An Experience of Culture Shock -- Miyu TOKUMOTO

 

Today, I would like to describe what I felt shock the most in New Zealand. It is the food. I know that Japanese food and New Zealand food there is very different. However, they were more different than I expected. For example, the rice. Japanese rice are smaller than New Zealand’s, chewy and sweet. On the other hand, New Zealand’s rice are long and hard and I do not like taste. This was the most shocking experience for me and it really impressed on me the different between our cultures.

              First, I think that a diet based on salt and sugar is different from Japanese. While Japan has a wide variety of dashi and seasonings, I realized that food in New Zealand is seasoned with only salt or sugar and so is bland, which do not suit me at all.

              Second, there is a relatively high amount of oily food. For example, fish and chips. I really like them but the fried fish and fried potato set is way too oily and as a result is bad for you.

              In terms of that is how I deal with New Zealand’s food. I’m still not used to eating the rice in particular, so I always make sure to stock up on Japanese rice from Asian supermarkets. In addition, I try to eat only half a portion of fried food to reduce the strain on my body. Moreover, fruit is a big thing in New Zealand, so I try to have such as fruit for dessert to keep things refreshing.

              Actually, I haven’t overcame food in New Zealand. I always try to eat the meals my host family makes for me. However, sometimes it is hard. I have been trying various foods to eat, and I plan to continue finding ways.

              In conclusion, I have three months left, but I want to find a New Zealand food that l like. I have been here for about six months and it has been hard to get used to, so I want to find my own way to overcome.

Comments

  1. Hanako IwatsukiAugust 14, 2025 at 4:17 PM

    I agree! Way of seasoning is very different from Japan. I hope you can overcome this culture shock.

    ReplyDelete
  2. MilaeAugust 14, 2025 at 4:29 PM

    I totally agree with you. I really miss sticky rice!!! But, sometimes I think that some New Zealand foods with not too much seasoning and sauce are good for our stomach :)

    ReplyDelete
  3. Chompunud (New)August 14, 2025 at 4:33 PM

    Hello, Miyu, I feel you that food is very important for us and make our tired days to be a better day. However, I also hope that you will find the New Zealand food that you like and be happy.😊

    ReplyDelete
  4. David WoodfieldAugust 14, 2025 at 4:43 PM

    Hi Miyu, what about oily & salty foods like karage & croquette in Japan though? I often used to select croquette curry if I ate out at a curry restaurant in Japan. Do you think fish & chips are oilier than those dishes?
    David :-)

    ReplyDelete
  5. Keigo TominagaAugust 14, 2025 at 4:46 PM

    I hope you will fine food you like.

    ReplyDelete
  6. Meri OBARAAugust 20, 2025 at 1:52 AM

    I agree with you that Japan has a wide variety of dashi and seasonings. One thing that I miss the most in NZ is Japanese food. I also want to overcome it because I will live here for four years.

    ReplyDelete

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