Joanna James
If this is your first time, navigating Japan can be challenging. In terms of culture, Japan is very different from other countries. So, prior to your trip to Japan, you need to learn a few things.
Now you might have heard about Japan being old fashioned when it comes to consumer transactions. But times are changing this has changed the way things are done in Japan when it comes to payments. With the current situation too most shops, cafes and hotels have started accepting credit cards for payment which makes the traveller's life a whole lot easier than before when exploring the country.
Japan's rail network is impressive. It has nearly 150 lines with over 50 operators. You can get anywhere in Japan by train; and you can even get down close to properties that offer Otaru accommodation the likes of Grand Park Otaru using this option. Delays and train cancellations are unheard of. Even if the train is late, it isn't for more than a few minutes. If you want to get somewhere as quickly as possible, the train is your best option.
The Japanese like to eat out. Your Japanese colleague will most likely say 'let's get something to eat' whenever it's time for a meal. All over Japan, you will come across cafes and eateries serving all kinds of local food. Most business negotiations are done at a restaurant or a hotel. House parties are not common in Japan; this is mainly because most locals live in small flats outside the city.
The reputation of an eatery is everything. When you walk around Tokyo, you'll notice that some eateries have long queues lined up before them, and some are empty. This is because those eateries have been in business for generations, and they have a reputation that's built over time. When the situation is like this, new eateries find it hard to thrive. However, these days, new eateries are given a chance to build their popularity through TV commercials.
Most places have low dining tables, which means you'll most likely have to sit on the floor. It is normal for a Japanese to convey appreciation for the meal before starting to eat. At the end of the meal, you should thank your host, and tipping is not common in Japan.
Most Japanese dishes are eaten with chopsticks. As a foreigner, you might find eating with chopsticks to be the trickiest part of your entire tour. Not to worry, there are many online tutorials that'll teach you how to use chopsticks. When at the dining table with a Japanese person, don't ever stab your food with chopsticks; this is considered rude. Pointing at someone with chopsticks is another rude gesture. According to Japanese culture, tapping the edge of the bowl or the plate is only done by beggars.
Although specific places do have addresses in Japan, it doesn't mean that it gets any easier to find, especially considering that you don't know the roads very well. Some roads may have names, but they are no help when it comes to locating a specific place in a city like Tokyo. Therefore, owning a pocket Wi-Fi can be a lifesaver as it allows you to use Google Maps.
Having a tattoo on your forearm may be stylish and help you express yourself in your home country, but not in Japan. The Japanese still consider people with tattoos to be of dubious character. So, be sure to wear something that covers your tattoos when in Japan.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
