50 Shades of Japanese

I know, I know, I’m following a terrible trend. There are so many 50 Shades posts right now it’s unbelievable. I think 50 Shades is outdoing The Interview on the controversy level right now. Anyway, if you’re here to read about 50 Shades of Grey, you’re in the wrong place. I’m sure you can find something … Continue reading →

“You mean it’s not okay to ask about penis size?”

Earlier I discussed the things I hear when I talk about Japan, but nothing brings out the racism in people quite like international relationships. I read a couple of posts a bit ago that I identified with strongly, and it encouraged me to write about my own experiences in the matter. I interviewed Yuuki to … Continue reading →

Things People Say When I Talk About Japan

I don’t mean to be mean. Well, only slightly. Okay, maybe more than slightly. I’ve heard my share of dumb things. Some of these were said by people when they found out I studied abroad there, and some are from people who heard that I study Japanese.   • “Oh. Cool.” • “But you don’t … Continue reading →

The Negative Effects of Conformity in Japan

I wrote a post awhile back mentioning that as an outsider who stayed in Japan for a long time and dating someone that is Japanese, I’ve seen a lot of the good sides of Japan, as well as the issues. Earlier I talked about sexual assault and the misconception that there is no crime in … Continue reading →

No Crime in Japan?

When talking about Japan with people who also love Japan, I often find that the conversation goes in the direction of “Japan is the best country in the world, it’s perfect!”  Hearing that has always bothered me somehow, but I never know quite what to say because I love Japan too.  I love it, but…it’s … Continue reading →