Day 155 Topic Writing: The Differences Between JPN and NZ

With just four days left in the year, I feel as though I’ve already spent a significant amount of time here, given how fruitful this experience has been. Each day has brought something new, offering me opportunities to handle various issues independently. Although I have faced numerous challenges in my previous jobs, the challenges during my working holiday have been of a completely different nature.
I’ve been reflecting on the differences between Japan and New Zealand from my own perspective, and while this is by no means an exhaustive list, here are a few that stand out:

1. Many restaurants and shops in New Zealand close early in the evening, especially on weekends.
2. Public buses occasionally depart earlier than their scheduled time.
3. There are no braille blocks in Auckland.
4. Tattoos are widely accepted and are often a cultural expression, particularly among the Māori people.

Of these, I find the fourth point particularly intriguing, as tattoos often carry a negative stigma in Japan. Here in New Zealand, however, they are viewed as an integral part of cultural identity. This has made me realize how important it is to avoid forming judgments without sufficient understanding. Moving forward, I will strive to learn more about the cultural context behind various practices and keep an open mind.