Japan - Culture Smart!: The Essential Guide to Customs & Culture (114)

Don’t just see the sights—get to know the people. The Japanese people have always seen themselves as a nation uniquely apart. Their exquisite art forms and elegant culture, military prowess and technological precision, have long been the envy of friend and foe alike. Today, even as Japan adapts to a rapidly changing world, its traditional culture and consensus-based philosophy have proved remarkably resilient. Culture Smart! Japan will broaden your perception and understanding of this complex, rich, and dynamic society. It will guide you through modern Japan s shifting social and cultural maze, and equip you with the tools to avoid the pitfalls of cultural misunderstanding. It provides practical tips and invaluable insights into people s attitudes and behavior to help make your visit a more meaningful and successful experience. Have a richer and more meaningful experience abroad through a better understanding of the local culture. Chapters on history, values, attitudes, and traditions will help you to better understand your hosts, while tips on etiquette and communicating will help you to navigate unfamiliar situations and avoid faux pas. Front Cover Title Page About the Author Contents Map of Japan Introduction Key Facts 1. Land and People • Location • The Land • Climate and Seasons • Earthquakes • Rice and Fish • “Connecting” Japan • The Japanese People: A Brief History • Hiroshima and Nagasaki • Reconstruction and Renewal • Chronology 2. Values and Attitudes • “I” and “We” • The Work Ethic • Face • Honne and Tatemai • Giri • Haragei • Subtlety, “Soft Talk,” and “Space” • “Inside” and “Outside” • Giving Thanks • Etiquette Rules • Attitudes Toward Foreigners • Internationalization • Covid-19 3. Religion, Customs, and Traditions • Shinto • Shrines • Buddhism • New Religious Movements • Religion and the Rites of Passage • Aspects of Traditional Culture 4. The Japanese at Home • Visiting a Japanese Home • The Japanese Bath • Decline of the Extended Family • Children and Family Life 5. Time Out • The Pursuit of Leisure • Social Life • Geisha and the World of Entertainment • Leisure and Work • Cultural Life • Sports • Wining and Dining • The Public Transportation System • Visitors and the Police 6. Gift Giving • Before Departure 7. Food and Drink • The Tea Ceremony • “Beautiful” Food • Fish Dishes • Using Chopsticks • Something About Saké • The Japanese Cookery Basket • Some Language Tips on Eating Out 8. Living in Japan • “Finding Your Way” • “In Japan, Nothing Changes” • Entry Requirements • Some “Housekeeping” Information • Everyday Life 9. Business Briefing • The Japanese Economy • Some Introductory “Essentials” • Aspects of Communication • Women in Business • Understanding “No” • Understanding “Yes” • Consensus • The Unequal Partnership—Lessons to be Learned • Other Dos and Don’ts 10. Language and Communication • Structure of the Language • Pronunciation • Some “Imported” Words • Conclusion Appendix 1: Useful Words and Phrases Appendix 2: Useful Apps Further Reading Picture Credits Copyright Index Whether you are traveling in luxury or with just a pack on your back, it's important that you have a safe, fun, and easy-going trip. Bad etiquette and a misunderstanding about customs can put an otherwise very exciting trip on hold faster than a bad case of food poisoning. Use this customs and etiquette book as not only your basic travel guides but be an ambassador making good impressions of the United States wherever you go. This guide will be invaluable for a safe and fun trip abroad Have a more meaningful and successful time abroad through a better understanding of the local culture. Chapters on values, attitudes, customs, and daily life will help you make the most of your visit, while tips on etiquette and communication will help you navigate unfamiliar situations and avoid faux pas.