By: Ali Syarief
Living with Japanese people can be an enriching and profound experience, but it also comes with challenges if one does not understand their culture and etiquette. Japan has strict social rules, even in daily life. Here are some key aspects to consider for building harmonious relationships with Japanese people.
1. Greeting (Aisatsu)
One of the most important aspects of Japanese culture is greeting or “aisatsu.” When meeting someone, Japanese people tend to bow (ojigi) as a sign of respect. The deeper the bow, the greater the respect shown. Additionally, phrases such as “Ohayou gozaimasu” (good morning), “Konnichiwa” (good afternoon), and “Konbanwa” (good evening) are used according to the time of day. Handshaking is not always customary but may be accepted in more international settings.
2. Entering the House
Japanese people have strict rules when entering a house. Shoes must be removed and replaced with indoor slippers provided by the host. Furthermore, when stepping onto tatami (straw mats), even indoor slippers should be removed. Cleanliness is highly valued, and bringing dirt from outside into the house is considered impolite.
3. Table Manners
Dining with Japanese people also follows specific rules. One of the most important aspects is the use of chopsticks. Chopsticks should not be stuck into rice, as this resembles a funeral ritual. Additionally, chopsticks should not be used to pass food directly from one pair to another. When eating soup or ramen, slurping is not considered rude but rather a sign of appreciation for the meal. Before eating, say “Itadakimasu” to express gratitude, and after finishing, say “Gochisousama deshita.”
4. Using the Bathroom and Toilet
In Japan, the bathroom and toilet are usually separate. When using the toilet, special slippers should be worn and removed upon leaving. Some modern toilets have various features such as automatic bidets and heated seats. When bathing, Japanese people typically wash their bodies outside the bathtub before soaking. The bathtub is used for soaking by multiple family members, so maintaining cleanliness is essential.
5. Do and Don’t
Do:
- Use “sumimasen” (excuse me) or “arigatou gozaimasu” (thank you) as a sign of politeness.
- Bring a small gift (omiyage) when visiting someone’s house.
- Speak softly in public places, especially on public transportation.
- Dispose of trash properly according to recycling categories.
Don’t:
- Do not talk on the phone while on the train or bus.
- Do not give or receive something with one hand; use both hands as a sign of respect.
- Do not open gifts or souvenirs in front of the giver.
- Do not stick chopsticks into food or pass food directly from one pair of chopsticks to another.
Living with Japanese people requires adaptation and cultural awareness. By understanding and respecting these rules, relationships with Japanese people can be more harmonious and filled with mutual appreciation.
