Lesson 2

Lesson 2
Basic Japanese
INTRODUCTION
Japanese, among all people of the world are most courteous. Therefore, they will feel most
offended if they notice that someone is not courteous.
Japanese – plural and singular
Japan is a small country but heavily industrialized and ranks among the world’s economic giants.
- 120 million = population

- Tiny ethnic minority
- Nipongo/Nihongo = language
- Shinto = the state religion
- Buddhism, Christianity = other religions
- Parliamentary = Japan’s form of government
- Prime Minister = is the head of the government
Cultural DOs in Japan
1. Japanese traditions are strictly observed.

2. Excessive thanks for almost anything is very popular tradition in Japan. Try to do this with a
smile works like a magic.
3. Gift giving and gift receiving is one of the first and the foremost thing in Japan.
4. When greeting, bow to each other. But with foreigner, a light shake hands combined with a
slight bow will do.
5. When bowing, keep arms straight and let the palms slide down the thighs
6. When talking to a Japanese, keep a distance as it is a sign of courtesy
7. Be polite as they are. They may not frankly tell what they mean. Ex. “the car is waiting” this “you
have to go.”
8. When receiving money, do not count it in front of them for it is a sign of lack of trust.
9. Never take the expression of “Hai” (yes) as a sign of agreement.
10. Male are respected by the female as superiors. They are given priority. Giving a seat or opening
a door for a lady is embarrassing in Japan. It means she is physically weak.
11. In Japan, if a lady suddenly walked past behind you in (comfort rooms) just keep your cool.
12. During rush hours, Japanese may not be so courteous or polite. Just don’t feel bad.
13. Be a little formal; because showing yourself too relaxed may be interpreted as sign of a crooked
personality.
14. When refusing, never say a straight “no” as it is harsh for them. Rather, use “maybe, well, or do
you think so.”
15. Dress well, neat and clean but not too colorful. It’s better to look a little conservative.
16. They call for meeting visitors on arrival and departure. And try to make it a practice.
17. Sitting order is observed as tradition. So, do sit at the place the hosts show you.
18. Do keep in touch with them thru phone calls or writing even if there is nothing that important.
19. As a visitor, you will always be served with Japanese tea.
20. Wives do not take part in business discussions. But with foreigners, it is accepted.
21. If invited in a restaurant, go with anything what the host gives. Just ignore the thing you don’t
like and concentrate on what you like most.
22. An oshibori (folded towel) is provided before a meal. Men wipe their faces, then arms and hands
while ladies wipe their hands only. Refold it again and use it to wipe hands and fingers.
23. Another Japanese custom, during meal, is to slightly bow and say “itadakimas” (I’ll receive).
24. Some food may not taste good to you but you just try. And try to observe how some food are
eaten.
25. To thank the host, say “gochiso-soma-desh-ta” (many thanks for the meal or gift) then bow
slightly.
If you are invited:
a. Remove your shoes in entering a house. There are slippers to use inside.
b. When entering a toilet, use the special slippers for the C.R.
c. Japanese don’t have chairs. Men cross their legs, ladies may fold their legs under their bodies
then move the weight off to one side.
d. When using C.R., knock the door and wait for a response. Japanese toilets do not have locks on
the door.
Cultural DON’Ts in Japan
1. No too much eye contact with Japanese during conversation as it is impolite.

2. When shaking a Japanese’ hands, don’t grip. It is impolite.
3. If no hand is offered, just a slight bow will do to show courtesy.
4. Do not express affection in public. It could be done to children only.
5. Don’t hold others by the arm while talking.
6. Never pat a person on the back.
7. Don’t shrug shoulders while talking.
8. Don’t wink wink while talking in public.
9. Don’t use nickname for any Japanese.
10. Don’t haggle (argue) over prices.
11. Don’t give a tip to anybody. It is an insult or bribery
12. Don’t criticize Japanese food.
13. When visiting, don’t admire some articles excessively for it oblige host to offer as a gift.
14. If you’re angry, don’t raise your voice, just smile.
15. To clarify an issue, don’t raise voice, repeat words slowly.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dtviffXKR98&list=TLPQMDMwMzIwMjEg0q1xTzb5Wg&index=2
What not to do when you visit Japan

Lesson 2 - Nihongo

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Lesson 2 - Nihongo

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Japanese – plural and singular

- 120 million = population

Cultural DOs in Japan

1. Japanese traditions are strictly observed.

If you are invited:

Cultural DON’Ts in Japan

1. No too much eye contact with Japanese during conversation as it is impolite.

What not to do when you visit Japan

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