Many associate Japan with the heart-wrenching events of World War II, notably the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki on August 6 and 9, 1945. However, modern-day Japan is vastly different.
Today’s Japan is characterized by a deep sense of mutual respect shared among its people. This respect transcends traditional and religious functions; it is a lifestyle evident in everyday interactions in train stations, public vehicles, on the streets, and in places like hotels, restaurants, and bars.
Tokyo, despite its fast-paced environment with high-rise buildings and a population of 14 million, operates under an unspoken code of respect and consideration. Conversations in public spaces are kept at low volumes, and unnecessary noise is avoided, partly because Tokyo is where the Emperor of Japan resides.
In contrast, Shibuya, another city we visited, is loud and vibrant with its large screens and youthful energy. Yet, the same respect can still be observed.
Obedience to the law is another prominent Japanese value. People follow laws not out of fear of punishment, but because it is the right thing to do. Jaywalking is virtually nonexistent as pedestrians wait for the traffic signals to change.
Fijians who have visited Japan will attest to the honesty, peace, and respect for others, property, and nature that pervades Japanese society. It’s common to see cars parked with engines running outside stores while owners shop without fear of theft.
In Tokyo, one can feel safe even in the early hours of the morning. Women walk home from work without the worry of being robbed. The atmosphere of security and respect is palpable. In any establishment, from shops to government offices, you are greeted with a bow and a cheerful “Ohayo Gozaimasu” (good morning).
Meetings with Japanese government officials offered insight into how geopolitics influence the region, emphasizing the importance of understanding international dynamics alongside local issues like drugs and crime.
Tokyo and many Japanese cities enforce ‘no smoke’ zones, with designated areas for smoking. There, smokers responsibly dispose of cigarette butts, maintaining cleanliness.
The four Pacific Island journalists, including myself from Fiji, had no trouble enjoying Japanese cuisine during our stay. Despite the smaller portion sizes compared to what we are used to, we combined our meal allowances to ensure plenty of food.
Respect is visibly practiced on bullet trains, where passengers courteously ask before reclining their seats. Visiting the Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima reveals the lingering scars of the 1945 bombings, stirring deep respect for the 146,000 lives lost. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum documents the tragedy through preserved artifacts and personal stories, including the heart-wrenching experiences of survivors like Teruko Yahata.
Japan is a beautiful place to visit, rich in historic sites and home to some of the kindest, most respectful people. Their culture of respect and obedience is instilled from a young age. The Japanese also uphold a strong tradition of familial piety, taking pride in caring for their aging parents and maintaining close-knit family and community ties, which contribute to their low crime rate.
The trip, funded by the Japanese government, allowed four journalists from Fiji, Samoa, Palau, and PNG to highlight how Japan collaborates with Pacific Island nations.