Etiquette & social norms

There are indeed tons of do's and don'ts in Japan. Even Japanese people get nervous about them, worrying if they're doing it right.

Let's say, you're invited to someone's home.

First thing first, arrive on time. Don't risk being perceived as disrespectful and unreliable by turning up late. Take off your coat outside the front door, and say "お邪魔します" (おじゃまします - ojamashimasu), which means "Excuse me for intruding", when entering the house. Oh, and of course, remove your shoes like in this video. And... there's a lot more.

Why so many rules? It's how they demonstrate their respect. You appreciate the host's time and effort made for you, and you don't bring anything dirty into their territory because cleanliness and hygiene are serious business.

Differences between American and Japanese culture>

"Isn't everything different?" Basically, yeah. Even McDonald's serves different menus, and their burgers aren't exactly the same. Here are some facts and concepts that can be helpful when you interact with Japanese folks.

Communication styles

This expression sums up the expectations in the Japanese communication: '空気を読む' (くうきをよむ - kūki o yomu). It literally translates as 'read the air'. Japanese people expect you to not only read 'between the lines' but also the situation, context, and how others may be feeling or thinking, AND optimize your words and behaviors accordingly.

In the States, communication style is often more about clearly delivering your opinions. If someone gets annoyed or offended, there'll be a discussion (or an argument).

When communicating with a Japanese person, you might need Sherlock Holmes-level observation skills and cultural psychology expertise to understand their true intentions. There's a chance they're not 'saying' what they really mean to avoid potential conflict. (To be fair, even Japanese folks fail to get it right!)

Individualism vs. Collectivism

Why do the Japanese avoid conflicts? The key concept here is '和' (わ - wa, harmony). In Japanese culture, the benefits of social groups are often prioritized over those of individuals.

Part of it derives from Japan's high population density and historical need to share limited resources. It's more effective and comfortable if everyone thinks and behaves the same way. Contribution to this 'harmony' may come from a place of kindness, consideration, or obligation, and it also leads to peer pressure.

While being 'average' or doing things like 'everyone else' might not sound cool in the States, it can mean PERFECT in Japan. (Don't be afraid to be yourself and be a champ, just ensure you make others shine, too!)

Work Culture

What comes to your mind when you think of the Japanese work culture? Demand for high-quality results, long-hour labor, strict hierarchy... By and large, yes. Japanese customers aren't particularly easy to please. 9-5 workday exists only in the dream. Languages used for peers, senior coworkers, higher-ups, and clients — are most likely different.

In the States, you probably call your bosses by their first name like, "Hey Aretha!" Let's say Aretha Murphy is a marketing manager. In Japan, her junior coworkers may greet her, "（マーフィー）課長、おはようございます！" (Manager (Murphy), good morning!) Sounds kind of like the military, but it can be said in a friendly way, too.

It signifies Japan's 肩書社会 (かたがきしゃかい - katagaki shakai) which literally translates to 'title society'. Titles matter unless you're in a flat organization.

What intrigued you?

I didn't want only to highlight how wonderful Japanese culture is or illustrate how it sucks. You might've picked up on a hint of my personal feelings towards various aspects of it.

The other blogs on this theme might give you a totally different impression. So go experience Japanese culture yourself, for real, off the phone/computer screen./p>

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