Japan is a country with rather unusual morals. It can be difficult for a foreigner to adapt to numerous customs, but aborigines do not require this from newcomers. However, this tolerance should not be overused. Try to follow the basic rules of conduct adopted in this country in order to remain a well-mannered and cultured person.
Instructions
Step 1
Bow down when you meet. Bowing is the main form of respect. For tourists, just nod is enough for the bow to be counted. In Japan, the depth and duration of these bows depends on the social status of the person you are greeting. The higher a person stands on the social ladder, the lower the bow to him should be. In addition to greetings, bows are used to express gratitude or apology.
Step 2
In Japan, the handshake is almost never used when greeting, as any tactile contact is considered an invasion of personal space. Do not extend your palm first. If a Japanese person wants to greet you in this European way, he will be the first to reach out.
Step 3
Use courtesy affixes when addressing a Japanese person. Addressing simply by name or surname from a stranger is the height of impoliteness. Add the prefix "san" to your first or last name. Add chan to children, kun for Japanese friends.
Step 4
Each Japanese restaurant provides a wet hand wash. Do not use it to wipe your face or table, it is extremely indecent. But chomping and talking loudly while eating is in the order of things in Japan. It is believed here that if a person eats silently and quietly, then he does not like the food. It is customary to praise food, otherwise the chef will be extremely upset that he could not please you.
Step 5
Don't tip in taxis, restaurants, porters. Tipping is considered offensive in Japan.
Step 6
Entering any house, hotel, office, take off your shoes. Look around - you'll see a shoe rack and guest slippers. In these slippers, you can only walk along the corridors, and if you need to go to the room where the tatami lies, then take off your slippers. You cannot step on the tatami in any shoes, and in this matter, do not expect condescension from the Japanese. Other slippers will be waiting for you in the toilet room. Do not forget to change your shoes after completing all hygiene procedures.
Step 7
If you have a runny nose, do not blow your nose into a handkerchief, especially in public. In such cases, the Japanese use special paper napkins, which can be borrowed for free at any store. Following the rules of etiquette, it is better to sniff, but you can blow your nose only when no one is around.
Step 8
If you go on a visit, grab some souvenir, it is not accepted to come without a gift. In Japan, gifts are not opened immediately; this is considered a manifestation of greed and excessive curiosity.
Step 9
If you are invited to a Japanese bath, enter the o-furo only after a shower. Try to wash there longer, the Japanese will appreciate it. It is customary for them to take a shower for at least half an hour before entering the bathhouse. After you lie down in the o-furo, do not pull out the plug, usually the bath is filled once a night. If you were asked to enter the o-furo first, it is considered a great honor, so be sure to thank the hosts.
