Dating a Japanese Man: 3 Things I Learned from My Japanese Boyfriend

If you've been in a relationship with someone from a different culture, speaking a different language, you may have found that the differences can be stressful. 

However, I'm so blessed to be able to experience intercultural relationships. I'm being Thai and have a Japanese boyfriend; it's been an incredible journey of positive experiences! 

Japan vs Thailand

Japan and Thailand are on the same continent, a unique and beautiful Asia. Thailand has literally summer all year round. But Japan has four seasons, spring, summer, autumn, and winter, bringing various temperatures and environments. Also, Japan's cuisine is all about fresh and healthy flavors, while Thai dishes are more energetic, spicy, oily, and contain strong herbs. 

So, not only do we speak different languages, but my Japanese boyfriend and I come from two different worlds.

We're Both Asian, But We're Different

It takes roughly 6 hours to get to Japan by plane. Comparing the working culture, eating habits, housing, school systems, and the number of seasons, it's no wonder these two countries are so different! 

For several years now, I've been so lucky to have a wonderful Japanese boyfriend by my side! It's been a while since we've seen each other's positives and negatives. I was so inspired by his habits that I adopted some of them, which improved my quality of life!

Things I've Learned From My Japanese Boyfriend

I'll share with you 3 things my Japanese boyfriend taught me that have helped me become a better version of myself.

1. I Save More

This may sound personal and nothing related to nationality, but I feel most Japanese people are economical. Before buying a thing, my boyfriend will always weigh its price, objective, and quality. How long will it last? Is that what he really wants? So, by considering this, he ended up buying nothing. I've learned that I should ask myself instead of following the trends when spending on something.

2. Focus And Mind Your Own Business

To give someone respect, Japanese people are very concerned about privacy. They don't chit-chat with you doesn't mean they're unfriendly. But, on the other hand, Japanese people are so kind and polite. When I don't butt in someone's life and only focus on my bucket list, I realize that I'm happier. Because I stopped comparing myself to others and stopped worrying about what people think about me. 

Everyone has their own way of being happy in their life.

3. Work Harder With The Clear Purpose

Karoshi (過労死) is a Japanese term that means death by overwork.

You may see articles about Japanese people working themselves to death, and Japan even has one of the most extended working hours in the world. Luckily, my Japanese boyfriend is not putting himself in that risky spot. But he does work hard compared to Thai employees. Instead of being glued to the desk tabbing a laptop daily, he created goals to achieve annually. And he balances work and personal life very well. 

Surround Yourself With A Good Energy Vibe 

Surround yourself with positive people who can help shape the person you want to be. Yup, it's all real!

I've been immensely fortunate to have a supportive Japanese boyfriend who is resilient, confident, and energetic. It's been several years since I realized how much I've grown as a person because of him.

Last but not least, I created an essay vlog to enjoy Japan's Tohoku scenery while reading my story. If you enjoyed this article or the video, make sure you hit that subscribe button! Enjoy!