What do you mean? Shenmue II was released in Europe with Japanese audio and subtitles even (which is the best kind of release, in my opinion).

I also think that both games hold up very well today. Played them for the first time around seven years ago and was blown away. Personally, I prefer the first one because it has a more concentrated setting as well as a nostalgic atmosphere. Despite being rather familiar with games in general, I haven't encountered anything comparable.