How do Japanese people view the Western world?

Question:

Like in the west most people see Japan as almost 'other worldly', they are so advanced with technology, the culture is so different - fashions, food, etiquette etc, the time zone is pretty far ahead of a lot of other countries too. Since so many Western people see Japan - especially Tokyo - as so futuristic, how do Japanese people view the West? Do they see us as kind of 'behind' and not as advanced, or just as a totally different culture? :)

Like if a Japanese person living in central Tokyo switched lives with an American living in central New York, how big would the culture difference actually be?

Answer:

It depends on each person.

But many see Western nations, particularly the most advanced one like US, France, as better than Japan.

But I think this is "grass is greener" anyway.

More specifically, those who like US, like it because of its economy (larger GDP), American dream, music, movie, etc.

Those who like France (mainly women), like it because of its brands like Channel, Louis Vuitton, etc.

Those who like UK, like it because of its "gentleman" image, etc.