New Jersey, located right next to New York, has a unique reputation among Japanese people. For them, it represents a place that combines urban convenience with a calmer lifestyle. It is also valued for its strong education system, diverse communities, and easy access to major cities. This article explores how Japanese people perceive New Jersey from the perspectives of daily life, travel, culture, and business.
Geography and Basic Information about New Jersey
New Jersey is located in the northeastern United States, close to New York and Philadelphia. The eastern side faces the Atlantic Ocean, offering coastal resorts.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Capital | Trenton |
| Largest City | Newark |
| Population | About 9.3 million |
| Key Feature | Balance between metropolitan access and natural environment |
The first thing Japanese people feel is the sense of security that comes from being “close to New York and convenient.” At the same time, they appreciate that it allows them to escape the hustle and bustle of the big city, offering the best of both worlds.
Impressions Japanese People Have of New Jersey
Convenience of Being Next to New York
The short commute to New York City is a major advantage for Japanese people. Many choose to live in New Jersey to reduce living costs while working or studying in New York.
Natural Environment
New Jersey is known as the “Garden State” because of its abundance of greenery. The Jersey Shore, along the Atlantic coast, is a popular summer destination, while the northern mountainous areas offer hiking and skiing.
Safety Concerns
The impression varies greatly between urban and suburban areas. Cities like Newark and Jersey City have neighborhoods where safety is a concern, while residential and academic communities are often calm and considered safe for families.
Living Environment from a Japanese Perspective
High Educational Standards
New Jersey is recognized as one of the top states in the U.S. for education. Public schools are highly rated, and the college admission rate ranks among the highest nationwide. For Japanese families, it is seen as a place where children can attend school safely.
Japanese Community and Convenience of Life
There is a sizable Japanese community in New Jersey, with grocery stores and Japanese restaurants available. This means long-term residents can enjoy Japanese food and culture with ease.
| Attraction for Japanese | Example |
|---|---|
| Education | High-ranking schools, Princeton University |
| Food Culture | Japanese restaurants, Asian supermarkets |
| Access | Quick transport to New York and Philadelphia |
New Jersey as a Tourist Destination
New Jersey also offers plenty of tourist attractions.
- Jersey Shore – a popular seaside resort
- Liberty State Park – famous for its view of the Statue of Liberty
- Princeton University – known for its historic campus
| Attraction | Feature | Japanese Impression |
|---|---|---|
| Jersey Shore | Beach resort | Popular summer getaway |
| Liberty State Park | View of the Statue of Liberty | Often combined with New York sightseeing |
| Princeton University | World-renowned university | Place to feel history and intellectual culture |
For Japanese tourists, the appeal lies in experiencing both urban and natural aspects of America.
Sports Culture and Japanese Perspectives
Sports play a major role in New Jersey life, with teams in American football and ice hockey.
| Team | Sport | Home Base | Japanese Impression |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York Giants | American Football | MetLife Stadium | Surprising to learn their home is in New Jersey, not New York |
| New York Jets | American Football | MetLife Stadium | Often mistaken as a New York-based team |
| New Jersey Devils | Ice Hockey | Prudential Center | Strongly supported by local fans |
Watching sports becomes a way for Japanese people to connect with local life and experience something unique.
Historical Background and Culture
New Jersey played an important role in the American Revolutionary War, with sites like Trenton and Morristown known as battlegrounds. This attracts Japanese tourists interested in history. The state is also home to a diverse immigrant society, blending Italian, Irish, Asian, and many other cultures.
Economy and Industry
New Jersey is also an economic hub, known for pharmaceuticals, finance, and high-tech industries. For Japanese people, it is a state with many corporate assignments, especially for researchers and business professionals.
| Major Industry | Feature | Japanese Impression |
|---|---|---|
| Pharmaceuticals | Global companies based in New Jersey | Known for corporate postings and research work |
| Finance | Strong ties with New York | Frequent site for business trips and employment |
| High-Tech | Communications and IT thriving | Popular with students and researchers |
Conclusion
The image Japanese people have of New Jersey is multifaceted. It is a convenient place next to a major city while also being a state rich in nature and history. Its high educational standards, livability, thriving sports culture, and diverse economy make it an attractive destination. For tourists, expatriates, and students alike, New Jersey stands out as a place where convenience and diversity come together.
