[AmericanInTokyo]

"I have been called "gaijin" both with utmost maliciousness and with utmost respect by different people. It all depends on the person who is saying it."

This, to me, was the kernel of the argument. You have verified what I am trying to say completely.

[Thumper1960]

I don't know exactly how long you've been in Japan. I would assume more than 2-3 years. In reading this thread, I'll submit to your observations on modern-day Japan. If you've posted a vanity on Japan, a sort of 'primer' on what you've gleaned thus far, would you happen to have a link?

Much appreciated.