A Comparative Study of Life in Japan and the U.S.: Insights from a Long-Term Resident

I spent the first twenty years of my life in Japan and the last thirty years in the United States. In this article, I will explore the differences and similarities between these two countries, focusing on key aspects such as safety, culture, food, and healthcare.

Safety

Japan is a fascinating country when it comes to security. It is true that Japan is not a crime-free society, and that crimes such as drive-by shootings do exist. However, compared to the United States, Japan is significantly safer in several ways. The crime and homicide rates in Japan are much lower, making it a safer place to live, especially for families.

In the United States, incidents like the 2020 mass shooting in Urban areas are far too common, creating a climate of fear and uncertainty. In contrast, one can see children effortlessly walking and taking public transportation to school in major metropolitan areas like Tokyo and Osaka. This level of ease and safety is exceptional and unparalleled in the United States.

Onsen Hot Springs

When it comes to cultural experiences, Japanese onsen (hot springs) are undoubtedly one of the unique features of living in Japan. Onsen are not only beautiful and therapeutic but also widely accessible across the country. For just a few dollars (US$3-5), anyone can enjoy the rejuvenating effects of these natural hot springs. This level of affordability and convenience is a stark contrast to the more expensive and often less accessible hot springs in other regions.

Living in Northern California, I do have access to some natural hot springs, but they come at a premium price. Some cost anywhere from US$30-100, and some even require overnight stays at a hotel. While these hot springs in California are natural and beautiful, they are not as easily accessible or affordable as the onsen in Japan.

Food

When it comes to cuisine, both Japan and the United States offer a wide array of delicious and unique options. However, there are some differences that stand out. Japan is known for its incredible variety of food, and this is certainly true when compared to megacities like New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and San Francisco.

While the range of food in the Bay Area is vast and diverse, certain aspects such as fresh organic produce, seafood like wild salmon, albacore, black cod, and Dungeness crab, and the quality of dairy products like milk and cheese, are particularly hard to find. In Japan, these products are widely available and of extremely high quality, catering to both locals and visitors.

Apart from this, Japan is also famed for its unique food offerings, such as sushi, ramen, and other local delicacies. Similarly, the United States also boasts an impressive array of upmarket food, particularly in the San Francisco Bay Area, where high-quality wineries and diverse grapes are abundant. Both countries have their own unique flavors, but the availability and quality of certain foods may vary.

Medical System

The healthcare systems in both Japan and the United States are worth comparing. One of the significant differences is the cost of medical care and the efficiency of the system.

Medical costs in the United States can be prohibitively expensive, with long waiting times and multiple doctors involved in the process. For instance, it can take as long as two weeks to make an appointment to see a primary care physician, only to be referred to a specialist a week later. Moreover, the cost of medical consultations can be as high as US$300 or more.

In contrast, Japan offers a much more efficient and cost-effective medical system. People can simply visit the nearest hospital or doctor's office, show their medical card, and see the doctor within the same morning. The medical bill typically ranges from US$10 to US$20, which is a fraction of the cost in the United States. This makes the healthcare system in Japan much more accessible and financially manageable.

Work and Business

From a business perspective, Japan and the United States each offer unique opportunities. Living in the United States as an entrepreneur and business owner has many advantages, particularly in the San Francisco Bay Area. There are numerous resources available, such as business incubators, mentorship programs, networking events, and a vibrant ecosystem that supports startups and small businesses.

Compared to Japan, starting and running a business in the United States can be considerably easier, with more support and infrastructure to help entrepreneurs succeed. Japan, while having a robust entrepreneurial community, can sometimes present more bureaucratic and regulatory challenges.

In conclusion, while both Japan and the United States have their unique advantages, the choice of which country to prefer often depends on personal values, needs, and preferences. Whether it's the safety and cultural experiences in Japan or the business opportunities and diverse food offerings in the United States, the decision comes down to what resonates most with an individual's lifestyle and aspirations.