«I watched beautiful animes like Ghibli or 'Your Name' and fell in love with Japan, but the reality was different.». These are the words of a 20-year-old European studying in Japan, reflecting his disappointment after having idealized the country through anime. This feeling is not unique and reflects a reality that many international students face when arriving in Japan.

According to a survey by the Japan Student Services Organization, Most international students come from China, followed by Nepal and Vietnam. However, the students he interacted with on this occasion came from a number of less common countries, such as East Timor, Albania, Myanmar, Somaliland and Iran. This diversity reflects a cultural mosaic that is not common to find even in countries like Belgium.

The European student who came to Japan fascinated by anime comments: «Of course, there are many friendly Japanese people», but adds: “There are also people who are always irritated and spread their negativity around them.». He goes on to describe his experience with a critical view of Japanese society.

«Japan has everything you can imagine, just like in anime. But unlike in anime, there is a lack of love in real society. My home country is not as convenient as Japan, but communication between people is full of love. Have the Japanese forgotten the love they showed in anime?».

Another student, from Asia, shared a similar sentiment: “I've lived here for several years and I feel like I've never fully integrated into Japanese society and I don't think I will be able to do so in the future.». These testimonies highlight the difficulties that many foreign students face in Japan. Although they are attracted by the idealized image of the country through anime and other media, everyday reality presents unexpected challenges.

While Japan is known for its hospitality and technological advancements, these students point out that true social integration remains a significant challenge. The language barrier, cultural differences and lack of an emotional support network can make the experience more complicated than expected.

• «It is true that there can be little philanthropy towards others».
• «Even Japanese people, when they are abroad as tourists, are friendly, but living there is another story.».
• «In a high-context culture like Japan, it is difficult for foreigners to adapt, and there are also many Japanese who cannot adapt.».
• «It's an accurate observation because it's true. They should know that the anime world is just the anime world.».
• «It is common in human society to try to portray in works of fiction what does not exist in reality. Whether it is magic or superpowers, the communication portrayed is a fantasy.».
• «The insidious nature of the Japanese has always been talked about. Don't underestimate Japan's insular society».
• «Even the “good security” that Japan boasts to the world, when viewed coolly, seems to be limited to Western men… If we consider female students who have been sexually harassed or Asian students who have been harassed in the workplace, something they have not experienced in their home countries».

Source: Hachima Kikou