So I've lived here for about 5 years now and I've kinda noticed a different culture when it comes to how one praises/takes criticism about their own country. I've only worked for companies who I'd say are definitely conservative, so that might be the only reason why I'm noticing this and making this post. I've had coworkers that believed that only Japan had 4 seasons, and in a group setting talked about how the Japanese language was more nuanced than other languages and you can express thoughts/feelings more precisely. One coworker told me that Japan had the 2nd best pasta in the world after Italy, after I told him that Napolitan pasta wasn't a very popular thing in the US. I mean maybe it's true, I can't say for certain. we never got it any confrontation, but after that I think I unconsciously decided that it would make my life easier to never say anything that criticizes Japan, even remotely. I guess I just find it very different from the US, where it's completely normal for one to criticize and make ironic/sarcastic jokes about American culture and politics.
I think there are many wonderful things about Japan like; ramen, sushi, tonkatsu, hot springs, zen architecture/design, anime, manga, politeness, hospitality, cleanliness, and so much more.. Having said that, there are like 200+ countries/territories in the world each with their own great things and unique cultures, but the people I've come across with in my time here don't seem to have this fact internalized, it's like a Japan and "Other" mentality.
Also, I definitely don't think all of my coworkers are just unconsciously nationalistic, it's maybe around half. On average, the younger people seem to have a normal pride for Japan, just based on my time with them.
I don't mean to offend anyone, this has just been on my mind for a while now and i just wanted some clarity. I would love to hear anyone else's experiences and thoughts on this topic. Thanks for reading.
by ExperienceItchy7079