Imagine wandering through the vibrant streets of Tokyo, where neon lights illuminate the night, and the scent of delicious ramen wafts through the air. With over 6,800 islands, Japan is a land of contrasts, seamlessly blending ancient traditions with modern innovations. Japan is unique and must be explored at least, once in a lifetime. In this post, i we will dive into details related to the Japanese cultural and offer you the best insights and tips about the their lifestyle. Share my article with your friends if you want to help the others! <3
Remember! Japan is different than any other country in this world and preparing and learning things about their culture, must be a prequisite before your visit there!
TIPS YOU MUST KNOW ABOUT THE JAPANESE CULTURE BEFORE TRAVELLING TO JAPAN
In Japan, several core human values shape the culture and society. These are strictly respected by ALL individuals in their society, as opposed to the rest of the cultures, where values exist, but they are not respected. Here are the most relevant values, which you must consider when you travel to Japan:
Gratitude in the japanese culture (感謝, Kansha) when travelling to japan
Expressing gratitude is a significant aspect of Japanese culture. Showing appreciation for the help or kindness of others is common and is must be done formally, through words and actions.
How to implement gratitude as a traveller in Japan?
When interacting, use polite phrases like "sumimasen" (excuse me, I'm sorry) or "arigatou gozaimasu" (thank you very much) to show respect for others. It is also customary to apologize profusely, even for minor inconveniences.
Respect and Politeness in the japanese culture (礼儀, Reigi) when travelling to japan
Respect for others is fundamental in japanese culture and understanding this is a prequisite when travelling to Japan. Whether it’s showing courtesy in communication, bowing, or demonstrating proper behavior in social contexts , this extends the respect for age, hierarchy, and relationships.
How to implement respect and politness as a traveller in Japan?
Practice Bowing - you will see that every Japanese person is doing it. It is a traditional gesture of respect, used to greet, thank, apologize, or show deference. The deeper the bow, the more respect it conveys
Use appropriate eye contact and facial expressions, such as a smile - this is important to show attentiveness and respect when talking to a person
Use both hands when handing and receiving things: When giving or receiving money, or business cards or even gifts, do so with both hands to show respect. This is a gesture of attentiveness and care.
Be punctual - When making reservations. This is a sign of respect in Japan. Being late can be seen as inconsiderate.
Harmony in the japanese culture (和, Wa) when travelling to japan
The concept of wa, or social harmony, is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture, being another important aspect you need to understand before travelling to Japan. People are expected to work together cooperatively, avoid causing disruptions, and prioritize group over individual interests.
What does this mean for you as a traveller?
Give priority to women, women with children, elderly or people with special needs. Always give priority to groups.
Wait in line when waiting for any public transportation.
Humility in the japanese culture (謙遜, Kenson) when travelling to japan
Humility is a cornerstone of Japanese interpersonal relationships. Kenson encourages individuals to downplay their achievements and avoid boasting. In contrast to many cultures that emphasize self-promotion, the Japanese appreciate modesty and the recognition of one’s limitations.
What does this mean for you as a traveller?
When receiving a compliment, try to downplay your accomplishment and express gratitude rather than accept the praise directly. Avoid boasting or calling attention to your own success. Practice bowing and thank respectly for the compliments.
Cleanliness and Order in the japanese culture (清潔, Seiketsu) when travelling to japan
The value of cleanliness permeates daily life, from personal hygiene to public spaces. Japanese people take great pride in keeping their environments clean, which reflects an underlying respect for the community and the collective well-being.
What does this mean for you as a traveller?
Always clean the place where you've been before leaving. Your hotel room, the toilet, the seat from the public transport, a bench you sat onto or the restaurant table where you ate.
Another interesting thing is that in the japanese culture, trash is something very personal which should only be disposed at home. Therefore don't be surprised that you will find very selten bins in public areas. Be prepared to carry your trash for the whole day, until you reach your hotel room and dispose it there.
The Onsen - is a traditional Japanese hot spring or a common bathing facility in resorts and hotels. Onsen bathing facilities usually have separate areas for men and women. Respecting the Bathing Etiquette is essential to ensure cleanliness and respect for others:
If the resort where you stay provides one, use the provided pijamas to enter the onsen.
Clean Yourself First: Before entering the communal bath, bathers must thoroughly wash and rinse their bodies at shower stations using stools, handheld showers, and soap.
Quiet and Relaxed Atmosphere: It's important to maintain a quiet and respectful atmosphere. Loud talking or splashing is discouraged.
No Towels in the Bath: Small towels (often used to wash and rinse) should not be brought into the hot spring pools. They are typically left at the side of the bath or on a towel rack.
Tattoos: In some traditional onsens, tattoos may be frowned upon, though this has been changing, and there are now more tattoo-friendly onsens.
PRO TIP! During our stay in Tokyo, we had the pleasure of staying at the Mitsui Garden Hotel Ginza Premier, a luxurious establishment that had both an indoor and an outdoor onsens located on the 50th floor of the building. This experience was truly one of the highlights of our trip to Japan, and we highly recommend it!
Self-Control and Restraint in the japanese culture (抑制, Yokusei) when travelling to japan
Self-control is a highly prized quality in Japan. People are often taught to regulate their emotions, desires, and actions, especially in public settings. Emotional outbursts, aggressive behavior, or extreme displays of joy or frustration are generally seen as inappropriate, particularly in social contexts.
What does this mean for you as a traveller?
Tone of voice: Speaking in a soft, calm voice is preferred. Avoid interrupting or speaking too loudly in public spaces, as it can be seen as rude or disruptive.
Physical contact is generally minimal in Japan every between couples, and public displays of affection are less common. For examples, you will selten see Japanese couples shaking hands. Therefore, it is highly advised that tourists do not show excessive affection gestures in public, such as kissing or hugging.
Safe travels, dear traveler!
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