I love America. I’m very happy I was born there, and I enjoy visiting there from time-to-time. I also like Canada, England, and the “Western World” in general. However, since moving to Japan, I have discovered how toxic the western world can be for various other countries and cultures.
Japan has a very rich history and traditional culture. The language, ceremonies, traditional clothing, etc, is profoundly interesting. Sadly, as the West continues to creep into the country, some of these traditions are being abandoned.
As Starbucks, McDonalds, KFC, and even Walmart stores are springing up around the country, traditional tea cafes, sumo houses, and kimono (traditional dress) shops are closing down.
Fifty years ago it would have been common to see people wearing traditional clothing around town. After all, the clothing was designed to suit the needs of everyone at any time: it’s warm in the winter, cool in the summer, and always looks presentable. However, these days, I very rarely see someone wearing a kimono or yukata (winter dress and summer dress, respectively) on a regular calendar day. If I do see the clothing, it’s almost always someone over age 60 wearing it. Some women still wear the clothing on holidays such as New Year. Young men have almost entirely stopped wearing traditional clothing altogether, even on special holidays.
Schools are seeing less student interest in clubs involving traditional activities such as calligraphy and tea ceremony, while clubs such as basketball and hip-hop dancing have become hugely popular.
Sumo wrestling is becoming less popular among young people. Instead, baseball is very popular, as well as soccer. Recently, some areas of Japan are starting to support semi-professional basketball teams.
Not only is westernization killing off some Japanese traditions, but it is also literally poisoning the Japanese people. The traditional Japanese diet is extremely healthy (which is why Japanese have some of the longest lifespans in the world). The diet is rich in seafood, rice, and vegetables. Traditionally, the diet offers very little “bad” fats and sugars. However, with westernization, food in Japan is changing. Potato chips are now the favorite snack foods (snacking isn’t traditional, either). Western goods higher in fat, sugar, and sodium are wiggling their ways into the Japanese diet, and wreaking havoc on the nation’s waistlines, blood pressures, and cancer rates.
I came to Japan knowing almost nothing about the Japanese pop culture, such as actors and singers. However, most Japanese youngsters know loads about western movies, music, and celebrities. They are even often more aware of American politics than Japan’s.
It is sad to witness the decline of such an amazing traditional culture. As I see young people strive more and more to be increasingly western, I can’t help but wonder… someday, will there be little distinction between cultures of advanced nations? How long will it be before the Western Monster completely eats up all that’s left of what makes other countries truly special and unique? I love the west, but I want to continue to experience the brilliant traditions around the world.
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