Japanese culture some of

Japanese culture some of

Japan is characterized by the uniqueness of its culture and customs, such as taking off your shoes when entering an enclosed place. Public baths, hot springs (onsen), and swimming pools have a number of rules regarding the clothing or permitted items

Basic manners (etiquette)

Japan is characterized by many social customs and expressions of respect that have a unique cultural character. Some customs unique to the Japanese, such as removing one's shoes or bending over, may seem like a whole new world to travelers who are not accustomed to them. You don't have to master these customs, but learning some basic etiquette and rules can be part of your enriching travel experience and a great way to interact with the locals.

Daily transactions

Japanese people generally do not prefer much physical contact in their daily interactions, including kisses, hugs, and handshakes when saying hello, as well as public displays of affection and attraction. But that doesn't mean that physical contact is completely frowned upon in all its forms; All you have to do is observe how others behave in front of you to discover the degree of intimacy that is socially permissible.

Salute and bow in Japan

The Japanese are accustomed to bowing to express celebration and appreciation. While you are walking around the streets, you may notice people spontaneously exchanging gestures while talking on the phone, while you will see businessmen or even train conductors bowing long as a formal form of expression of respect. Unless you are in a very formal situation, it is not necessary for non-Japanese people to learn all the rules about how to bow and the positions that accompany it. However, nodding to express respect and appreciation or bowing the head while saying hello or entering or leaving a place will be sufficient to a large extent.

Useful phrases

The word "sumimasen", which means "sorry", is used when you want to say "excuse me" or even "thank you" to someone, depending on the situation. If you want to say thank you more directly, use the phrase "arigato gosaimasu." When someone asks you to do something, or when you meet someone, use the phrase "yoroshiku onigaishimasu"; You will hear this last phrase a lot, so practice it well.

Overnight accommodation

Most Western hotels in Japan follow the rules and etiquette common anywhere in the world (except for tipping, which is not required). However, traditional ryokan hotels still maintain their long-standing behavioral traditions. You will find yourself living in a Japanese world from another era completely as soon as you enter the ryokan. From taking off your shoes at the hotel entrance to ending your day by sleeping on a traditional futon mattress on the floor. You can wear the yukata robe that you usually find in your room while you are outside the room sometimes, and in some cases you cannot wear it. The same applies to slippers. You will also see a list of dos and don'ts posted on the walls of the shared bathrooms, and dinner can also be served in your room or in the shared dining room. Don't hesitate to ask anything you're not sure about, and the staff will warmly assist you.

General dining etiquette

There are two basic phrases commonly used by Japanese people at mealtime: "itadakimasu," which is said before eating and means "I'm glad I got that meal," and "goshisusama-dishita," which is said after the meal and means "thank you for the food." There is an important point that you should remember; It is unacceptable to leave leftovers on your plate, and it is also unacceptable to ask to take those leftovers home with you. If you are eating with a group of people, do not start eating until everyone has been served their food, and it is okay if you ask for the last piece on any of the group plates, as this is generally good behavior and is very common in group dining gatherings.

Sushi

Sushi in Japan can be eaten in two ways: either with chopsticks or with your hands. But it is not necessary to strictly adhere to this rule, as many Japanese people use both methods depending on the situation. Another rule is that you should not dip rice directly in soy sauce; Only dip the piece of fish on top, you also shouldn't mix the wasabi directly into the soy sauce. These rules are common in high-end restaurants, but at revolving sushi restaurants, things are usually less formal and more relaxed.

Spaces designated for smoking cigarettes

In Japan, there are designated smoking areas in public places. Smoking while walking in the streets or throwing cigarette butts on the ground is prohibited and may result in you being fined. Please note that designated smoking areas outdoors are limited. If you want to smoke in public places, find the nearest designated space using a mobile phone application. Or you can go to one of the restaurants or cafes that allow smoking.

 

in the end

Welcome to Planet Japan