Are you an American in Japan missing a bit of home? Are you craving a burger, a big steak, or maybe just some familiar comforts from back home? Perhaps you’ve been living in Japan for a long time and want a small taste of America every now and then. If so, this article is for you! After spending over 9 years living in Japan, I’ve discovered plenty of little ways to experience America right here in the Kansai region.
I have spent over 9 years living in Japan and can happily say that living abroad is exciting, rewarding, and full of adventure. I absolutely love my life here. However, every now and then I miss little pieces of home.
Sometimes it’s my favorite foods. Other times it’s hair products specifically made for African-American hair, American holidays, or even certain cultural norms that you simply don’t find in Japan.
If you’ve been living abroad for a while, you probably understand exactly what I’m talking about. No matter how much you love your new home, there are moments when you crave something familiar.
Thankfully, Kansai has plenty of places where you can experience a little bit of America without ever leaving Japan.
This article covers some of my favorite ways to enjoy American food, culture, shopping, and entertainment in Japan.
Mookie
Going to this restaurant is actually what inspired me to write this article.
I was dying for some American food and had been craving pulled pork. You can imagine my surprise when my friends and I stumbled across this American-style diner after visiting the Mika Ninagawa exhibit, which you can read about here.
Between the American comfort food, hip-hop music, fun atmosphere, and games, I instantly felt transported back home. It had the kind of energy that makes you want to sit around talking with friends for hours.
American food, awesome music, and games? I don’t think I need to say much more.
Shake Shack
I honestly didn’t know Shake Shack was American for the longest time.
I had always assumed it was Japanese until a friend visited and told me he was tired of eating Shake Shack back in America and didn’t want it while he was in Japan!
Personally, it’s my go-to burger place whenever I’m craving a good burger since I don’t eat McDonald’s.
The burgers are fantastic, the sauce is amazing, and the fries are absolutely delicious. If you’re looking for a taste of American fast-casual dining in Japan, this is a great option.
Outback Steakhouse
An Outback Steakhouse recently opened in Osaka, and I couldn’t be happier.
While it may not be the fanciest restaurant in the world, it’s one of those places that instantly feels familiar if you’re from the United States.
As someone from the South, I have a soft spot for steak, and every now and then a girl just wants a good steak dinner. If that’s you too, Outback is definitely worth checking out.
I won’t spend too much time on this section because I already have an article dedicated to international grocery shopping in Japan, which you can read about here.
That said, if you’re searching for American snacks, ingredients, sauces, or comfort foods, there are some great options available throughout Kansai.
My go-to is Jupiter to get snacks like Doritos since they have one in the main cities like Umeda and Nanba
If you’ve never visited Amerikamura (often called “Ame-Mura”), have you really experienced Osaka?
Located near Shinsaibashi and Namba, this famous district is known for fashion, streetwear, youth culture, and international influences.
It’s one of the most famous places in Osaka for shopping and self-expression.
You’ll find:
*Vintage clothing shops
*Streetwear stores
*Hip-hop fashion
*International restaurants
*Cafes
*Foreign communities
If you’re into urban fashion, hip-hop culture, or simply enjoy being surrounded by diversity, I highly recommend spending an afternoon wandering through Amerikamura.
It’s probably the closest thing you’ll find to an American-inspired neighborhood in Kansai.
Sometimes feeling connected to home isn’t about food at all. Sometimes it’s about entertainment.
Movie Theaters
I know movie theaters exist everywhere, but there is something special about going to see a Hollywood blockbuster in Japan.
Whether it’s Marvel, Disney, DC, action movies, or animated films, it’s always fun seeing people from all over the world gather together to enjoy the same story.
Even if Japan gets some movies later than America, it’s still one of my favorite ways to enjoy a little bit of home.
English Bookstores
Finding American bookstores in Japan can be difficult, but many large bookstores have excellent English sections.
I’ve had great luck finding English-language books at Kinokuniya over the years.
Last year, I even stumbled upon an English book sale and ended up buying several novels in my native language.
There is something comforting about walking into a bookstore and finding books written in English, especially when you’ve spent most of your day speaking Japanese.
For readers, this can be a wonderful way to stay connected to home.
Regardless of whether you’re American or not, I hope this article helps you feel a little less homesick and gives you some ideas for keeping a piece of your culture alive while living in Japan.
Home is truly wherever YOU are.
Don’t hesitate to gather friends together to cook your favorite meal, have a movie night, visit a favorite restaurant, or simply call your family back home to catch up.
Nothing can completely replace home, but if you’re a long-term resident, exchange student, digital nomad, or expat living in Japan, knowing where to find those little comforts can make a huge difference.
After 9 years in Japan, I can honestly say it gets easier. You begin building a second home while still keeping pieces of your first one close to your heart.
Until the next article, please stay happy, healthy, and NOT homesick! 🙂
Stay tuned for more exciting content like this! Follow us on our social media platforms and check out our blog regularly to stay updated on the latest news, trends, and insider stories from Japan. Don’t miss out on future updates. Sign up for our newsletter for exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox!
