Going on vacation to Japan?

Question

I'm going on a trip to Japan in a while with some friends. Needless to say, I'm really excited, but I'm a little nervous because of the huge shift in culture.

Any westerners, like me, who have been to Japan, or anyone particularly knowledgeable on the subject, can you tell me some cultural things I should look out for? Both to enhance the experience and to avoid me making a fool of myself...

Thank you in advance :) x

Answer 1

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker

I'm so happy you're asking this question :) I've encountered a lot of foreigners in Japan who don't pay much attention to what is culturally acceptable in Japan. I say, if you're going to visit a country, you might as well make the effort to really get the full experience :)

Here are my thoughts:

1. Generally, stay to yourself and quiet on the trains. A lot of Japanese have lengthy commutes via train and like to use that time to sleep and/or unwind. Be sure to avoid using your cell phone.

2. Walking while eating is seen as messy/sloppy in Japan. Smoking while walking is also frowned upon, and you'll see many signs trying to discourage people from doing this.

3. Don't stick your chopsticks upright in your food (as it is how they offer food to the deceased) and don't pass food between your chopsticks to another person's chopsticks (as this is only done for the deceased as well). It'll make the Japanese squeamish!

4. If you're with a bunch of friends, be prepared to go to an Izakaya (usually rowdy food/drinking establishment) and Karaoke. This is your socially-acceptable chance to drink a lot, eat a lot, and be as noisy as you want! This is how Japanese coworkers and college clubs/sports teams socialize with one another.

There are a lot of little "rules" you can find online, but I think it'd be best to just keep your eyes open and watch how the Japanese act. I think it's important to take a step back and mimic what you see - it's the best way to learn :)

Enjoy your trip!

Asker's Rating:

Asker's Comment:

Thank you very much :) And everyone who thumbed-down, why not answer with your opinion rather than just criticise others?

Answer 2

I went to Tokyo and was harrassed on the street by a black guy from Nigeria or somewhere, trying to get me into his club to meet girls. Put me off.

Answer 3

i grew up in japan and what u want to be aware of are 1. don't let people from another country making their live mess u around by selling their service or goods 2.take ur shoes off when u visit japanese home or some facility 3. u dont need to give tips 4. say "arigatou gozaimasu" (thank you) when japanese help u out 5. dont go bihind the mainstreet too often, thats where prostitution occures 6. "hai" (yes), "iie" (no), "tabunn" (maybe). thats all i can think of right now.