Travel
‘Is It Actually Clear If…’ 10 Issues That Shocked an American Girl About Japan
Date revealed: 6 July 2025
Japanese tradition can get fairly bizarre when it from an out of doors perspective. LIVE JAPAN requested totally different individuals about their ideas concerning the tradition of Japan, and about their private tradition shocks. This time, a girl from the USA, residing in Japan for a very long time, talks about her distinctive expertise.
(The next displays the private opinions of these interviewed solely)
1. The Bizarre Tastes and Names of Authentic Japanese Meals
Japanese food is without doubt one of the issues that’s accountable for one or the opposite tradition shock. Naturally, loads of Japan’s dishes have their roots in American food tradition however normally are uniquely organized and might style quite totally different from their counterparts within the States – at the very least for somebody who’s used to the American style!
“McDonald’s tastes the identical, in fact, however it’s attention-grabbing to see that Japan’s McDonald’s provides very Japanese issues just like the matcha milkshake or McFlurry. The pumpkin fries for Halloween or the chocolate sauce fries, for instance, aren’t bought within the States in any respect! Generally, Japan has loads of distinctive snack and chocolate variations, particularly KitKat. There are such a lot of KitKat varieties right here, and so they make for wonderful souvenirs, I believe. The one factor that shocked me probably the most are the Pocky varieties, although. “Males’s Pocky,” what even is that? Why do you want Pocky particularly focused in direction of males? I nonetheless don’t perceive that.”
2. Why is Japanese Peanut Butter Candy?
“Peanut butter is nice in Japan, which actually took me unexpectedly! In the USA, peanut butter is salty, so we naturally are likely to eat it with candy jam. People like this salty-sweet taste mixture, I believe, so snacks equivalent to caramel popcorn and salted peanuts are widespread. Maple bacon donuts have been additionally a development just lately.”
3. Ideas Getting Refused?
“The primary time I went to a restaurant in Japan, I used to be actually shocked that there isn’t any customized of tipping. I attempted to tip my waitress a number of instances however she simply made a distressed face and saved refusing it. In America, I tip to specific my emotions concerning the service, so I actually was a bit culture-shocked after I wasn’t in a position to try this in Japan. Then again, vacationers are checked out unusual when they don’t tip the employees within the States. A wait employees’s wage is usually fairly low so I really feel sorry that they can not earn suggestions in Japan…”
4. Why Is There At all times Solely Free Measurement?!
“I at all times have hassle with the dimensions of garments in Japan. Why is there typically solely “free measurement”/”one-size-fits-all” obtainable? What does “free measurement” even imply?! (laughs) Clearly, it’s not made to be worn by everybody, so I really feel prefer it’d be higher to correctly write the dimensions on the garment. In America, there’s normally at the very least S, M, and L to accommodate to individuals’s totally different physique shapes, however normally, there are quantity sizes. I want extra shops in Japan had totally different sizes.”
5. Japan is Secure – However Are Individuals Careless?
“In comparison with New York’s and different subways, I’m glad that Japan is de facto secure. I can exit ingesting till late at evening right here with out worrying. Strolling house alone late at evening appears quite unthinkable in some areas of America. Right here, I see individuals sleeping on the prepare or leaving their groceries within the basket of their bike with no care on the planet. To me, this appears fairly careless.”
6. Being Bare in Entrance of Others
“Japan’s hot spring and public bathtub tradition is considerably arduous to get used to. People could be surprisingly shy on the subject of being bare in entrance of others, to a degree the place we usually could be uncomfortable being bare with members of the family. Even after I was a child, I don’t assume I ever shared the tub with my mother and father. It’s unthinkable to me that younger boys go to a ladies’s bathtub, particularly ones which are sufficiently old to be elementary schoolers! Now I’ve gotten used to visiting numerous onsen, nevertheless it was positively a tradition shock the primary time I went!”
7. Japanese Bogs – They’re not that Clear!?
“’Japanese bathrooms are so clear!’ is one thing that you just definitely hear lots. Is that so? I really feel like individuals have their very own requirements a few clear and a grimy rest room. For me, the factor that stands out isn’t the bathroom however quite the dearth of cleaning soap in loads of restrooms. How can a restroom actually be clear if there’s no cleaning soap?”
8. Japanese Faculty Uniforms, Really a Good Concept!
“I believe Japan does faculty uniforms proper. Children don’t must cope with clothes points! In America, most junior highs and excessive colleges don’t have faculty uniforms, so there’s typically the difficulty of bullying over look. Children who can’t afford good garments can turn out to be a goal, so I believe faculty uniforms eliminates loads of the strain. Lots of the colleges that do have faculty uniforms are normally non-public and thus a privilege for youths from rich households. If you see somebody in a faculty uniform in America, you simply assume that they’re both wealthy or attending a Catholic faculty.”
9. Japan, Don’t Work so A lot!
“Why do you go to work when you’ve gotten a chilly? The salarymen that cough on all people with no masks in crowded trains actually hassle me. In America, it’s frequent courtesy to remain at house if you happen to’ve caught a chilly. However individuals in America additionally don’t work as a lot as Japanese individuals, and the work hours in Japan are additionally too lengthy. On high of that, ladies who work full-time are nonetheless accountable for your entire family… that may be a tradition shock for me. The usual that males’s solely accountability is to go to work continues to be quite prevalent, and I want that Japan made sooner strides in direction of gender equality.”
10. The Japanese Persons are Well mannered within the Most Curious Locations!
Final however not least: Japanese concerts!
“When the band talks between songs, the Japanese viewers listens very quietly. That definitely is an odd feeling for somebody from America. As quickly as a band begins their efficiency, an American viewers will get tremendous excited instantly. It’s attention-grabbing when artists from overseas come to carry out in Japan, they at all times appear shocked by how quiet the Japanese followers are and say: ‘The place’s the thrill?!’”
Faculty uniforms, reside venues, and peanut butter – Japan has loads of little peculiarities that may appear bizarre, each in a great way and in a not so great way. What sort of issues did come to your thoughts first?
*This info is from the time of this text’s publication.
*Costs and choices talked about are topic to alter.
*Except said in any other case, all costs embrace tax.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe primary go to of Hawaiian royals to London two centuries in the past will characteristic in a brand new exhibit on the British Museum.
Hawai’i: A Kingdom Crossing Oceans is a “dazzling celebration of the wealthy artistry of Hawaiian makers, previous current and future”, based on the museum.
The exhibition, which opens in January, will commemorate greater than 200 years for the reason that go to of Hawaiian King Liholiho and Queen Kamāmalu to London in 1824 when the royal delegation have been searching for an alliance and safety from the Crown.
This journey to the capital included a go to to the British Museum – the primary file of Native Hawaiian royals on the museum.
Royal Assortment Enterprises LtdThe exhibition will characteristic round 150 objects and artworks together with many by no means seen within the UK.
Among the many highlights is an ahu ʻula, a feathered cloak despatched in 1810 by the primary king of unified Hawaiʻi, Kamehameha I, to King George III.
Lent by King Charles III from the Royal Assortment, the cloak will probably be on show for the primary time in over 100 years, alongside the Hawaiian king’s authentic letter requesting assist and safety from the British Crown.
Trustees of the British MuseumGuests to the museum will probably be greeted on the steps of the Nice Courtroom by a nine-foot (2.7m) picture of the god Kū, the god of warfare and governance, dressed with a recent loincloth and standing atop a pole rediscovered inside a historic plinth.
A finely carved drum accompanied by an historic chant recounting early Polynesian migrations to Hawaii will characteristic alongside a bowl with determine, not too long ago returned from mortgage to Hawaii’s Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, that represents actions of individuals and objects between the Pacific and the UK.
The Anglo-Franco proclamation of 1843, on mortgage from The Nationwide Archives, highlights the UK and France’s formal recognition of Hawaii’s independence and emphasises diplomatic bonds between the nations.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe creation of the exhibition concerned “the meticulous conservation of ancestral treasures and the inclusion of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (the Hawaiian language) all through the area”, the British Museum mentioned.
Dr Alice Christophe, head of Oceania on the museum, mentioned the exhibit is a tribute to Native Hawaiian makers, previous and current.
She added: “It tells the story of the deep and layered relationship between Hawaii and the UK, reflecting on care, sovereignty and the complexity of allyship.
“We hope this present will spark conversations and uplift folks within the archipelago and past.”
The exhibition will run from 15 January to 25 May 2026.
France is a rustic steeped in historical past, and nowhere is that this extra evident than its fantastically preserved medieval cities.
From Alsace’s timber-framed homes to Provence’s dramatic hilltop villages.
These cities permit guests to step again in time, wander cobblestone streets, marvel at historical structure, and expertise the appeal of bygone eras.
On this listing, we’ve gathered 20 of the best-preserved medieval cities in France that you simply completely should see.
20 Greatest Medieval Cities in France To Go to
Scroll down to find the 20 finest medieval cities in France that needs to be on each historical past buff and tradition fanatic’s bucket listing!
1. Riquewihr, Alsace
Riquewihr is a picturesque village in Alsace typically described as some of the lovely in France.
Its well-preserved Sixteenth-century structure, with colourful half-timbered homes lining slender cobblestone streets, makes it really feel like stepping right into a fairy story.
Guests ought to come right here to expertise the distinctive Alsatian tradition, discover the encircling vineyards, and style the area’s well-known wines.
Don’t miss the Dolder Tower, a Thirteenth-century defensive gate, or wine cellars providing tastings. The Alsace villages are among the most picturesque places in France.
2. Eguisheim, Alsace
Eguisheim, a cute fairytale town in France, is thought for its concentric round format and vibrant floral shows.
The city’s magnificence lies in its colourful medieval homes, charming central sq., and surrounding vineyards.
Guests will take pleasure in strolling by the slender streets, visiting the Chapel of St. Leo IX, and mountain climbing the close by Three Castles path.
The city can also be well-known for its storks, which nest on rooftops throughout summer time.
3. Rocamadour, Occitanie
One in all France’s most unique towns is Rocamadour, a vertical village dramatically constructed into the face of a cliff. Its beautiful location and spiritual significance make it a must-visit place that needs to be in your France bucket list.
The city is dwelling to a number of vital spiritual websites, together with the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Guests can climb the Grand Escalier (Nice Staircase) to the château on the prime, which gives breathtaking views of the Alzou Canyon.
4. Sarlat-la-Canéda, Dordogne
Sarlat is without doubt one of the best-preserved medieval cities in France, well-known for its golden stone buildings and gastronomic delights.
Guests ought to come right here to wander the labyrinthine streets, discover the bustling market, and take pleasure in native specialties like foie gras and truffles.
Don’t miss the panoramic view from the highest of the Sainte-Marie church tower or a go to to the Manoir de Gisson.
5. Dinan, Brittany
Dinan is a walled city recognized for its spectacular ramparts, half-timbered homes, and picturesque port.
Guests will love strolling alongside the previous metropolis partitions, exploring the quaint Rue du Jerzual, and having fun with a meal at one of many cafes alongside the previous port.
The city’s magnificence is enhanced by its location overlooking the Rance River. Go to the Château de Dinan and climb the Tour de l’Horloge for panoramic views.
6. Honfleur, Normandy
Honfleur, with its picturesque previous harbor and slate-covered home facades, has lengthy been a favourite topic for artists.
Guests come for the charming ambiance, maritime historical past, and glorious seafood eating places.
Key points of interest embody the wood Church of Saint Catherine, the Eugene Boudin Museum, and the gorgeous Jardin des Personnalités.
7. Perouges, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Perouges is a superbly preserved medieval walled city that appears frozen in time. Its cobbled streets and stone homes make it a preferred movie location.
Guests ought to expertise life in a Fifteenth-century city, style the native specialty “galette de Pérouges,” and benefit from the peaceable ambiance. Don’t miss the central Place du Tilleul or the Eglise-Forteresse.
8. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Occitanie
Perched excessive above the Lot River, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is a shocking medieval village that has impressed many artists. Its magnificence lies in its dramatic setting, Gothic facades, and slender alleyways.
Guests can discover quite a few artisan outlets, hike within the surrounding space, or take a ship journey on the Lot River. The village is especially magical within the night when the day-trippers have left.
9. Gordes, Provence
Gordes is a placing hilltop village within the Luberon area, well-known for its stone buildings cascading down the hillside.
Guests come for the breathtaking views, particularly at sundown, and to discover the encircling lavender fields and olive groves.
Key points of interest embody the Sixteenth-century château, the close by Sénanque Abbey, and the standard Tuesday market.
10. Locronan, Brittany
Locronan is a small city that has maintained its Renaissance appeal, with granite homes and an exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the dearth of seen trendy infrastructure, making it really feel actually timeless. The city is thought for its spiritual heritage, conventional Breton festivals, and as a filming location.
Don’t miss the Church of Saint Ronan or the native artisan workshops.
11. Cordes-sur-Ciel, Occitanie
Cordes-sur-Ciel, or “Cordes within the Sky,” is aptly named for its hilltop location, typically shrouded in morning mist. This bastide city is thought for its well-preserved Gothic structure and thriving arts scene.
Guests ought to come to discover the medieval homes, go to artisan workshops, and revel in panoramic views of the countryside. The city hosts a well-known medieval competition every July.
12. Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy
Mont Saint-Michel is without doubt one of the most iconic landmarks in France, a medieval marvel that rises dramatically from the ocean.
This UNESCO World Heritage website is a small rocky island topped by a shocking abbey and surrounded by a picturesque village.
Guests are drawn by its distinctive structure, wealthy historical past, and the fascinating phenomenon of maximum tides that isolate and join it to the mainland.
Discover the winding streets, go to the magnificent abbey, and be taught concerning the website’s significance as a pilgrimage heart.
13. Minerve, Occitanie
Minerve is a small village with a dramatic historical past, perched on a rocky peninsula between two deep gorges. Guests come for its Cathar historical past, beautiful pure setting, and glorious native wines.
Discover the village’s slender streets, go to the Twelfth-century church, and be taught concerning the Cathar siege on the small museum.
14. Monpazier, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Monpazier is without doubt one of the best-preserved bastide cities in France, recognized for its excellent grid format and exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the well-preserved medieval and Seventeenth-century structure, the lined market corridor, and the peaceable ambiance.
15. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is nestled between two rocky cliffs, with a star suspended on a series between them.
The city is known for its advantageous porcelain and proximity to the Verdon Gorge – one of many best places in the French Riviera area.
Guests ought to discover the slender streets, go to the Notre Dame de Beauvoir chapel perched above the city, and store for native ceramics.
16. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Occitanie
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is a serene medieval village tucked right into a dramatic gorge on the pilgrim path to Santiago de Compostela.
Its UNESCO-listed Gellone Abbey, with its exceptional Romanesque structure, rises above a maze of slender streets and stone homes.
Don’t miss the abbey’s lovely cloister, the Place de la Liberté with its historical elm tree, or the satan’s bridge spanning the gorge.
17. Conques, Occitanie
Conques is a jewel of Romanesque artwork nestled in a wooded gorge in Occitanie.
Its magnificent Abbey Church of Saint Foy, with its intricate tympanum and golden reliquary, has drawn pilgrims for hundreds of years alongside the Santiago de Compostela route.
Don’t miss the treasury’s medieval goldsmith assortment, the carved capitals within the cloister, or the sundown view from the Bancarel viewpoint.
18. Najac, Occitanie
Najac is a shocking medieval fortress city perched dramatically alongside a single ridge excessive above the Aveyron River.
Its majestic Thirteenth-century royal fortress stands on the highest level, whereas the village’s stone and half-timbered homes stretch alongside the ridge in a novel linear format.
Don’t miss the Gothic church of Saint-Jean with its uncommon fortified options, the panoramic views from the fortress hold, or the traditional lined market corridor the place native farmers promote their produce.
19. Vézelay, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
Vézelay is a hilltop village in Burgundy topped by its magnificent Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene.
This UNESCO World Heritage website rises majestically above the Remedy Valley, its golden stone glowing within the sundown whereas its medieval streets are lined with historic homes and ramparts.
Don’t miss the spectacular views over the Burgundian countryside, or the home the place Jules Roy lived, now a literature museum.
20. Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a remarkably preserved medieval city perched on a hilltop close to Good, remodeled into an inventive haven within the twentieth century.
Its large medieval ramparts encircle slender cobblestone streets lined with elegant stone homes, whereas up to date artwork galleries and boutiques occupy historical buildings.
Remaining Ideas on The Greatest French Medieval Cities
Exploring France’s medieval cities is like stepping right into a residing historical past e-book.
Every village gives a novel glimpse into the nation’s wealthy previous, well-preserved structure, and timeless appeal.
From the long-lasting Mont Saint-Michel to the lesser-known gems like Perouges, these cities present unforgettable experiences for historical past lovers, tradition lovers, and informal vacationers alike.
Able to plan your trip in France? Use our complete France Travel Guide to make sure you don’t miss any of the unbelievable locations.
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