While many younger Japanese try to adapt as much as possible to western culture and are very independent, older Japanese in the North America maintain their culture and customs (especially if they themselves emigrated from Japan). Traditionally Japanese take pride in their education, homes, families, and work. Most are well-educated and accustomed to working long hours.

Although Japanese practice Buddhism, Shintoism permeates their culture and lifestyle. Literally meaning "the way of the gods," Shintoism is reflected in the arts, architecture, garden designs, and even cartoons (anime and manga). Shintoism and Buddhism are often seen through rituals such as marriages or funerals, and not through faithful worship, as defines religion for many Americans. However, many Japanese appear more secular, seeking materialism more than traditional Shinto ways, and this secular shift in perspective is beginning to make its way back to their home country of Japan.

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There are pockets of Japanese people in North America who are evangelical Christians. Nevertheless, as a whole Japanese are still one among many of the least reached peoples in North America.