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Anonymous
Hey, an Amerifag here and I'm in Japan and I came over straight from college to teach in a high school. Been here about nine months. Disclaimer: I am Asian and took two years of Japanese, your mileage may vary. Towards Americans, most people will be polite and ask polite questions (if they can understand you.) You might find an exception or two in the form of racist teachers or loud youths, but in general it's not frequent and usually embarrassing for other Japanese people who hear it (and who may apologize for it.) In Japan in general, if someone has something bad to say about you, they won't say it to your face. Most people here seem comfortable around Americans and happy to speak to them. As for speaking English, well, um, no. English is mandatory in High School (I think) and some students begin studying in Junior high. However, despite high level English reading abilities and comprehension, Japanese students and people in general can be very shy about speaking (this can be VERY frustrating in the classroom.) They believe it must be perfect. But, quite a few people can understand basic English and if you can mix in Japanese words or phrases with your English, most times you will be understood. Also, gestures may make you feel like an idiot, but they'll get it. TL;DR 1. Good, 2. not really.
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