4. Japan has a population of approximately 125 million people packed tightly
into a rather small geographic area
Japan, Area 377,944 km²
Shinto and Buddhism are Japan's two major religions. Shinto is as old as
the Japanese culture, while Buddhism was imported from the mainland in
the 6th century.
RELIGION, POPULATION AND AREA
5. INTERESTING INFORMATION ABOUT JAPAN
Bow
Never exchange business cards before
the bow!
Business cards are called meishi. The
Japanese give and receive meishi with
both hands
use the person’s last name plus the word
san which means Mr. or Ms
Do not request that they call you by your
first name only.
In Asia the number 4 is bad luck,
because in Japanese it sounds like the
word
‘shuh-shuh’, which sounds like the word for
death.
9. The traditional food of Japan is based on rice with miso soup and other
dishes, each in its own utensil , with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients. The
side dishes often consist of fish, pickled vegetables, and vegetables cooked
in broth. Fish is common in the traditional cuisine
FOOD
Men should wear dark conservative attire. Business suits are most suitable.Casual dress is never appropriate in a business setting.Shoes should be easy to remove, as you will do so often.Women’s dress should be conservative. Little emphasis should be placed on accessories.Women should not wear pants in a business situation. Japanese men tend to find it offensive
The customary greeting in Japan is to bow. Some Japanese may greet you with a handshake.
If you are greeted with a bow, return with a bow as low as the one you received. How low you bow determines the status of the relationship between you. When you bow keep your eyes low and your palms flat next to your thighs.
Never exchange business cards before the bow! This is very important.
Business cards are called meishi. The Japanese give and receive meishi with both hands. It should be printed in your language on one side and Japanese on the other. Always present the card with your home country language side up.
Take special care in handling cards that are given to you. Don’t write on them or put the card in you pocket or wallet, as either of these actions will be viewed as disrespecting the business card. When you receive the card, it is important to examine the card carefully as a show of respect and then make a photocopy of it.
Business cannot begin until the meishi exchange process is complete.
In introductions use the person’s last name plus the word san which means Mr. or Ms. The Japanese prefer to use last names. Do not request that they call you by your first name only. If you are uncertain about the pronunciation of a name, ask for assistance.
In Asia the number 4 is bad luck, because in Japanese it sounds like the word ‘shuh-shuh’, which sounds like the word for death.
Gestures
Avoid using large hand gestures, unusual facial expressions and any dramatic movements. The Japanese do not talk with their hands and to do so could distract your host.
The OK sign in Japan means money. Avoid using it
Don’t point or blow your nose in public
Don’t crowd people or stand too close. Because the Japanese live in such a densely populated area, they value their personal space.
A smile can have double meaning. It can express either joy or displeasure. Use caution with your facial expressions. They can be easily misunderstood.
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial is a haunting tribute to the lives lost when the atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima on August 6, 1945. Set in a park, the memorial features Genbaku Dome, the only building left standing in the vicinity after the bomb dropped. This harsh reminder of a world at war reminds visitors of the importance of human life and honors the victims so they will never be forgotten
The Tokyo Tower is a testament to the advancement of technology and modern life. Inspired by the Eiffel tower design, it is the second tallest man-made structure in Japan and functions as a communications and observation tower. Visitors can climb the tower for unparalleled views of Tokyo and the surrounding areas as well as visit shops and restaurants
The Great Buddha of Kamakura is a colossal outdoor representation of Amida Buddha, one of Japan’s most celebrated Buddhist figures. Cast in bronze, the Great Buddha stands at over 13 meters (40 feet) high and weighs nearly 93 tons. The statue reportedly dates from 1252. Although it originally was housed in a small wooden temple, the Great Buddha now stands in the open air as the original temple was washed away in a tsunami in the 15th century.
1 Japanese Yen equals
0.87 Pakistani Rupee
Gestures
Never pour a drink yourself. Always allow someone else to do it for you.
Most business entertaining is done in restaurants or bars after business hours.
Let the host order and pay for your meal. Business may be discussed at dinner during these events.
Japanese rarely entertain in the home. If you are invited to the home of your Japanese host, consider it a great honor and display appreciation.
Be fashionably late if you are invited to a social event, punctuality is not expected.
If you do take your host out insist upon paying. The Japanese will refuse but insist. They will prefer that you choose a Western-style restaurant when you entertain.
It is OK to slurp your noodles. Slurping shows that you are enjoying the meal, if you don’t slurp you are giving the impression you aren’t enjoying the meal.
Do not openly display money. It is rare to see it given from person to person in Japan. If you must pass money use an envelope.
Tipping is not expected.
Pronounce arigatou gozaimasu as ah-ree-gah-toh goh-zah-ee-mas.
