In every culture there are certain unstated rules – things that are not written down because it ‘goes without saying’. But they represent pitfalls for the unwary foreigner – unless he or she comes ready prepared! Beware of them – you won’t be able to ‘wing it’ or handle the situation on the spot!
Here are some further insights into Japanese culture and customs that it will pay you to know about before your visit….
Manners on public transport
The public transport system of Tokyo ranks as one of the most advanced and sophisticated in the world. It is renowned for its scrupulously clean stations – no litter here! – its polite and helpful staff, and trains that are punctual to the very second! So much so that for some tourists it has become a sightseeing end in itself!
It’s important to lower the decibels when using public transport. Holding loud conversations in confined public spaces such as a bus or train is seen as particularly inconsiderate – as is ‘yapping’ into your mobile ’phone so that everyone else can hear your business!
Eating and drinking on the train is rarely done except on long-distance trains like the Sinkansen (bullet train). Of course you’re allowed to ‘keep hydrated’ with a bottled drink and to eat sweets or chew gum [as long as you dispose of it thoughtfully afterwards!]; but a full ‘picnic lunch’ on the seats of the railway carriage train is definitely frowned upon!
Also, when on a crowded platform, you need to be take care about where you get on to the train; look for the boarding position mark on the ground at your feet, and join the queue there! When the train arrives, let the passengers off first, as you would anywhere else in the world. And, absolutely NO queue jumping!!
Exemplary customer service
Having travelled to more than 70 cities in 27 countries, and I can confidently state that Japan has the highest standard of customer service anywhere in the world. This is a given if you’ve paid a premium in a luxury hotel or a first-class restaurant, but in Japan it extends even to supermarkets and convenience stores. And as we’ve already discussed, you don’t need to leave a tip!
Courteous behaviour, attentive service and exquisite politeness all combine to make the customer feel like Royalty! This, along with meticulous attention to detail and rigorous on-going education for all employees, all goes to explain why Japan’s hospitality is reckoned to be the best in the world.
Customer service ‘Japanese-style’ combines professionalism with a deep sense of responsibility and a genuine commitment to customer satisfaction. Being on the receiving end of such superlative treatment is priceless – worth far more than any souvenir that money could buy; why not come to Japan, and experience it for yourself!
The correct way to enjoy hot springs
Luxuriating in the hot springs is a ‘must do’ for any tourist visiting Japan. The country is located on the convergence of no less than four continental plates, so it’s a source of abundant geothermal activity rarely found in other parts of the world.
Some of you might feel slightly reticent about the prospect of public nudity, but it’s an integral part of our culture here in Japan, so why not ‘throw caution to the winds’ [and throw off your clothes!] and come in and join us!
But before you do, there are a few commonsense rules to observe:
- Wash your body thoroughly in advance, to get rid of all traces of sweat and dirt
- When using the shower, please remain seated – and don’t splash water around!
- Do not put hair or towels in the tub
- No swimming or running in the facility
- Dry yourself off thoroughly before entering the locker room – make sure you don’t drip everywhere!
These simple things are not hard to remember; if you’re not sure what to do, just watch the Japanese people and copy them!
Another thing to be aware of is that whilst in the West tattoos are a fashion statement, in Japan they are seen as a symbol of “anti-social forces” – membership of the so-called yakuza. Some hot spring facilities won’t even let you in if you’ve got tattoos, so it’s advisable to check first!
For centuries Japan enforced a ‘closed doors policy’ towards foreign countries, resulting in the development of a highly distinctive national character and culture. Japanese respect for law and order and consideration for the environment have been compared favourably with practices elsewhere. From the moment you first set foot in Japan, you’ll begin to appreciate why ….
