Tuesday, September 20, 2011

10 Things I've Learned About Life While Living in Japan


1. Those Japanese women aren’t just paranoid about the sun. Hirakata is closer to the equator and getting sunburn on your face, but not realizing it (and just thinking you’re flushed), will always equal pain when you try to wipe off your sweating face. 

2. Always carry around a handkerchief with you. And bring a spare as well; you never know when you’ll need it. 

3. Umbrellas can be used for sun as well as rain. And you’ll need it for both during typhoon-season. 

4. Gifts are the best way to reaffirm your friendship with someone, especially during a first meeting. 

5. Ignoring someone’s very existence on the bus isn’t rude—it’s polite. 

6. No, the bus really isn’t going to run you over, it’s just very close. 

7. Sidewalks are for the weak. 

8. Just smile and nod; you can bullshit your way through anything. 

9. Some things take patience, other things also take patience. Being impatient will give you both bad results and some confused stares. 

10. Talking to people helps organize your day. 

And a bonus 11. If you do anything wrong, it’s because you’re a gaijin. Don’t worry, they’ll forgive you.

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