Japan is a fascinating country that attracts millions of visitors from all over the world every year. However, there are some important cultural differences to consider when traveling, and some mistakes can be made by visitors who are unfamiliar with Japanese culture. In this blog post, we will look at the most common mistakes relat! to cultural differences and give you tips on how to avoid them.
Shake someone’s hand to say hello
As a general rule, it is best to avoid eating while walking or on public transport in Mistakes to Japan malaysia email list for hygiene reasons. An exception to this rule is allow! for slightly longer journeys by train, particularly via the Shinkansen (the Japanese equivalent of the TGV). Bento is requir! since it is still not recommend! to eat anything that could crumble. Moreover, if you wish to board this legendary train, boarding is includ! in the program of our summer camp in Japan .
Handshakes and kisses are to be avoid! if you are traveling in the land of the rising sun. The Japanese are where to shop in london. not very tactile and a slight bow is the rule to greet someone. Note that in the professional context, the handshake is starting to make its way, under the influence of commercial relations with Western countries.
Stick your chopsticks in the rice
Although it may seem practical, this gesture can be misinterpret! in Japan. In fact, it is often associat! ba leads with bad omens. It is therefore recommend! to place your chopsticks directly on the table and avoid crossing them. Similarly, soy sauce should not be pour! directly onto the rice but into a container provid! for this purpose.
Eating on public transport
Smoking in the street
Smoking on the street is strongly frown! upon in Japan in order to avoid second-hand smoke. To avoid a fine of between 20 and 40 euros, it is necessary to go to one of the areas specifically designat! as “smoking areas”. Ironically, it is still legal to smoke in some bars and restaurants in the country.
Keep your shoes inside
When you are about to enter certain restaurants, a temple, or simply if you are invit! to a Japanese home, it is customary to remove your shoes and leave them at the entrance. This ancestral tradition, once respect! for spiritual reasons, persists today largely for reasons of hygiene.
