Upworthy
Japanese Brit shares 10 things she loves about living in the U.S. and it's trul…
Many disenchanted Americans are finding some solace in her observations.
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From Tokyo to New York: A Japanese Brit's Unfiltered Take on American Life
New York, NY – Kouka Webb, a Japanese Brit who has called New York City home for over a decade, recently shared her candid observations on the United States, highlighting 11 aspects she particularly appreciates. Her insights, shared in a widely viewed video, offer a refreshing perspective on American culture. Webb, who grew up in Japan, expressed a fondness for the "friendliness" of Americans. "Everywhere I go, some random person is going to talk to me on the street," she noted, contrasting it with her experience in Japan where such interactions are rare. She also praised the "optimism and hustle culture," where individuals are encouraged to pursue multiple jobs and dreams without judgment. "People don't make fun of you for trying hard here," she stated, adding that the belief that "you can do anything you want to do" is truly inspiring. The vast natural beauty of the U.S. also captured her admiration, particularly the National Parks. "The National Parks are just insane," Webb remarked, emphasizing that many of these natural wonders would be considered the single most incredible feature in other countries, yet the U.S. boasts so many. On a more domestic note, Webb, a registered dietitian, surprisingly championed American "portion sizes." She explained that while sometimes excessive, she appreciates getting a "massive cake" or a "massive salad" that truly fills her up, unlike the smaller servings often found in Japan. She also celebrated American holidays, noting the "all out" enthusiasm for events like Halloween and Fourth of July, which she finds "sweet" and "cute." The cultural diversity of the U.S. was another key highlight. "Everybody looks different, and I feel like I can fit in," she shared, recalling how her 6-foot stature made her stand out in Japan. Webb also appreciates the common "you're welcome" response to a thank you, seeing it as a genuine acknowledgment of assistance. The expansive landscape facilitating "road trips" and the flexible "customer service" culture, where returns are often easy, also made her list. Finally, Webb lauded America's "reinvention culture." Citing an example of a friend's mother who went to medical school at 41 and is now a dermatologist, she concluded, "Hustle is respected in America, no matter where it starts... you really can be anything you want to be." Her positive reflections provide a valuable counter-narrative to common online negativity, resonating with many viewers.
