«I saw 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 on 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 VietnamHowever, the students he interacted with on this occasion came from several less common countries, such as East Timor, Albania, Myanmar, Somaliland, and Iran. This diversity reflects a cultural mosaic that is not common 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 could imagine, just like in anime. But unlike in anime, real society lacks love. My home country isn't as convenient as Japan, but communication between people is full of love. Have the Japanese forgotten the love they demonstrated in anime?».

Another student, from Asia, shares 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 to 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's common in human society to attempt to portray in works of fiction what doesn't exist in reality. Whether it's 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 coldly, seems to be limited to Western men… If we consider female students who have experienced sexual harassment or Asian students who have experienced harassment in the workplace, something they have not experienced in their countries».

Source: Hachima Kikou