Cultural blunders are social no-nos that can lead to misunderstandings or awkward situations in Japan.
These blunders can be simple mistakes.
Things like not taking off your shoes before entering someone’s home.
Or more complex misunderstandings, such as failing to show respect for someone in a position of authority.
While these mistakes may seem small, they can have a big impact on personal and professional relationships.
Avoiding cultural blunders is important.
Because it shows that you respect and value Japanese culture, which can lead to better communication, understanding, and trust with your Japanese peers.
That said, after living here for over two decades, I have come to realize that many of the things you see and read are not 100% accurate in real life.
So, I’ll add my own opinions and experiences to some of the points below.
So, when it comes to things not to do in Japan, let’s get cracking.
Understanding Japanese Culture
When planning a trip to Japan, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the country’s cultural values and etiquette.
Japan is probably totally different from your own culture.
So, here are a few things to consider.
Key cultural values and etiquette
Japan is a country that, if you believe what you read, places great emphasis on respect, harmony, and courtesy.
For example, gift-giving is an important tradition in Japan,.
As such, it’s important to understand the proper way to give and receive gifts.
The trouble is that if you receive a gift, you are expected to give one back.
And it can start a domino effect of never-ending gift-giving.
Additionally, the way you bow and use honorifics when speaking to others can have a big impact on your interactions with Japanese people.
Taking the time to understand and respect these cultural values and customs can help you avoid cultural blunders.
And show that you value and appreciate Japanese culture.
As a tourist though, you will get a ton of slack and be forgiven for any mistakes here.
Resources and information on Japanese culture
There are many ways to learn more about Japanese culture before you go there.
One of the best places to start is with books and online resources that give an overview of Japanese history, language, and customs.
You can also learn a lot about the culture and meet Japanese people by taking Japanese language classes.
In Japan, you can also do cultural things and have cultural experiences.
It’s important to remember that the best way to learn about Japanese culture is by interacting with Japanese people and actually going to Japan.
Communication and Language
The way people in Japan and the West talk to each other is different in a number of important ways.
For example, in Japan, people often prefer indirect communication.
This means that they might not say what they really mean or directly show their feelings.
This can make it hard for people from the West who are used to talking more directly to understand each other.
Also, things like facial expressions and body language are often more important in Japan than they are in the West.
For example, Japanese people might show respect with a small bow or a nod of the head, while Westerners might use a handshake.
In most cultures, to tell someone to come to you, you put your palm up and pull your hand toward you.
But in Japan, you put your palm down and curl your fingers to say, “Come here.”
When I first came here, I mistakingly interpreted this as go away.
Effective communication and avoiding common language mistakes
To communicate well in Japan, you need to be aware of cultural differences and change the way you talk to fit those differences.
One way to improve your communication skills is to listen carefully and ask questions when you need to.
Using honorifics like “san” or “sensei” is another way to show respect and get along with Japanese people.
It’s also important to be aware of common mistakes in language.
Most Japanese are not proficient in English and as such, can inadvertently say things that might sound rude or direct without bad intentions.
Lastly, eye contact.
I was told that when someone avoids eye contact and looks at your neck, it’s a sign of respect.
But when a guy I was chatting to refused to make eye contact, I admit that at the time, I found it rude, even though it was not meant to be.
Finally, the Japanese rarely say no.
When I was doing my masters in linguistics, I learned they have 16 ways of saying ‘no’ without saying it.
So, just bear that in mind if you do not get what you want.
Table Manners and Dining Etiquette
Food is an essential part of Japanese culture, and dining etiquette plays a significant role in social interactions.
For example, slurping noodles is a sign of enjoyment in Japan and is considered good manners, while in the West, it is often seen as rude.
I’ll never forget the first week in Japan and the old lady who slurped her noodles on the table behind me.
Now, I slurp them myself.
When in Rome and all that.
Finally, the concept of “omotenashi,” or hospitality, is an important part of Japanese dining culture, and involves anticipating the needs of guests and providing a welcoming atmosphere.
I’ll admit, this can be a royal pain as I prefer directness.
So, predicting what someone may or may not like without ever asking them can be stressful.
Guidelines for eating and avoiding common mistakes
It’s important to be aware of cultural differences and follow certain rules when eating in Japan to avoid making common mistakes.
For example, it’s important to say “itadakimasu” before eating to show gratitude for the food and “gochisosama deshita” after the meal to thank the host.
Also, it’s rude to pour your own drink, so you should offer to pour drinks for other people at the table.
This is one I ignore.
I like to pour my own, and my Japanese friends are fine with it.
Lastly, it’s important to know how to use chopsticks properly.
For example, you shouldn’t stand chopsticks up in rice because it’s associated with funerals and is therefore bad luck.
Nor should you pass things to other people (chopstick to chopstick).
Aside from general dining rules, there are a few food-related customs in Japan that you should know about.
It’s important to know the right way to eat certain Japanese foods, like sushi and soba noodles.
As for sushi, you can pick up one piece at a time and dip it in soy sauce before eating.
Or pick up the fish and dip that before eating, too, if that is easier.
It’s not a super big deal, though, if you get things wrong.
Lastly, it’s important to know how Japanese and Western food is different and to be willing to try new foods and flavours.
Respect for Tradition and Hierarchy
Tradition and hierarchy play an important role in Japanese culture.
For example, the concept of “wa,” or harmony, is highly valued, and people are expected to prioritize the needs of the group over their individual desires.
Tell that to my neighbour, though.
Trust me, many Japanese do not care about harmony and while historically it may be true, it does not always mean people follow it.
Additionally, there is a strong sense of respect for authority in Japan.
And people are expected to follow the rules and guidelines set by those in positions of power.
This is reflected in many aspects of Japanese society, including the workplace, where seniority and hierarchy are highly valued.
Sadly, this means that anyone in a position of power is male and older than time itself.
Extra Tips
To avoid cultural misunderstandings and act properly in public in Japan, it’s important to be aware of these social norms and change your behavior accordingly.
For example, it is common to take off your shoes when you go into a Japanese home and put on slippers that the host gives you.
Also, it’s rude to blow your nose in public, so bring a handkerchief with you.
On the subway, it’s rude to both eat and speak on your phone so as a rule, avoid doing those two things.
Before You Go – A Story
One time, while living in Japan, I wanted to surprise my girlfriend with a beautiful bouquet of flowers.
I asked the florist for some chrysanthemums, thinking they were just another pretty flower.
When I presented them to my girlfriend, she looked a bit confused.
She asked if I knew the significance of chrysanthemums in Japanese culture.
I had no idea, so she explained to me that chrysanthemums are often associated with funerals and death in Japan.
I had no intention of giving my girlfriend a bouquet of funeral flowers!
Despite my cultural blunder, my girlfriend thought it was hilarious.
Lesson learned: always do your research before giving gifts in a foreign country!
