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'Big Face?!' Americans Share About Their Quirky Experiences in Japan

Date published: 18 June 2023

In Japan, we often gain insights into the personalities of Americans through movies and TV shows, observing their tendencies to openly express emotions and value individual rights. But have you ever wondered how Americans perceive us from their point of view?

To shed light on this perspective, we conducted several interviews with Americans who have visited Japan, and we have compiled their responses to highlight the aspects that surprised them the most. Please note that the following reflections solely represent the opinions of those interviewed.

"The izakaya experience is truly wonderful! The food is delicious, the prices are affordable, and what impressed me the most was the cheerful and helpful staff. One incident that took me by surprise was when I returned to my table from the bathroom and was presented with a hand towel. While it's not uncommon in high-end restaurants in the US, it's not something you typically encounter at pubs."

This American man, who has been in Japan for five years, found the izakaya to be the most remarkable place. While good service is important everywhere, it seems to reach another level in Japan!

"Sometimes it can get quite lively and noisy (laughs). Particularly when they shout 'Welcome!' and everyone else echoes it. Initially, it was unfamiliar to me, but now I actually enjoy it."

This vibrant atmosphere is at the heart of an izakaya. If you're not accustomed to it, it may catch you off guard, but you'll quickly develop an affinity for it!

"Japan sets incredibly high standards for food in general. No matter where you go, the quality of the food is exceptional. You can indulge in delicious dishes from various cuisines around the world. Japanese people truly embrace their remarkable food culture! Let me give you an example: When I was in the United States, I found it difficult to find satisfying Indian food. However, Japanese Indian food feels authentic and tastes absolutely delightful! I believe Japanese cuisine is characterized by its delicacy, and the chefs infuse a lot of love into their creations. As for American cuisine, to be honest, I don't have high expectations when dining out (laughs). Can you imagine even Chinese food in New York being something you'd rather avoid (laughs)?"

This American man, who has been living in Japan for three years, exhibits a strong enthusiasm for exploring the culinary scene. It appears that even individuals with discerning palates can discover something they genuinely enjoy here!

"The key factors that contribute to Japan's thriving tourism industry are its historical sightseeing spots, delectable cuisine, and vibrant entertainment options! Many establishments operate 24 hours a day, allowing people to enjoy the nightlife even after work hours, thanks to Japan's reputation as a generally safe country. Speaking of which, the food here is simply incredible, regardless of what you choose to eat. I often ask Japanese people, 'What is your favorite Japanese dish?' But the truth is, everything is so delicious, no matter what you try."

This American man, who faced challenges during work, certainly knows how to appreciate his leisure time! Undoubtedly, one of the most enticing aspects of Japan is its remarkable culinary scene. While sushi and ramen are popular choices among tourists, there is a wide array of other culinary delights to explore. We highly recommend indulging in some original Japanese tonkatsu for a unique gastronomic experience!

In Japan, appearance holds great significance, and it is not uncommon for people to openly make comments about others' looks. They might straightforwardly say, "You've gained weight!" In American culture, such remarks can be considered impolite, to the extent that it's almost a taboo topic of discussion.

One aspect that puzzled the interviewee the most was the comments about having a "big face" or a "small face." Some individuals mentioned that they had never encountered such remarks until they came to Japan. While they can grasp the concept of a "small face" being desirable, they struggle to understand what exactly constitutes a "big face." Personally, I interpret a "small face" as having features that are closer together, so I might feel slightly offended if someone described my face as "big."

For me, the first encounter with these expressions was during high school when I came across articles in magazines discussing the concept of "small face features." Since then, I've noticed the proliferation of the notion that a "small face" equates to "beauty." Reflecting on the opinions of our interviewees, I've started contemplating whether I, too, place excessive importance on physical appearance.

When exploring a new country, there can be numerous perplexing and surprising aspects. However, it's crucial to remember that these insights are merely the perspectives of a few individuals, and there are countless other peculiar and captivating aspects to discover while traveling. We hope you encounter delightful surprises on your next journey!