Japanese Customs
Upon your arrival, you will be amazed at how similar many things in Japan are to your native country. At the same time, many things will be different. Some things that are traditionally seen as acceptable in your native country are completely unacceptable in Japan.
In order to avoid offending anybody, here is a brief list of "dos" and "don'ts" to keep in mind during your time in Japan:
-Although westerners are used to handshakes in many situations, Japanese people bow. You will learn to become comfortable with it, and it is almost impossible to do it too much. Whether you are saying "Hello," "Good-bye," "Thank you," or "Sorry," bowing is the way to go.
-Don't be late. Japanese people take punctuality very seriously, so do your best to be on time for even the most casual get-togethers.
-In your home country, you might be comfortable wearing your shoes in the house, but in Japan, it is customary to remove your shoes upon entering somebody's home. In many situations, they will provide you with sandals to wear in the house. Many Japanese people sit and sleep on the floor (on futons),
so it is polite to take your shoes off. Restaurants where you sit on the floor will expect the same courtesy.
-Japanese people enjoy the bathing experience, and it is very important to shower and clean off BEFORE getting into the bath. At a public bath (sento) or hot spring (onsen), this is absolutely imperative.
-As for eating, there are numerous things to remember. Do not stick chopsticks upright in your rice bowl, do not pass food from your chopsticks to another person's chopsticks, and use the other end of your chopsticks
when taking food from a communal plate.
-If you are invited to somebody's house, it is customary to bring a gift.
Fruit, flowers, cookies, chocolates, alcohol, or cakes are all acceptable, and even the smallest gift is appreciated. It's the thought that counts.
-As for little things that may differ from what you are used to back home, here are a few things to remember:
It is considered rude to sit on a table (or even lean on a table), cross your legs while sitting, sit with both elbows on the table, move something on the floor by using your foot, or to converse with somebody while chewing gum. It is also considered rude to "throw" something into the garbage can. Instead, move to within arm's distance and drop or place it in the garbage.
These are just little things that go a long way in displaying politeness and good manners.
As with any new experience, getting used to life in Japan can be a challenge. However, if you make an effort to really establish yourself here, it can be well worth it. People in Japan tend to be very helpful.
If you're ever lost, find the nearest Koban (police box) and you will generally be given detailed directions, and even sometimes a map. Also, don't forget that the staff at Mike's are always willing to help with even the strangest of requests. It is always better to ask, than to proceed with misinformation.
Hopefully this little guide has been of some help. May your stay in Japan be a wonderful and rewarding one!