Is a foreigner expected to have proper Japanese etiquete?
Posted on January 13th, 2012 by admin
I plan on studying in japan for two years. If I go, will I be expected to have perfect Japanese etiquette or will they cut me some slack? I don’t want to appear as rude or a rebel.
It is commendable that you want to cause a good impression. And that will dictate how you are treated and may open the doors to a lot of opportunities while in Japan. First of all, try to read as much as possible about the culture and a bit of Japanese history to avoid some of the major gaffes and pitfalls. The Internet is a great source of information, and if you google Japanese Etiquette as the subject of your inquiry you will find a lot of tips on what to do and most importantly on what not to do that may be offensive. Below, I’m listing some of the sites that might be of interest to you. Also, if you know a person who has been to Japan and is familiar with their way of life or better yet, if you know a Japanese person who is willing to tutor you, take advantage of their help. The Japanese people are very gracious and once you show your interest in their culture, they will be very patient and willing to forgive you if you inadvertently break one of their etiquette rules.
January 14th, 2012 at 4:05 am
If you appear to be making an effort they will cut you some slack and maybe teach you.
References :
January 14th, 2012 at 4:44 am
As a basic sign of respect you may just want to google the basics o_O
References :
January 14th, 2012 at 5:08 am
Look some stuff up and make an effort, they will probably excuse you a few times and teach you the proper way. If you do something wrong and they get angry just apologize for your mistake (including a deep bow lasting a few seconds) and ask them to explain what you got wrong.
Basically, they will if you try, but do not just think that because they are cutting you slack that you can dismiss their customs and culture
References :
I love the culture and wish to visit.
January 14th, 2012 at 5:43 am
It is commendable that you want to cause a good impression. And that will dictate how you are treated and may open the doors to a lot of opportunities while in Japan. First of all, try to read as much as possible about the culture and a bit of Japanese history to avoid some of the major gaffes and pitfalls. The Internet is a great source of information, and if you google Japanese Etiquette as the subject of your inquiry you will find a lot of tips on what to do and most importantly on what not to do that may be offensive. Below, I’m listing some of the sites that might be of interest to you. Also, if you know a person who has been to Japan and is familiar with their way of life or better yet, if you know a Japanese person who is willing to tutor you, take advantage of their help. The Japanese people are very gracious and once you show your interest in their culture, they will be very patient and willing to forgive you if you inadvertently break one of their etiquette rules.
References :
http://www.Japan-guide.com/e/e622.html
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Etiquette_in_Japan
http://www.askmen.com/top_10/travel/top-10-japanese-etiquette-mistakes_1.html