Discoverying Japanese Society - Four Cultural Quirks!

Japan is one of the most unique societies on earth with a number of distinctive cultural quirks. In some countries, an ignorance of cultural habits may not be seen as a big issue, yet in Japan, failing to adhere to the cultural norms is viewed as offensive behaviour.

Here are 4 of the main cultural differences that visitors should be aware of.

1. Bowing

One of the most common sights in Japan is bowing. This displays a respect to other people. But do you know why bowing shows respect in Japan? By lowing yourself, you can make the gap between you and the other person. The height of this person becomes higher than your height and this gap shows respect. The lower you bow, the more respect you express.

Bowing is essential in the situations below.

• Daily greetings
• Expressing thanks
• Apologising
• Entering someone`s office and house
  

Tip: Thankfully for visitors, the Western norm of shaking hands is getting more acceptable especially in business situation, but if you want to embrace Japanese culture, it is a good idea to return the compliment - it will be much more appreciated to show respect by responding to the person if your host bows.

2. Germs and Cleanliness

Have you ever seen Japanese people wearing face masks in public?

Although some Westerns believe this is to avoid pollution, the main reason is not to spread germs! When a Japanese person has a cold, flu or other contagious illness, they wear a surgical mask in order to show respect for others - this is especially true in big cities where people are in close contact much of the time.

Deciding not to wear a mask can actually considered as offensive and rude, because you are putting other people at risk of contracting your germs, so I would advise visitors to Japan to also wear a mask if you have got an illness that can be passed on to other people.

Tip: Our focus on germs also extends to home - it is important to take off shoes and wear indoor slippers when coming back home in order to keep the house clean and it is a polite behaviour when visiting friends.

3. Tips and Services

Japan is complete opposite to many other countries when it comes to tipping - giving extra money for a good service is not a part of our culture!

All prices shown includes service charge and there is no need to pay any more for hospitality, even if you would like to do so. When in Japan, do as the Japanese do - if you try and tip the waiter or waitress, they would feel confused.

Tip: Most staff will feel embarrassed and will return your money, so an intended show of gratitude could develop into an uncomfortable situation for both parties.

4. Eating in Public

It is unusual to consume while on your move in Japanese society and eating and drinking on the street, a train or a bus should be avoided. It is generally considered to be bad manners. In Japan, everything has its place, and you should eat in your accommodation or at a restaurant or a cafe.

Drinking alcohol on public transport will be definitely seen as unacceptable behaviour, as will eating while walking - another no no. It is viewed as uncouth and disrespectful.

Tip: Of course, you need to eat and drink when travelling considerable distances and it is no problem on a long journey by bus or train. Actually you will find many nice bento shops on the train platforms. Just make sure that you do not leave any rubbish at the seat and always dispose it in the bins provided.

Now, you are ready to enjoy your trip in Japan!