6 Things That The Japanese People Avoid Doing

Japan is a nation that values order and respect in their everyday life. While we should all appreciate cultural differences, there are things that work very differently in Japan than in the rest of the world. Even regular habits that may be considered ordinary in many parts of the world are often frowned upon in the Land of the Rising Sun. In this article, we will talk about the behaviors, etiquette, and social norms that may surprise and even bewilder outsiders in Japan. While times are changing and globalization has brought about a massive cultural shift around the world, these are some things that most Japanese people avoid doing even in the most urban cities. Read on!

1. Japanese People Don’t Pick Up Things Dropped By People On The Road

In Japan, it is a common social norm that people refrain from picking up items dropped by people on the streets. This cultural practice is deeply rooted in the principles of respect for personal space and privacy.

Japanese society places a strong emphasis on avoiding unnecessary interactions or intrusions into another person’s life. If someone drops an item, it is expected that they will notice the loss themselves and retrieve it. This behavior is seen as a way to maintain social harmony and uphold the principle of personal responsibility.

In many cases, lost items are often left exactly where they were dropped. This practice highlights the unique blend of cultural values and social etiquette that is an integral part of Japanese daily life.

2. Japanese People Prefer Not To Dine In Silence

Japanese dining culture places a strong emphasis on sociability. Sharing a meal is regarded as a communal experience, an opportunity for bonding and connection. In Japan, it is customary to engage in conversation, often accompanied by exclamations of delight over the food’s taste and quality.

This social interaction adds depth to the dining experience, with conversations ranging from daily life discussions to expressions of gratitude for the meal. Silence is generally considered awkward and unappreciated in a dining setting, as it may be seen as a sign of discomfort or disinterest.

3. Japanese People Prefer To Wear Clothes That Cover Their Shoulders

Traditional Japanese fashion often puts a strong emphasis on modesty and the art of covering one’s shoulders. It’s a cultural preference deeply rooted in traditional societal norms. The choice to wear clothes that cover the shoulders is not only influenced by aesthetics but also by the desire to display respect and decorum.

This style is commonly observed in everyday attire, especially among women who may opt for kimono-inspired dresses or garments with longer sleeves. Covering the shoulders is considered an elegant and modest way of dressing, and it aligns with Japan’s focus on maintaining a sense of propriety in public appearances.

4. Japanese Culture Does Not Encourage Giving Tips

In Japan, the act of giving tips in restaurants is often considered unusual or even inappropriate. This cultural norm is rooted in the belief that providing excellent service is an inherent part of the job, and tipping can be seen as implying that the service industry worker is not adequately compensated. Instead, Japanese service staff take great pride in delivering exceptional service as part of their professional responsibilities, and customers express their appreciation through words of gratitude, rather than monetary gratuities. In fact, tipping can sometimes be met with confusion or discomfort, as it deviates from the customary norms of the culture. The absence of tipping is part of Japan’s commitment to maintaining a high standard of service and emphasizes the strong sense of professionalism and duty that underlies the hospitality industry.

5. Normally Japanese People Do Not Appreciate Loud Conversations

There is a strong aversion to loud or boisterous conversations in Japan. The Japanese generally prioritize harmony, politeness, and respect for personal space, which extends to their interactions in public places. Raising one’s voice or engaging in overly animated discussions is considered impolite and disruptive.

In social contexts, the emphasis is placed on speaking in a soft and measured tone, ensuring that one’s words do not intrude upon the comfort of others.

6. Japanese People Prefer Not To Point Fingers

Japanese culture emphasizes respect, politeness, and the avoidance of potentially embarrassing or confrontational situations. As such, pointing fingers, whether literally or figuratively, is not encouraged. Pointing directly at someone is considered impolite, and it’s often replaced by more subtle gestures or indirect communication methods.

Furthermore, assigning blame or pointing out faults, especially in a group setting, is generally discouraged. Instead, the Japanese people tend to approach conflicts or issues with a collective sense of responsibility, focusing on resolving problems as a team rather than singling out individuals

These practices highlight the uniqueness of Japanese culture and the importance of adhering to established norms. This helps to maintain social cohesion and demonstrate thoughtfulness in various aspects of life. Understanding and respecting these cultural nuances can foster a deeper appreciation for Japan and its people, as well as enhance cross-cultural understanding and harmonious interactions.

Was this article helpful?

Author

Indrani KarmakarSenior Social Writer

 

Indrani is a writer and artist who blends creativity and humor in her work. With two years of experience crafting articles on beauty, health, lifestyle, and recent trends, she specializes in writing about social topics that resonate with today’s audience.

Read full bio of Indrani Karmakar