| 【PR】 Making a trip to Japan? Don’t risk a cultural mistake! Your comprehensive guide to Japanese etiquette and greetings is essential for every traveler. [Get the Kindle Edition Now on Amazon] |
Introduction: Excitement for the Trip, and a Little Anxiety
To everyone planning a trip to Japan, thank you very much for your interest!
Do you harbor a slight anxiety, thinking, “I hear Japan is a wonderful country, but the manners and rules seem strict…”?
This is a common concern shared by many international travelers.
We are delighted to announce the release of the e-book, “Japan Travel Essentials: Manners & Greetings Guide,” now available on Amazon Kindle!
This guide was written by Kazu Ashida, who has hosted walking tours for international visitors in Kyoto, drawing directly from his extensive on-site experience.
This book will serve as your essential compass to transform your journey from mere sightseeing into a rich experience rooted in deep cultural understanding.
🚨 The Core of Manners: Not “Rules,” but “Consideration (Omoiyari)”
The author assures us: There is no need to overthink Japanese manners. Japanese etiquette is not a collection of rigid “rules”; rather, its foundation lies in “deep consideration for others (Omoiyari)” and the spirit of “Harmony (Wa).”
- Why is talking on the phone not allowed on trains?
→ The answer is consideration to “not disrupt the tranquility (Wa) of the shared public space.” - Why is punctuality so strictly observed?
→ The answer stems from respect to “not waste the other person’s valuable time.”
Grasping this spirit of Wa and consideration is the key to being welcomed and respected by the local people during your stay in Japan.
💡 Based on On-Site Data: A Culture-Clash Checklist (Excerpt)
The greatest strength of this book is that it is based on real-life data gathered from over 5,000 participants from more than 60 countries.
It specifically extracts and explains the “culture clash points” that foreign visitors most frequently find confusing.
Here are five of the most crucial items extracted from the book:
| Item | Japan (Prioritized Behavior) | Other Countries (Western Focus) |
| Public Space Awareness | Shared space for everyone → Avoid causing discomfort (e.g., No phone calls on trains NG) | Individual freedom → Prioritize self-expression |
| Greetings & Physical Contact | Bowing (15° to 45°) → Adjusted based on hierarchy and situation | Hugging and shaking hands → Focus on physical contact |
| Noise During Meals | Appreciating the food with sound (e.g., Noodle slurping is OK) | Eating quietly → Slurping is considered impolite |
| Garbage Disposal | Mandatory take-home is the rule → Public bins are rare | Dependence on public garbage bins |
| Public Demeanor | Reserved to avoid inconveniencing others (e.g., Applying makeup on trains is NG) | Freedom of expression is permitted |
📘 The book thoroughly explains why there are so few public garbage cans in the streets, covering reasons such as counter-terrorism measures and cultural habits.
🔖 Key Highlights for a Successful Journey
The guide is more than a simple manual; it is structured with practical knowledge and dialogue scripts that are useful in every scene of your travels.
1. Proper Procedures and Taboos at Temples and Shrines
- Temples and shrines are not just “tourist spots”; they are sacred places (Seiiki).
- Learn the ritual of bowing before passing through the Torii gate and avoiding the center of the path (the path of the deities).
- Master the correct steps for Two Bows, Two Claps, One Bow (Nirei Nihakushu Ichirei) at shrines.
- ⚠️ Urgent Warning: Climbing Torii gates or touching cultural properties is absolutely forbidden and considered a major act of disrespect.
2. The Power of Sumimasen: Mastering its Triple Use
- Sumimasen is not just “I’m sorry.” It is used in three key contexts:
- Calling Attention (Excuse me!)
- Minor Apology (I’m sorry!)
- Indirect Gratitude (Thank you for the trouble!)
- Mastering these three uses will drastically improve your communication with local people.
3. The “Shoe and Slipper Culture” that Confounds Visitors
- The step at the Genkan (entranceway) is the boundary between “outside” and “inside.”
- The essential rule when entering Ryokan or Tatami rooms: You must remove your slippers before stepping onto the Tatami mat.
- Proper use of designated toilet slippers and how to avoid the common mistake of forgetting to switch back upon exiting.
A Message from the Author: Turn Anxiety into Confidence
By calmly reading through this book, your anxieties before visiting Japan will be transformed into confidence.
Manners are an expression of respect for a country’s culture and history. We sincerely hope this guide helps ensure your trip to Japan is trouble-free, insightful, and profoundly enjoyable.
📚 Book Information and Purchase Details
Please take this opportunity to acquire the book on Amazon Kindle.
- Title: Japan Travel Essentials: Manners & Greetings Guide
- Author: Kazu Ashida (Japan Cultural Experience)
- Available on: Amazon Kindle
| 【PR】 Your trip planning is almost complete! Complete your preparation by securing the one guide that guarantees confident interactions and a truly respectful experience in Japan. [Download the Essential Etiquette Guide] |