Overtourism is becoming a serious problem in Japan.

Many Japanese are bothered by the sudden influx of tourists, especially when you take into account that there were almost none during the pandemic. Restaurants and public transportation companies are not equipped to handle this problem, and being a country made up of mostly introverts, this change is unsettling. Imagine yourself as an introvert, coming home from a long day at work, to find a surprise party at your house, 30 strangers coming to talk to you, congratulating you, then asking you to make a toast or something. Only, it happens almost daily during high season in Japan.

Many locals find their routines significantly disrupted, and if you live here, you would understand the degree of discomfort that Japanese tend to feel when their routines are broken by something beyond their control. Well, hey, I guess most of us can relate to that, but with Japanese, they feel it deep in their core.

Since today is Emperor Naruhito’s birthday, I thought I’d talk about the Imperial Family in this episode. I’ve never paid much attention to them because they don’t really cause spectacles like Harry and Megan. They tend to keep out of the public eye most of the time. 

The Imperial family is very special to the people of Japan. The Emperor of Japan is at the center of this family, and people look up to him with great respect. Some are indifferent of course. It's mostly the older generation who still reveres the family.

As we know, Japan's got a serious problem and it’s not just this year’s unusually warm and short winter. The country is facing a declining birthrate that's causing all sorts of headaches, from shrinking populations to economic slowdowns. Imagine walking through Shibuya, only to find it getting quieter and quieter each year. That's what's happening in Japan, and it's a big deal for everyone living there and for people watching from other countries too.

So, what's going on? Well, for starters, fewer babies are being born in Japan than ever before. This isn't a new trend; it's been happening for years. But the reasons behind it are pretty complex. First off, life in Japan can be super stressful. From long work hours to high living costs, especially in big cities like Tokyo and Osaka, it's not exactly an environment that screams, "Let's have a bunch of kids!" Plus, the pressure to succeed and the desire for personal freedom often take priority over starting a family.

Then there's the issue of marriage. In Japan, fewer people are tying the knot. Some people are just not interested, while others can't find the right partner. the search for a suitable partner has become a significant hurdle. Traditional matchmaking practices are waning in popularity, and while dating apps and websites are on the rise, many people find these platforms ineffective for fostering long-term relationships.

Many of us have heard of the earthquake that struck Noto Peninsula on New Year’s Day. Ishikawa Prefecture received the largest damage with a death toll of over 200 people and counting. Many are still missing, trapped under debris of collapsed buildings and other infrastructures. The 7.6 earthquake struck the region at 4 PM. It was a grim reminder of the Tohoku earthquake that struck Fukushima region back in 2011. Around 20,000 people died in that disaster.

This episode was produced using AI by cloning my voice. I can't help but feel impressed by how much better AI voice has become. It feels quite weird knowing a computer can copy my voice so easily.

What do you think? Does it sound robotic? Let me know!

#intjapan

#podcast

#japan

#japanese

#earthquake

We've all been there. We come to Japan, expecting everyone to speak English just like in any other countries we have been to. To our surprise, many of them shake their head instead.

Considering Japan is supposed to be a first-world country, why is English proficiency still so low?

#japan

#intjapan

#japaneseculture

#english

Since its officially 2024, let’s talk about everything that has happened in Japan in 2023. Some are not that interesting, some are just dead strange. 

Happy New Year!

Christmas was first introduced to Japan by Christian missionaries in the 16th century. However, it didn't gain much traction until the Meiji Era, around the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Japan has often been in the spotlight for its gender inequality issues. While the nation has made significant advancements in various sectors, the gender gap remains a stubborn challenge. The problem was put under the spotlight…again… when it was revealed that no women were appointed among vice ministers and parliamentary secretaries in the recent Cabinet formation, a first since the LDP's return to power in 2012. While Prime Minister Kishida appointed a record-tying five women as Cabinet ministers,  This makes only 7% of the Cabinet, vice ministers, and parliamentary secretaries being women. 

In episode 33 of the INTjAPAN podcast, I delve into the critical issue of mental health in Japan. I begin by noting the rapid passage of time in 2023 and set the stage for a discussion on why mental health awareness lags behind in Japan despite its technological advancements and social development.

I highlight the alarming increase in teachers leaving their jobs due to mental health reasons, emphasizing the role of long working hours in contributing to this trend. I also explore the rising prevalence of depression and suicide among Japanese teenagers, attributing it to academic stress and societal pressure.

Cultural factors such as the stigma surrounding mental health issues and the concept of "honne and tatemae" are discussed as significant barriers to seeking help. The demanding work culture in Japan further discourages individuals from addressing their mental health concerns.

I share my personal experiences and observations, highlighting the guilt and pressure associated with taking sick leave or prioritizing one's mental health. I explore the concept of "gaman" and its impact on Japanese society.

This episode sheds light on the lack of mental health education and awareness in Japan, as well as limited access to mental health services. Financial barriers and a shortage of mental health professionals further hinder individuals from seeking help.

I touch on the potential influence of living arrangements, pet ownership, and societal values on mental health. I encourage practicing gratitude and discuss the significance of positive relationships and social connections in overall well-being.

#mentalhealth #wellbeing #happiness #intjapan #podcast #psychology #japan