The Reflection

                After having been in Japan for a few months, I feel that my initial impressions of the society have changed quite significantly. I enjoy several aspects of the culture, however, I feel that some aspects of the Nationalism that are pretty much government regulation are negatively holding the society and minds of the people from progressing in an effective way. Japanese people are part of an extremely collectivist society, where often opinions are a reflection of a national view of an issue, and differing perspectives are criticized by the rest of society.

                One aspect of Japan that I particularly enjoy is the care with which tasks are efficiently performed. Going to restaurants, there are often devices that make ordering automated. In addition, the workers at restaurants and Izakayas offer a very warm setting in which customers are made to feel  very comfortable.

                The collectivist mind of Japan is often a scary thought, coming from such an individualistic society as America. It has its benefits as everyone is working for their own, as well as the common good of the Nation, or so it may seem. However, I feel that the idea of progress is defined by the power holders and  dictated towards the rest of the citizens.  I enjoyed watching videos that brought this issue to light, such as the documentary on Kimigayo and the teachers’ revolution against its requirement.

                I have really enjoyed observing and interacting with several people, and though I will never be a Japanese person in how they observe me, I’ve learned the rules and skills that will allow me to integrate into Japanese society through my use of honorific expressions in both gesture and language. 

The Izakaya

One extremely interesting aspect of Japanese culture is the drinking culture in Japan. Izakayas are found all throughout Japan spread out from small family owned shops to large chains. Here, wining and dining go hand in hand with a wide array of food and drinks. This is one of the cultural gathering places of Japan. Here, workers, students, grandparents and couples all come to socialize.

Unlike your typical bar in America, the distinct separation of groups in this environment is what makes it unique. Here, you come in with your group and are seated at a table (or on tatami) and are stationed at your designated area until you leave (which I have sometimes observed to be when some member of the group drinks himself into a doze).

The lively nature of these establishments are part of what makes it such a unique aspect of Japanese culture. This is the place to be loud. The minute you step in, you hear the commotion of people laughing, eating and chatting mixed with the waiters and waitresses yelling to keep the volume up and the place energetic. The food is what makes an Izakaya a very different drinking and social experience. Usually the emphasis on good food is what attracts customers. From sashimi to yakiniku to ramen, Izakayas often have it all at a relatively reasonable price.

Historically, the Izakaya, stemming from "i" (to stay) and "sakaya" sake shop, according to a waiter at the Izakaya, used to be a place for business men to unwind and converse after a long day at work. However, these days, the establishments have diversified their clientele by expanding their menus and hosting drinking parties for larger groups.

All in all, who can deny great food and a place to drink and socialize for a reasonable price?