I am a Southeast Asian female and I go to Japan often, but almost never walk alone — I am usually with my spouse, siblings or friends. I will be moving to Tokyo in a few months.
In my trip late last year, I was in Akihabara alone after sunset, waiting for my siblings to be done with their activities. As I was walking with my earphones on, a local man started walking next to me, while seemingly asking me a few questions. I don't understand much Japanese (yet), and this man gives off a "nanpa" vibe, so I ignored him. After a short while, he gave up and went back to his original position. I later saw him doing the same to other girls.
Fast forward to last week. I was in Kabukicho (on the way to a work venue), walking in broad daylight alone. I (mistakenly) made eye contact with a group of non-locals hanging out by the side of the street. One guy suddenly got up and started walking next to me, talking to me in English. I had my earphones on blasting songs, so I can barely hear him. I walked faster and ignored him, thinking he would give up soon.
He didn't. He kept on speaking louder and louder as he followed me further. Through my earphones, I can hear him almost yell "I know you can understand me. If you don't want to talk to me, just say it!". I was getting quite angry at his persistence, but I kept quiet.
He was walking so close to me that we eventually collided. That's when I stopped in my tracks, held my shoulder where we bumped, and gave him a stink face. He muttered something, before finally leaving me alone.
My question here — what's the appropriate response I should have given, if this ever happens again? A friend said I should have just shouted and asserted dominance, but would that be safe? Given my move is coming soon, I'd like to prepare myself if this is going to be a common occurrence.
by sofutotofu