posted by Vacation Home Rentals on Nov 14
Many know Japan as a country with an excellent cuisine and advanced technology. More importantly, though, it is a country with a rich culture and deeply rooted unique traditions. Before you go on a trip to Japan, then, it’s best to learn about Japanese culture, starting with knowing the top Japanese customs.
Bowing is one of the most practiced Japanese customs, as well as one of the most important. Therefore, try to bow when you are introduced to a Japanese. You do not always need to bow from the waist. A short bow angled at about fifteen degrees should suffice, although keep in mind that bows are usually longer and lower when you are apologizing or in front of someone superior.
Greeting one another is also encouraged, so remember to always say good morning (ohayo gozaimasu), good day (konnichiwa), good evening (konbanwa) or good night (oyasuminasai) during your trip to Japan. Don’t forget to say thank you (arigato gozaimasu), as well or say goodbye (sayounara or jyaa ne) before leaving. When addressing someone, always use their last name, and then add the suffix -san or -sama, since only very close friends or family members call each other by their first name.
Another of the most popular Japanese customs is removing your shoes at the entrance of a house, as well as most Japanese business establishments and hotels. This custom is practiced in many countries but is particularly important in Japan. Usually, a rack is provided where you can put your shoes. If there is none, simply place your shoes beside the others in an orderly fashion with the toe facing the door, making them easier to put on before you leave.
If you don’t know how to use chopsticks yet, this is something you must learn before your trip to Japan, not only since some Japanese restaurants do not provide spoons and forks even upon request, but more importantly because it is the best way to enjoy Japanese food. In fact, it is how Japanese food was meant to be enjoyed. Learning how to pick up food and put them in your mouth using chopsticks is not enough, though. You also have to know that you should never stick your chopsticks into your bowl of rice, rub them together unnecessarily or use them to pass food to someone else.
Other ways to show respect at the table include saying ‘itadakimasu’ first before eating. If someone gives you an oshibori or rolled wet towel – a common practice in Japanese restaurants – use this to wipe your hands only then set it aside. Never use it to wash your face and never mistake it for a napkin. Remember to clear your plate, as well. As for eating noodles, slurping is acceptable, and is, in fact, one of the most unique Japanese customs.
Once you are finished with your meal at a Japanese restaurant, place your payment on the small tray provided and do not leave a tip. The ‘no tipping’ rule also applies to other establishments in Japan since this is widely considered as an insult so just pay the price and use your extra cash to shop for gadgets and other goodies on your trip to Japan.
Aside from getting your fill of Japanese cuisine, it’s also a great idea to go to an onsen or a hot spring during your trip to Japan so you can relax and refresh your mind and body. There are Japanese customs to observe when bathing, too. For one, keep in mind that onsens and public baths are technically not for bathing, but for soaking, so wash and rinse before getting into the water. Also, take care not to dirty the water in any way. Although you may still receive stares because you are a foreigner, at least, they will be stares of curiosity or even awe, rather than rude ones.
Isabella Olsen is a travel writer who has toured major destinations worldwide, including many European countries by car. To book a car hire Austria, or learn more about cheap car hire worldwide, visit www.zencarhire.com
