and people came out in solidarity. My experience as a Black woman in Tokyo as a whole was absolutely amazing, and I truly had the time of my life. Never felt so free and safe in my entire life. I really hope to go back someday.
People in Japan in general are more peaceful and have a more "do not disturb" mindset. Neither protesters nor the police wants to make a huge noice. In the USA its alawys who can shout the loudest game, and that will turn into violence from one side in the end.
lol
During BLM protests in Japan, I felt invaded and scared the fact that so many gaijins were bring your agendas into Japan. BLM tried to look japanese police look bad. Japan is safe and peaceful because 98% of its population is the Japanese.
@@nanajiji765 BLM marches in Japan were never a protest towards Japanese police though… it was standing in solidarity with the movement in general and with what was going on in the U.S. (and other countries) where police brutality is a systemic issue. If you feel that it is an “agenda” at this point in history, I’m not going to spend my energy convincing you otherwise. The exact point of my comment was to say that Japan was/is an incredibly peaceful place, and that I felt completely safe and enjoyed my time there.
@@sydneymichelle8357 Really? They chanted "Defund the police" in Japanese and toward japanese police. There was a video that protesters shouting against Japanese police. We dont need such a movement here. Do it in USA and keep it in USA.
I’m black, if you’re Japanese I love you my ninja, I love your culture and everything about you, continue being great 🇯🇵
I’ve been to Japan twice, for work, and both times I’ve had a great experience. It’s the most relaxed I’ve ever felt in a major city.
I’m on a journey to move there. America is no longer good for my mental health.
Many of the people in the country are VERY selfish and misguided. It’s only going to get worse before it gets better. I no longer have the bandwidth to give anyone energy to country that doesn’t care about its people.
I will never forget my departure from Tokyo. As we pushed back from the jetway to ground crew waived at us and bowed. Just the image of, what felt like, gratitude, and politeness in the gesture. I will never forget that moment. It summed up my overall experience there.
Wonder who you are afraid of in those cities? I might know who?
@@saltynutsman1 this shouldn’t be a question if your black and you live in America of course you’ll get discriminated
@Daniel Lapusso Not at all, that fact that you called this bullshit is somewhat proof of it. You're being ignorant to it, as people in the US are ignorant, arrogant, and hateful to not only African-Americans but all races that aren't Caucasian. Though unfortunately, even African-Americans discriminate against other races, even those that have melanin. It's all fucked.
@@saltynutsman1 🤓
There's no historical context for hatred against blacks in Japan. Most of the animosity within Japanese society is borne out of disdain for those who try too hard to stick out or are defiant and rebellious and rude. If you study their ways and are eager to learn their culture and social protocols and follow them, there is no issue. Here in the US, people are just simply whiney, self-entitled, loud and obnoxious and always wanting to rebel for the sake of being "free" ("Don't tell me what to do, this is a free country..." attitude...) you will never see that type of trashiness in Japan...
黒人の友人がいます
めっちゃいい奴
昔、一緒に日曜日礼拝に行ったりした。
そこの教会には黒人の方々がたくさんいて礼拝の前にステージに立たされて紹介されるんだけど逆に日本人である自分を温かく迎えてくれたよ
めっちゃ愛情に溢れてた
日本人より愛情深かったなあ
俺は彼らから隣人愛を学んだよ
❤️🤝❤️
🙏🏼
ジャパニーズとかアジアンって言われて良い気しない？誇りがないんじゃない？無意識のうちに劣等感を感じてるんだと思うよ
@@SyndromeGeneration why??? you gotta be proud of your heritage, and Japan has so much culture and history what's there to feel inferior for???
@@SyndromeGeneration No matter where you are from or what race you are, you should feel proud and comfortable😃. No race is inferior. It's OK to be proud, what's not OK is thinking one is better than another. So, in your case, I don't think you have anything to worry about. Feel proud that you are Japanese, feel proud that you are Asian and treat everyone with same respect and kindness you would like to receive 😊
I'm Asian American and I had enough of the racism and moved to Malaysia and now I feel at home. Everyone looks like me.
I’m sorry.
The food is 15/10 or more idk its so good
This is the way to actually end racism. If people really wanted racism to stop the way they say they do they would advocate for this. You can either stop racism or keep crowding people that don't like each other together and stuff your pockets with money.
Funny we feel at home with people that look like us. It nature.
@@saltynutsman1 People even collect up in neighborhoods full of people like them, black neighborhoods, white neighborhoods, "China town" you see it everywhere.
Thank you for uploading the video with Japanese subtitles.
I am Japanese and have never lived outside of Japan.I have been hurt by discrimination against women and prejudice in Japan.
However, I have never experienced such badly treated like this video in Japan.
There are many problems in every country, but we have to work hard to make Japan a better country.
It is very embarrassing to ask them rude questions just because we are ignorant😢
Hope THE WORLD will be enveloped in kindness.
If I had a black person, I would look at him often. But understand that it's not a discriminatory look. I see that person's style as enviable. Tall people, share your height with me.
The translation for this sounds like you own the person. Your English is really good though.
@@slyfrailzz 💀
@Johnson … you definitely only hang out with white people… because why are you talking about black ppl like black ppl are aliens or something?
@@slyfrailzz I'm not good at English at all, but thanks to Google Translate, I'm able to have some conversations with foreigners, which is helpful. I'll do my best to be good at English!
Hey I understand that curiosity. What's the average height in Japan?
I lived in Japan and it was just so different, for the mere fact that people treat you as you are. The culture is rooted in respect kindness and consideration. Something that Americans as a whole had never prioritized.
Exactly, I was reading the comments & saw a lot of messed up comments but so far this is the most open minded & accurate one. Aside of politics, both Japan & America have good qualities. & at the end of the day.. you must treat people the way you want to be treated . Here, Japan & anywhere else.
Mmm..a homogenized people that share common beliefs and interests getting along. Interesting concept.
@@saltynutsman1 go take care of your kid or some
i COMPLETELY agree
@@DreamUN my son is Japanese, my daughter black, they don’t get along. What’s a dad to do?
I've noticed that it's sometimes easier to be a racial minority in a foreign country than a racial minority in the country you are born in. I'm Asian Australian. When I go overseas and I'm treated like a foreigner or outsider, it doesn't hurt because I know I am a foreigner in their country (not counting instances of explicit racism). And some cultures welcome foreigners gladly and treat them with hospitality.
But sometimes in Australia I'm treated like a foreigner and it's extremely hurtful, because I'm not a foreigner. I was born here and this is my home. And I feel like when I try to affirm my Australian-ness I don't get hospitality, I get pushback. Because I'm a threat to some people's idea of what an Australian looks like.
So I think some people find it easy to be kind to someone who is a racial minority if there's an understanding that they are a foreigner.
But once that 'foreigner' says, no, I'm the same as you. That becomes a threat to their identity and is met with anger.
as Australians we tend to have this ethos of egalitarianism - that we are all equal at Bondi Beach (of course imaginary because Western Suburbs poor folks have no train line to get there - so they go to Cronulla instead)
but I always remember years ago a US Navy ship arrived in Sydney, and crew on shore leave were in dress whites
I was coming out of a supermarket in central Sydney and saw this tall black guy in dress uniform whites with polished brass and shoes and he just looked amazing - I just about fell down with respect for this god-like being.
I've also heard that black guys in Sydney - because of their relative rarity - can 'get lucky' with the girls here - but that's just something I've heard ...
"it's called the American Dream because you have to be asleep to believe it ..." - ua-cam.com/video/rsL6mKxtOlQ/v-deo.html
This is a great observation that I never thought about, thank you! What you said sums up the experiences that a lot of African Americans feel exactly. We’re never really seen as “an American” and that was reflected right up until Jim Crow was abolished which was only one generation ago.
I think what you said is why I feel more comfortable and welcome living in Japan as a black man than I do living in my own country America. It’s just understood that I will never be Japanese and I’m not trying to be. But somehow in America I never really felt “American” but more closely connected to the region I grew up in (New York).
In my last trip to Australia, as a white person, I got to hear a lot of people inner dialog about Asians. Dude, Australia is kinda Asia!
@@MercifulTyrant This is another thing. White Australians sometimes see white foreigners as closer to them than Asian people, despite knowing many Asian people around them are born here in Australia!
I've even internalized this myself. I noticed that when I met another Asian person, even if they have an Aussie accent and I'm sure they were born here, I'd ask where they're from.
On the other hand, I'll have known a white person for months and never ask where they're from. Then later be surprised to here they grew up in France or Zimbabwe or the UK!
We are a long way from unlearning the idea that white = default Australian, non-white = other/from somewhere else. Which is why conversations such as this are important.
Well put mate, its even worse when you have the same accent but are different ethnicity.
Having lived in Japan for three years in the 1980’s I can say that they are the most unfailingly courteous people I have ever met.
You are white though :) hehe
@@vertigo2894 Is that supposed to mean something?
@@2460-1 Absolutely! It's a completely different experience for whites in Asia than darker skinned people, completely different.
@@vertigo2894 I think your full of crap. You're either native or foreign. Skin color doesn't have much effect on the equation here. Secondly, don't like your own comment. Looks bad.
Overall it’s really safe in Japan. People will mind their own business and even if they don’t agree to something, they will rarely confront you in aggressive way. I’ve been there twice and people are always nice and courteous, and if you’re lost, they will even walk you to make sure your get to your destination.
sounds like USA
@@brianbailey462 stop the lying
@@maya-uz4wc how am i lying?
Won’t be safe for very long if you start letting blacks in. Multiculturalism has destroyed the formally white nations and it will only get worse.
@@brianbailey462I'm 1000% sure no one in America will walk you to your destination
Most Japanese are not conscious of their skin color. Nor do they change their responses based on skin color. However, the Japanese great importance on the concept of "when in Rome, do as the Romans do“ Therefore, if you enter a Japanese person's home with your shoes on, you may be discriminated against. Please note that Japanese people do not expect foreigners to understand Japanese culture and manners perfectly from the beginning. Therefore, if you do something against Japanese culture and manners, Japanese people will not be offended. However, if you are living in Japan and repeatedly do things that are offensive to the Japanese, you will be disliked.
I had the most pleasant experience in Japan. One of my experiences was while waiting to cross the street and admittedly being a little lost. It started to drizzle and a kind man ran into the store on the corner and purchased an umbrella for me. He politely bowed and handed me the umbrella. It was just such a sweet gesture from a stranger that I’ll never forget.
I am Japanese living in NY for more than ten years. I was looked at different when covid hit, and also stopped by police for not wearing the seatbelt but of course I had my seatbelt as always. They asked my id and also they left their finger print on the back of my car. Seeing/ Listening to friends and family's stories, or news, I see how things can go wrong easily here. And that makes me angry. Why people look our skin colors?
I also have lived in North Dakota for a few years and All people welcomed me...oh except a few. And They treated me with respect and I felt being different was something to proud of. Then In the same time around when I visited Minneapolis, many people looked down on me and felt very uncomfortable.
So...what should I say. Seeking different place as a home can be very rewarding to many people. I stopped seeking it as I became a mother of children. No longer depending to other people. I am the home to my family. I wonder when I feel New York is my home. They got so much things that needs to be done.
You understand that police do that to every race, right? It must be confusing to people that feel different, are you being treated differently or are you just seeing the unlikable side of life and are attributing that to race. I read your paragraph and I could have said the same thing without race being involved. It’s a way of thinking that gives you reason in an uncontrollable world.
I know what you mean. They are doing their job, too. I understand. I try not think that way but with all my experiences that I can not write here, I sure feel there is a race discrimination here. So what I want to say is i try to look only around me and my family. Any friends and family involved to me, I love all of them as who they are without what kind of back ground they have. So if each of us only look at around us and small communities become happy, i think all of us no matter what color we are gonna be happy.
There is no such word as Happy in Suri tribe in Ethiopia. They get sad only when people or cows pass away. They are happy just being alive and eat food with their loved ones everyday. I feel like we sometimes need to go back to that kind of simple and beautiful thinking way.
But then each of us can not be happy if there is a systematic racism. That is something we need to work on, or at least try. Have a great day.
@@Shomom7 would systemic racism include 98.5% of one population being all the same race? That’s IS the definition of systemic racism. And that my friend is your home countries statistics. I think what you’re trying to say is that diversity really doesn’t work. We like it to be so, but unfortunately, groups that are in the minority, will always feel slighted. Even when people are the same race………religion and ethnicity will be the stumbling blocks. Humans haven’t evolved much since the time of tribes. When I was in Japan I was stopped by the police…..I’m was almost sure it was because I was American.
I never said Japan did not have any problem, i think they have much more things that needs to be improved, too. US and Japan both have good and bad things, right? So I believe you should stay and see real aspects of countries, compare and then you should choose if you can. Since college, I have been in the states. Even though I see many bad things here, I still like staying here more than in Japan. I also see great things here, too. I mean I love Japan, too but slightly US culture fits my personality. That is why I said in the first place it is important to seek your home while you can. Like these people in this youtube video. If they are happy there, that is great.
hope this make sense.
@@saltynutsman1 oh, I completely understand your point, "humans haven't evolved much since the time of tribes". That is why diversify is so difficult. But I would like to see humanity overcome that kind of wall in the future.
Someone said to me, if there is alien attack from space happens to the earth, we all become ONE as "earth" and fight against the aliens. It's an awful idea but has interesting point.
Oh well...it was nice talking to you!
The stories were merged so perfectly, and it felt honest. Incredible job
The only honesty was that they feel safer in a land where everyone looks different from them. We all know the dangers of their communities back home and the group that preys on them. Of course they could be a little more “honest” but that wouldn’t fit the narrative.
It’s because all of our stories and concerns are virtually the same so the narration flows
I'm a black woman in my mid 30's and want to move to Japan. I've been studying the language for three years and have done a lot of research. I've visited the country twice and each time felt an indescribable feeling that I can't quite convey to people who look at me funny when I tell them my goal to try living there. The best way I can describe it is, I'd get stares there, and sometimes people would be a bit taken aback - but the stares never felt loaded and I never felt like I was in danger even in the remote countryside for being "out of place". I also had the experience of kind older people treating me like an actual human. The experience of paying for an expensive ryokan (hot spring inn) and being treated the same as the other paying customers with excellent service. There was also no underlying feeling of being othered at that ryokan, that my presence was unwelcome or somehow decreasing the value of the atmosphere, or people treating me like I was lost or something, lol. It was such a stark contrast to when I was traveling in the US, especially in smaller towns. I feel like you just don't get it until you experience it. I know it's not a perfect place, but I still want to give it a try.
Oh yea for sure I’m moving to japan once I’m done with school
Once your done with school ? Hold on bro , you should first get a graduated, or else life will be a living hell in japan ( not only in japan but any country )
I’m moving to Japan too. Where no one looks like me or the culture is way different than mine in many ways and where they oppose any mass migration of anyone that looks like me. Yes, paradise!
@@shukrantpatil yea that to, sorry I didn't add that
It has its flaws, but Japan is wonderful and. And it really does feel incredibly safe there. In the countryside, you can leave your doors unlocked and your bike outside, even with your backpack in the basket. You're also very likely to have lost items returned to you by a kind stranger. I once saw an insignificant red hat hung up on a fence for MONTHS in case the owner came back to find it. These are just normal gestures there.
昔、「日本のアニメのキャラクターは白人の特徴を持ってる！つまり日本人は白人に憧れを抱いてる！」っていう主張を見て、鼻で笑ったことがある。
人種に囚われているとこんな恐ろしく、愚かな主張をしてしまう。
Can I say a thing though it is definitely out of the topic?
A lady who put on the ribbon
I like her fashion
In our country we like to say, “we like the cut of her jib.” Please repeat.
外国の方を見ると、「あの人はどこの国から来たのだろう、なんで日本に来たのろう……アニメは好きなのかな？何が好きなのかなぁ」などと色々考えてしまって、ついつい見てしまいます。そこにマイナスな感情などひとつも無いこと、分かっていただきたい。日本人は結構、外国に憧れてるのですよ。
Im Japanese.
I’m so glad to hear that they like their lives here in Japan as they understand that most people don’t see them in racism way. I tend to stare at non Japanese people and/or people speaking in other languages just out of curiosity and cuz I’m interested in languages and actually hoping to talk with them. But also I’m always worried whether you guys are feeling bad about it.
Ahh my English sucks cry
Your English is really good. I hope to one day visit your amazing country and spend a few weeks immersed in your culture. Best wishes and respect to you from the United States. :)
Your English is great 😊
I agree with all these interviews. Japan is very safe. I’m only a visitor to Japan and I am happy for these people that feels safe in Japan. ❤❤❤ Just recently visited Japan and I felt like Japan is more open with foreigners but I only went to major cities. I’m not sure about the country side how they treat foreigners. Thank you for sharing this video.
I relate to all these beautiful people's stories so much. I majored in Japanese in university and had the privilege to study abroad in Japan for a couple months. As a Black man raised entirely in the south of America (LA and GA), the experience of being in an environment where the color of my skin did not dictate how I was treated was such an amazing feeling.
I unfortunately had to return to America after my study abroad program ended, but my heart never left Japan. I can't wait until I can go back to find the peace that I know I'll never get as a Black body existing in America.
Nice you feel that way. What am a missing? A country that is 98.5% homogeneous, with a handful of people that look like you, with a history of isolation and a strict immigration policy and you feel at home there? I’m guessing it has more to say about you than the actual country.
@@saltynutsman1 it'd be more accurate to say that the cognitive dissonance I've been forced to experience due to systematic oppression and blatant racism here in America is probably the biggest factor that makes me wanna return to Japan.
Is Japan basically homogenous? Yes. Has it been historically xenophobic as a country? Yes. But also, can I exist there as a Black man and be granted the same respect, humanity and bodily wellbeing that other residents enjoy? Yes. Can't say the same for America. But that's just how I feel personally, a sentiment obviously echoed by other people of similar background hence why you are even able to be having this dialogue with me.
Not sure what you have against Japan, but maybe that has more to do with you than my comment and my personal opinion. Thanks for the food for thought though, friend.
@@saltynutsman1 and to answer your initial question, I think the answer is "empathy". 🤔
@@HoshikuzuHobbs I get you love Japan, I do, I just don’t understand the racial aspect for the reason. I’m honestly perplexed. Your answer to racism is to move to a more homogeneous society and be more of a minority? That’s your solution to racism? If you were to say Japan is more prosperous and more advantageous to your prospects I’d be with you. To say you wouldn’t face limits in Japan because of you race is being disingenuous. To say Japan is less isolationist with a foreign population of 1.5% is hard for me to fathom, that’s all.
@@saltynutsman1 This man is speaking to his own embodied experience. How are you honestly questioning the authenticity behind that? The experiences these Black Americans are talking about having in Japan are more illuminate of white America than anything else. If moving to Japan felt like a more effective response than waiting around for white people to learn how to not be racist, who are you to question it?
You can find discrimination almost anywhere cause there’s no such thing as a utopia. I have also been to Japan and the Japanese are very polite and courteous, it’s a cultural thing.
Are you black?
When I was living in Europe, I had experienced lots of discrimination as an Asian. It’s made me scared, sad, and want to go back to home, but it also made me want to act polite to others regardless of their nationality. So I’m trying to think not to hate them but to appreciate them to change my mind.
I hope all people can be safe and satisfied with their life no matter where we are.
Racism is a national sport in Europe. You get used to it over time.
@@SuperSigner10 God I wish that was true.
@@SuperSigner10 national ignorance*
@@SuperSigner10 Europeans are just more self aware and able to talk freely about this, because European Union mostly. but yeah Asian people are also pretty racist, especially with "each others", just like us Europeans really lol
@@vodkaboy Europeans are more self-aware, because of the European Union...? What do you mean by that? And I've never met an Asian person that was capable of being more racist than a European. lol Seems you're blame-shifting here. That's not very nice of you.
Lived in Japan for 3 years while I was in the military, and I can say this with full confidence. If it wasn't for the language barrier I would have stayed and lived in Japan and never looked back.
Who wouldn’t? diversity is not as joyous as it made out to be. Homogenized culture is the shizzle.
As a Japanese living in the United States, I’m delighted to hear that they seem to enjoy living in Japan.
In Japan, migrants from other countries are considered to be "foreigners" regardless of their skin color. The concept of "foreigner" is equivalent to the concept of "Japanese". However, it is quite difficult to break this barrier of distinction. No matter how many years foreigners live in Japan, they would be still considered being within the framework of "foreigners".
Yeah, I think that’s right as a Japanese
I agree
私は接客の時に必ず日本語で話しかけるようにしています。流暢な日本語が帰ってきたら、そのまま日本語で接客します。それ以外ならジェスチャーで接客します。
これで日本語を喋れるのに、英語で話しかけられる人は減ると思います。移住者もいますが、ハーフやクォーターの人もこういう話はよくありますよね。
You’d be surprised to know that most Asian Americans get questioned, “where are you REALLY from?” in their own country all the time.
As a Japanese, I completely agree with you.
That barrier is very high. Even Japanese people find it difficult to break when they move to another area.
In order to break the barrier, you need to study as much Japanese language, Japanese (or local) culture and customs as possible, and spend a long time integrating yourself into the local community.
Thank you NPR. Thank you. We need to focus on all controversies and differences. How dare we ever focus on stories showing people getting along
日本人からすると白人、黒人、そして同じアジア圏の中国人も韓国人も、みんな同じ外国人という感覚です。日本人以外は他の国の人。
肌の色は関係ありません。
ただ一言、日本語で「こんにちは」と言ってくれるだけでいいのです。それだけできっと仲良くなれると思います。
맞아요 중국인과 한국인은 피부색이 같은데도 싫어하는거보면 피부색이 중요하지 않은건 맞는거같아요 ㅋㅋ
I'm an African-American guy. Her name was Mrs. Payne & she was my 5th grade teacher. She delivered a presentation to my class of a vacation with friends. In that country day/time were different, books were read from right to left, seating was in the floor, women were dressed in kimono and there was a special mountain called Fuji. It stayed with me as a young adult. Finally, in 2004 I made the first of 3 trips there & I felt so at home each time. While in Hiroshima, I stood on a bridge & remembered my teacher: " I made it, Mrs. Payne." I proclaimed, "I'm in Japan."
Regular Soul Food House customer here ! ! ! So glad she made it on this video. As a hispanic man myself, I found that I grew to love my true self here in Japan as well. These interviews really meant a lot to me. Thanks NPR
last time i lived there was in 2009 for a year and i had come from Hong kong at the time . I am a 6ft3 albino dude. wirh roots in africa so even before living in asia. i knew most of asia find albinism really spooky. i've had people ask me why i wear red contacts eveh though my eyes are that color. folk randomly hiss at me as if i am cat . and they are not doing it the way some countries do it because in spain when people hiss its because they want you to come closer so they can share gossip lol!.
im black and my close friend was from Hokaido. We connected bc we were two struggling students -not because of our skin color. If I could move this minute to Japan,Id go and never turn around. Thanks for this video!!!
I never lived outside of the US however every time I travel outside of the US I feel safer than I do when home
I think you guys have a different definition of Freedom ☺️🤣 in the USA
Oh yeah? Well be "taken" by Albania you'll love it....🙃
確かに日本人が黒人を見ると自分たちとは違うから目は行くと思う。でもそれは白人に向けても同じ。そこにヘイトの心は無いしこれからもそうあるべきだと思う。
それは日本人にとって黒人は犯罪者のイメージがないからだろうね
例えばベトナムやタイなどのアジア系の外国人に対しては警戒の目で見る日本人は多いよ 農家の老人なんかは特にね
@@対向車 それは逆に農家の老人だけじゃない？日本でも一般人は東南アジアよりまだ黒人に対して麻薬やってんのかなみたいなイメージがある。原宿とかだと黒人は危ない象徴みたいなとこらあるし。まあそれは、サングラスとヤンチャな服装がある上なんだけど
@@対向車 農家の老人は経験深い人ですから、彼らの意見に聞いてみたらどうですか？
@@対向車
黒人を見ても犯罪者とは思わないしいちいち見つめたりするのも気持ち悪いけどねww
原宿にいる迷惑な客呼びのせいで悪いイメージの人達はいるかも
ちなみに日本の犯罪はベトナムやタイ人の方が多いよ(もちろん母数も関係するだろうけど)
中国人や韓国人のこともジロジロ見てる
「”外国人”としての差別は感じるが、人種としての差別とは違う」
という趣旨の発言はまあ……そりゃまあそうだねえ……と。
日本人として等しく”海外の人”という認識で、肌の色は黄色人種（日本人）以外の肌の色の人を見る機会が極端に少ないとびっくりしてしまうし見慣れないという意味では、たしかにそう感じさせてしまうこともあるなあと。
ただ、それはじゃあよく言われる”人種差別”になるかといえばそういう認識じゃないというのを汲み取ってもらえているのは助かっているかもしれないというのは、日本人としても覚えているべきかもしれない。
なんというか、日本人としては差別をしたいんじゃなくてただ単に自分にとって経験のないことであるというただそれだけ。
メディアからけてきたステレオタイプな印象は、彼ら彼女らからすればちゃんと正しい情報を言うっていう話も聞けて、こういうところに亀裂がないよう、これからも見識広く持っていきたいと思うようになった動画でした。
This is so cool. I mean I spent my 3 years in NYC growing up and I always have my impression that African Americans people are cool, stylish and fashionable with their great music culture and all. And it’s so cool to see those cool people choose to live in Japan and love living in here.
I was stationed for a year in Japan. They're telling the truth. I could've really possibly stayed there working as a Govie. This is also true in many other foreign countries. I am possibly thinking about retiring abroad (more bang for my buck).
My dad lives in Japan in Okinawa
You will be accepted as long as you less than .005% of the population. Makes you feel like home 🏡
Honestly racism occurs everywhere, whether it be Japan or South Korea etc..but for every non racist ppl lets help each other and stop racism for we are all same and will all die someday. Stay safe
Nah. Not like in Western countries.
Exactly
AS LONG AS ONE EXPECTS RACISM, THE UNIVERSE HEARS YOU.....IT WILL MANIFEST INTO ONE'S REALLITY.
@@Koolej98 well that problem is simple
Your comment is the only good comment in this entire section. Good lord these people are nuts.
生まれ育った国で白い目で一生見られ続けれるって日本人からしたら考えられない
黒人差別がなくなることを願う
Been in Japan for 21 years straight. Loving it. Married to a wonderful Okinawan woman. The people are nice to me. They have some bad ones but they don't like foreigners in general . Been all over asia. Korea, China and Singapore. I've been spit at in Hong Kong, that didn't end well for that person. Shunned in Korea but never turned away in Japan. That's just been my experience.
That’s amazing to hear☺️ Good for u man!
Yes. Hong Kong is very racist
The Japanese have no feelings of hatred when they see blacks and whites. However, Koreans and Chinese tend to be disliked in Japan.
え？少なくとも自分の周りには韓国人だからとか中国人だからとかの理由で嫌いとか言ってる奴はおらん自分もそんなしょうもない理由で嫌ったりはしない
Exactly what I was thinking. The Japanese society is very racist, but the target are not black people, the target is chinese, south east asians and middle eastern asians.
Meanwhile asians in America get discriminated by blacks and whites.
@@謎のイッヌ-o4j You should visit ベトナム. Every races is loved here except their own people .
This is very true. They are not racist towards black people especially if they are from America or UK. However Japanese are very racist to southeast asian and south asian people.
It cannot be denied that the Japanese have racism too. There are some different levels of racism depending on skin colors and origins. Whites are also subject of racism by the Japanese, such as Russians. But i can proudly say that there is no stigma for being black in Japan that strongly exists in the US.
ye racism in the US is the worst
YES! What I feel was not talked on the video is that the japanese society is very racist too, but the racism is not towards blacks, but towards chinese and indians and arabics
I understand the Chinese part but I don’t think there’s a lot of racism against Indians and Arabs
@@shukrantpatil I can't pinpoint exactly why, but I had several friends from middle eastern countries tell me occasions they felt discriminate
Racist towards FOREIGNERS not PIGMENTATION
People say Japanese are generally "racist" but I've never felt that way living in Japan for more than 5 years -- I think the right word to describe their reaction to encountering different races is genuine "curiosity" rather than overt racism since there is no historical context for it in Japan (segregation, KKK, Chinese Exclusion Act, internment camps, etc.).
Generally, the black Americans I've worked with all felt "free" from systemic racism and were judged on not necessarily the color of their skin, but by their work ethic, language ability, and ability to _adjust_ to the *Japanese way of life* and *social mannerisms.* And this goes for *all* foreigners in Japan -- if you follow their ways, no one really has anything awful to say about you. The key, I observed, is to not _defy_ and _whine_ about the way things are done in Japan, whereas in the US, it seems that the norm is that everyone and their mother complains, whines, and defies everything for the sake of being "free" or "different"! That attitude is generally considered lousy and is bound to cause discord and dissonance within society here in the States and no matter where you go. Stop trying so hard to be different and instead be _practical!_ When in Rome...
ye I feel like it is honest ignorance of others especially blk folk. They have been such a secluded place up until some time ago where they let lots more people in. If you barely see blk folk you would be curious. Also the media (movies, news, jokes, stereotypes) don't help.
Also, the type of racism here in the US can be very rude and cruel. The Japanese are so obsessed with etiquette and protocol that being outwardly racist would be deemed uncouth. 🤭
私は日本人です。
ほんとにその通りです。自分が伝えたかったことを英語にしていただきありがとうございます
Lies try being a black student it's different..y'all thinking racism dosent exist cu you're tourists going there for a year or two ..you haven't been living there since birth to truly know how bad life is there as a black person
As a Japanese, I totally agree with you.
日本に住むことは居心地良いと思ってもらえるならそれはとても嬉しいことだけれど、いつか幸せな気持ちで里帰り出来るようになって欲しい…故郷に安らぎが無いなんて悲しいよ
I live in Germany. There's good old fashioned racism here too, but it is very rare.
One day I was lost in München and went to ask for directions, I was given help very nicely. Then later I realise; "I actually asked for directions from COPS!" Something I never dared to do when I was in the U.S. It was just an all around crazy feeling, I didn't feel like I was talking to THE POLICE until I looked at them again and really noticed their uniform.
Now you may be thinking maybe it was just a fluke, I thought the same. But after 7-9 (friendly) interactions (I move around germany a lot), come on.
@Python PogChamp Yay!! That's gooood. Try another one little Timmy go on. Sweden belongs to....?
@Python PogChamp not based weirdchamp
@Python PogChamp That's good, 10 pts for little racist Timmy. What about Italy?
@Python PogChamp Ugh I'm sorry, Wrong answer. The answer is "Italians". Well better luck next time.
(r/whoooosh)
@Python PogChamp some one who has had allot of emigrants enter their country i actually think it has changed us for the better. As long as they learn our lanuage and get jobs i dont see why its a bad thing.
Excellent and thought-provoking. Home may be where the heart is but having peace of mind is even more important.
I'm a Japanese. I'm really glad and proud when I heared that you guys live hnre comfortably. 🤟
I have to spend some time soon in Japan for business, and this is really good to know. The people on here, especially the men echo my thoughts about life in the US. I'm a big black guy, and I see the fear that people have in me. I hear the door locks slam shut when I'm walking pass people's car, when I'm heading to my car. When you enter places of business, you either get ignored when you need assistance, or you immediately get ALL the attention because they think you are going to steal.
When I finally do go to Japan, I hope I get the same reception as those get in the video. It will be so relaxing.
Well ppl aren't stupid, they prob know the statistics in America, and seen enough videos on world wide hip hop
By now maybe you've already gone? I hope your experience was a positive one
I can’t wait to move back home! They answered everything I would’ve said about Japan!
I’m just wondering, why 2025?
Will there something happening in your life on 2025?
Wherever you go there you are……Chinese saying.