Should foreigners try to fit in in Japan?

[femartinez]

I’m Argentinian too dude 🇦🇷🇦🇷🇦🇷 but I totally get it. Transitioning from your own culture to another and then being able to adapt, is not easy.

Let’s not forget where we come from but still be respectful towards other cultures

[roxas]

When I first came to Japan college students approached me and wanted to practice English. I told them I was was from California & I taught them Cali culture. When i finally said sayonara, they used what I taught them and gave me a hug, said “peace out” and threw up the backwards peace sign. 😄

[AIIIAKS-vnco]

Well, kissing and hugging strangers in greeting is not common not only in Japan but in most countries. He's better off staying in Argentina.

[kenlewis]

I disagree with “don’t even try to fit” as there are behavioral expectations in Japan that are essential to comply with if you want ease, respect, kindness, and to support the existing wa ( harmony). Be a good guest, not a rugged individualist. Just don’t look to be treated as an insider.

[Phoenix.]

We don't kiss others as greeting. We don't hug with strangers as greeting much in Japan. They should know they are living in not your country. Culture is different for each countries as you know. But I understand that you might get bored or little difficult to get to know with Japanese people. We are more shy or polite and
we might not as much as friendly than another country's at first. But
We are actually friendly and kind.
By Japanese

[robinolsson]

You just bow and say sumimasen every chance you get. You still won't fit in though because of the color of your skin.

[Myriel]

Lol I will never fit!! I can’t become a Japanese. We are simply too different. I can respect the culture, be polite and follow rules. But I will never fit in!!! I don’t even try!