日本、素直になれなくて？(07/11/2010)
Minna-san, Welcome to my blog! I am currently studying abroad in Tokyo and I made this blog to help those who are interested in or are currently studying abroad in Japan. This is NOT sponsored by Disney so do not expect any sugar coating! *You have been warned*
The Japanese have this concept called Honne and Tatemae. Honne is what you really think and Tatemae is the facade you put up. With Tatemae, the key is to refrain from showing your true colors and maintain the facade you have created. Well, I am not Japanese so I will talk about the good and the bad aspects of my study abroad experience. I want to provide you, the readers, with a realistic and current view of Japan. Of course, this will all be from MY point of view and it is important that you all remember that everyone's experience is and will be different. Therefore, I welcome all viewpoints and opinions that my readers may have so please feel free to leave them in the comment sections.
Lastly, my advice to those who have an idealistic, fantasy view of Japan: for your own sanity, lose that image and come to Japan with an open mind. I feel that that is the only way to truly enjoy your experience and avoid disillusionment.
Also side note, this blog is ACTUALLY sponsored by the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program. If you would like more information about the Gilman program, please click here. http://www.iie.org/en/Programs/Gilman-Scholarship-Program
では、皆ーさん、よろしくお願いします！
And so Minna-san, yoroshiku onegaishimasu!
"What you say?!" Section (Courtesy of jisho.org)
Minna-san, みんなーさん (皆ーさん) - All, everybody, everyone
Honne, ほんね (本音) - real intention, motive
Tatemae, たてまえ (建前) - face, official stance, facade
yoroshiku onegaishimasu, よろしくおねがいします (よろしくお願いします) - please treat me well!