What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Tokyo?
We asked people in Tokyo if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!...
"One time on the weekend of thanksgiving I was on a train with some friends. They handed me a beer, and I thought yeah sure I'm on vacation I'll have a beer on the train. It felt kind of wrong or something but I don't think it was illegal, just maybe culturally wrong. So I went to take a sip of my Kirin tallboy and watched in terror as it spilled and rolled across the floor of the moving train. 30 people instantly turned and stared at me, and I sheepishly tried to sop up the beer with some napkins. Really embarrassing," mentioned another expat when asked about moving to Tokyo, Japan.
"In Tokyo, it is important to observe good manners, and there are several faux pas that should be avoided. Being punctual is expected in many Japanese contexts, so one should make sure to arrive on time for activities or appointments. It is also important to remove one's shoes before entering a home or certain restaurants, as it is considered polite. As a sign of respect and politeness, bowing is the expected greeting in Japan. When eating, it is rude to make noise and chewing with one's mouth open is also frowned upon. Public displays of affection should also be avoided, as this is typically not well-received. Finally, it is important to avoid talking on one's phone in public spaces, such as public transit or temples," commented one expat who made the move to Tokyo, Japan.
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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Tokyo?
If you live in Tokyo, newcomers to Tokyo would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.