4 ms·

I see this argument frequently, that it's actually a rare occurrence, and that foreigners are just misinterpreting a reasonable request to speak the local langu

by anjc 8y ago

I see this argument frequently, that it's actually a rare occurrence, and that foreigners are just misinterpreting a reasonable request to speak the local language. Well I've tested this. When you're confronted by owners saying "Japanese only!" while shooing you out of an establishment before assessing your speaking ability, it's clear that it isn't a misinterpretation. This isn't out in the sticks either, busy parts of Tokyo in touristy areas. I'm a middle aged academic too, not exactly the type to ever cause trouble. Deny service in Europe in this manner and see what happens. I don't even care, personally. They can serve who they want. It just may be a shock to people who assume that the Japanese will be largely welcoming of outsiders.

glandium 8y ago
Congratulations, you've found the goose that laid golden eggs. And now you say all geese lay golden eggs. BTW, I'm not sure this isn't actually illegal. But as always, it's not because it's illegal that aholes won't do it.
- anjc 8y ago
  > Congratulations, you've found the goose that laid golden eggs. And now you say all geese lay golden eggs. I mean I saw these signs frequently. Although yes, on the whole, people are pleasant and accommodating. This 'discrimination' will not ruin your life. It's a mild inconvenience and personally I don't care about it. Essentially my point is that you're probably not going to move to Japan and integrate yourself into society. You'll always be an outsider, and you may sometimes be shunned in an explicit way, which is quite shocking. And I believe you're right that it's illegal to discriminate on this basis there.