6 Fascinating Insights into Japanese Culture – How the Japanese Do Things

One of the first things you’ll notice in Japan is how the streets don’t have names. This makes navigating Japanese streets an adventure. How do the Japanese tell the streets apart? Well, there’s a rather complex system of areas, blocks, and building numbers. Doesn’t this make things confusing? It can, for a foreigner, but the locals are experts at navigating the roads – they rely on landmarks and maps. If you ever find yourself in a busy city like Tokyo, don’t be shy to ask a local for directions – they’re used to helping tourists find their way around.

If you’ve been given the impression that Japan’s corporate culture is formal and rigid, nothing can be further from the truth. Bonding with each other over drinks is so common in Japan. In fact, it’s an important part of the business culture. This cultural practice is known as Nominication – a term that’s a blend of "nomi", meaning drinks, and communication. After-work drinking sessions are popular and are viewed as great opportunities to build relationships and break down hierarchical barriers. These get-togethers are a chance for coworkers to relax and talk about things they might not be able to during regular office hours. If you’re planning to travel to Japan for business, it’s a good idea to stay at a place like Grand Park Otaru. Why? Well, if your accommodation features onsite bars and restaurants, it will make it easier for you to arrange these gatherings. So, the cost of staying at the best hotel in Hokkaido is really no expense – it’s a chance for you to build work and business relationships. Just remember that it’s all in good fun – being a bit tipsy might help you fit in better.

This term literally means going around the roots. Nemawashi is an important business and political concept in Japan. What does it involve? Casual conversations and consensus-building before getting to the decision-making stage. Why is this important? Well, it breaks down the hierarchical barriers and allows everyone to offer their input. The point of these casual chats is to make sure that everyone is on the same page before making any official decision. To you, it may seem like a lengthy process, but Nemawashi is valued for building harmony and fostering business relationships. It allows you to get to know someone on a personal level, which can be extremely helpful when it comes to avoiding conflicts.

When entering a home in Japan, you’re expected to remove your shoes and place them outside. This is a long-standing tradition rooted in practicality and respect. This custom keeps living spaces clean and free from outside grime. You’ll also encounter this custom at Japanese traditional restaurants and religious sites such as temples. Once you’re indoors, you will be given slippers to wear inside. Don’t forget to remove them before stepping onto tatami mats – they’re delicate and easily damaged.

At Japanese social gatherings, there’s an unspoken rule: never pour your own drink. Instead, it’s customary to pour drinks for others, and they will return the favour. This practice is about fostering a sense of community and attentiveness. If you notice someone’s glass is empty, it’s polite to offer a refill. Similarly, if someone offers to pour you a drink, lift your glass a bit to show your appreciation. This seems like such a trivial thing to do, but it goes a long way when it comes to building relationships.