The Insiders Guide To Japan Culture

What you don't know about the culture of Japan can cause you to make these funny mistakes...

As a Gaijin (foreigner) you are not expected to act according to the culture of Japan. Nobody will be offended from your lack of Japanese social manners (perhaps a lttle amused...)
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 in Japan-it's 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.

The harmony principle is responsible for the tendency to make things small in Japan. By making things tiny you leave more space for your neighbor.

Individualism is viewed negatively and associated with selfishness in Japan.
Japanese children are taught to act harmoniously and cooperatively with others from the time they go to pre-school.
Japanese kids are trained to work together.

The education system puts great emphasis on politeness, personal responsibility and working together and less importance on the fulfilling your unique talents.

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.

How to speak Japanese?
Personally I believe that the easy way to become talkative in a language you don't know is to learn a Basic Japanese word list.
If you are coming over to Tokyo for a few days, communicating is more important than grammar. Meeting the locals is more important than a perfect accent.
A Japanese/English electronic dictionary is a compact little Appliance, that will fit in your pocket or purse. This tiny thing can literally save your life in some cases.
Why should you buy a Japanese Translator on Amazon?
On Amazon you'll find almost every Basic Japanese. that has ever existed.
Often, you'll find these Appliances at a fraction of what they cost at the stores.You know exactly what you're getting (and you know it's top quality if you look at other customer Reviews).

Ever Wonder Why The Japanese Bow? Basics Of The Culture Of Japan

Age, rank, gender, educational accomplishments, and place of employment influence 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 anxious not to offend anyone, a mistake which would could have cost them their job.

Continue Reading:

Life in Japanese Culture Getting Ready for Tokyo

The dining etiquette of Japanese Culture

Back from Japan Culture to Culture of Japan - 10 Common mistakes westerners do about Japans Culture

Japanese Business etiquette

Return from Japan Culture to Tokyo Attractions