CULTURE PAGE

Manners, etiquette, tradition, ect

The main thing to remember that governs everything else is that the search and desire for complete harmony has almost always been central to the Japanese way of thinking and is deeply embedded in the society and culture of Japan. Anyone who is a threat to harmony [order, peace and respect for those around] is shunned. However tourists are welcome and some allowances are made for foreigners being ignorant of their ways, but they will make it clear if  behavior is unacceptable and then some degree of conformity is expected. Light hearted over exuberance and even loud jollity in some environments are acceptable, but not in public transport situations. Combative or confrontational behaviour is not acceptable anywhere. But most Irish fans never seem to fall into this category. And the Japanese love the Irish Craic.

Tip 1. On public transport, stay quiet, have mobiles on silent, and communicate with your companions in low tones.Music can be listened to via headphones. This is a sort of unwritten rule, mainly bought about by the sheer volume of people travelling. Everyone tries to make the journey as harmonious as possible for ALL concerned, Some want to sleep, some work. If in doubt, see what everyone else is doing and what the reactions are.

Tip 2--- Carry your rubbish with you until you do find a bin or back to your accommodation. DO NOT drop it or leave it somewhere. A japanese person may run after you and give it back to you, wagging a finger and may summon help if you refuse to take it.  Even some outlets do not provide a bin, so have a plastic bag in your pocket. Also DO NOT walk and eat, you can eat in street a designated stools and counters, or benches/seats. But do not eat while moving along the street. The thinking being that you will bump into someone, or otherwise likely to make a mess on the street. Again, it is all about achieving harmony.

Tip 3--- When saying thank you, or acknowledging some one who is thanking you, do as they do. Make a deep nod or shallow bow. It is more than just a nod of the head, the neck and shoulders at least are involved too. The person wishing to be more subservient, or most thankful, makes the deeper bow. It is fascinating to observe some farcical bowing matches between Japanese and foreigners.  see note below on service

Tip 4---Good to great service is a given in Japan. It is part of the deal and included in the price of anything. It is almost an insult to tip anyone. Why should you give them more money, they think. Do they look like tramps or paupers? Or otherwise seem so incompetent they need your charity? Everyone is striving to be the best at their job, so give of their best to the customer, because the customer is king, not their boss.

Tip 5-- If you have a problem--get lost or something--- do not get agitated or show panic, stay calm and politely ask for help. The Japanese also like to help strangers to maintain harmony and order. 

To come---- The shoe thing . What to do/not to do with chopsticks if using them.

Extra Note------- Tatoos are 'No No' , on and off the pitch!   https://extra.ie/2018/09/21/sport/rugby/friday-why-irish-rugby-players-will-have-to-cover-up-tattoos-at-next-years-world-cup
  and also  BBC News website on same topic   ---- But I am sure they will make allowances and facilitate the influx of multi cultural visitors to their country. After all it is easy to cover oneself up in certain public places. If still worried enquire from tourist section of Japanese embassy/consulate.