Mail order Japanese brides descend have been sought after by Western men for decades. In these modern times, however, this practice has become increasingly popular as not only a form of convenience but also as a way to help Japanese women find a better life. While there can be multiple motivations for a Japanese woman to seek a Western husband, these reasons can generally be categorized into three categories: financial, emotional, and social.
Financial Motivations
Financial security is a major factor for many Japanese women considering mail order brides. Japan has a largely aging population, so it is difficult for a Japanese woman to find a job. Many Japanese women have a difficult time and there is often limited opportunity for financial advancement. A mail order bride is an attractive option for a financially secure life, and for some, a way to build a better future for their families.
Emotional Motivations
Emotional connections play a major role in why Japanese women opt for a Western husband. The traditional cultural hierarchy in Japan, where men are praised and women are often overlooked, can leave Japanese women feeling powerless, unwanted, and discouraged. Mail order brides allow Japanese women to find their perfect partner and liberate themselves from the stigmas they are often subjected to in their own society.
Social Motivations
The majority of Japanese women seeking Western husbands are driven by cultural and social expectations. Japanese culture traditionally requires that women fulfill traditional roles such as taking care of the home and raising children. However, modern Japanese society is becoming more flexible when it comes to gender roles. Seeking a Western husband allows Japanese women to explore other sides of themselves, which can include studying, traveling, or even working.
Why Do Japanese Women Look For Foreign Husbands?
Japanese women are increasingly looking beyond their borders for husbands, and the number of international marriages is on the rise. From an outsider’s perspective, there can be a variety of reasons for such a trend.
Change in Mindset
It is no secret that Japan is a rapidly changing society, and since the Meiji restoration in 1868, has embraced many new beliefs and customs from the West. It is these changes that are slowly infiltrating Japanese culture, and with gender equality increasingly becoming part of the domestic landscape, an increasing number of Japanese women are beginning to embrace a desire for something unique.
In an ever diversified and globalized world, Japanese women are increasingly opening up to the idea of having a foreign husband—one who they feel can better understand and appreciate them outside a traditional Japanese context.
Fulfilment of Goals
Many Japanese women, finding a foreign husband offers them the chance to experience different cultures, customs, and even languages. Having a foreign husband also allows these women to have access to a larger pool of potential spouses than they would find in their native country, and thus better fulfil their own personal goals and objectives.
Societal Pressure
Additionally, there may be some societal pressures that lead a Japanese woman to search for a foreign husband. For example, Japanese culture traditionally places great emphasis on marriage and family. Thus, if a woman is unable to find a suitable husband within her own country, she may be more likely to look elsewhere for a partner.
In Japan, women generally earn less than men, so marrying a foreign husband may offer greater financial security for Japanese women. This, in turn, can ease the pressure of finding a partner and help ensure a more stable future.
Cross-Cultural Marriage: Challenges and Tips for Western Men in a Relationship With a Japanese Wife
Cross-cultural marriage can be a challenging but rewarding experience. While two people from different cultural backgrounds can complement, appreciate, and learn from each other, any couple embarking on such a union should be aware of potential difficulties and prepare to face and overcome those problems. Here, we look at the unique challenges a Western man can face when forming a relationship with a Japanese woman and offer advice on how to make it work.
Understanding Cultural Differences
The first and most important step for making a cross-cultural marriage work is understanding one another’s cultural background and beliefs. In the case of a Japanese/Western couple, there are likely to be significant differences in values such as gender roles, communication styles, religious and ethical views, how to show affection, and expectations regarding money and family. It is crucial that both partners communicate openly and work together to create a shared set of cultural rules and traditions.
Cultural Awareness
It may also be beneficial to actively seek out cultural experiences and gain a deeper understanding of the history and culture of each partner. For example, a Western man dating a Japanese woman might visit Japan and explore its diverse range of cultural attractions, restaurants, and festivals. Reading materials, books, and articles about Japan can also further a Western man’s knowledge and may help couples navigate potential differences and break down any prejudices or stereotypes.
Intercultural Communication
A major challenge for any cross-cultural couple is finding a way to communicate effectively. While it is important to understand and respect each other’s cultural characteristics, it is equally important to listen and to be heard. Both parties should aim to understand each other’s point of view without judgment or prejudice. In the case of a Western man and Japanese woman, patience, respect, and compromise are key to ensuring effective communication and collaboration.
Map Out a Plan
If possible, it is advisable to map out a plan for the relationship and discuss any hoped-for outcomes together. This could include topics such as living arrangements, household rules, how to handle money matters, individual and joint goals to be achieved, etc. The plan should be discussed and updated regularly and remain flexible enough to be adapted when circumstances change.
Openness and Respect
The most important aspect of any successful cross-cultural relationship is openness and mutual respect. Don’t make the mistake of assuming that all Japanese are alike or that all Westerners will think and act as you do. Instead, engaging with the differences and being flexible will be more beneficial in the long-term. By understanding and valuing one another, Western men and their Japanese wives can enjoy a fulfilling and harmonious relationship.
