Japan is a fascinating country with a rich cultural heritage, advanced technology, bustling cities, and beautiful natural landscapes. It’s no wonder that millions of tourists from around the world visit Japan every year. One of the biggest groups of tourists in Japan comes from the United States. But are Americans truly welcome in Japan? Let’s take a closer look.
Tourism Statistics
According to the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), there were over 30 million foreign visitors to Japan in 2019. Of those visitors, around 5 million came from the United States, making Americans the second largest group after visitors from China. The number of American tourists to Japan has been steadily increasing over the past decade. This shows that more and more Americans are interested in experiencing Japanese culture and attractions.
Cultural Perceptions
Historically, the relationship between Japan and the United States has been complex. There was mistrust and animosity in the years leading up to World War II. After the war ended, Japan and the U.S. eventually became close allies. While the governments worked together, it took longer for citizens to develop mutual understanding and acceptance.
Early on, some Japanese people saw Americans as loud, arrogant “barbarians” who didn’t understand Japanese etiquette. On the other hand, Americans often viewed Japan as exotic but impenetrable due to the language and cultural barriers. These stereotypes took time to overcome through increased cultural exchange.
Nowadays, the average Japanese person is very welcoming towards American tourists. Japan relies a great deal on tourism revenue, so the Japanese tourism industry aims to provide excellent service. The Japanese are known for being polite, respectful hosts. As more American pop culture enters Japan, the Japanese people also gain more familiarity with American customs and behavior.
Language
Many Japanese people study English in school, so English ability is relatively common in Japan, especially in major cities. English signage and announcements can be found at train stations, airports, attractions, and other tourist spots. While not everyone speaks English fluently, many Japanese people know enough keywords and phrases to help American tourists with basic communication.
Some key English phrases Japanese people learn are:
- Hello
- Welcome
- Thank you
- You’re welcome
- Excuse me
- How much?
- Where is…?
Learning a few basic Japanese phrases and greetings will also be greatly appreciated by locals. This shows that you respect their culture and are making an effort. Some helpful Japanese phrases to know are:
- Konnichiwa (Hello)
- Arigatou (Thank you)
- Sumimasen (Excuse me/Sorry)
- Sayonara (Goodbye)
So while English fluency is not guaranteed everywhere, there are enough English speakers and bilingual signage to help American tourists navigate their trip.
American Pop Culture
Contrary to what some may assume, the Japanese actually love American pop culture and media. Japanese youth in particular grew up consuming American music, movies, TV shows, and brands. There is great admiration for American celebrities and pop stars.
Some of the most popular American cultural exports in Japan include:
- Musicians – Beyonce, Taylor Swift, Ariana Grande
- Movies – Marvel, Star Wars, Disney/Pixar
- TV shows – Game of Thrones, Breaking Bad, Friends
- Food chains – McDonald’s, Starbucks, Hard Rock Cafe
- Clothing brands – Nike, Levi’s, Supreme
American tourists will see familiar pop culture touchstones all around Japan, which can make it feel more welcoming. The Japanese may want to discuss American celebrities or media franchises that they also enjoy.
U.S. Military Presence
There are over 50,000 American military personnel stationed in Japan due to the U.S.-Japan defense alliance. This includes major bases in Okinawa, Honshu, and other parts of Japan. Areas with a significant U.S. military presence tend to have more English speakers, American-style restaurants, and shops catering to American tastes.
However, there are some tensions around the U.S. military presence in certain communities. Incidents involving American soldiers have caused controversy and sometimes protests. Overall though, the U.S. and Japanese governments want to maintain positive relations.
For American tourists not associated with the military, the U.S. military presence can be beneficial when navigating areas near bases. But it’s also important to be respectful towards local communities impacted by the bases.
American Sports
Sports are a big part of Japanese culture, and many Japanese people enjoy American sports leagues like MLB (baseball), NBA (basketball), and NFL (football). They closely follow favorite teams and players.
Fans may want to chat with American tourists about American sports news and athletes. Wearing gear from an American sports team can spark friendly conversations with locals. And American tourists can easily find live sports broadcasts and team merchandise in Japan.
Major American chain restaurants and stores related to sports, like ESPN and Nike, are present in Japan as well. So American sports fans will find familiar establishments.
Accommodations for Foreign Tourists
Japan’s tourism industry provides excellent services catering to foreign visitors. Hotels strive to have English-speaking staff, provide Western breakfast items, and have interpreters available. Popular attractions offer English audio guides, maps, and signage.
Many restaurants in areas with heavy tourism have English menus or picture menus. Department stores like Bic Camera and Yodobashi Camera have tax exemption services and duty-free checkout for tourists.
Japan has also eased visa requirements for visitors from many countries, including the United States. Multiple-entry tourist visas allow stays up to 90 days.
All these services and conveniences for foreign tourists make it much easier for Americans to visit Japan without as much language or cultural barrier.
Appeal of Japanese Culture
While Japan has adopted much American pop culture, Japan also offers cultural experiences that fascinate American visitors. Traditions like geisha, samurai, tea ceremony, and zen gardens stem from Japan’s long, unique history and heritage.
Areas such as Kyoto and Nara give tourists a window into historic Japan. Impressive shrines, temples, and castles are preserved throughout the country. Experiencing these with a knowledgeable guide provides insight into Japanese customs.
Visiting a ryokan (traditional inn), trying kaiseki cuisine, and soaking in an onsen (hot spring) showcases Japanese hospitality. Americans eager to learn about Japanese culture will find endless opportunities to do so.
Advanced Technology
One aspect of Japan that impresses American tourists is the advanced technology. Cashless payment, high-speed trains, and automated toilets, for example, showcase how technologically forward-thinking Japan is.
Gaming culture is huge in Japan, so visiting massive arcades with UFO catchers and rhythm games is thrilling. High-tech entertainment like VR Zone VR theme parks are also fun attractions to experience Japanese technology.
For Americans used to their own technology, seeing Japan’s futuristic advances firsthand makes the country even more intriguing.
Shopping
Shopaholics rejoice – Japan is a paradise for shopping. Sprawling department stores, colorful open-air shopping streets, gigantic electronics stores, kawaii (cute) gift stores…the list goes on.
Two major shopping areas in Tokyo are Ginza, home to luxury flagship stores, and Shibuya, popular for its fashion boutiques. Osaka’s Dotonbori delight shoppers with its iconic neon signage.
Shopping for souvenirs and keepsakes is endless, from elegant green tea sets to pop culture merch of anime characters. Those wanting to take a piece of Japanese culture home will have no shortage of options.
Beautiful Scenery
In addition to its urban modernity, Japan has diverse natural scenery spanning lush forests, pristine beaches, dramatic valleys, and iconic mountains like Mt. Fuji. There are dozens of national parks showcasing Japan’s landscapes.
Cherry blossoms blooming in spring are iconic. Autumn foliage transforms mountains and parks into vibrant red and gold vistas. Snowy winters create magical scenes like at Shirakawa Village’s historic thatched homes.
| Season | Scenery |
|---|---|
| Spring | Cherry Blossoms |
| Summer | Lush Greens |
| Fall | Maple Leaves |
| Winter | Snowy Mountains |
Nature lovers will be awed by Japan’s diverse beauty across all seasons.
Amusement Parks
For thrills and excitement, Japan’s amusement parks are hard to beat. Famous parks include:
- Tokyo Disneyland/DisneySea
- Universal Studios Japan
- Fuji-Q Highland
- Nagashima Spa Land
Rollercoasters like the Steel Dragon 2000 offer extreme excitement. Universal Studios brings popular movies to life through rides and interactive experiences. See your favorite Disney characters at Tokyo Disney Resort.
Amusement park food is also part of the fun, from character-shaped snacks to themed treats. Party all day and night at these lively parks.
Anime/Manga/Games
Japanese anime (animation), manga (comics), and video games have enthralled the world. Many Americans eagerly visit Japan to immerse themselves in this popular culture.
Akihabara District in Tokyo is a nerd paradise for anime, manga, figurines, costumes, gaming, and more. Famous areas include:
- Gundam Cafe – robot-themed eatery
- Maid Cafes – experience unique maid culture
- Super Potato – retro gaming store
- Radio Kaikan – electronics/otaku gadgets
Visiting the Pokemon Center stores feels like entering the world of Pokemon itself. Many anime fans visit locations featured in popular shows.
The Japanese pop culture experience goes far beyond passive viewing – fans can fully embrace their fandom through activities and shopping.
Cuteness Overload
One aspect of Japanese culture that Americans fall in love with is the sheer cuteness. Everything is made cuter in Japan, from products to food to advertising. Pastel colors, round shapes, adorable characters, and clever designs make Japan Kawaii Heaven.
Cuddle up to stuffed animals and character plushies at stores like Tokyu Hands. Eat instagrammable crepes, pastries, and parfaits. Pose with fun statues and decorations around cities. Wear qipao dresses and frilly accessories. Snack on artistic character cookies and cakes.
From Sanrio’s Hello Kitty to Pompompurin to Aggretsuko, cute is everywhere. Americans seeking all things kawaii will have endless sweet fun.
Theme Restaurants/Cafes
Unique themed restaurants and cafes let visitors fully immerse themselves in different experiences. Popular themes include:
- Ninja restaurants with hidden rooms, tricks, and performances
- Robot restaurants with neon-lit monster battles and dancers
- Prison themed cafes where customers are handcuffed
- Alice in Wonderland restaurants down the rabbit hole
- Vampire cafes with gothic castles and costumes
There are also animal cafes where you can pet owls, bunnies, cats, and more while enjoying a drink. Cosplay kissaten are maid cafes where staff dress up.
No matter what your interest, there’s likely a themed eatery for it. Dining in these elaborate places with costumes, decor, and entertainment makes for memorable experiences.
Nightlife
When the sun sets, Japanese cities come alive with dazzling neon lights beckoning partygoers. Famous nightlife districts include:
- Shinjuku – skyscraper bars and clubs
- Roppongi – hottest international nightclubs
- Shibuya – youth culture clubs and karaoke
- Osu Kannon – hip bars under traditional gates
Pubs, dance clubs, karaoke boxes, hostess clubs, and more provide endless evening excitement. Night markets like Omoide Yokocho have tasty street food and beer stalls under lantern lights. There are even 24-hour restaurant/bar districts that never close like Golden Gai.
Party all night hopping between neon-lit bars and clubs until the first trains start at dawn. Tokyo after dark is electrifying.
Conclusion
While Japan may seem exotic and impenetrable from afar, American tourists will find plenty of familiar comforts and English assistance in Japan. The Japanese are warm, welcoming people who appreciate tourists interested in their culture. As more American culture flows into Japan, the Japanese youth in particular are huge fans.
The well-developed tourism industry provides many English services and conveniences for foreign visitors. Getting around Japan’s major cities is quite easy thanks to bilingual signage, metro systems, and tourism offices. Months with nice weather and cherry blossom/autumn foliage seasons are ideal times for Americans to visit this island nation.
From pop culture shopping sprees to historic shrines, fun theme parks to zen gardens, kawaii cafes to robot restaurants, Japan offers endless experiences to wow American tourists. The culture shock is all part of the appeal, as there is nowhere else quite like Japan. Kunichiwazu, konbanwa! (Hello and good evening!)