At least, that's what you hear. But is it all true? I went on a trip there for two weeks, and am writing this post to quash some of the myths you may have heard about the country. Rest assured, it's still beautiful!
Myth 1: Japan's earthquakes are very very frequent
Myth 2: Japan is a weird country
Not really. They just have a different sense of humour that the West finds weird. The video on the right shows a complication of Japan's strangest adverts that even the Japanese themselves find weird. Be warned though, it's not really NSFW (though I'm not sure why or how you'd be viewing youtube at work anyway, but that's a story for another day, no? ;) ). | |
It's a cultural thing, mostly present in advertising but not in public.
Myth 3: Japan is expensive
JAPAN (TOKYO) A plate of Sushi (right) - £12 An assortment of 18 small dishes including Miso Soup, sashimi (raw fish), slices of meat, vegetables, etc - £9 Udon Noodles - £2.50 Bowl of Ramen in Soy Sauce - £3 Single sushi piece (varies) - £0.80 ENGLAND (LONDON) A plate of Sushi (right) - £30 A bowl of pasta with vegetables - £10 Teriyaki Noodles - £8 Bowl of Ramen in Soy Sauce - £9 Single sushi piece (varies) - £1.60 Essentially, even though we ate in the capital of Japan, food was cheaper than in most of England. It was high-quality too. |
However, Japan's expenses can be applied to electronics, which appear to be the same price as in much of the UK.
Myth 4: Japan is high-tech
The technology in Japan besides the on-the-second Shinkansens isn't seen often, and neither is it in the West. It's no different, from what I've seen.
Myth 5: Japan relies on its Otaku Image
Myth 6: The Japanese speak good English
Myth 7: Japan sells everything everywhere
Myth 8: Japan is a very modern country
If you have the money and a couple of weeks to spare, I recommend going, but don't base your thoughts on Japan through what you've just heard on the internet - most of it is exaggerated or untrue! By the way, try to go when the Cherry Blossoms are in full bloom ;)