Japan - the myths and truths part 1

Yes, the trains are packed during rush hour. So terrifyingly so that it's difficult to tell if it's chikan (public molestation) or if they're just stuck. The people hate it too and one of my teachers hates it so much he rides his bike over an hour to get to school (about 20 kilometers).

Yes, the Japanese are train masters. Over half of those standing on a train don't hold onto anything and yet they don't get bounced around like I do. I've yet to figure out exactly how they do it...

Yes, Japan is expensive. But because the Japanese can't afford it either, there are plenty of ways to knock a few yen off. Things that don't seem to apply, however, are juice, fruit, and western products.

Yes, the Japanese are a sexually depraved society. I just watched a video on CNN about a new Akihabara shop that sells cuddles. This is the land of maid cafes, host clubs and butler cafes, after all...

Yes, the apartments here are small and relatively expensive. However, I find them just as expensive in the States. An apartment near my university, for example, costs $850 a month not including utilities and is a four bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment. My apartment here costs $730 a month without utilities and is private. Granted, it's small (there's a loft) and none of the appliances were included...

No, just because nearly all Japanese have studied English in some way/shape/form, it doesn't mean they speak English. At all. But they really do like to learn it.

No, you can't just hop on a train and go wherever here. You really should plan your route ahead of time because sometimes the simple route on a map is considerably more expensive than you've planned for.

No, the ramen isn't a cheap eat. Real ramen will usually run you around $8-$10 a bowl on the cheap side. Top ramen or cup ramen is usually at least $1.25+ at every store I've seen in Tokyo.


Do you have a myth you want debunked (or proven true?) Leave a comment below and I'll add it to my next post.