Japan Culture
The more you know about Japan culture the deeper you can see beneath the touristic surface of Tokyo.
A quick background for understanding the unique traditions of the culture of Japan.
As a Gaijin (foreigner) you are not expected to act according to the culture of Japan and nobody will be offended from your lack of Japanese social manners, but if you do make an effort it will be very much appreciated.
Life In Japanese Culture developed under the influence of a basic reality of Japan - it is a very crowded nation.
Japanese must take into account other people in everyday life.
In order to live peacefully in a crowd, there must be harmony which will make life more tolerable. Harmony is a very central theme in Japanese society. The harmony principle is also responsible for the quest to make things small, by making things tiny you leave more space for your neighbor.
Dependence on others and Harmony are key values in the culture of Japan .
Individualism is viewed negatively and associated with selfishness. Japanese children are taught to act harmoniously and cooperatively with others from the time they go to pre-school.
Japanese children are trained to work together.
The education system puts great emphasis on politeness, personal responsibility and working together and less importance on the individual.
Since the Japan culture strives for harmony, showing emotions is very much limited. Most Japanese maintain a blank expression when speaking.
Japan is an extremely competitive society, but not competition within the group. Wa the concept of harmony within a group, requires cooperation.
Hierarchy In The Culture Of Japan
Relative status differences define social interaction in Japan culture.
Age or rank, gender, educational accomplishments, and place of employment guide social interaction.
Without some knowledge of a person's background some very embarrassing situations can occur.
Seating arrangements for a business meeting are a delicate and thoughtful procedure.
I once participated in a business dinner where the seating strategy for the managers took more than 20 minutes to figure out by the employees. They were very aware and anxious not to offend anyone.
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Life in Japanese Culture
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