Yes, it’s true. Americans are loud. And nowhere is that more noticeable than in Japan.
I spent a summer in Germany during high school, and I can clearly remember my first moment of shame at being in any way connected to America. It was on a bus that was filled with the inane booming of an older American couple who were oblivious to their surroundings and to the effect they were having on every other passenger on the bus. And Germans aren’t shrinking violets.
Here in Japan, I’m constantly amazed at how loud Westerners can be, and in the most inappropriate situations. (To be fair, it’s not only Americans — many Canadians, Brits and Aussies can crank up the volume, especially after a few drinks.) Several other foreign teachers live nearby, and there are many nights were I can hear one or more approaching from more than a block away. The neighbors can’t be happy.