Japan vs. America: Cultural Differences
Back home, everyone has a drink in their hand--whether it's a reusable water bottle, a Sonic cup, or a travel mug, most Americans keep a form of beverage on them. Here in Japan, I've noticed that no one does this. I've seen a water bottle or two in the hands of young girls, but for the most part, no one carries it out in the open. For a country with vending machines everywhere, this is strange to me. Why is it frowned upon to drink in public places? The same goes for food. Living as a busy college student usually entails eating on the go, but here, the Japanese people always wait to eat their food. I admire their patience.
Perhaps it is because of their lack of public trashcans that they don't eat and drink on the go. I have to search for a trashcan for at least 10 minutes before finding one. Unlike America, where you can go maybe 50 feet before stumbling across a different trashcan. However, when I do spot a trashcan, it's very detailed as far as what-goes-where. They separate recyclables into glass, plastic, aluminum, paper, and typically have a combustible side as well.
Their public restrooms are also few and far between, and when you do find one, chances are it has a 'squatty potty' in it. 'Squatty potty's' are in-ground urinals that people have to squat above to use. I was shocked when I saw my first one, but if you're unwilling to try it, some restrooms have regular toilets as well. Most restrooms in Japan are extremely clean, which is a nice change from gross convenience store restrooms in America. However, it is uncommon to find a restroom in convenience stores in Japan. Restaurants, clothing store chains, and parks are more likely to have public restrooms.
These are the main culture shocks that I've experienced in the past week, but there are still four weeks to go! Stay tuned to read more on my experience in Japan!
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