Melissa’s Reviews > Abroad in Japan: Ten Years in the Land of the Rising Sun > Status Update
Melissa
is on page 202 of 305
I have never understood why people have to talk for another culture as if they need to defend it when that culture doesn’t want or need defending.
It’s also interesting how Japanese women are pressured into marrying young and starting a family before the age of 25.
— Jan 18, 2026 05:05PM
It’s also interesting how Japanese women are pressured into marrying young and starting a family before the age of 25.
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Melissa’s Previous Updates
Melissa
is on page 222 of 305
I didn’t realise Japan was large enough to have some places that grind to a halt at the sight of snow, especially with how the first town had been. Also, a viral video about chocolate French fries? Weird!
— 20 hours, 54 min ago
Melissa
is on page 194 of 305
Possibly the most heartbreaking chapter in the book. Japan has an extreme problem with bullying…
— Jan 17, 2026 05:28PM
Melissa
is on page 188 of 305
It’s amazing how fast Chris came along with the Japanese language. I don’t think I’d be able to get anywhere close to his level of fluency that quickly.
— Jan 16, 2026 04:48PM
Melissa
is on page 172 of 305
It’s curious how different visiting the doctor is in Japan. I am actually curious if it is the entirety of Japan that’s like this or just specialists or even if it was just the area he was in.
— Jan 11, 2026 05:16PM
Melissa
is on page 166 of 305
Note to self: if I ever climb Mount Fuji, book the accommodation well in advance and even if it’s the middle of summer expect freezing temperatures.
— Jan 10, 2026 05:50PM
Melissa
is on page 118 of 305
Japanese truth serum (alcohol) and societal pressures not to get fat (3.3% obesity rate in Japan at the time). It continues to be fascinating learning about Japan through the eyes of an English dude.
— Jan 06, 2026 05:04PM
Melissa
is on page 102 of 305
The second hand embarrassment was strong this time, but it was inspiring to see someone so dedicated to self-improvement
— Jan 05, 2026 04:26PM
