We don’t live on the mainland so I’m not sure for that area, but on the island (Okinawa) where we live there are signs that Capitalism is on the move here. There are lots of business’ that are family owned and the giant chains that are on island are usually frequented mostly by Americans and the younger generation (30 and under). As the area becomes more and more Westernized though (with the younger generation trying to be like the Americans they encounter- with expensive clothes and cars-) there is a real potential for it to become a hotbed for Capitalism. There is already a division on the island of the wealthly (business) section and then the more country area. With large chains like starbucks and Mc’D poping up more and more the untapped areas are starting to be dominated.

The housing is also inflated, alot of it has to do with the American presence here. Since landlord’s are told how much Americans are given to live overseas they jack up the price of rent. Allowing those with big paychecks (high ranking military members and folks that work in the business district) to get the best housing, while the folks who own their own business’ or have fishing/general labor jobs are forced to live in housing that is very simliar to the slums/projects in the states. With the push by the new government in Tokyo to curb the persence of American military on the island things could potentially change, but if not then it will only be a matter of time before this island is completely polarized.

There is also an increase in Christianity on the island as well. You don’t have to drive far before you run into a church, many of which offer faith-based schools. Which plenty of Americans and an increasing number of Okinawans are opting to send their children to. While Okinawans generally don’t care what your belief system is, there is a real push among the younger generation to be more “American”.
It’s 1140pm here so I hope that makes some kind of sense. And free of typos LOL.