Japan is an interesting country, isn’t it? I remember when I first truly acknowledged Japan’s existence. While my area was super multicultural, when it came to East Asians, it was mostly Chinese and Vietnamese students, so Japan was just another country to me.
My first brush with Japan was in 2005 or 2006. I was giving Digimon a second chance by watching it on Youtube, and the Japanese opening was in the recommendation section. I thought Digimon was just a cartoon, so I thought this was a dubbed version. When I clicked on it, I was shocked! The song was completely different, but also more beautiful and meaningful.
I got really curious. Why the difference? Why did Japan put more effort into this theme song? After doing research, I found Digimon actually originated in Japan and that it was called an ‘anime’. I then found out all my favourite childhood shows, like Pokemon, Sailormoon, Cardcaptors, Beyblade, Yugioh, Medabots, and even Hamtaro, were animes as well. My mind was blown. Clearly, this country was special because these shows left the biggest impact on me and thought me a lot of morals. They’re why I’m so driven and why I believe in chasing your dreams.
I then found out about other things around me that also originated in Japan. I was a huge Nintendo fan forever, as my parents had an NES and I owned a Nintendo SP. Mario was my favourite game, and it was Japanese too. Power Rangers, while American, had Japanese influences. Sushi, Karaoke, Origami, Yamaha, Canon..it blew my mind!
I was instantly intrigued in this small country that not only made my childhood, but has also created so many things that I use and rely on, but never noticed. I really wanted to know more about this country, and why they were so creative and technologically advanced, while also still carrying an air of innocence. I’ve started doing research since, and I still continue to learn new things now.
Lucky for you, Youtube exists, so you don’t have to read, you can hear from the locals and see what it’s really like. Back then, it certainly felt like Japan was the perfect country, but I’m thankful to these channels for being more upfront about their flaws and why a foreigner may not want to live there. No country is perfect, and while Japan is certainly a place that cares more about community, cleanliness, and safety, they still have customs even the locals hate, overworking issues, chikan (train perverts), and a high suicide rate. It’s best to learn about the truth and hold an unbiased, realistic perspective.
Below are 10 channels that I think you should check out if you’re interested in learning about Japan, whether it’s out of curiousity, or you intend to visit or live there!
Paolo From Tokyo
Bubble personality with unique perspectives into life in Japan. He has some great videos on travelling and living in Japan, but I am the biggest fan of his “day in the life of ______” series where he follows workers, like a cosplayer, artist, and fireman, and shows us what an individual would do everyday.
Nobita from Japan
If you’ve only heard good things about Japan, but want to learn more about the nitty gritty negative aspects of this country, this is an amazing channel ran by Nobita, your Japanese insider. He discusses various controversial topics and is very upfront about their flaws and the reason why this is. You can find topics such as why Japan’s English education sucks, why cheating is common, mental health issues, and toxic customs like work culture that should change.
Asian Boss
Curious about what the population thinks about certain issues? Asian Boss regularly does street interviews on various topics in various asian countries, including China, Korea, and of course, Japan. They cover past issues, racism, and even current news. They also share stories of individuals, such as the half indian half Japanese pagent winner and a ramen shop owner who uses a wheelchair.
That Japanese Man Yuta
This is probably one of the first channels I discovered. His channel has a mix of informative videos, street interviews, controversial topics, It’s a great channel to see how natives think, what to expect if you plan to live there, and other useful tips and insight.
SHUNchann
A newer channel on the block, but I see a lot of potential. This stars a younger man who is more upfront about the flaws of Japan and interacting with Japanese people, such as dating and being an exchange student. He’s actually said some things that I haven’t heard on other channels. I personally enjoy his quirky and chill personality while also being brutally honest.
Let’s Ask Shogo
If you’re more curious about Japan’s past or trying to make sense of some japanese customs, this is the channel for you. With a very formal tone, he slowly walks you through the whys of Japan and it’s history. He clears up misconceptions in regards to traditional Japanese people like Ronins, Samurais and Geishas, and he discusses taboos in regards to tattoos, onsens, and chopsticks.
Abroad in Japan
If you’re planning to move to Japan, whether temporarily or forever, this is definitely the channel you need to binge before then. This Youtuber has been in Japan long enough to get around, but he also knows what he dislikes, and isn’t afraid to share those details. He discusses customs you should be aware about, issues he has with their culture, holidays he’s not that fond of, and other things that makes his blood boil. It isn’t all negative, but I can definitely appreciate his openness and honesty as these are topics people may not be aware of but should know before they book that ticket.
Life Where I’m From
If you’re actually planning to live in Japan, for work or long term, this is a great channel to get more insight on what it’s like living there. Not just about activities and tours, but about schools, meals, communities, work life, and so on. Learn about what to expect, their customs, language, dress codes and more.
Ask Japanese
If you’re more interested in some casual and fun content with some new information, definitely check out this sweet lolita girl who will give you the facts and insider information while showing you some pretty areas of the country. She’s not afraid to spill some secrets, such as their gambling problems, chikan (train perverts), and their tendency to lie.
Dark Side of Japan Yuki
I came across this channel by chance recently, but it is amazing. Another Japanese insider, but this one is not afraid to put himself in dangerous situations with his hidden camera to reveal the dark side of Japan. Find out more about Japan’s red light districts, prostitutes, yazuka, host clubs, and school bullying. This is a side you may never get to see otherwise.
Conclusion
I hope this post has helped you find some new channels you enjoy and can learn more about Japan from. Definitely check out as many as you can as they all have different content and some may have more valuable information for you if you just want to visit or if you plan to live abroad.