Quote:
Originally Posted by cranks
Yes, it TOTALLY depends on where you are. That's for sure. But, even in Tokyo, only 0.5% of the population are non-Asian. I live in Colorado, where I think the percentage of Asian is a lot more than the percentage of non-Asian in Tokyo, and still people really remember me everywhere I go. I stand out because I'm an Asian who speak English with strong Japanese accent. I guess my point is that for any American, or non-Japanese, Japan will be very different from being in their home country. If you are non-Asian, you just stand out unless you are in a Gaijin bar in Roppongi, in which case, I agree you don't stand out AT ALL. But if you come to my home town which is just 20 minutes from Tokyo station, you will somewhat stand out. That doesn't mean anything too special will happen, but sometimes people complain that they are treated differently or get some stares, so I'm just trying to explain things more comprehensively.  |
You can be a gaijin in Tokyo with your hair on fire, and not get a second glance. No offence, but Colorado is not Toyko.
As a non-Asian you will not stand out in Shinjuku, Akasaka, Ginza, Roppongi, and most parts of Tokyo.
I think in 2010 people that complain of "getting stares" in Tokyo are being over sensitive. That's a little like white people getting stares in Hong Kong or black people getting stares in New York City.