Interesting article Alvin. I must admit I feel sorry for the displeasure your friend endured, though not surprised.
I have lived in Japan on three occasions and have recently returned. I have lived , not visited, lived, in close to a dozen countries. I returned to japan out of choice.
I believe foreigners leave at 1.5 years, 3 or 7 years, after which they stay for good.
Those who fail to experience another country and culture often have two flaws; a) they have romanticized the country in their minds from novels, movies etc and fail to accept change, b) they arrive ready to welcome Japanese culture as interpreted and accepted through their own personal culture and agendas only.
Sadly I can picture your disconsolate friend. She is almost a caricature herself of the ‘why can’t you be the Japan I want’ type foreigner.
Of course every society has issues that irk one’s preferences and also bouquets that enlighten life.
It is about acceptance and appreciation not criticism and dismissal.
Nice article.