Chapter 1: Exploring Dating Cultures

Before relocating to France, I dedicated a significant amount of time to studying the French language. My goal was to immerse myself in the new culture and connect with the people around me. Upon my arrival, I also ventured into the dating scene!

For those interested in the intersection of love and culture, I have another article discussing the dating customs in France.

Section 1.1: Dating in France vs. the U.S.

France is celebrated globally for its exquisite cuisine, rich history, artistic heritage, and romantic allure. Growing up, I was captivated by French films...

What took me by surprise when I moved to France was finding love with another expatriate! Despite my extensive French studies, I found myself learning a new language to deepen my connection with my partner, who is Japanese but grew up in France. This unique blend of cultures—French, Japanese, and American—added delightful complexity to our relationship. Below are some humorous misunderstandings we encountered regarding dating norms from different cultures.

Photo by Brett Jordan on Unsplash

Section 1.2: Expressions of Love

Coming from the Midwest in the U.S., expressing affection is a regular part of life. We often say "I love you" to family members at the end of phone calls, emphasizing our care for one another. The Japanese term for "I love you," Aishiteru (愛してる), is less frequently used.

Interestingly, my husband was the first to express his love in our relationship, but I noticed he didn't say those words often. I was accustomed to a culture where such expressions were commonplace, even among casual friends. When I questioned him about this, he responded, “Doesn’t it diminish its significance if said too frequently?” I argued that it’s a simple way to affirm our feelings. He explained, “But you already know how I feel. I prefer to demonstrate it.”

Photo by Jinomono Media on Unsplash

Subsection 1.2.1: Acts of Service

This brings me to another cultural distinction: the way love is demonstrated. Initially, I didn’t grasp how my husband expressed his affection through acts of service. In Japanese culture, love is often shown through practical actions rather than words. For example, my husband delights in cooking gourmet meals for me, which I deeply appreciate since cooking is not my forte.

However, cooking isn't the only method of expressing love; any thoughtful gesture that eases your partner's life can convey deep affection. For instance, presenting beautifully cut fruits on a plate can silently communicate love. In a fast-paced world, experiencing love through such attentive actions is incredibly heartwarming.

Photo by Anh Henry Nguyen on Unsplash

Chapter 2: Navigating Cultural Differences

Every culture has its unique way of expressing love, which can be challenging to define. Nevertheless, love remains a universal sentiment that can overcome cultural barriers. While misunderstandings may arise, they can be navigated successfully by couples who are open-minded and patient. Embracing these moments can even lead to laughter when viewed from a fresh perspective.

Have you ever dated someone from a different culture? What was your experience like? Would you be interested in living abroad to explore a new culture? I would love to hear your thoughts in the comments!

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Explore the contrasting dating experiences in Japan and North America through this insightful video.

Discover what dating is like for Americans in Japan through this engaging street interview.