Japanese Social Etiquette

Posted by Yuka as Hot Cities

There are many custom and social etiquette to appreciate in Japan.Here are some generral advice which may be helpful when you first arrive.

Never address individuals by their given name.The word “san” is added to thelast name to show proper respect.Dress is relatively formal and the word “no” is neveer heard in public.Eye contact is to be advoided and the Japanese don’t like casual body contact. Shoes are never worn inside the home. They are removed at the entrance,which is a small room called a genkan,inside the front door. Slippers may be worn in the housse although they are never worn on a tatami,the straw mats traditionally used in sleeping and dining areas.Inside the room or office slippers are offen changed when entering a restroom to “toilet slippers”. Generally feet are kept out of sight.Do not put them on a desk or a office table.
The most senior person or the guest of honor sits furthest from the door. The seniority may be social statue, so alwayls just abserve and wait to be told whereto be seated.It is polite to pour drinks such as beer, sake or tea for others, not for yourself. Avoid groups of four in gifts or fruits,as the Japanese character for “four” is associated with death.Greeting in Japan take the form of a long,low bow. Bowing is complex in Japan,and the angle of the bow is determined by the relatinship with the other person, to company rank,age and circumstances.Foreigners are not expected to understand the subtleties of the custom.When meeting a person for the first time,you should slightly and say hajimameshite(pleased to meet you),and if a business situation,proceed to exchange business card,or meishi.Using both hands,give the card with either the English or Japanese right side upto the recipient.

InJapan tiping is not expected anywhere,In fact,the rule is “no tipping”.However,gift giving in Japan is a ritual.Gift are given to express gratitude for past or continuing favors, to show respect for a superior or in return for gifts previously received.…………………………