Understanding Cultural Norms of Japan: Customs You Need to Know
Japan is a country with a rich cultural heritage that has been influenced by centuries of tradition. It is a society that values politeness, respect, and harmony and visitors are expected to adhere to its customs and norms. Visiting Japan can be an enriching experience, but it can be daunting too. To ensure that you make the most of your trip to Japan, here are some customs you need to know and understand.
Greetings and Bowing
Greetings are an essential aspect of Japanese culture. Bowing is a common form of showing respect, and it is used in almost all social situations. When meeting someone for the first time, it is customary to bow slightly and introduce yourself. The depth of the bow shows the level of respect, and it is generally proportional to the age, status, or position of the person being greeted. In a business context, a deeper bow is expected to show respect for seniority.
Removing Shoes
In Japan, it is customary to remove shoes before entering a home or a traditional establishment. This is because shoes are seen as unclean, and it is essential to maintain cleanliness. Guests are provided with slippers or sandals to wear indoors, and they should be returned before leaving.
Respect for Elders and Authority
Japan is a society that values seniority and authority. It is customary to show respect to elders, and this is reflected in the language used. Honorifics or polite speech is used to address people of higher social status. When in doubt, it is better to err on the side of caution and address people respectfully.
Dining Etiquette
Food is an essential aspect of Japanese culture. It is customary to say “itadakimasu” before eating, which translates to “I humbly receive.” It is also customary to eat everything that is served and to avoid wasting food. When dining with others, chopsticks should not be left standing vertically in a bowl of rice as this is seen as a funeral rite.
Public Behavior and Noise Levels
Japan is a society that values tranquility, and visitors are expected to respect this. When using public transport or public spaces like parks, it is customary to keep noise levels down. Talking on mobile phones is discouraged on trains and buses, and most people use them for reading or listening to music.
Conclusion
Understanding Japanese culture and customs is crucial for any traveler visiting Japan. By adhering to the customs mentioned above, visitors can show respect for the culture, and they will be better received by locals. It is also recommended to learn a few key phrases in Japanese, which will show an effort to connect and foster goodwill. Japan is a fascinating country with a rich cultural heritage, and visitors to Japan are sure to have a memorable experience if they respect its customs and norms.
