An experience of Cuture shock -- Keigo Tominaga

 

Since I have lived in New Zealand for six months, I have experienced a lot of culture shock. I would like to mention some of these experiences this essay. I live with a homestay family, and it has been very interesting, but also challenging. Some of the biggest incidents culture shock I had have to with the lifestyle at home.

In Japan, we usually don’t talk so much during meals. But my homestay family always talks a lot, and they ask me many questions. Initially, I was overwhelmed and I felt nervous. Also, they hug each other a lot and say I love you. In my family, we don’t do that, therefore, I felt surprised and a little bit uncomfortable.

Additionally, in Japan, we usually eat rice, fish, and vegetables. But in New Zealand, people eat a lot of meat, potatoes, and breads. Although the taste is very good, not having rice makes me quite stressed. Moreover, they eat dinner very early, like at 6pm, and I was not hungry at that time.

To deal with some of culture shock, I tried to understand New Zealanders way. I started to answer more during dinner conversations, and now I enjoy talking with them. I still miss rice, but sometimes I buy rice at a supermarket and cook some Japanese cuisine, so I am happy now.

It took me about one month to get used to these cultures. Now, I understand that different doesn’t mean bad. I still miss Japan sometimes, but I’m glad to have experienced new culture. Culture shock has not been easy, but I believe these experiences will help me to adopt easily to other culture.