Question: What are some disrespectful sitting positions in Japan and the Middle East?

Cultural Differences in Body Language to be Aware of Cultural Differences in Body Language to be Aware of
Cultural Differences in Body Language to be Aware of
Greetings with a handshake
Facial expressions
Hand gestures
Eye contact
Eye contact variation by culture:
Moving your head
Touch
Physical contact variation by culture:
Sitting positions
Silence
Gender
Conclusion
Popular travel location etiquette guides:
More Non-Verbal Communication Articles
Improve through realistic practice
 The Far East is an example. These rules are usually quite complex. They may differ depending on the age, gender, ethnicity, profession and status of the people involved. Sitting positions
Be aware of your posture when you attend meetings or are dining. Sitting cross-legged is seen as disrespectful in Japan, especially in the presence of someone older or more respected than you. Showing the soles of your shoes or feet can offend people in parts of the Middle East and India. That is why throwing shoes at someone is a form of protest and an insult in many parts of the world - as former U.S. President George W. Bush famously discovered on a visit to Iraq in 2008. Silence
Though it can feel like a void in communication, silence can be very meaningful in different cultural contexts. Western cultures, especially North America and the UK, tend to view silence as problematic. In our interactions at work, school, or with friends, silence is uncomfortable.

Cultural Differences in Body Language to be Aware of

Cultural Differences in Body Language to be Aware of
Cultural Differences in Body Language to be Aware of
Greetings with a handshake
Facial expressions
Hand gestures
Eye contact
Eye contact variation by culture:
Moving your head
Touch
Physical contact variation by culture:
Sitting positions
Silence
Gender
Conclusion
Popular travel location etiquette guides:
More Non-Verbal Communication Articles
Improve through realistic practice

The Far East is an example. These rules are usually quite complex. They may differ depending on the age, gender, ethnicity, profession and status of the people involved. Sitting positions
Be aware of your posture when you attend meetings or are dining. Sitting cross-legged is seen as disrespectful in Japan, especially in the presence of someone older or more respected than you. Showing the soles of your shoes or feet can offend people in parts of the Middle East and India. That is why throwing shoes at someone is a form of protest and an insult in many parts of the world - as former U.S. President George W. Bush famously discovered on a visit to Iraq in 2008. Silence
Though it can feel like a void in communication, silence can be very meaningful in different cultural contexts. Western cultures, especially North America and the UK, tend to view silence as problematic. In our interactions at work, school, or with friends, silence is uncomfortable.

Cultural Differences in Body Language to be Aware of Cultural Differences in Body Language to be Aware of
Cultural Differences in Body Language to be Aware of
Greetings with a handshake
Facial expressions
Hand gestures
Eye contact
Eye contact variation by culture:
Moving your head
Touch
Physical contact variation by culture:
Sitting positions
Silence
Gender
Conclusion
Popular travel location etiquette guides:
More Non-Verbal Communication Articles
Improve through realistic practice
 High Contact cultures tend to stand close when speaking and make physical contact more often. Latin America, Southern Europe and most Middle Eastern nations are examples. Medium Contact cultures stand quite close when speaking and will touch on occasion. Such cultures include Northern Europe and North America. Low Contact cultures stand at a greater distance and generally avoid physical contact. The Far East is an example. These rules are usually quite complex. They may differ depending on the age, gender, ethnicity, profession and status of the people involved. Sitting positions
Be aware of your posture when you attend meetings or are dining. Sitting cross-legged is seen as disrespectful in Japan, especially in the presence of someone older or more respected than you.

High Contact cultures tend to stand close when speaking and make physical contact more often. Latin America, Southern Europe and most Middle Eastern nations are examples. Medium Contact cultures stand quite close when speaking and will touch on occasion. Such cultures include Northern Europe and North America. Low Contact cultures stand at a greater distance and generally avoid physical contact. The Far East is an example. These rules are usually quite complex. They may differ depending on the age, gender, ethnicity, profession and status of the people involved. Sitting positions
Be aware of your posture when you attend meetings or are dining. Sitting cross-legged is seen as disrespectful in Japan, especially in the presence of someone older or more respected than you.

Step Feed 8 normal signs and gestures that can be offensive in the Middle East
8 normal signs and gestures that can be offensive in the Middle East
1. The Thumbs Up
2. Pointing with the index finger
3. Crossing legs
4. The Fig (Forming a fist with the thumb tucked under the index finger)
5.The Moutza (Open palm)
6. Greeting someone with your left hand
7. Checking your watch
8. The "OK"
 2. Pointing with the index finger
Even if you don't mean anything negative by it, pointing at someone or something with only one finger is considered very rude and impolite in parts of the Middle East. Many people interpret it as if you're singling them out or making fun of them. 3. Crossing legs
Crossing your legs in parts of the Middle East, especially if you're sitting opposite from someone who is older than you, is considered a sign of disrespect. It can be interpreted as a sign of arrogance and defiance when done in front of people who hold a higher social or professional position such as parents and superiors. 4. The Fig (Forming a fist with the thumb tucked under the index finger)
While this is used in playing the "got your nose" game with children, it is considered very offensive in Turkey as it's also the equivalent of the middle-finger. 5.The Moutza (Open palm)
Displaying your open palm in front of someone's face is highly offensive in parts of the Middle East, the gesture is believed to have originated during Byzantine times when it was used to shame criminals. 6.

Step Feed

8 normal signs and gestures that can be offensive in the Middle East
8 normal signs and gestures that can be offensive in the Middle East
1. The Thumbs Up
2. Pointing with the index finger
3. Crossing legs
4. The Fig (Forming a fist with the thumb tucked under the index finger)
5.The Moutza (Open palm)
6. Greeting someone with your left hand
7. Checking your watch
8. The "OK"

2. Pointing with the index finger
Even if you don't mean anything negative by it, pointing at someone or something with only one finger is considered very rude and impolite in parts of the Middle East. Many people interpret it as if you're singling them out or making fun of them. 3. Crossing legs
Crossing your legs in parts of the Middle East, especially if you're sitting opposite from someone who is older than you, is considered a sign of disrespect. It can be interpreted as a sign of arrogance and defiance when done in front of people who hold a higher social or professional position such as parents and superiors. 4. The Fig (Forming a fist with the thumb tucked under the index finger)
While this is used in playing the "got your nose" game with children, it is considered very offensive in Turkey as it's also the equivalent of the middle-finger. 5.The Moutza (Open palm)
Displaying your open palm in front of someone's face is highly offensive in parts of the Middle East, the gesture is believed to have originated during Byzantine times when it was used to shame criminals. 6.

Etiquette in the Middle East - Wikipedia Etiquette in the Middle East
Etiquette in the Middle East
Points of etiquette
See also
References
 Accordingly, it can seem rude for an individual to step away when another individual is stepping closer. Special respect is paid to older people in many circumstances. This can include standing when older people enter a room, always greeting older people before others present (even if they are better known to you), standing when speaking to one’s elders, kissing the head of an elderly relative, and serving older people first at a meal table. Hospitality is held in high regard throughout the Middle East. Some hosts take pride in the laborious preparation of what is known in Europe as “ Turkish coffee ”, grinding fresh-roasted coffee beans to a fine powder, dissolving sugar, and carefully regulating the heat to produce a result that meets exacting standards. In Iran, the " thumbs up " gesture is considered an offensive insult. Displaying the sole of one's foot or touching somebody with one's shoe is often considered rude. This includes sitting with one's feet or foot elevated. In some circumstances, shoes should be removed before entering a living room. Many in the Middle East do not separate professional and personal life.

Etiquette in the Middle East - Wikipedia

Etiquette in the Middle East
Etiquette in the Middle East
Points of etiquette
See also
References

Accordingly, it can seem rude for an individual to step away when another individual is stepping closer. Special respect is paid to older people in many circumstances. This can include standing when older people enter a room, always greeting older people before others present (even if they are better known to you), standing when speaking to one’s elders, kissing the head of an elderly relative, and serving older people first at a meal table. Hospitality is held in high regard throughout the Middle East. Some hosts take pride in the laborious preparation of what is known in Europe as “ Turkish coffee ”, grinding fresh-roasted coffee beans to a fine powder, dissolving sugar, and carefully regulating the heat to produce a result that meets exacting standards. In Iran, the " thumbs up " gesture is considered an offensive insult. Displaying the sole of one's foot or touching somebody with one's shoe is often considered rude. This includes sitting with one's feet or foot elevated. In some circumstances, shoes should be removed before entering a living room. Many in the Middle East do not separate professional and personal life.

Step Feed 8 normal signs and gestures that can be offensive in the Middle East
8 normal signs and gestures that can be offensive in the Middle East
1. The Thumbs Up
2. Pointing with the index finger
3. Crossing legs
4. The Fig (Forming a fist with the thumb tucked under the index finger)
5.The Moutza (Open palm)
6. Greeting someone with your left hand
7. Checking your watch
8. The "OK"
 While exposure to foreigners have made many of these acceptable in most places, depending on where you visit, they can still carry the offensive meaning. Future travelers, take notes. 1. The Thumbs Up
While you might be thinking thumbs up shows approval, real life is not like Facebook. In parts of the Arab world, the gesture is considered highly offensive, its impact is equivalent to the middle-finger in the West. 2. Pointing with the index finger
Even if you don't mean anything negative by it, pointing at someone or something with only one finger is considered very rude and impolite in parts of the Middle East. Many people interpret it as if you're singling them out or making fun of them. 3. Crossing legs
Crossing your legs in parts of the Middle East, especially if you're sitting opposite from someone who is older than you, is considered a sign of disrespect.

Step Feed

While exposure to foreigners have made many of these acceptable in most places, depending on where you visit, they can still carry the offensive meaning. Future travelers, take notes. 1. The Thumbs Up
While you might be thinking thumbs up shows approval, real life is not like Facebook. In parts of the Arab world, the gesture is considered highly offensive, its impact is equivalent to the middle-finger in the West. 2. Pointing with the index finger
Even if you don't mean anything negative by it, pointing at someone or something with only one finger is considered very rude and impolite in parts of the Middle East. Many people interpret it as if you're singling them out or making fun of them. 3. Crossing legs
Crossing your legs in parts of the Middle East, especially if you're sitting opposite from someone who is older than you, is considered a sign of disrespect.

Etiquette in the Middle East - Wikipedia Etiquette in the Middle East
Etiquette in the Middle East
Points of etiquette
See also
References
 In Iran, the " thumbs up " gesture is considered an offensive insult. Displaying the sole of one's foot or touching somebody with one's shoe is often considered rude. This includes sitting with one's feet or foot elevated. In some circumstances, shoes should be removed before entering a living room. Many in the Middle East do not separate professional and personal life. Doing business revolves much more around personal relationships, family ties, trust, and honor. There is a tendency to prioritize personal matters above all else. It is therefore crucial that business relationships are built on mutual friendship and trust. According to the manners instructor Tami Lancut Leibovitz it might be common for an Israeli to ask others some personal questions about money or children. See also
Etiquette
Taarof
References
^ Firmage, Edwin Brown and Weiss, Bernard G. and Welch, John W. Religion and Law.

In Iran, the " thumbs up " gesture is considered an offensive insult. Displaying the sole of one's foot or touching somebody with one's shoe is often considered rude. This includes sitting with one's feet or foot elevated. In some circumstances, shoes should be removed before entering a living room. Many in the Middle East do not separate professional and personal life. Doing business revolves much more around personal relationships, family ties, trust, and honor. There is a tendency to prioritize personal matters above all else. It is therefore crucial that business relationships are built on mutual friendship and trust. According to the manners instructor Tami Lancut Leibovitz it might be common for an Israeli to ask others some personal questions about money or children. See also
Etiquette
Taarof
References
^ Firmage, Edwin Brown and Weiss, Bernard G. and Welch, John W. Religion and Law.

List of human positions - Wikipedia List of human positions
List of human positions
Contents
Basic positions
All-fours
Kneeling
Lying
Sitting
Squatting or crouching
Standing
Contexts
Asanas
Main article: List of asanas
Atypical positions
Bondage positions
Childbirth positions
Dance positions
Defecation positions
Eating positions
Heat escape lessening position
Medical positions
Microgravity
Recovery position
Resting positions
Riding positions
Sex positions
Shooting positions
Sleeping positions
Stress positions
Submissive positions
Urination positions
See also
References
Further reading
External links
 The squatting posture is used for Japanese, in countries with a Muslim or Hindu majority and in the absence of toilets or other devices. The sitting defecation posture is used in Western toilets, with a lean-forward posture or a 90-degrees posture. Eating positions
Main article: Eating
People sharing a meal in Uzbekistan
Eating positions vary according to the different regions of the world, as culture influences the way people eat their meals. For example, most of the Middle Eastern countries, eating while sitting on the floor is most common, and it is believed to be healthier than eating while sitting to a table. Eating in a reclining position was favored by the Ancient Greeks at a celebration they called a symposium, and this custom was adopted by the Ancient Romans. Ancient Hebrews also adopted this posture for traditional celebrations of Passover. Heat escape lessening position
Main article: Heat escape lessening position
The heat escape lessening position (HELP) is a way to position oneself to reduce heat loss in cold water. It is taught as part of the curriculum in Australia, North America and Ireland for lifeguard and boating safety training.

List of human positions - Wikipedia

List of human positions
List of human positions
Contents
Basic positions
All-fours
Kneeling
Lying
Sitting
Squatting or crouching
Standing
Contexts
Asanas
Main article: List of asanas
Atypical positions
Bondage positions
Childbirth positions
Dance positions
Defecation positions
Eating positions
Heat escape lessening position
Medical positions
Microgravity
Recovery position
Resting positions
Riding positions
Sex positions
Shooting positions
Sleeping positions
Stress positions
Submissive positions
Urination positions
See also
References
Further reading
External links

The squatting posture is used for Japanese, in countries with a Muslim or Hindu majority and in the absence of toilets or other devices. The sitting defecation posture is used in Western toilets, with a lean-forward posture or a 90-degrees posture. Eating positions
Main article: Eating
People sharing a meal in Uzbekistan
Eating positions vary according to the different regions of the world, as culture influences the way people eat their meals. For example, most of the Middle Eastern countries, eating while sitting on the floor is most common, and it is believed to be healthier than eating while sitting to a table. Eating in a reclining position was favored by the Ancient Greeks at a celebration they called a symposium, and this custom was adopted by the Ancient Romans. Ancient Hebrews also adopted this posture for traditional celebrations of Passover. Heat escape lessening position
Main article: Heat escape lessening position
The heat escape lessening position (HELP) is a way to position oneself to reduce heat loss in cold water. It is taught as part of the curriculum in Australia, North America and Ireland for lifeguard and boating safety training.

List of human positions - Wikipedia List of human positions
List of human positions
Contents
Basic positions
All-fours
Kneeling
Lying
Sitting
Squatting or crouching
Standing
Contexts
Asanas
Atypical positions
Bondage positions
Childbirth positions
Dance positions
Defecation positions
Eating positions
Heat escape lessening position
Medical positions
Microgravity
Recovery position
Resting positions
Riding positions
Sex positions
Shooting positions
Sleeping positions
Stress positions
Submissive positions
Urination positions
See also
References
Further reading
External links
 The squatting posture is used for Japanese, in countries with a Muslim or Hindu majority and in the absence of toilets or other devices. The sitting defecation posture is used in Western toilets, with a lean-forward posture or a 90-degrees posture. Eating positions
Main article: Eating
People sharing a meal in Uzbekistan
Eating positions vary according to the different regions of the world, as culture influences the way people eat their meals. For example, most of the Middle Eastern countries, eating while sitting on the floor is most common, and it is believed to be healthier than eating while sitting to a table. Eating in a reclining position was favored by the Ancient Greeks at a celebration they called a symposium, and this custom was adopted by the Ancient Romans. Ancient Hebrews also adopted this posture for traditional celebrations of Passover. Heat escape lessening position
Main article: Heat escape lessening position
The heat escape lessening position (HELP) is a way to position oneself to reduce heat loss in cold water. It is taught as part of the curriculum in Australia, North America and Ireland for lifeguard and boating safety training.

List of human positions - Wikipedia

List of human positions
List of human positions
Contents
Basic positions
All-fours
Kneeling
Lying
Sitting
Squatting or crouching
Standing
Contexts
Asanas
Atypical positions
Bondage positions
Childbirth positions
Dance positions
Defecation positions
Eating positions
Heat escape lessening position
Medical positions
Microgravity
Recovery position
Resting positions
Riding positions
Sex positions
Shooting positions
Sleeping positions
Stress positions
Submissive positions
Urination positions
See also
References
Further reading
External links

Japanese body language and gestures - Lingualift Japanese body language and gestures
Japanese body language and gestures
The basics of not offending or frightening people
Counting backwards and beckoning someone to go away
Looking at your shoes
Saying what’s not said
 If you look someone in the eye, they look away. Direct eye contact is considered rude or intrusive. It’s alright to make brief eye contact, but for the bulk of the conversation you should look somewhere else. If you’re a person dumbfounded by the standoffishness of the Japanese you meet, it could be because they think you’re staring them down. Posture is extremely important. Good posture tells the other person that you’re respectful and attentive. It’s bad to sit slumped over like a teenager at McDonalds and people don’t usually lean casually against walls. Sitting with arms or legs outspread is a serious sin in Japan – you’re taking up space. This causes irritation but it’s also a sign of confidence, which many Japanese interpret as over-confidence or arrogance. Don’t point.

Japanese body language and gestures - Lingualift

Japanese body language and gestures
Japanese body language and gestures
The basics of not offending or frightening people
Counting backwards and beckoning someone to go away
Looking at your shoes
Saying what’s not said

If you look someone in the eye, they look away. Direct eye contact is considered rude or intrusive. It’s alright to make brief eye contact, but for the bulk of the conversation you should look somewhere else. If you’re a person dumbfounded by the standoffishness of the Japanese you meet, it could be because they think you’re staring them down. Posture is extremely important. Good posture tells the other person that you’re respectful and attentive. It’s bad to sit slumped over like a teenager at McDonalds and people don’t usually lean casually against walls. Sitting with arms or legs outspread is a serious sin in Japan – you’re taking up space. This causes irritation but it’s also a sign of confidence, which many Japanese interpret as over-confidence or arrogance. Don’t point.

Kneeling - Wikipedia Kneeling
Kneeling
Contents
Religion
Judaism and Islam
Christianity
Marriage
Proposals
Catholic Wedding Ceremonies
Kneeling in Sexual Intercourse
BDSM
Kneeling in Different Cultural Societies
East Asia
Japan
China
Kneeling in Ancient China
Genderization of Kneeling in Greek Ritual
Prehistoric Ecuador
Ethnicity and Kinetic Implications of Kneeling-related Postures
Monarchs
European Knights in the Middle Ages and Now
Interacting with Royalty
See also
References
External links
 This practice is mainly a form of formal and deeply emotional apology to someone of a higher rank than you within society. This is more of an older form of reverence, though, that has fallen out of practice. Seiza is another Japanese kneeling position that refers to the traditional way of sitting down in Japan. This is a formal way of sitting down which was adopted by Japan after the Edo period. Since then, it has now become the traditional way of sitting down within the household and for certain cultural events. Many of the culturally significant and traditional events in Japanese society involve sitting positions such as funerals or tea parties. This form of sitting however is uncomfortable to those who have not practiced it for a long time; therefore people in Japan usually start practicing this posture at quite a young age. China
In China, there is a form of prostration involving kneeling called Kowtow. Kowtow is where the participant kneels down then subsequently bows on the ground so that their forehead touches the ground.

Kneeling - Wikipedia

Kneeling
Kneeling
Contents
Religion
Judaism and Islam
Christianity
Marriage
Proposals
Catholic Wedding Ceremonies
Kneeling in Sexual Intercourse
BDSM
Kneeling in Different Cultural Societies
East Asia
Japan
China
Kneeling in Ancient China
Genderization of Kneeling in Greek Ritual
Prehistoric Ecuador
Ethnicity and Kinetic Implications of Kneeling-related Postures
Monarchs
European Knights in the Middle Ages and Now
Interacting with Royalty
See also
References
External links

This practice is mainly a form of formal and deeply emotional apology to someone of a higher rank than you within society. This is more of an older form of reverence, though, that has fallen out of practice. Seiza is another Japanese kneeling position that refers to the traditional way of sitting down in Japan. This is a formal way of sitting down which was adopted by Japan after the Edo period. Since then, it has now become the traditional way of sitting down within the household and for certain cultural events. Many of the culturally significant and traditional events in Japanese society involve sitting positions such as funerals or tea parties. This form of sitting however is uncomfortable to those who have not practiced it for a long time; therefore people in Japan usually start practicing this posture at quite a young age. China
In China, there is a form of prostration involving kneeling called Kowtow. Kowtow is where the participant kneels down then subsequently bows on the ground so that their forehead touches the ground.

Kneeling - Wikipedia Kneeling
Kneeling
Contents
Religion
Judaism and Islam
Christianity
Marriage
Proposals
Catholic Wedding Ceremonies
Kneeling in Sexual Intercourse
BDSM
Kneeling in Different Cultural Societies
East Asia
Japan
China
Kneeling in Ancient China
Genderization of Kneeling in Greek Ritual
Prehistoric Ecuador
Ethnicity and Kinetic Implications of Kneeling-related Postures
Monarchs
European Knights in the Middle Ages and Now
Interacting with Royalty
See also
References
External links
 This is different from western culture and other religions since these daily rituals are not necessarily tied to their religion but instead more to their society and culture. Japan
Two forms of kneeling or prostration in Japanese culture, Dogeza, and Seiza . Dogeza is a traditional form of respectful bowing to acknowledge superiors. This practice is two steps kneeling down onto the ground, then bending over to touch the head to the ground. It can also be to express apology or attempt to bless someone with your good favor. This practice is mainly a form of formal and deeply emotional apology to someone of a higher rank than you within society. This is more of an older form of reverence, though, that has fallen out of practice. Seiza is another Japanese kneeling position that refers to the traditional way of sitting down in Japan. This is a formal way of sitting down which was adopted by Japan after the Edo period. Since then, it has now become the traditional way of sitting down within the household and for certain cultural events.

Kneeling - Wikipedia

This is different from western culture and other religions since these daily rituals are not necessarily tied to their religion but instead more to their society and culture. Japan
Two forms of kneeling or prostration in Japanese culture, Dogeza, and Seiza . Dogeza is a traditional form of respectful bowing to acknowledge superiors. This practice is two steps kneeling down onto the ground, then bending over to touch the head to the ground. It can also be to express apology or attempt to bless someone with your good favor. This practice is mainly a form of formal and deeply emotional apology to someone of a higher rank than you within society. This is more of an older form of reverence, though, that has fallen out of practice. Seiza is another Japanese kneeling position that refers to the traditional way of sitting down in Japan. This is a formal way of sitting down which was adopted by Japan after the Edo period. Since then, it has now become the traditional way of sitting down within the household and for certain cultural events.

List of human positions - Wikipedia List of human positions
List of human positions
Contents
Basic positions
All-fours
Kneeling
Lying
Sitting
Squatting or crouching
Standing
Contexts
Asanas
Main article: List of asanas
Atypical positions
Bondage positions
Childbirth positions
Dance positions
Defecation positions
Eating positions
Heat escape lessening position
Medical positions
Microgravity
Recovery position
Resting positions
Riding positions
Sex positions
Shooting positions
Sleeping positions
Stress positions
Submissive positions
Urination positions
See also
References
Further reading
External links
 Dance positions
Classical ballet position
Main article: Dance positions
Dance position is a position of a dancer or a mutual position of a dance couple assumed during a dance. Describing and mastering proper dance positions is an important part of dance technique. Defecation positions
Main article: Defecation positions
The two most common defecation positions are squatting and sitting. The squatting posture is used for Japanese, in countries with a Muslim or Hindu majority and in the absence of toilets or other devices. The sitting defecation posture is used in Western toilets, with a lean-forward posture or a 90-degrees posture. Eating positions
Main article: Eating
People sharing a meal in Uzbekistan
Eating positions vary according to the different regions of the world, as culture influences the way people eat their meals. For example, most of the Middle Eastern countries, eating while sitting on the floor is most common, and it is believed to be healthier than eating while sitting to a table.

List of human positions - Wikipedia

Dance positions
Classical ballet position
Main article: Dance positions
Dance position is a position of a dancer or a mutual position of a dance couple assumed during a dance. Describing and mastering proper dance positions is an important part of dance technique. Defecation positions
Main article: Defecation positions
The two most common defecation positions are squatting and sitting. The squatting posture is used for Japanese, in countries with a Muslim or Hindu majority and in the absence of toilets or other devices. The sitting defecation posture is used in Western toilets, with a lean-forward posture or a 90-degrees posture. Eating positions
Main article: Eating
People sharing a meal in Uzbekistan
Eating positions vary according to the different regions of the world, as culture influences the way people eat their meals. For example, most of the Middle Eastern countries, eating while sitting on the floor is most common, and it is believed to be healthier than eating while sitting to a table.

 Enjoy the Silence
The Japanese typically nod often while listening,showing they pay attention to what is said. However, there is little idle chatter. In Japan, there is no urge to fill the silence with talk, but rather to use it a time to consider what is being said. Posture
It’s considered rude to sit with legs crossed or slouched. The proper way to sit is upright with both feet on the floor. When standing, give the other person room. Standing too close to someone else is inappropriate. Control Emotions
The Japanese consider showing emotions as a burden to the other person. They typically maintain a passive expression while speaking. A negative emotion may only get expressed with a tilt of the head or a quick inhalation.

Enjoy the Silence
The Japanese typically nod often while listening,showing they pay attention to what is said. However, there is little idle chatter. In Japan, there is no urge to fill the silence with talk, but rather to use it a time to consider what is being said. Posture
It’s considered rude to sit with legs crossed or slouched. The proper way to sit is upright with both feet on the floor. When standing, give the other person room. Standing too close to someone else is inappropriate. Control Emotions
The Japanese consider showing emotions as a burden to the other person. They typically maintain a passive expression while speaking. A negative emotion may only get expressed with a tilt of the head or a quick inhalation.

List of human positions - Wikipedia List of human positions
List of human positions
Contents
Basic positions
All-fours
Kneeling
Lying
Sitting
Squatting or crouching
Standing
Contexts
Asanas
Atypical positions
Bondage positions
Childbirth positions
Dance positions
Defecation positions
Eating positions
Heat escape lessening position
Medical positions
Microgravity
Recovery position
Resting positions
Riding positions
Sex positions
Shooting positions
Sleeping positions
Stress positions
Submissive positions
Urination positions
See also
References
Further reading
External links
 Dance positions
Classical ballet position
Main article: Dance positions
Dance position is a position of a dancer or a mutual position of a dance couple assumed during a dance. Describing and mastering proper dance positions is an important part of dance technique. Defecation positions
Main article: Defecation positions
The two most common defecation positions are squatting and sitting. The squatting posture is used for Japanese, in countries with a Muslim or Hindu majority and in the absence of toilets or other devices. The sitting defecation posture is used in Western toilets, with a lean-forward posture or a 90-degrees posture. Eating positions
Main article: Eating
People sharing a meal in Uzbekistan
Eating positions vary according to the different regions of the world, as culture influences the way people eat their meals. For example, most of the Middle Eastern countries, eating while sitting on the floor is most common, and it is believed to be healthier than eating while sitting to a table.

List of human positions - Wikipedia

Sitting - Wikipedia Sitting
Sitting
Contents
Prevalence
Positions
On the floor
On a raised seat
Yoga, traditions and spirituality
Kneeling chairs
Health risks
Relationship between posture and health conditions
Sedentary Behaviour
See also
References
Further reading
External links
 They can also dangle if the seat is sufficiently high. Legs can be kept right to the front of the body, spread apart, or one crossed over the other. The upper body can be held upright, recline to either side or backward, or one can lean forward. Yoga, traditions and spirituality
The Japanese tea ceremony is performed sitting in seiza. There are many seated positions in various traditions and rituals. Four examples are: 正座 (zhengzuo) is a Chinese word which describes the traditional formal way of sitting in Ancient China. A related position is 跪座, which differs in the tops of the feet being raised off the ground. Vajrasana (Diamond Pose) is a yoga posture ( asana) similar to seiza. The lotus position involves resting each foot on the opposite thigh so that the soles of the feet face upwards.

Sitting - Wikipedia

Sitting
Sitting
Contents
Prevalence
Positions
On the floor
On a raised seat
Yoga, traditions and spirituality
Kneeling chairs
Health risks
Relationship between posture and health conditions
Sedentary Behaviour
See also
References
Further reading
External links

They can also dangle if the seat is sufficiently high. Legs can be kept right to the front of the body, spread apart, or one crossed over the other. The upper body can be held upright, recline to either side or backward, or one can lean forward. Yoga, traditions and spirituality
The Japanese tea ceremony is performed sitting in seiza. There are many seated positions in various traditions and rituals. Four examples are: 正座 (zhengzuo) is a Chinese word which describes the traditional formal way of sitting in Ancient China. A related position is 跪座, which differs in the tops of the feet being raised off the ground. Vajrasana (Diamond Pose) is a yoga posture ( asana) similar to seiza. The lotus position involves resting each foot on the opposite thigh so that the soles of the feet face upwards.

Japanese sitting techniques and rules Sitting techniques and rules
Sitting techniques and rules
Seating order
Book your trip
 Japanese sitting techniques and rules
Learn
›
Etiquette
ui-pin-hamburger
Sitting techniques and rules
Sitting upright on the floor is common in many situations in Japan. For example, meals are traditionally held on a tatami floor around a low table. Sitting on the floor is also customary during the tea ceremony and other traditional events. The formal way of sitting for both genders is kneeling ( seiza) as shown on the picture below. People who are not used to sit in seiza-style may become uncomfortable after a few minutes. Foreigners are not usually expected to be able to sit in seiza-style for a long time, and an increasing number of Japanese people themselves are not able to do so either. Formal seiza positions for women (left) and men (right)
In casual situations, men usually sit cross-legged, while women sit with both legs to one side. The former sitting style is considered exclusively male, while the latter is considered exclusively female. Casual sitting positions for women (left) and men (right)
Seating order
The most important guest sits on the honored seat (kamiza) which is located farthest from the entrance. In Japanese-style rooms with an alcove (tokonoma), the honored guest should be seated in front of the alcove, with his or her back towards the alcove.

Japanese sitting techniques and rules

Sitting techniques and rules
Sitting techniques and rules
Seating order
Book your trip

Japanese sitting techniques and rules
Learn
›
Etiquette
ui-pin-hamburger
Sitting techniques and rules
Sitting upright on the floor is common in many situations in Japan. For example, meals are traditionally held on a tatami floor around a low table. Sitting on the floor is also customary during the tea ceremony and other traditional events. The formal way of sitting for both genders is kneeling ( seiza) as shown on the picture below. People who are not used to sit in seiza-style may become uncomfortable after a few minutes. Foreigners are not usually expected to be able to sit in seiza-style for a long time, and an increasing number of Japanese people themselves are not able to do so either. Formal seiza positions for women (left) and men (right)
In casual situations, men usually sit cross-legged, while women sit with both legs to one side. The former sitting style is considered exclusively male, while the latter is considered exclusively female. Casual sitting positions for women (left) and men (right)
Seating order
The most important guest sits on the honored seat (kamiza) which is located farthest from the entrance. In Japanese-style rooms with an alcove (tokonoma), the honored guest should be seated in front of the alcove, with his or her back towards the alcove.

Seiza - Wikipedia Seiza
Seiza
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Contents
Form
History
Floor
Difficulties
Use in traditional arts
Shikkō
Alternative sitting positions
Agura
Yokozuwari
Wariza
Kiza
See also
References
 People's social circumstances, clothing styles, and the places where they sat naturally brought about their manners of sitting. The development, in the Muromachi period, of Japanese architecture in which the floors were completely covered with tatami (thick straw mats), combined with the strict formalities of the ruling warrior class for which this style of architecture was principally designed, heralded the adoption of the sitting posture known today as seiza as the respectful way to sit. By the middle of the Edo period, it had become a convention for samurai to sit in this manner when meeting authority figures such as the Shogun as a symbol of obedience and loyalty. However, it probably was not until around the years surrounding the turn of the 18th century (the Genroku to Kyōhō eras in Japanese history) that the Japanese generally adopted this manner of sitting in their everyday lives and during the Meiji era, it had become firmly established as the proper sitting posture, as part of the "Japanese culture and tradition" purposefully created during this time. The posture serves as the standard floor sitting posture for most traditional formal occasions, and it is generally considered the respectful way to sit in the presence of superiors or elders unless otherwise permitted. Floor
Seiza involves sitting down on the floor and not on a chair. In traditional Japanese architecture, floors in various rooms designed for comfort have tatami floors. Seiza thus is closely connected with tatami flooring. There are circumstances, however, when people sit seiza -style on carpeted and hardwood floors. In many martial arts, for instance, this sitting position generally takes place on hardwood floors.

Seiza - Wikipedia

Seiza
Seiza
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Contents
Form
History
Floor
Difficulties
Use in traditional arts
Shikkō
Alternative sitting positions
Agura
Yokozuwari
Wariza
Kiza
See also
References

Japanese sitting techniques and rules Sitting techniques and rules
Sitting techniques and rules
Seating order
Book your trip
 Foreigners are not usually expected to be able to sit in seiza-style for a long time, and an increasing number of Japanese people themselves are not able to do so either. Formal seiza positions for women (left) and men (right)
In casual situations, men usually sit cross-legged, while women sit with both legs to one side. The former sitting style is considered exclusively male, while the latter is considered exclusively female. Casual sitting positions for women (left) and men (right)
Seating order
The most important guest sits on the honored seat (kamiza) which is located farthest from the entrance. In Japanese-style rooms with an alcove (tokonoma), the honored guest should be seated in front of the alcove, with his or her back towards the alcove. The host or least important person is supposed to sit next to the entrance (shimoza). community-forum
Questions? Ask in our forum. Book your trip
Hotels
Car
Buses
Tours
City: Tokyo Fukuoka Hakone Hiroshima Hokkaido Ise Shima Kamakura Kanazawa Kansai Airport Kyoto Mount Fuji Nagasaki Nagoya Narita Airport Nikko Niigata Okinawa Osaka Sapporo Sendai Takayama Tokyo
Check-in:

Japanese sitting techniques and rules

Foreigners are not usually expected to be able to sit in seiza-style for a long time, and an increasing number of Japanese people themselves are not able to do so either. Formal seiza positions for women (left) and men (right)
In casual situations, men usually sit cross-legged, while women sit with both legs to one side. The former sitting style is considered exclusively male, while the latter is considered exclusively female. Casual sitting positions for women (left) and men (right)
Seating order
The most important guest sits on the honored seat (kamiza) which is located farthest from the entrance. In Japanese-style rooms with an alcove (tokonoma), the honored guest should be seated in front of the alcove, with his or her back towards the alcove. The host or least important person is supposed to sit next to the entrance (shimoza). community-forum
Questions? Ask in our forum. Book your trip
Hotels
Car
Buses
Tours
City: Tokyo Fukuoka Hakone Hiroshima Hokkaido Ise Shima Kamakura Kanazawa Kansai Airport Kyoto Mount Fuji Nagasaki Nagoya Narita Airport Nikko Niigata Okinawa Osaka Sapporo Sendai Takayama Tokyo
Check-in:

50 Japanese Manners And Customs - Japan Talk 50 Japanese Manners And Customs
50 Japanese Manners And Customs
1. Eating Directly From Common Dishes
2. Paying The Check
3. Pouring Your Own Drink
4. Shaking and Bowing
5. Seating Position
6. Yukata To Breakfast
7. Lose Yukata
8. Bathroom Slippers
9. Garbage Disorder
10. Playing With Chopsticks
11. Pointing
12. Bathing Dirty
13. Hot Spring Towels
14. Cleaning Your Face With Oshibori
15. Honking
16. Direct Speech
17. Cheers
18. Touch
19. Avoiding Keigo
20. Eager Chopsticks
Recently on Japan Talk
16 Things To Do In Japan This August
2021 Koenji Awa Odori
2021 Domannaka Matsuri
2021 Harajuku Omotesando Genki Matsuri Super Yosakoi
 Beyond that they are a cultural item that demand some respect, using them as a toy can be considered disrespectful. 11. Pointing
Pointing is considered somewhat threatening in Japan and is avoided. Instead people tend to indicate direction with an open hand. Verbal directions without gestures are also very common. 12. Bathing Dirty
In Japan, bathing is seen as a relaxing leisure activity rather than an act of cleansing the body. People completely shower with soap before entering a bath. They go to great lengths to avoid getting any soap or soap residue in the bath water. The same convention applies to both home baths and public hot springs.

50 Japanese Manners And Customs - Japan Talk

50 Japanese Manners And Customs
50 Japanese Manners And Customs
1. Eating Directly From Common Dishes
2. Paying The Check
3. Pouring Your Own Drink
4. Shaking and Bowing
5. Seating Position
6. Yukata To Breakfast
7. Lose Yukata
8. Bathroom Slippers
9. Garbage Disorder
10. Playing With Chopsticks
11. Pointing
12. Bathing Dirty
13. Hot Spring Towels
14. Cleaning Your Face With Oshibori
15. Honking
16. Direct Speech
17. Cheers
18. Touch
19. Avoiding Keigo
20. Eager Chopsticks
Recently on Japan Talk
16 Things To Do In Japan This August
2021 Koenji Awa Odori
2021 Domannaka Matsuri
2021 Harajuku Omotesando Genki Matsuri Super Yosakoi

Beyond that they are a cultural item that demand some respect, using them as a toy can be considered disrespectful. 11. Pointing
Pointing is considered somewhat threatening in Japan and is avoided. Instead people tend to indicate direction with an open hand. Verbal directions without gestures are also very common. 12. Bathing Dirty
In Japan, bathing is seen as a relaxing leisure activity rather than an act of cleansing the body. People completely shower with soap before entering a bath. They go to great lengths to avoid getting any soap or soap residue in the bath water. The same convention applies to both home baths and public hot springs.

Avoiding Cross-Cultural Faux Pas - Career Skills From MindTools.com Avoiding Cross-Cultural Faux Pas
Avoiding Cross-Cultural Faux Pas
Understanding the Impact of Cross-Cultural Differences
The Importance of Cultural Awareness
Considering Cultural Differences
Tip 1:
Tip 2:
Common Cross-Cultural Mistakes
Note:
Food
Body Language and Gestures
Tip:
Clothing and Color
Personal Space
Additional Tools and Models
Key Points
 They consider the left hand unclean, so you should never use it for anything publicly. Several cultures consider crossing your legs to be rude. For example, in the Middle East and South Africa, crossed legs often show the sole of the foot, a sign of an ill wish or a bad omen. In Japan, it's considered rude to cross your legs in the presence of someone older or more respected than you. Certain gestures considered acceptable in one country can be highly offensive in another. For example, a "thumbs up" gesture is seen as a sign of satisfaction in the West, but is highly offensive in some Middle Eastern countries. In the United States, a handshake demonstrates that negotiations are finished, and that everyone is leaving on good terms. In the Middle East, a handshake is a sign that serious negotiations are now beginning. In many cultures, pointing is impolite, so it's usually best to avoid it entirely. If you must gesture toward something, use your entire hand.

Avoiding Cross-Cultural Faux Pas - Career Skills From MindTools.com

Avoiding Cross-Cultural Faux Pas
Avoiding Cross-Cultural Faux Pas
Understanding the Impact of Cross-Cultural Differences
The Importance of Cultural Awareness
Considering Cultural Differences
Tip 1:
Tip 2:
Common Cross-Cultural Mistakes
Note:
Food
Body Language and Gestures
Tip:
Clothing and Color
Personal Space
Additional Tools and Models
Key Points

They consider the left hand unclean, so you should never use it for anything publicly. Several cultures consider crossing your legs to be rude. For example, in the Middle East and South Africa, crossed legs often show the sole of the foot, a sign of an ill wish or a bad omen. In Japan, it's considered rude to cross your legs in the presence of someone older or more respected than you. Certain gestures considered acceptable in one country can be highly offensive in another. For example, a "thumbs up" gesture is seen as a sign of satisfaction in the West, but is highly offensive in some Middle Eastern countries. In the United States, a handshake demonstrates that negotiations are finished, and that everyone is leaving on good terms. In the Middle East, a handshake is a sign that serious negotiations are now beginning. In many cultures, pointing is impolite, so it's usually best to avoid it entirely. If you must gesture toward something, use your entire hand.

 The Japanese consider long eye contact a challenge, not a show of confidence as it is in the West. Appearance
The Japanese tend toward conservative dress in business settings. Much like your appearance, our overall manner should be conservative, quiet and respectful. The Japanese believe deeply in saving “face,” that is, not embarrassing another in public. Politeness is the best course to follow. Enjoy the Silence
The Japanese typically nod often while listening,showing they pay attention to what is said. However, there is little idle chatter. In Japan, there is no urge to fill the silence with talk, but rather to use it a time to consider what is being said. Posture
It’s considered rude to sit with legs crossed or slouched. The proper way to sit is upright with both feet on the floor.

The Japanese consider long eye contact a challenge, not a show of confidence as it is in the West. Appearance
The Japanese tend toward conservative dress in business settings. Much like your appearance, our overall manner should be conservative, quiet and respectful. The Japanese believe deeply in saving “face,” that is, not embarrassing another in public. Politeness is the best course to follow. Enjoy the Silence
The Japanese typically nod often while listening,showing they pay attention to what is said. However, there is little idle chatter. In Japan, there is no urge to fill the silence with talk, but rather to use it a time to consider what is being said. Posture
It’s considered rude to sit with legs crossed or slouched. The proper way to sit is upright with both feet on the floor.

12 Lessons in Manners From Around the World 12 Lessons in Manners From Around the World
12 Lessons in Manners From Around the World
Advertiser Disclosure ▾
Wise Bread Picks
1. The Belching Compliment — Eastern Culture
2. Spit to Say Hello — Sub-Saharan Africa
3. Don't Shake With the Left Hand — The Middle East
4. To Tip Is to Offend — Japan
5. Never Show the Sole of Your Shoe — Arab Culture
6. Slurp Your Food to Express Delight — China
7. You Invite, You Pay — Ghana
8. Avoid the Salt Shaker — Egypt
9. Never Fill Your Own Glass — Japan
10. Be Late, Be Polite — Venezuela
11. Avoid Bringing Wine to a Dinner Party — France
12. The "OK" Sign Is Not Okay — Germany, South America, Turkey
 Go and get some training, because you need it." If they don't believe you're being rude, they can also be very confused by the extra money, thinking you have overpaid. Whether it's a taxi driver, a server, or a bellhop, don't tip in Japan. It's not good manners. 5. Never Show the Sole of Your Shoe — Arab Culture
You may remember an incident involving former President George W. Bush and Muntadar al-Zeidi, in which the latter threw his shoe at "Dubya." For many of us, the response was one right out of Austin Powers. " Who throws a shoe, for goodness sake?" But, in Arab culture, it was a significant show of disdain. Showing someone the sole of your shoe is highly insulting, be it sitting with one foot perched on your knee, or reclining with your feet facing your host.

12 Lessons in Manners From Around the World

12 Lessons in Manners From Around the World
12 Lessons in Manners From Around the World
Advertiser Disclosure ▾
Wise Bread Picks
1. The Belching Compliment — Eastern Culture
2. Spit to Say Hello — Sub-Saharan Africa
3. Don't Shake With the Left Hand — The Middle East
4. To Tip Is to Offend — Japan
5. Never Show the Sole of Your Shoe — Arab Culture
6. Slurp Your Food to Express Delight — China
7. You Invite, You Pay — Ghana
8. Avoid the Salt Shaker — Egypt
9. Never Fill Your Own Glass — Japan
10. Be Late, Be Polite — Venezuela
11. Avoid Bringing Wine to a Dinner Party — France
12. The "OK" Sign Is Not Okay — Germany, South America, Turkey

Go and get some training, because you need it." If they don't believe you're being rude, they can also be very confused by the extra money, thinking you have overpaid. Whether it's a taxi driver, a server, or a bellhop, don't tip in Japan. It's not good manners. 5. Never Show the Sole of Your Shoe — Arab Culture
You may remember an incident involving former President George W. Bush and Muntadar al-Zeidi, in which the latter threw his shoe at "Dubya." For many of us, the response was one right out of Austin Powers. " Who throws a shoe, for goodness sake?" But, in Arab culture, it was a significant show of disdain. Showing someone the sole of your shoe is highly insulting, be it sitting with one foot perched on your knee, or reclining with your feet facing your host.

Seiza - Wikipedia Seiza
Seiza
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Contents
Form
History
Floor
Difficulties
Use in traditional arts
Shikkō
Alternative sitting positions
Agura
Yokozuwari
Wariza
Kiza
See also
References
 Some martial arts, notably kendō, aikidō, and iaidō, may prescribe up to two fist widths of distance between the knees for men. Stepping into and out of seiza is mindfully performed. There are codified traditional methods of entering and exiting the sitting position depending on occasion and type of clothing worn. History
A woman in seiza performing a Japanese tea ceremony
Prior to the Edo period, there were no standard postures for sitting on the floor. During this time, seiza referred to "correct sitting", which took various forms such as sitting cross-legged (胡坐, agura ), sitting with one knee raised (立て膝, tatehiza ), or sitting to the side (割座, wariza ), while the posture commonly known as seiza today was called kiza . People's social circumstances, clothing styles, and the places where they sat naturally brought about their manners of sitting. The development, in the Muromachi period, of Japanese architecture in which the floors were completely covered with tatami (thick straw mats), combined with the strict formalities of the ruling warrior class for which this style of architecture was principally designed, heralded the adoption of the sitting posture known today as seiza as the respectful way to sit. By the middle of the Edo period, it had become a convention for samurai to sit in this manner when meeting authority figures such as the Shogun as a symbol of obedience and loyalty. However, it probably was not until around the years surrounding the turn of the 18th century (the Genroku to Kyōhō eras in Japanese history) that the Japanese generally adopted this manner of sitting in their everyday lives and during the Meiji era, it had become firmly established as the proper sitting posture, as part of the "Japanese culture and tradition" purposefully created during this time. The posture serves as the standard floor sitting posture for most traditional formal occasions, and it is generally considered the respectful way to sit in the presence of superiors or elders unless otherwise permitted.

Seiza - Wikipedia

10 Unique Etiquette Tips To Use Around the World 10 Unique Etiquette Tips To Use Around the World
10 Unique Etiquette Tips To Use Around the World
Always Say Ma'am in the American South
Say Cheers on the Streets of Great Britain
No Cappuccino After a Meal in Italy
Slurp Your Noodles When Eating in Japan
It’s Okay to Burp in China
Don’t Rush a Meal in France
Cover Your Shoulders in the Middle East
Embrace the Warmth of Mexico
Keep Your Hands off the Produce in a European Market
Embrace and Respect the Spirit of Aloha From Hawaii
Manners are Essential in Every Society
 Dress modestly. Women should keep their shoulders and knees covered. Kissing in public is not the norm. Don’t handle food with your left hand, even if you’re left-handed. When visiting the home of someone in the Middle East, follow these etiquette guidelines: Bring a small gift, such as flowers, chocolates, or fruit. Sit where the host or hostess asks you to sit. Don’t ask to be moved. Accept whatever food is offered. Not doing so is insulting.

10 Unique Etiquette Tips To Use Around the World

10 Unique Etiquette Tips To Use Around the World
10 Unique Etiquette Tips To Use Around the World
Always Say Ma'am in the American South
Say Cheers on the Streets of Great Britain
No Cappuccino After a Meal in Italy
Slurp Your Noodles When Eating in Japan
It’s Okay to Burp in China
Don’t Rush a Meal in France
Cover Your Shoulders in the Middle East
Embrace the Warmth of Mexico
Keep Your Hands off the Produce in a European Market
Embrace and Respect the Spirit of Aloha From Hawaii
Manners are Essential in Every Society

Dress modestly. Women should keep their shoulders and knees covered. Kissing in public is not the norm. Don’t handle food with your left hand, even if you’re left-handed. When visiting the home of someone in the Middle East, follow these etiquette guidelines: Bring a small gift, such as flowers, chocolates, or fruit. Sit where the host or hostess asks you to sit. Don’t ask to be moved. Accept whatever food is offered. Not doing so is insulting.

Kneeling - Wikipedia Kneeling
Kneeling
Contents
Religion
Judaism and Islam
Christianity
Marriage
Proposals
Catholic Wedding Ceremonies
Kneeling in Sexual Intercourse
BDSM
Kneeling in Different Cultural Societies
East Asia
Japan
China
Kneeling in Ancient China
Genderization of Kneeling in Greek Ritual
Prehistoric Ecuador
Ethnicity and Kinetic Implications of Kneeling-related Postures
Monarchs
European Knights in the Middle Ages and Now
Interacting with Royalty
See also
References
External links
 Many of the culturally significant and traditional events in Japanese society involve sitting positions such as funerals or tea parties. This form of sitting however is uncomfortable to those who have not practiced it for a long time; therefore people in Japan usually start practicing this posture at quite a young age. China
In China, there is a form of prostration involving kneeling called Kowtow. Kowtow is where the participant kneels down then subsequently bows on the ground so that their forehead touches the ground. This was a traditional way of showing respect in China. The literal translation of the mandarin word is “knock head”. This whole process consisted of three kneelings and nine knockings of the head, nine being important since it was a number associated with the Emperor. This practice of kowtowing is not new to the Chinese nor is the concept of kneeling since they sat kneeling down for much of their history as well. Kneeling in Ancient China
In ancient Chinese society, kowtow, or kneeling-bowing, was common for students to express gratitude to their teachers.

Kneeling - Wikipedia

Many of the culturally significant and traditional events in Japanese society involve sitting positions such as funerals or tea parties. This form of sitting however is uncomfortable to those who have not practiced it for a long time; therefore people in Japan usually start practicing this posture at quite a young age. China
In China, there is a form of prostration involving kneeling called Kowtow. Kowtow is where the participant kneels down then subsequently bows on the ground so that their forehead touches the ground. This was a traditional way of showing respect in China. The literal translation of the mandarin word is “knock head”. This whole process consisted of three kneelings and nine knockings of the head, nine being important since it was a number associated with the Emperor. This practice of kowtowing is not new to the Chinese nor is the concept of kneeling since they sat kneeling down for much of their history as well. Kneeling in Ancient China
In ancient Chinese society, kowtow, or kneeling-bowing, was common for students to express gratitude to their teachers.

50 Japanese Manners And Customs - Japan Talk 50 Japanese Manners And Customs
50 Japanese Manners And Customs
1. Eating Directly From Common Dishes
2. Paying The Check
3. Pouring Your Own Drink
4. Shaking and Bowing
5. Seating Position
6. Yukata To Breakfast
7. Lose Yukata
8. Bathroom Slippers
9. Garbage Disorder
10. Playing With Chopsticks
11. Pointing
12. Bathing Dirty
13. Hot Spring Towels
14. Cleaning Your Face With Oshibori
15. Honking
16. Direct Speech
17. Cheers
18. Touch
19. Avoiding Keigo
20. Eager Chopsticks
Recently on Japan Talk
16 Things To Do In Japan This August
2021 Koenji Awa Odori
2021 Domannaka Matsuri
2021 Harajuku Omotesando Genki Matsuri Super Yosakoi
 10. Playing With Chopsticks
Chopsticks should be used as little as possible. That is to say that people avoid using them for anything other than eating. This includes using them to point at things or hovering them over dishes as you consider what to eat. Chopsticks may have your saliva on the ends so they should be flung around in the air as little as possible. Beyond that they are a cultural item that demand some respect, using them as a toy can be considered disrespectful. 11. Pointing
Pointing is considered somewhat threatening in Japan and is avoided. Instead people tend to indicate direction with an open hand. Verbal directions without gestures are also very common.

10. Playing With Chopsticks
Chopsticks should be used as little as possible. That is to say that people avoid using them for anything other than eating. This includes using them to point at things or hovering them over dishes as you consider what to eat. Chopsticks may have your saliva on the ends so they should be flung around in the air as little as possible. Beyond that they are a cultural item that demand some respect, using them as a toy can be considered disrespectful. 11. Pointing
Pointing is considered somewhat threatening in Japan and is avoided. Instead people tend to indicate direction with an open hand. Verbal directions without gestures are also very common.

Respect - Wikipedia Respect
Respect
Contents
Signs and other ways of showing respect
Language
Physical gestures
China
Chinese culture
Respect as a cultural value
Indigenous American culture
See also
References
Further reading
External links
 Many gestures or physical acts that are common in the West can be considered disrespectful in Japan. For instance, one should not point directly at someone. When greeting someone or thanking them, it may be insulting if the person of lower status does not bow lower than the person with higher status. The duration and level of the bow depends on many factors such as age and status. Some signs of physical respect apply to women only. If a woman does not wear cosmetics or a brassiere, it is possible that she will be considered unprofessional or others may think she does not care about the situation. China
Chinese culture
See also: Category: Chinese honorifics
Unlike Japanese culture, it is not necessary in Chinese culture to bow to one another as a greeting or parting gesture. Bowing is generally reserved as a sign of respect for elders and ancestors.

Respect - Wikipedia

Respect
Respect
Contents
Signs and other ways of showing respect
Language
Physical gestures
China
Chinese culture
Respect as a cultural value
Indigenous American culture
See also
References
Further reading
External links

Many gestures or physical acts that are common in the West can be considered disrespectful in Japan. For instance, one should not point directly at someone. When greeting someone or thanking them, it may be insulting if the person of lower status does not bow lower than the person with higher status. The duration and level of the bow depends on many factors such as age and status. Some signs of physical respect apply to women only. If a woman does not wear cosmetics or a brassiere, it is possible that she will be considered unprofessional or others may think she does not care about the situation. China
Chinese culture
See also: Category: Chinese honorifics
Unlike Japanese culture, it is not necessary in Chinese culture to bow to one another as a greeting or parting gesture. Bowing is generally reserved as a sign of respect for elders and ancestors.

50 Japanese Manners And Customs - Japan Talk 50 Japanese Manners And Customs
50 Japanese Manners And Customs
1. Eating Directly From Common Dishes
2. Paying The Check
3. Pouring Your Own Drink
4. Shaking and Bowing
5. Seating Position
6. Yukata To Breakfast
7. Lose Yukata
8. Bathroom Slippers
9. Garbage Disorder
10. Playing With Chopsticks
11. Pointing
12. Bathing Dirty
13. Hot Spring Towels
14. Cleaning Your Face With Oshibori
15. Honking
16. Direct Speech
17. Cheers
18. Touch
19. Avoiding Keigo
20. Eager Chopsticks
Recently on Japan Talk
16 Things To Do In Japan This August
2021 Koenji Awa Odori
2021 Domannaka Matsuri
2021 Harajuku Omotesando Genki Matsuri Super Yosakoi
 Bowing and shaking at the same time doesn't work and is just awkward. 5. Seating Position
In business meetings people from one company all sit on the same side. The customer is seated in the deepest part of the room furthest from the door. This is considered the good side. If you're visiting an office it's common for a receptionist to show you exactly where to sit. If this doesn't happen it's a good idea to ask. 6. Yukata To Breakfast
Hotel yukata are essentially pajamas. They can be worn in the corridors of hotels and to the hotel's onsen.

Bowing and shaking at the same time doesn't work and is just awkward. 5. Seating Position
In business meetings people from one company all sit on the same side. The customer is seated in the deepest part of the room furthest from the door. This is considered the good side. If you're visiting an office it's common for a receptionist to show you exactly where to sit. If this doesn't happen it's a good idea to ask. 6. Yukata To Breakfast
Hotel yukata are essentially pajamas. They can be worn in the corridors of hotels and to the hotel's onsen.

Etiquette in the Middle East - Wikipedia Etiquette in the Middle East
Etiquette in the Middle East
Points of etiquette
See also
References
 Orthodox Christian sites might require the removal of hats by men but will expect women to cover their hair with a kerchief or veil. Public displays of affection between people of the opposite sex, including between married people, are frowned upon everywhere more conservative values hold sway. Public displays of affection include activities as minor as hand-holding. In many cases, people of the same sex holding hands while walking is considered an ordinary display of friendship without romantic connotations. In a related point, many people in the Middle East claim a more modest amount of personal space than that which is usual elsewhere. Accordingly, it can seem rude for an individual to step away when another individual is stepping closer. Special respect is paid to older people in many circumstances. This can include standing when older people enter a room, always greeting older people before others present (even if they are better known to you), standing when speaking to one’s elders, kissing the head of an elderly relative, and serving older people first at a meal table. Hospitality is held in high regard throughout the Middle East. Some hosts take pride in the laborious preparation of what is known in Europe as “ Turkish coffee ”, grinding fresh-roasted coffee beans to a fine powder, dissolving sugar, and carefully regulating the heat to produce a result that meets exacting standards.

Seiza - Wikipedia Seiza
Seiza
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Contents
Form
History
Floor
Difficulties
Use in traditional arts
Shikkō
Alternative sitting positions
Agura
Yokozuwari
Wariza
Kiza
See also
References
 Seiza" – news · newspapers · books · scholar · JSTOR
(July 2010)

This article needs additional citations for verification. Please help improve this article by adding citations to reliable sources. Unsourced material may be challenged and removed. Find sources: " Seiza" – news · newspapers · books · scholar · JSTOR
(November 2014)
( Learn how and when to remove this template message)
( Learn how and when to remove this template message)
Narendra Modi (Prime Minister of India) and Shinzō Abe (Prime Minister of Japan) sitting seiza -style during a tea ceremony
Seiza ( 正座 or 正坐, literally "proper sitting") is the Japanese term for the standard formal traditional way of sitting in Japan . Contents
1 Form
2 History
3 Floor
4 Difficulties
5 Use in traditional arts
5.1 Shikkō
6 Alternative sitting positions
6.1 Agura
6.2 Yokozuwari
6.3 Wariza
6.4 Kiza
7 See also
8 References
Form
To sit seiza -style, one must first be kneeling on the floor, folding one's legs underneath one's thighs, while resting the buttocks on the heels. The ankles are turned outward as the tops of the feet are lowered so that, in a slight "V" shape, the tops of the feet are flat on the floor and big toes overlapped, the right always on top of the left, and the buttocks are finally lowered all the way down. Depending on the circumstances, the hands are folded modestly in the lap, or are placed palm down on the upper thighs with the fingers close together, or are placed on the floor next to the hips, with the knuckles rounded and touching the floor. The back is kept straight, though not unnaturally stiff. Traditionally, women sit with the knees together while men separate them slightly.

Seiza - Wikipedia

A Guide to Using Important Japanese Gestures Properly Important Japanese Gestures and How to Do Them Properly
Important Japanese Gestures and How to Do Them Properly
The Right Way to Sit on a Tatami Mat and Other Tips
The Proper Way to Sit on Tatami
The Right Way to Beckon in Japan
How to Indicate Yourself ("Who, Me?")
Banzai
 The Proper Way to Sit on Tatami
The Japanese have traditionally sat on tatami (a padded straw mat) at their homes. However, many homes today are completely Western in style and don't have Japanese style rooms with tatami. Many young Japanese are no longer able to sit properly on a tatami. The proper way of sitting on tatami is called seiza. Seiza requires that one bends the knees 180 degrees, tuck your calves under your thighs and sit on your heels. This can be a difficult posture to maintain if you are not used to it. This sitting posture requires practice, preferably from an early age. It is considered polite to sit seiza-style on formal occasions. Another more relaxed way of sitting on tatami is cross-legged (agura). Starting with legs out straight and folding them in like triangles.

A Guide to Using Important Japanese Gestures Properly

Important Japanese Gestures and How to Do Them Properly
Important Japanese Gestures and How to Do Them Properly
The Right Way to Sit on a Tatami Mat and Other Tips
The Proper Way to Sit on Tatami
The Right Way to Beckon in Japan
How to Indicate Yourself ("Who, Me?")
Banzai

The Proper Way to Sit on Tatami
The Japanese have traditionally sat on tatami (a padded straw mat) at their homes. However, many homes today are completely Western in style and don't have Japanese style rooms with tatami. Many young Japanese are no longer able to sit properly on a tatami. The proper way of sitting on tatami is called seiza. Seiza requires that one bends the knees 180 degrees, tuck your calves under your thighs and sit on your heels. This can be a difficult posture to maintain if you are not used to it. This sitting posture requires practice, preferably from an early age. It is considered polite to sit seiza-style on formal occasions. Another more relaxed way of sitting on tatami is cross-legged (agura). Starting with legs out straight and folding them in like triangles.

A Guide to Using Important Japanese Gestures Properly Important Japanese Gestures and How to Do Them Properly
Important Japanese Gestures and How to Do Them Properly
The Right Way to Sit on a Tatami Mat and Other Tips
The Proper Way to Sit on Tatami
The Right Way to Beckon in Japan
How to Indicate Yourself ("Who, Me?")
Banzai
 This can be a difficult posture to maintain if you are not used to it. This sitting posture requires practice, preferably from an early age. It is considered polite to sit seiza-style on formal occasions. Another more relaxed way of sitting on tatami is cross-legged (agura). Starting with legs out straight and folding them in like triangles. This posture is usually for men. Women would usually go from the formal to an informal sitting posture by shifting their feet just off to the side (iyokozuwari). Though most Japanese do not concern themselves with it, it is proper to walk without stepping in the edge of the tatami. The Right Way to Beckon in Japan
The Japanese beckon with a waving motion with the palm down and the hand flapping up and down at the wrist. Westerners may confuse this with a wave and not realize they are being beckoned.

This can be a difficult posture to maintain if you are not used to it. This sitting posture requires practice, preferably from an early age. It is considered polite to sit seiza-style on formal occasions. Another more relaxed way of sitting on tatami is cross-legged (agura). Starting with legs out straight and folding them in like triangles. This posture is usually for men. Women would usually go from the formal to an informal sitting posture by shifting their feet just off to the side (iyokozuwari). Though most Japanese do not concern themselves with it, it is proper to walk without stepping in the edge of the tatami. The Right Way to Beckon in Japan
The Japanese beckon with a waving motion with the palm down and the hand flapping up and down at the wrist. Westerners may confuse this with a wave and not realize they are being beckoned.

10 Unique Etiquette Tips To Use Around the World 10 Unique Etiquette Tips To Use Around the World
10 Unique Etiquette Tips To Use Around the World
Always Say Ma'am in the American South
Say Cheers on the Streets of Great Britain
No Cappuccino After a Meal in Italy
Slurp Your Noodles When Eating in Japan
It’s Okay to Burp in China
Don’t Rush a Meal in France
Cover Your Shoulders in the Middle East
Embrace the Warmth of Mexico
Keep Your Hands off the Produce in a European Market
Embrace and Respect the Spirit of Aloha From Hawaii
Manners are Essential in Every Society
 You don’t want to appear crass or uneducated. Here are some of the highlights of Middle Eastern manners: Don’t be insulted when asked about your religion. It’s more of a matter of curiosity than an affront. Often people in the Middle East will use religion as a conversation starter to share some of their own faith and find commonalities rather than differences. Dress modestly. Women should keep their shoulders and knees covered. Kissing in public is not the norm. Don’t handle food with your left hand, even if you’re left-handed. When visiting the home of someone in the Middle East, follow these etiquette guidelines:

You don’t want to appear crass or uneducated. Here are some of the highlights of Middle Eastern manners: Don’t be insulted when asked about your religion. It’s more of a matter of curiosity than an affront. Often people in the Middle East will use religion as a conversation starter to share some of their own faith and find commonalities rather than differences. Dress modestly. Women should keep their shoulders and knees covered. Kissing in public is not the norm. Don’t handle food with your left hand, even if you’re left-handed. When visiting the home of someone in the Middle East, follow these etiquette guidelines:

Seiza - Wikipedia Seiza
Seiza
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Contents
Form
History
Floor
Difficulties
Use in traditional arts
Shikkō
Alternative sitting positions
Agura
Yokozuwari
Wariza
Kiza
See also
References
 Shikkō
Walking on the feet and knees while in the seiza posture, known as shikkō (膝行, knee-movement), is considered more polite than standing up and walking regularly. Shikkō is today quite rare, but is found in some traditional formal restaurants and ryokan, and is practiced in the martial art of aikido, where practitioners learn to defend themselves while moving in shikkō . To perform this knee-walking movement correctly the heels must be kept close together, and the body must move as a whole unit. Movement in shikkō forces one to engage the hips in a way that is considered valuable for aikido training. Alternative sitting positions
Agura
Sakakibara Yasumasa sitting in agura position
Main article: Agura
Sitting cross-legged, agura, is considered informal: it is appropriate for certain situations but not others. It is common in informal situations, such as eating at a low table in a casual restaurant, and allowed in formal situations especially for those for whom seiza is difficult, such as elderly or non-Japanese people . Yokozuwari
A seated Samurai holding his sword with one hand. Some sitting postures (e.g. agura, tatehiza, etc.)

Seiza - Wikipedia

Shikkō
Walking on the feet and knees while in the seiza posture, known as shikkō (膝行, knee-movement), is considered more polite than standing up and walking regularly. Shikkō is today quite rare, but is found in some traditional formal restaurants and ryokan, and is practiced in the martial art of aikido, where practitioners learn to defend themselves while moving in shikkō . To perform this knee-walking movement correctly the heels must be kept close together, and the body must move as a whole unit. Movement in shikkō forces one to engage the hips in a way that is considered valuable for aikido training. Alternative sitting positions
Agura
Sakakibara Yasumasa sitting in agura position
Main article: Agura
Sitting cross-legged, agura, is considered informal: it is appropriate for certain situations but not others. It is common in informal situations, such as eating at a low table in a casual restaurant, and allowed in formal situations especially for those for whom seiza is difficult, such as elderly or non-Japanese people . Yokozuwari
A seated Samurai holding his sword with one hand. Some sitting postures (e.g. agura, tatehiza, etc.)

50 Japanese Manners And Customs - Japan Talk 50 Japanese Manners And Customs
50 Japanese Manners And Customs
1. Eating Directly From Common Dishes
2. Paying The Check
3. Pouring Your Own Drink
4. Shaking and Bowing
5. Seating Position
6. Yukata To Breakfast
7. Lose Yukata
8. Bathroom Slippers
9. Garbage Disorder
10. Playing With Chopsticks
11. Pointing
12. Bathing Dirty
13. Hot Spring Towels
14. Cleaning Your Face With Oshibori
15. Honking
16. Direct Speech
17. Cheers
18. Touch
19. Avoiding Keigo
20. Eager Chopsticks
Recently on Japan Talk
16 Things To Do In Japan This August
2021 Koenji Awa Odori
2021 Domannaka Matsuri
2021 Harajuku Omotesando Genki Matsuri Super Yosakoi
 It's popular to order shared bottles of beer and sake because this routine is one of the charms of an evening. 4. Shaking and Bowing
Shaking hands is very common for business introductions in Japan. There's no reason to bow unless you're familiar with the custom. The most important point here is to make your intentions completely clear with your body language. Bowing and shaking at the same time doesn't work and is just awkward. 5. Seating Position
In business meetings people from one company all sit on the same side. The customer is seated in the deepest part of the room furthest from the door. This is considered the good side.

It's popular to order shared bottles of beer and sake because this routine is one of the charms of an evening. 4. Shaking and Bowing
Shaking hands is very common for business introductions in Japan. There's no reason to bow unless you're familiar with the custom. The most important point here is to make your intentions completely clear with your body language. Bowing and shaking at the same time doesn't work and is just awkward. 5. Seating Position
In business meetings people from one company all sit on the same side. The customer is seated in the deepest part of the room furthest from the door. This is considered the good side.

20 Facts On Japanese Culture You Probably Never Knew - Japanology 20 Facts On Japanese Culture You Probably Never Knew
20 Facts On Japanese Culture You Probably Never Knew
1. Chopsticks
2. Bowing
3. Bathroom Slippers
4. Anime
5. Slurping Noodles
6. Eating Sushi
7. Chankonabe
8. Onsen Etiquette
9. Literacy
10. Fugu
11. Morning Exercise
12. Sitting Seiza
13. Colds and Allergies
14. Bathing
15. Walking While Eating or Smoking
16. Coffee
17. Geisha
18. Pouring Drinks
19. Oshibori
20. Non-Verbal Communication
 It plays every morning for 10 minutes and it’s mostly followed by school children and the elderly. 12. Sitting Seiza
Photo by kasashine via Flickr
Seiza, which means sitting with your legs folded underneath you, is the traditional way to sit on Japanese tatami floors. At formal occasions, sitting seiza is considered appropriate and respectful. Even so, it’s a difficult position for the average person to hold. Older Japanese people sometimes sit with their legs out in front of them, which is completely acceptable. 13. Colds and Allergies
Photo by Stephan Geyer via Flickr
When you suffer from a cold or hayfever in Japan, it’s polite to wear a mask. Japanese people also avoid blowing their noses in public, as it’s seen as rude. 14.

20 Facts On Japanese Culture You Probably Never Knew - Japanology

20 Facts On Japanese Culture You Probably Never Knew
20 Facts On Japanese Culture You Probably Never Knew
1. Chopsticks
2. Bowing
3. Bathroom Slippers
4. Anime
5. Slurping Noodles
6. Eating Sushi
7. Chankonabe
8. Onsen Etiquette
9. Literacy
10. Fugu
11. Morning Exercise
12. Sitting Seiza
13. Colds and Allergies
14. Bathing
15. Walking While Eating or Smoking
16. Coffee
17. Geisha
18. Pouring Drinks
19. Oshibori
20. Non-Verbal Communication

It plays every morning for 10 minutes and it’s mostly followed by school children and the elderly. 12. Sitting Seiza
Photo by kasashine via Flickr
Seiza, which means sitting with your legs folded underneath you, is the traditional way to sit on Japanese tatami floors. At formal occasions, sitting seiza is considered appropriate and respectful. Even so, it’s a difficult position for the average person to hold. Older Japanese people sometimes sit with their legs out in front of them, which is completely acceptable. 13. Colds and Allergies
Photo by Stephan Geyer via Flickr
When you suffer from a cold or hayfever in Japan, it’s polite to wear a mask. Japanese people also avoid blowing their noses in public, as it’s seen as rude. 14.

A Guide to Using Important Japanese Gestures Properly Important Japanese Gestures and How to Do Them Properly
Important Japanese Gestures and How to Do Them Properly
The Right Way to Sit on a Tatami Mat and Other Tips
The Proper Way to Sit on Tatami
The Right Way to Beckon in Japan
How to Indicate Yourself ("Who, Me?")
Banzai
 This posture is usually for men. Women would usually go from the formal to an informal sitting posture by shifting their feet just off to the side (iyokozuwari). Though most Japanese do not concern themselves with it, it is proper to walk without stepping in the edge of the tatami. The Right Way to Beckon in Japan
The Japanese beckon with a waving motion with the palm down and the hand flapping up and down at the wrist. Westerners may confuse this with a wave and not realize they are being beckoned. Although this gesture (temaneki) is used by both men and women and all age groups, it is considered rude to beckon a superior this way. Maneki-neko is a cat ornament that sits and has its front paw raised as if it is calling for someone. It is believed to bring good luck and displayed in restaurants or other business in which customer turnover is important. How to Indicate Yourself ("Who, Me?") The Japanese point to their noses with a forefinger to indicate themselves.

This posture is usually for men. Women would usually go from the formal to an informal sitting posture by shifting their feet just off to the side (iyokozuwari). Though most Japanese do not concern themselves with it, it is proper to walk without stepping in the edge of the tatami. The Right Way to Beckon in Japan
The Japanese beckon with a waving motion with the palm down and the hand flapping up and down at the wrist. Westerners may confuse this with a wave and not realize they are being beckoned. Although this gesture (temaneki) is used by both men and women and all age groups, it is considered rude to beckon a superior this way. Maneki-neko is a cat ornament that sits and has its front paw raised as if it is calling for someone. It is believed to bring good luck and displayed in restaurants or other business in which customer turnover is important. How to Indicate Yourself ("Who, Me?") The Japanese point to their noses with a forefinger to indicate themselves.

12 Lessons in Manners From Around the World 12 Lessons in Manners From Around the World
12 Lessons in Manners From Around the World
Advertiser Disclosure ▾
Wise Bread Picks
1. The Belching Compliment — Eastern Culture
2. Spit to Say Hello — Sub-Saharan Africa
3. Don't Shake With the Left Hand — The Middle East
4. To Tip Is to Offend — Japan
5. Never Show the Sole of Your Shoe — Arab Culture
6. Slurp Your Food to Express Delight — China
7. You Invite, You Pay — Ghana
8. Avoid the Salt Shaker — Egypt
9. Never Fill Your Own Glass — Japan
10. Be Late, Be Polite — Venezuela
11. Avoid Bringing Wine to a Dinner Party — France
12. The "OK" Sign Is Not Okay — Germany, South America, Turkey
 The right hand is used for eating, and the left hand is reserved for wiping after using the bathroom. Knowing this, by offering your left hand, you are offering the hand that, even though clean, is associated with an act that is not. If you ever find yourself in the Middle East, and you're left-handed, make sure you lead with the right hand... every time. And of course, don't eat with your left hand, for the same reasons. 4. To Tip Is to Offend — Japan
In many countries, tipping is not the common practice that it is in America. In my home country of England, for example, you tip when the service is exceptional, or you genuinely like the person who is providing that service. This is because the wages of staff are not based on tips, and so, they do not depend on them. However, in Japan, tipping is actually considered to be insulting. By tipping, you are basically saying, "Hey, here's some extra money.

The right hand is used for eating, and the left hand is reserved for wiping after using the bathroom. Knowing this, by offering your left hand, you are offering the hand that, even though clean, is associated with an act that is not. If you ever find yourself in the Middle East, and you're left-handed, make sure you lead with the right hand... every time. And of course, don't eat with your left hand, for the same reasons. 4. To Tip Is to Offend — Japan
In many countries, tipping is not the common practice that it is in America. In my home country of England, for example, you tip when the service is exceptional, or you genuinely like the person who is providing that service. This is because the wages of staff are not based on tips, and so, they do not depend on them. However, in Japan, tipping is actually considered to be insulting. By tipping, you are basically saying, "Hey, here's some extra money.

Show Me What You Mean! 16+ Japanese Gestures Show Me What You Mean! 16+ Japanese Gestures
16+ Essential Japanese Gestures, Plus Body Language to Avoid
Why Learn Japanese Gestures?
Gestures and Body Language to Avoid in Japan
Looking people in the eye too much
Spreading out arms and legs
Slouching and hands in pockets
Crossing your arms
Pointing
Show Me What You Mean! 16+ Japanese Gestures
The King of Gestures: Bowing
1. The “right” way to bow
Look at the ground and bend from the waist, pause for a moment, then stand up straight.
2. Giving and receiving gifts
Yes, No and Not Sure
3. Yes/okay
4. No
5. I don’t know/excuse me
Gesturing to People
6. Referring to yourself
7. Referring to others
8. Beckoning
Counting
9. Counting on your fingers in Japanese
Expressing Feelings
10. Anger
11. Embarrassment
12. Gratitude
13. Determination
More Japanese Gestures!
14. Calling dibs
15. Let’s eat/let’s drink
16. Peace sign
FluentU - Learn a Language with Real World Videos!
 So before we get into gestures you may actually want to use, here are some gestures and body language that may cause offense. Looking people in the eye too much
While in English-speaking countries looking people in the eye is considered respectful because it shows that you’re paying close attention to what they have to say, in Japan it can be considered too close for comfort, or even aggressive and intimidating. If you’re speaking with someone and they keep staring at their shoes or looking away, perhaps they’re feeling a little overwhelmed by your stare. Try looking to the side a little, or at least glancing down or to the side a little more frequently. Spreading out arms and legs
Anyone who has ever missed out on a seat on the train because someone has spread out wide enough to take up space for two understands how frustrating that behavior can be. Drunk, sleeping salarymen aside, in Japan it’s considered really bad form to take up more space than you need, especially on public transport. And while we’re on the topic of public transport, the people of Tokyo request that you speak quietly and avoid talking on the phone, and always stand up to give seating room to the elderly and people with children! Slouching and hands in pockets
It may be the most comfortable way to stand, but in Japan leaning languorously against a wall with your hands in your pockets is considered to look lazy and messy. Just as it does in the English-speaking world, good posture shows that you’re alert and paying attention. Crossing your arms
This is considered a hostile position, and it’s unlikely that anybody will approach you for a chat if you’re standing with your arms crossed.

Show Me What You Mean! 16+ Japanese Gestures

Show Me What You Mean! 16+ Japanese Gestures
16+ Essential Japanese Gestures, Plus Body Language to Avoid
Why Learn Japanese Gestures?
Gestures and Body Language to Avoid in Japan
Looking people in the eye too much
Spreading out arms and legs
Slouching and hands in pockets
Crossing your arms
Pointing
Show Me What You Mean! 16+ Japanese Gestures
The King of Gestures: Bowing
1. The “right” way to bow
Look at the ground and bend from the waist, pause for a moment, then stand up straight.
2. Giving and receiving gifts
Yes, No and Not Sure
3. Yes/okay
4. No
5. I don’t know/excuse me
Gesturing to People
6. Referring to yourself
7. Referring to others
8. Beckoning
Counting
9. Counting on your fingers in Japanese
Expressing Feelings
10. Anger
11. Embarrassment
12. Gratitude
13. Determination
More Japanese Gestures!
14. Calling dibs
15. Let’s eat/let’s drink
16. Peace sign
FluentU - Learn a Language with Real World Videos!

American Customs That Are Offensive Abroad 25 common American customs that are considered offensive in other countries
25 common American customs that are considered offensive in other countries
1. Tipping
2. Sitting in the back of a cab
3. Throwing a thumbs-up
4. Laughing with your mouth open
5. Calling the USA "America"
6. Being fashionably late
7. Being on time
8. Having one hand in your pocket
9. Using your left hand for anything
10. Opening a present immediately
11. Wearing sweatpants, flip flops, wrinkly clothing, or baseball caps in public
12. Altering your meal
13. Showing the soles of your feet
14. Keeping your shoes on
15. Drinking someone else's alcohol
16. Men showing some skin
17. Eating anywhere that doesn't serve food
18. Telling people to help themselves
19. Touching
20. Keeping your clothes on in saunas and steam rooms
21. Asking certain questions
22. Refusing food
23. Not declining gifts
24. Polishing off your meal
25. Blowing Your Nose
 10. Opening a present immediately
Shutterstock
In most Asian countries, most notably China and India, tearing into a gift in front of the gift giver is poor form. It looks greedy. 11. Wearing sweatpants, flip flops, wrinkly clothing, or baseball caps in public
Sure "athleisure" (stylish sportswear worn outside of the gym) is a hot new trend stateside, but in most countries, notably Japan and most of Europe, this sort of sloppy appearance is considered disrespectful. 12. Altering your meal
In foodie cultures like France, Italy, Spain, and Japan, asking for ketchup, hot sauce, soy sauce, or salt to alter your meal may raise some eyebrows. Before you ask for a condiment, see if there are any on the tables — if not, you should probably refrain. 13. Showing the soles of your feet
In many Arab, Muslim, Hindu, and Buddhist countries, showing the soles of your feet is a sign of disrespect, as they're considered the lowest and dirtiest part of the body, since they touch the dirty ground.

American Customs That Are Offensive Abroad

25 common American customs that are considered offensive in other countries
25 common American customs that are considered offensive in other countries
1. Tipping
2. Sitting in the back of a cab
3. Throwing a thumbs-up
4. Laughing with your mouth open
5. Calling the USA "America"
6. Being fashionably late
7. Being on time
8. Having one hand in your pocket
9. Using your left hand for anything
10. Opening a present immediately
11. Wearing sweatpants, flip flops, wrinkly clothing, or baseball caps in public
12. Altering your meal
13. Showing the soles of your feet
14. Keeping your shoes on
15. Drinking someone else's alcohol
16. Men showing some skin
17. Eating anywhere that doesn't serve food
18. Telling people to help themselves
19. Touching
20. Keeping your clothes on in saunas and steam rooms
21. Asking certain questions
22. Refusing food
23. Not declining gifts
24. Polishing off your meal
25. Blowing Your Nose

10. Opening a present immediately
Shutterstock
In most Asian countries, most notably China and India, tearing into a gift in front of the gift giver is poor form. It looks greedy. 11. Wearing sweatpants, flip flops, wrinkly clothing, or baseball caps in public
Sure "athleisure" (stylish sportswear worn outside of the gym) is a hot new trend stateside, but in most countries, notably Japan and most of Europe, this sort of sloppy appearance is considered disrespectful. 12. Altering your meal
In foodie cultures like France, Italy, Spain, and Japan, asking for ketchup, hot sauce, soy sauce, or salt to alter your meal may raise some eyebrows. Before you ask for a condiment, see if there are any on the tables — if not, you should probably refrain. 13. Showing the soles of your feet
In many Arab, Muslim, Hindu, and Buddhist countries, showing the soles of your feet is a sign of disrespect, as they're considered the lowest and dirtiest part of the body, since they touch the dirty ground.

 If the order is not revoked, report through the Chain of Command. What should you do during medical examinations to ensure the respect for dignity of the detainee? All answers are correct
Which of the following behaviors would NOT be considered rude or inappropriate according to Middle Eastern culture? Standing extremely close to a person during a conversation
Crossing your legs in the presence of an elder
Leaning against a wall
In Middle Eastern culture, the _____________________is considered the dirtiest part of the body. Sole of the foot
The Quran is the holy book of Islam and it guides Muslims in the following areas: All of the answers are correct
_______________ is a holy month in which fasting from dawn until sunset for 29/30 days is required of all able-bodied Muslims. Ramadan
Which of the following is NOT acceptable in the Arab Culture? Taking a persons picture without their consent
Which of the following behaviors would be considered rude or socially unacceptable in Middle Eastern cultures? Public displays of affection between a man and woman
Which type of detainee transfer requires a complete copy of the medical record? Transfer from Level III to other Level III treatment units
Transfer from Level I to Level II treatment units
Transfer from Level IIB to Level III treatment units
Sick call at detention facilities must be held:

If the order is not revoked, report through the Chain of Command. What should you do during medical examinations to ensure the respect for dignity of the detainee? All answers are correct
Which of the following behaviors would NOT be considered rude or inappropriate according to Middle Eastern culture? Standing extremely close to a person during a conversation
Crossing your legs in the presence of an elder
Leaning against a wall
In Middle Eastern culture, the _____________________is considered the dirtiest part of the body. Sole of the foot
The Quran is the holy book of Islam and it guides Muslims in the following areas: All of the answers are correct
_______________ is a holy month in which fasting from dawn until sunset for 29/30 days is required of all able-bodied Muslims. Ramadan
Which of the following is NOT acceptable in the Arab Culture? Taking a persons picture without their consent
Which of the following behaviors would be considered rude or socially unacceptable in Middle Eastern cultures? Public displays of affection between a man and woman
Which type of detainee transfer requires a complete copy of the medical record? Transfer from Level III to other Level III treatment units
Transfer from Level I to Level II treatment units
Transfer from Level IIB to Level III treatment units
Sick call at detention facilities must be held:

A Complete Guide To Japanese Dining Etiquette - Kobe Jones Kobe Jones Blog
Kobe Jones Blog
A Complete Guide To Japanese Dining Etiquette
Sitting
Honour
Towels
Gratitude
Chopsticks
Handling
Drinking
Soup
Clam shells
Soya sauce
Wasabi
Pouring
Tea ceremonies
Ending your meal
Paying the bill
 A Complete Guide To Japanese Dining Etiquette - Kobe Jones
Kobe Jones Blog
A Complete Guide To Japanese Dining Etiquette
Whether eating with new Japanese friends, dining in a Japanese restaurant, or attending a business lunch with a Japanese client, following a few simple etiquette rules can make you shine. Most Japanese people will forgive you for not understanding their customs and beliefs, but by following common etiquette you demonstrate good manners and respect. There are many different components to Japanese etiquette when it comes to dining, and certain situations call for different reactions. Sitting
Typically the Japanese eat at low dining tables and sit on a cushion placed on tatami floor (a reed-like mat). In formal situations both men and women kneel (“seiza”), while in casual situations the men sit cross-legged and women sit with both legs to one side. Honour
The most important person at each meal sits on the seat of honour – known as “kamiza”. The kamiza is placed farthest from the entrance to the room where the meal is held. If there is tokonoma in the room (a built-in recessed space), guests sit in front of it. The host sits at the middle of the table on one side. Towels
In restaurants and bars a hot steamed towel (“oshibori”) is offered so you can clean your hands.

A Complete Guide To Japanese Dining Etiquette - Kobe Jones

Kobe Jones Blog
Kobe Jones Blog
A Complete Guide To Japanese Dining Etiquette
Sitting
Honour
Towels
Gratitude
Chopsticks
Handling
Drinking
Soup
Clam shells
Soya sauce
Wasabi
Pouring
Tea ceremonies
Ending your meal
Paying the bill

A Complete Guide To Japanese Dining Etiquette - Kobe Jones
Kobe Jones Blog
A Complete Guide To Japanese Dining Etiquette
Whether eating with new Japanese friends, dining in a Japanese restaurant, or attending a business lunch with a Japanese client, following a few simple etiquette rules can make you shine. Most Japanese people will forgive you for not understanding their customs and beliefs, but by following common etiquette you demonstrate good manners and respect. There are many different components to Japanese etiquette when it comes to dining, and certain situations call for different reactions. Sitting
Typically the Japanese eat at low dining tables and sit on a cushion placed on tatami floor (a reed-like mat). In formal situations both men and women kneel (“seiza”), while in casual situations the men sit cross-legged and women sit with both legs to one side. Honour
The most important person at each meal sits on the seat of honour – known as “kamiza”. The kamiza is placed farthest from the entrance to the room where the meal is held. If there is tokonoma in the room (a built-in recessed space), guests sit in front of it. The host sits at the middle of the table on one side. Towels
In restaurants and bars a hot steamed towel (“oshibori”) is offered so you can clean your hands.

 10. Opening a present immediately
© Provided by Business InsiderIn most Asian countries, most notably China and India, tearing into a gift in front of the gift giver is poor form. It looks greedy. 11. Wearing sweatpants, flip flops, wrinkly clothing, or baseball caps in public
Sure "athleisure" (stylish sportswear worn outside of the gym) is a hot new trend stateside, but in most countries, notably Japan and most of Europe, this sort of sloppy appearance is considered disrespectful. 12. Altering your meal
In foodie cultures like France, Italy, Spain and Japan, asking for ketchup, hot sauce, soy sauce or salt to alter your meal may raise some eyebrows. Before you ask for a condiment, see if there are any on the tables - if not, you should probably refrain. 13. Showing the soles of your feet
In many Arab, Muslim, Hindu, and Buddhist countries, showing the soles of your feet is a sign of disrespect, as they're considered the lowest, and dirtiest part of the body, since they touch the dirty ground.

10. Opening a present immediately
© Provided by Business InsiderIn most Asian countries, most notably China and India, tearing into a gift in front of the gift giver is poor form. It looks greedy. 11. Wearing sweatpants, flip flops, wrinkly clothing, or baseball caps in public
Sure "athleisure" (stylish sportswear worn outside of the gym) is a hot new trend stateside, but in most countries, notably Japan and most of Europe, this sort of sloppy appearance is considered disrespectful. 12. Altering your meal
In foodie cultures like France, Italy, Spain and Japan, asking for ketchup, hot sauce, soy sauce or salt to alter your meal may raise some eyebrows. Before you ask for a condiment, see if there are any on the tables - if not, you should probably refrain. 13. Showing the soles of your feet
In many Arab, Muslim, Hindu, and Buddhist countries, showing the soles of your feet is a sign of disrespect, as they're considered the lowest, and dirtiest part of the body, since they touch the dirty ground.

List of 14 Interesting Taboos Around the World - Bright Freak List of 14 Interesting Taboos Around the World
List of 14 Interesting Taboos Around the World
Table of Contents
Interesting Taboos Around the World:
1. You cannot call a genital by its actual name
2. Restrictions between males and females
3. Never ask about a person’s income
4. Don’t drink until eye contact
5. Don’t whistle when you’re indoors
6. Don’t take anything from an archeological site
7. Don’t point at the moon with your finger
8. Never joke about religious issues
9. Don’t ever hit your parents
10. Never ever do the Nazi greeting
11. The burning flag is a serious issue
12. Don’t eat pork or shellfish
13. Don’t compare with Americans
14. Don’t call Cyrillic the “Russian alphabet”
David Baker
 Traditionally Japan has a very conservation culture and life in Japan all about respect. Americans will find this taboo in Japanese culture hard to follow, since, in their country, they can mention just about any body part as loud as the voice can carry. If you must mention genitals during a conversation in Japan, simply say Asoko. It is a default way of calling those parts of either gender and won’t get you in trouble. 2. Restrictions between males and females
In all the Middle East countries’ culture, it is a serious issue to touch a female you are not related to. If you’re a man, no matter how happy you are, don’t go giving handshakes to women in the Middle East. It’s against the middle eastern cultural taboos. You also can’t be in the same elevator with women; they will naturally walk out when you come in.

List of 14 Interesting Taboos Around the World - Bright Freak

List of 14 Interesting Taboos Around the World
List of 14 Interesting Taboos Around the World
Table of Contents
Interesting Taboos Around the World:
1. You cannot call a genital by its actual name
2. Restrictions between males and females
3. Never ask about a person’s income
4. Don’t drink until eye contact
5. Don’t whistle when you’re indoors
6. Don’t take anything from an archeological site
7. Don’t point at the moon with your finger
8. Never joke about religious issues
9. Don’t ever hit your parents
10. Never ever do the Nazi greeting
11. The burning flag is a serious issue
12. Don’t eat pork or shellfish
13. Don’t compare with Americans
14. Don’t call Cyrillic the “Russian alphabet”
David Baker

Traditionally Japan has a very conservation culture and life in Japan all about respect. Americans will find this taboo in Japanese culture hard to follow, since, in their country, they can mention just about any body part as loud as the voice can carry. If you must mention genitals during a conversation in Japan, simply say Asoko. It is a default way of calling those parts of either gender and won’t get you in trouble. 2. Restrictions between males and females
In all the Middle East countries’ culture, it is a serious issue to touch a female you are not related to. If you’re a man, no matter how happy you are, don’t go giving handshakes to women in the Middle East. It’s against the middle eastern cultural taboos. You also can’t be in the same elevator with women; they will naturally walk out when you come in.

20 Facts On Japanese Culture You Probably Never Knew - Japanology 20 Facts On Japanese Culture You Probably Never Knew
20 Facts On Japanese Culture You Probably Never Knew
1. Chopsticks
2. Bowing
3. Bathroom Slippers
4. Anime
5. Slurping Noodles
6. Eating Sushi
7. Chankonabe
8. Onsen Etiquette
9. Literacy
10. Fugu
11. Morning Exercise
12. Sitting Seiza
13. Colds and Allergies
14. Bathing
15. Walking While Eating or Smoking
16. Coffee
17. Geisha
18. Pouring Drinks
19. Oshibori
20. Non-Verbal Communication
 Yet it remains an expensive and sought-after delicacy in Japan. Chefs must train for a minimum of three years before undertaking an examination to legally cook and serve it. 11. Morning Exercise
Photo by Justin C. via Flickr
Health is important to Japanese culture and the country’s tradition of morning exercise reflects that. Rajio Taiso, introduced by Emperor Hirohito, is a radio exercise program that’s been broadcast daily since 1928. It plays every morning for 10 minutes and it’s mostly followed by school children and the elderly. 12. Sitting Seiza
Photo by kasashine via Flickr
Seiza, which means sitting with your legs folded underneath you, is the traditional way to sit on Japanese tatami floors. At formal occasions, sitting seiza is considered appropriate and respectful. Even so, it’s a difficult position for the average person to hold.

Yet it remains an expensive and sought-after delicacy in Japan. Chefs must train for a minimum of three years before undertaking an examination to legally cook and serve it. 11. Morning Exercise
Photo by Justin C. via Flickr
Health is important to Japanese culture and the country’s tradition of morning exercise reflects that. Rajio Taiso, introduced by Emperor Hirohito, is a radio exercise program that’s been broadcast daily since 1928. It plays every morning for 10 minutes and it’s mostly followed by school children and the elderly. 12. Sitting Seiza
Photo by kasashine via Flickr
Seiza, which means sitting with your legs folded underneath you, is the traditional way to sit on Japanese tatami floors. At formal occasions, sitting seiza is considered appropriate and respectful. Even so, it’s a difficult position for the average person to hold.

How to Stay on the Right Side of Japanese Table Manners
Guide to Japanese Table Manners
Saying 'Thanks' Before and After Meals
Sitting
Using Chopsticks
Eating From Bowls
Eating Noodles
Eating Sushi and Sashimi
Drinking Alcohol
 Itadakimasu means thanks for the food in Japanese. Gochisousama is said to indicate the ending of a meal and to express gratitude to those who cooked and served the food. If you're eating with Japanese people, be sure to show respect for their customs by saying these phrases. Sitting
The Japanese eat at low tables while sitting on floor cushions. Before sitting, it is customary to remove your shoes. Be careful not to step on others' cushions. Using Chopsticks
Japanese people do use knives, forks, and spoons to eat certain dishes, but chopsticks are still the most frequently used utensils. Try to hold the top chopstick between the thumb and the middle and index fingers as if you're holding a pen. Hold the bottom chopstick between the thumb and the ring finger. To pick up food, move only the top chopstick.

How to Stay on the Right Side of Japanese Table Manners

Guide to Japanese Table Manners
Saying 'Thanks' Before and After Meals
Sitting
Using Chopsticks
Eating From Bowls
Eating Noodles
Eating Sushi and Sashimi
Drinking Alcohol

Itadakimasu means thanks for the food in Japanese. Gochisousama is said to indicate the ending of a meal and to express gratitude to those who cooked and served the food. If you're eating with Japanese people, be sure to show respect for their customs by saying these phrases. Sitting
The Japanese eat at low tables while sitting on floor cushions. Before sitting, it is customary to remove your shoes. Be careful not to step on others' cushions. Using Chopsticks
Japanese people do use knives, forks, and spoons to eat certain dishes, but chopsticks are still the most frequently used utensils. Try to hold the top chopstick between the thumb and the middle and index fingers as if you're holding a pen. Hold the bottom chopstick between the thumb and the ring finger. To pick up food, move only the top chopstick.

Etiquette in Asia - Wikipedia Etiquette in Asia
Etiquette in Asia
Contents
Bangladesh
Brunei
China
India
Indonesia
Japan
Korea
Malaysia
Pakistan
Philippines
Singapore
Thailand
Turkey
See also
References
External links
 Each of them may adhere different religions that have their own rules. These combinations made Indonesia a complex mixture of traditions that may differ from one place to another. Indonesia shares many of the points of etiquette with other Southeast Asian nations. As Indonesia has a Muslim majority population, some points of etiquette in the Middle East also apply. Following are some key points of Indonesian etiquette: It is important to be considerate of other people's dignity. Shaming or humiliating people in public is considered extremely rude. Always use your right hand, when shaking hands, offering a gift, handing or receiving something, eating, pointing or generally touching another person. Japan
Main article: Etiquette in Japan
Japanese customs and etiquette can be especially complex and demanding.

Etiquette in Asia - Wikipedia

Etiquette in Asia
Etiquette in Asia
Contents
Bangladesh
Brunei
China
India
Indonesia
Japan
Korea
Malaysia
Pakistan
Philippines
Singapore
Thailand
Turkey
See also
References
External links

Each of them may adhere different religions that have their own rules. These combinations made Indonesia a complex mixture of traditions that may differ from one place to another. Indonesia shares many of the points of etiquette with other Southeast Asian nations. As Indonesia has a Muslim majority population, some points of etiquette in the Middle East also apply. Following are some key points of Indonesian etiquette: It is important to be considerate of other people's dignity. Shaming or humiliating people in public is considered extremely rude. Always use your right hand, when shaking hands, offering a gift, handing or receiving something, eating, pointing or generally touching another person. Japan
Main article: Etiquette in Japan
Japanese customs and etiquette can be especially complex and demanding.

9 Things That Are Surprisingly Offensive in Asia 9 Things That Are Surprisingly Offensive in Asia
9 Things That Are Surprisingly Offensive in Asia
1. Keep your hands below the neck
2. Master chopstick etiquette
3. Eat with your hands
4. Hold your liquor
5. Don’t blow your nose
6. Watch your hands
7. Don’t tip
8. Prioritize showing respect
9. Don’t chew gum
Sign up for the Daily Wander newsletter for expert travel inspiration and tips
 Don’t tip
It’s actually insulting to leave a tip in Japan. Rather than relying on tips to make up the bulk of their wages, Japanese workers feel they are getting paid to do their job and take pride in doing it well. They don’t need an added incentive which, in fact, comes off rather patronizing and embarrassing. 8. Prioritize showing respect
Respect is an important basic cultural tenant in Asia and is taken very seriously. Possibly the rudest thing you can do in Thailand is make someone “lose face.” Thailand is called the “Land of a Thousand Smiles” so it can be hard to figure out if you’ve made someone lose face, but err on the safe side and try to never question someone’s authority or do anything that could potentially embarrass another. In Korea, even more so than in surrounding countries, it is important to respect elders. It’s rude to even pick up your chopsticks at the start of a meal or get up from the table at the end of it before the oldest people do so. When in doubt, defer to elders.

9 Things That Are Surprisingly Offensive in Asia

9 Things That Are Surprisingly Offensive in Asia
9 Things That Are Surprisingly Offensive in Asia
1. Keep your hands below the neck
2. Master chopstick etiquette
3. Eat with your hands
4. Hold your liquor
5. Don’t blow your nose
6. Watch your hands
7. Don’t tip
8. Prioritize showing respect
9. Don’t chew gum
Sign up for the Daily Wander newsletter for expert travel inspiration and tips

Don’t tip
It’s actually insulting to leave a tip in Japan. Rather than relying on tips to make up the bulk of their wages, Japanese workers feel they are getting paid to do their job and take pride in doing it well. They don’t need an added incentive which, in fact, comes off rather patronizing and embarrassing. 8. Prioritize showing respect
Respect is an important basic cultural tenant in Asia and is taken very seriously. Possibly the rudest thing you can do in Thailand is make someone “lose face.” Thailand is called the “Land of a Thousand Smiles” so it can be hard to figure out if you’ve made someone lose face, but err on the safe side and try to never question someone’s authority or do anything that could potentially embarrass another. In Korea, even more so than in surrounding countries, it is important to respect elders. It’s rude to even pick up your chopsticks at the start of a meal or get up from the table at the end of it before the oldest people do so. When in doubt, defer to elders.

10 Things That Are Rude to a Japanese But Not to You 10 Things That Are Rude to a Japanese But Not to You
10 Things That Are Rude to a Japanese But Not to You
1. Chopsticks and death
2. Blowing your nose
3. Talking and laughing loudly
4. Hot spring bath with clothes
5. Splitting sushi
6. Sweet green tea
7. Serving yourself alcohol
8. Making out in public
9. Lashing out at strangers
10. No tipping
About Author
See the world with us. Subscribe now!
 Chopsticks and death
Let’s start with one of the most common mistakes of all. I have seen it over and over again – most travellers really don’t realise the significance of this faux pas. When eating a bowl of rice with your chopsticks, don’t you ever stick them into the rice. Place them on top of the bowl or on the table. It is called tsukitate-bashi and is extremely rude, as it simply means death. It will remind the Japanese around you of funerals. It also brings bad luck. Unfortunately, it seems to make a lot of sense for foreigners to stick them right in. Don’t be one of them. 2.

10 Things That Are Rude to a Japanese But Not to You

10 Things That Are Rude to a Japanese But Not to You
10 Things That Are Rude to a Japanese But Not to You
1. Chopsticks and death
2. Blowing your nose
3. Talking and laughing loudly
4. Hot spring bath with clothes
5. Splitting sushi
6. Sweet green tea
7. Serving yourself alcohol
8. Making out in public
9. Lashing out at strangers
10. No tipping
About Author
See the world with us. Subscribe now!

Chopsticks and death
Let’s start with one of the most common mistakes of all. I have seen it over and over again – most travellers really don’t realise the significance of this faux pas. When eating a bowl of rice with your chopsticks, don’t you ever stick them into the rice. Place them on top of the bowl or on the table. It is called tsukitate-bashi and is extremely rude, as it simply means death. It will remind the Japanese around you of funerals. It also brings bad luck. Unfortunately, it seems to make a lot of sense for foreigners to stick them right in. Don’t be one of them. 2.

15 American Habits That Are Offensive in Other Countries | Best Life 15 American Habits That Are Offensive in Other Countries
15 American Habits That Are Offensive in Other Countries
1
Wearing shoes indoors
2
Bull horns
3
Eating with your left hand
4
Tipping
5
Putting out the palm of your hand
6
Keeping your hands in your pockets
7
Taking the back seat in a taxi
8
Not finishing your food
9
Thumbs up
10
Blowing your nose in public
11
Crossing your fingers
12
Running late
13
Beckoning with your hand
14
Laughing with your mouth open
15
Sipping your alcohol
 6
Keeping your hands in your pockets
Shutterstock
While keeping your hands in your pockets may seem like an easy way to avoid inadvertently offending others, in some countries, doing so may get you in trouble. If you're traveling in Japan or Korea, specifically, keeping your hands in your pockets is often seen as a sign of arrogance. In September 2018, Monty Python star Michael Palin found this out the hard way when he was forced to reshoot scenes from his documentary, Michael Palin in North Korea, because he had his hands in his pockets while standing near North Korean monuments, a gesture deemed disrespectful by locals. And for more ways to avoid offending others, check out these 40 Things You Should Never Say to Your Boss. 7
Taking the back seat in a taxi
Shutterstock
In the United States, the front passenger seat of a taxi is typically regarded as the driver's domain, a safe place to store their possessions far from passengers' prying eyes. If you're in Scotland, Australia, New Zealand, the Netherlands, or parts of Ireland, however, you'll want to grab the front set for yourself, as sitting in the back, unless explicitly asked to do so, is considered rude. 8
Not finishing your food
Shutterstock
Parents in the United States may be famous for encouraging their children to become members of the clean plate club, but overseas, there's an even stronger cultural imperative to finish one's meal. In India and Japan, for instance, not eating everything on your plate is not only considered wasteful, but an indication that you didn't enjoy what was served. And if you want to keep your health intact on your travels, steer clear of these 20 Foods Doctors Always Avoid While Traveling. 9
Thumbs up
Shutterstock
There are few hand gestures in the United States less likely to cause offense than the thumbs up, overwhelmingly understood to be a way of telling others that you're happy or that things have been done to your satisfaction.

15 American Habits That Are Offensive in Other Countries | Best Life

15 American Habits That Are Offensive in Other Countries
15 American Habits That Are Offensive in Other Countries
1
Wearing shoes indoors
2
Bull horns
3
Eating with your left hand
4
Tipping
5
Putting out the palm of your hand
6
Keeping your hands in your pockets
7
Taking the back seat in a taxi
8
Not finishing your food
9
Thumbs up
10
Blowing your nose in public
11
Crossing your fingers
12
Running late
13
Beckoning with your hand
14
Laughing with your mouth open
15
Sipping your alcohol

Non-verbal Communication in Different Cultures - Businesstopia Non-verbal Communication in Different Cultures
Non-verbal Communication in Different Cultures
Eye Contact
Gestures
Touch
Appearance
Body Movement and Posture
Facial Expressions
Paralanguage
Physical Space (Proxemics)
 It shows how people feel or think about you. If a person does not face you while talking to you can mean that the person is nervous or shy. It might also mean that the person doesn’t like to talk to you. Other body movements like coming to sit near or far can also show confidence, power or trying to control the environment. Postures like sitting straight or slouched also show the mental condition of the person. Hands in pocket also shows disrespect in different cultures. For example, sitting with crossed legs is considered offensive in Ghana and Turkey. Facial Expressions
Face shows feelings, attitudes and emotions. The degree of facial expressions are determined by cultures. People from United States show emotions more than their Asian counterparts.

Non-verbal Communication in Different Cultures - Businesstopia

Non-verbal Communication in Different Cultures
Non-verbal Communication in Different Cultures
Eye Contact
Gestures
Touch
Appearance
Body Movement and Posture
Facial Expressions
Paralanguage
Physical Space (Proxemics)

It shows how people feel or think about you. If a person does not face you while talking to you can mean that the person is nervous or shy. It might also mean that the person doesn’t like to talk to you. Other body movements like coming to sit near or far can also show confidence, power or trying to control the environment. Postures like sitting straight or slouched also show the mental condition of the person. Hands in pocket also shows disrespect in different cultures. For example, sitting with crossed legs is considered offensive in Ghana and Turkey. Facial Expressions
Face shows feelings, attitudes and emotions. The degree of facial expressions are determined by cultures. People from United States show emotions more than their Asian counterparts.

Show Me What You Mean! 16+ Japanese Gestures Show Me What You Mean! 16+ Japanese Gestures
16+ Essential Japanese Gestures, Plus Body Language to Avoid
Why Learn Japanese Gestures?
Gestures and Body Language to Avoid in Japan
Looking people in the eye too much
Spreading out arms and legs
Slouching and hands in pockets
Crossing your arms
Pointing
Show Me What You Mean! 16+ Japanese Gestures
The King of Gestures: Bowing
1. The “right” way to bow
Look at the ground and bend from the waist, pause for a moment, then stand up straight.
2. Giving and receiving gifts
Yes, No and Not Sure
3. Yes/okay
4. No
5. I don’t know/excuse me
Gesturing to People
6. Referring to yourself
7. Referring to others
8. Beckoning
Counting
9. Counting on your fingers in Japanese
Expressing Feelings
10. Anger
11. Embarrassment
12. Gratitude
13. Determination
More Japanese Gestures!
14. Calling dibs
15. Let’s eat/let’s drink
16. Peace sign
FluentU - Learn a Language with Real World Videos!
 Drunk, sleeping salarymen aside, in Japan it’s considered really bad form to take up more space than you need, especially on public transport. And while we’re on the topic of public transport, the people of Tokyo request that you speak quietly and avoid talking on the phone, and always stand up to give seating room to the elderly and people with children! Slouching and hands in pockets
It may be the most comfortable way to stand, but in Japan leaning languorously against a wall with your hands in your pockets is considered to look lazy and messy. Just as it does in the English-speaking world, good posture shows that you’re alert and paying attention. Crossing your arms
This is considered a hostile position, and it’s unlikely that anybody will approach you for a chat if you’re standing with your arms crossed. If you cross your arms during a conversation with a Japanese person you don’t know very well, they may take that as a signal that you don’t want to talk. However, crossing arms with eyes closed shows that you’re thinking deeply about something, which in some conversations is just right! Pointing
Don’t do it. Like staring someone in the eyes, it comes across as too strong, and potentially aggressive. Even if you’re giving directions or gesturing towards an object, you should gently indicate direction with an open palm.

Drunk, sleeping salarymen aside, in Japan it’s considered really bad form to take up more space than you need, especially on public transport. And while we’re on the topic of public transport, the people of Tokyo request that you speak quietly and avoid talking on the phone, and always stand up to give seating room to the elderly and people with children! Slouching and hands in pockets
It may be the most comfortable way to stand, but in Japan leaning languorously against a wall with your hands in your pockets is considered to look lazy and messy. Just as it does in the English-speaking world, good posture shows that you’re alert and paying attention. Crossing your arms
This is considered a hostile position, and it’s unlikely that anybody will approach you for a chat if you’re standing with your arms crossed. If you cross your arms during a conversation with a Japanese person you don’t know very well, they may take that as a signal that you don’t want to talk. However, crossing arms with eyes closed shows that you’re thinking deeply about something, which in some conversations is just right! Pointing
Don’t do it. Like staring someone in the eyes, it comes across as too strong, and potentially aggressive. Even if you’re giving directions or gesturing towards an object, you should gently indicate direction with an open palm.

Etiquette in Asia - Wikipedia Etiquette in Asia
Etiquette in Asia
Contents
Bangladesh
Brunei
China
India
Indonesia
Japan
Korea
Malaysia
Pakistan
Philippines
Singapore
Thailand
Turkey
See also
References
External links
 Please rewrite it to use a more formal, encyclopedic tone. (March 2021)
( Learn how and when to remove this template message)

This article is in list format, but may read better as prose. You can help by converting this article, if appropriate. Editing help is available. (October 2019)
( Learn how and when to remove this template message)
In Asia, paying respect to elders is expected among younger people, a gesture such as bowing expresses the utmost respect. The elaborate and refined Japanese tea ceremony is also meant to demonstrate respect through grace and good etiquette. Etiquette in Asia varies from country to country even though certain actions may seem to be common. No article on the rules of etiquette, nor any list of faux pas, can ever be complete. As the perception of behaviors and actions vary, intercultural competence is essential. A lack of knowledge about the customs and expectations of Asian people can make even those with good intentions seem rude, foolish, and disrespectful.

Etiquette in Asia - Wikipedia

Please rewrite it to use a more formal, encyclopedic tone. (March 2021)
( Learn how and when to remove this template message)

This article is in list format, but may read better as prose. You can help by converting this article, if appropriate. Editing help is available. (October 2019)
( Learn how and when to remove this template message)
In Asia, paying respect to elders is expected among younger people, a gesture such as bowing expresses the utmost respect. The elaborate and refined Japanese tea ceremony is also meant to demonstrate respect through grace and good etiquette. Etiquette in Asia varies from country to country even though certain actions may seem to be common. No article on the rules of etiquette, nor any list of faux pas, can ever be complete. As the perception of behaviors and actions vary, intercultural competence is essential. A lack of knowledge about the customs and expectations of Asian people can make even those with good intentions seem rude, foolish, and disrespectful.

Things Americans Do That Are Rude Around the World 11 things people in the US do that could be considered rude elsewhere
11 things people in the US do that could be considered rude elsewhere
Jessica Booth
A thumbs up can be offensive.
Laughing with your mouth open is often thought to be impolite in Japan.
Travelers recommend covering your mouth when you laugh in Japan.
Adjusting your meal to your liking might be considered rude in many countries.
Making substitutions to a meal isn't expected everywhere around the world.
Using your left hand for eating is bad form in some Muslim countries.
The left hand is considered unclean.
Tipping is considered to be rude behavior in many countries, including Japan and South Korea.
South Korea and Japan are no-tip cultures.
Showing up late is unacceptable in countries like Germany.
Being late isn't going to fly in Germany.
Eating anywhere that doesn't serve food is impolite in Japan.
It's considered bad manners to eat on the go.
Giving a thumbs up sign is very offensive in some places.
Thumbs up is the same as your middle finger in some countries.
It can be rude not to take second helpings in countries like the Philippines.
Leaving a little bit is the way to go.
Chewing gum in public is a big no-no in Luxembourg, France, Switzerland, and Singapore.
There are lots of places were chewing gum isn't generally accepted.
Blowing your nose in public is thought to be repulsive in many countries.
This isn't something that is done in public.
Opening a gift in front of the person who gave it to you is thought to be rude in some parts of India and Egypt.
It isn't always a good look to open your present in front of other people.
SEE ALSO: Language differences between Brits and Americans
FOLLOW US: INSIDER is on Facebook
 It's especially rude to ask for condiments as it implies you don't like the flavor, according to Healthy Travel Blog. The chef typically knows best, so, barring a food allergy, it's best to enjoy the food as is. Using your left hand for eating is bad form in some Muslim countries. The left hand is considered unclean. Shutterstock
In many Muslim, it's not appropriate to eat with your left hand, as it's thought to be unclean, according to the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates. Tipping is considered to be rude behavior in many countries, including Japan and South Korea. South Korea and Japan are no-tip cultures. Anastasiya Aleksandrenko/Shutterstock
According to TripSavvy, leaving a tip in Japan could imply to the staff that you think the establishment isn't doing well financially. Korea is also widely considered a no-tip culture. If you're an American traveling abroad, it's best to do your research beforehand to know if you should leave a tip or just walk away.

Things Americans Do That Are Rude Around the World

It's especially rude to ask for condiments as it implies you don't like the flavor, according to Healthy Travel Blog. The chef typically knows best, so, barring a food allergy, it's best to enjoy the food as is. Using your left hand for eating is bad form in some Muslim countries. The left hand is considered unclean. Shutterstock
In many Muslim, it's not appropriate to eat with your left hand, as it's thought to be unclean, according to the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates. Tipping is considered to be rude behavior in many countries, including Japan and South Korea. South Korea and Japan are no-tip cultures. Anastasiya Aleksandrenko/Shutterstock
According to TripSavvy, leaving a tip in Japan could imply to the staff that you think the establishment isn't doing well financially. Korea is also widely considered a no-tip culture. If you're an American traveling abroad, it's best to do your research beforehand to know if you should leave a tip or just walk away.

A Guide to Using Important Japanese Gestures Properly Important Japanese Gestures and How to Do Them Properly
Important Japanese Gestures and How to Do Them Properly
The Right Way to Sit on a Tatami Mat and Other Tips
The Proper Way to Sit on Tatami
The Right Way to Beckon in Japan
How to Indicate Yourself ("Who, Me?")
Banzai
 A Guide to Using Important Japanese Gestures Properly
Languages › Japanese
Important Japanese Gestures and How to Do Them Properly
The Right Way to Sit on a Tatami Mat and Other Tips
Ingo Tews / Getty Images
Japanese
History & Culture
Essential Japanese Vocabulary
Japanese Grammar
By
Namiko Abe
Japanese Language Expert
B.A., Kwansei Gakuin University
Namiko Abe is a Japanese language teacher and translator, as well as a Japanese calligraphy expert. She has been a freelance writer for nearly 20 years. our editorial process
Namiko Abe
Updated August 21, 2019
While language is a major way of communicating between cultures, a lot of information is packed in-between the lines. In every culture, there are subtleties to pay attention to in order to abide by social customs and rules of politeness . Here is a breakdown on important gestures in Japanese culture, from the right way to sit on a tatami mat to how to point at yourself. The Proper Way to Sit on Tatami
The Japanese have traditionally sat on tatami (a padded straw mat) at their homes. However, many homes today are completely Western in style and don't have Japanese style rooms with tatami. Many young Japanese are no longer able to sit properly on a tatami. The proper way of sitting on tatami is called seiza. Seiza requires that one bends the knees 180 degrees, tuck your calves under your thighs and sit on your heels.

A Guide to Using Important Japanese Gestures Properly
Languages › Japanese
Important Japanese Gestures and How to Do Them Properly
The Right Way to Sit on a Tatami Mat and Other Tips
Ingo Tews / Getty Images
Japanese
History & Culture
Essential Japanese Vocabulary
Japanese Grammar
By
Namiko Abe
Japanese Language Expert
B.A., Kwansei Gakuin University
Namiko Abe is a Japanese language teacher and translator, as well as a Japanese calligraphy expert. She has been a freelance writer for nearly 20 years. our editorial process
Namiko Abe
Updated August 21, 2019
While language is a major way of communicating between cultures, a lot of information is packed in-between the lines. In every culture, there are subtleties to pay attention to in order to abide by social customs and rules of politeness . Here is a breakdown on important gestures in Japanese culture, from the right way to sit on a tatami mat to how to point at yourself. The Proper Way to Sit on Tatami
The Japanese have traditionally sat on tatami (a padded straw mat) at their homes. However, many homes today are completely Western in style and don't have Japanese style rooms with tatami. Many young Japanese are no longer able to sit properly on a tatami. The proper way of sitting on tatami is called seiza. Seiza requires that one bends the knees 180 degrees, tuck your calves under your thighs and sit on your heels.

Some Manners To Understand Before Using a Public Toilet in Japan | Japan Info Some Manners To Understand Before Using a Public Toilet in Japan
Some Manners To Understand Before Using a Public Toilet in Japan
1. Squat toilet
2. Western-style toilet
Which button to press?
What should I do with the used toilet paper?
 This style of toilets has been widely used before World War II, so there is no complicated system behind it. The right way to use it by squatting facing its head. In some toilets, there will be a bar near the head of the toilet for you to hold while squatting. If you sit in the opposite way, some of the business may get stuck and not flush away. This could lead to the bad smell in the toilet and frequent need of maintenance. Therefore, please use the Japanese squat toilet in the right way to keep it clean. 2. Western-style toilet
jp.fotolia.com/
The western-style flush toilets also have “electronic bidets” most of the time. This toilet has a shape everyone is used to. Most such toilets have paper seat covers in a dispenser nearby, or a spirits dispenser that activates when you place a piece of toilet paper underneath it.

Some Manners To Understand Before Using a Public Toilet in Japan | Japan Info

Some Manners To Understand Before Using a Public Toilet in Japan
Some Manners To Understand Before Using a Public Toilet in Japan
1. Squat toilet
2. Western-style toilet
Which button to press?
What should I do with the used toilet paper?

This style of toilets has been widely used before World War II, so there is no complicated system behind it. The right way to use it by squatting facing its head. In some toilets, there will be a bar near the head of the toilet for you to hold while squatting. If you sit in the opposite way, some of the business may get stuck and not flush away. This could lead to the bad smell in the toilet and frequent need of maintenance. Therefore, please use the Japanese squat toilet in the right way to keep it clean. 2. Western-style toilet
jp.fotolia.com/
The western-style flush toilets also have “electronic bidets” most of the time. This toilet has a shape everyone is used to. Most such toilets have paper seat covers in a dispenser nearby, or a spirits dispenser that activates when you place a piece of toilet paper underneath it.

Some Manners To Understand Before Using a Public Toilet in Japan | Japan Info Some Manners To Understand Before Using a Public Toilet in Japan
Some Manners To Understand Before Using a Public Toilet in Japan
1. Squat toilet
2. Western-style toilet
Which button to press?
What should I do with the used toilet paper?
 Therefore, let’s check the styles of the toilets in Japan first. Commonly, there are two main styles of the toilets in Japan: 1. Squat toilet
jp.fotolia.com/
The Japanese-style flush toilet is a traditional squat toilet. It has the shape as shown in the photo above. This style of toilets has been widely used before World War II, so there is no complicated system behind it. The right way to use it by squatting facing its head. In some toilets, there will be a bar near the head of the toilet for you to hold while squatting. If you sit in the opposite way, some of the business may get stuck and not flush away. This could lead to the bad smell in the toilet and frequent need of maintenance.

Therefore, let’s check the styles of the toilets in Japan first. Commonly, there are two main styles of the toilets in Japan: 1. Squat toilet
jp.fotolia.com/
The Japanese-style flush toilet is a traditional squat toilet. It has the shape as shown in the photo above. This style of toilets has been widely used before World War II, so there is no complicated system behind it. The right way to use it by squatting facing its head. In some toilets, there will be a bar near the head of the toilet for you to hold while squatting. If you sit in the opposite way, some of the business may get stuck and not flush away. This could lead to the bad smell in the toilet and frequent need of maintenance.

Some Manners To Understand Before Using a Public Toilet in Japan | Japan Info Some Manners To Understand Before Using a Public Toilet in Japan
Some Manners To Understand Before Using a Public Toilet in Japan
1. Squat toilet
2. Western-style toilet
Which button to press?
What should I do with the used toilet paper?
 Therefore, please use the Japanese squat toilet in the right way to keep it clean. 2. Western-style toilet
jp.fotolia.com/
The western-style flush toilets also have “electronic bidets” most of the time. This toilet has a shape everyone is used to. Most such toilets have paper seat covers in a dispenser nearby, or a spirits dispenser that activates when you place a piece of toilet paper underneath it. You can either use a cover and throw it away afterwards, or wipe the seat with spirits. Do not squat on top of the toilet seat. It could break the seat and lead to an injury. Moreover, it will make the toilet seat dirty; you would not like to be the next person to use it after that.

Therefore, please use the Japanese squat toilet in the right way to keep it clean. 2. Western-style toilet
jp.fotolia.com/
The western-style flush toilets also have “electronic bidets” most of the time. This toilet has a shape everyone is used to. Most such toilets have paper seat covers in a dispenser nearby, or a spirits dispenser that activates when you place a piece of toilet paper underneath it. You can either use a cover and throw it away afterwards, or wipe the seat with spirits. Do not squat on top of the toilet seat. It could break the seat and lead to an injury. Moreover, it will make the toilet seat dirty; you would not like to be the next person to use it after that.

Things Americans Do That Are Rude Around the World 11 things people in the US do that could be considered rude elsewhere
11 things people in the US do that could be considered rude elsewhere
Jessica Booth
A thumbs up can be offensive.
Laughing with your mouth open is often thought to be impolite in Japan.
Travelers recommend covering your mouth when you laugh in Japan.
Adjusting your meal to your liking might be considered rude in many countries.
Making substitutions to a meal isn't expected everywhere around the world.
Using your left hand for eating is bad form in some Muslim countries.
The left hand is considered unclean.
Tipping is considered to be rude behavior in many countries, including Japan and South Korea.
South Korea and Japan are no-tip cultures.
Showing up late is unacceptable in countries like Germany.
Being late isn't going to fly in Germany.
Eating anywhere that doesn't serve food is impolite in Japan.
It's considered bad manners to eat on the go.
Giving a thumbs up sign is very offensive in some places.
Thumbs up is the same as your middle finger in some countries.
It can be rude not to take second helpings in countries like the Philippines.
Leaving a little bit is the way to go.
Chewing gum in public is a big no-no in Luxembourg, France, Switzerland, and Singapore.
There are lots of places were chewing gum isn't generally accepted.
Blowing your nose in public is thought to be repulsive in many countries.
This isn't something that is done in public.
Opening a gift in front of the person who gave it to you is thought to be rude in some parts of India and Egypt.
It isn't always a good look to open your present in front of other people.
SEE ALSO: Language differences between Brits and Americans
FOLLOW US: INSIDER is on Facebook
 Singapore has actually banned chewing gum altogether (except when bought from pharmacists) because of the potential for pollution. Blowing your nose in public is thought to be repulsive in many countries. This isn't something that is done in public. Sarah Schmalbruch/INSIDER
Blowing your nose in public isn't exactly polite in the US, but it also happens all the time without many giving it a second thought. In China and Japan, doing so is thought to be extremely rude and in France, it's a sign of a bad upbringing, according to the book "International Business Culture." It's also thought to be very rude in Turkey to blow your nose during a meal. Opening a gift in front of the person who gave it to you is thought to be rude in some parts of India and Egypt. It isn't always a good look to open your present in front of other people. Flickr/JD Hancock
In some parts of India and Egypt, opening a gift as soon as you get it in front of the presenter is thought to be impolite, according to Condé Nast Traveler, because it can be considered, awkward or greedy. Instead, set the gift aside fully wrapped and open it later.

Singapore has actually banned chewing gum altogether (except when bought from pharmacists) because of the potential for pollution. Blowing your nose in public is thought to be repulsive in many countries. This isn't something that is done in public. Sarah Schmalbruch/INSIDER
Blowing your nose in public isn't exactly polite in the US, but it also happens all the time without many giving it a second thought. In China and Japan, doing so is thought to be extremely rude and in France, it's a sign of a bad upbringing, according to the book "International Business Culture." It's also thought to be very rude in Turkey to blow your nose during a meal. Opening a gift in front of the person who gave it to you is thought to be rude in some parts of India and Egypt. It isn't always a good look to open your present in front of other people. Flickr/JD Hancock
In some parts of India and Egypt, opening a gift as soon as you get it in front of the presenter is thought to be impolite, according to Condé Nast Traveler, because it can be considered, awkward or greedy. Instead, set the gift aside fully wrapped and open it later.

12 Japanese Words You Need To Know For Karate | The Martial Way
OSU!
Archives
 It is used in all schools to address teachers and professors, as well as professionals such as lawyers, doctors, politicians, and other figures of authority. The word is also used to show respect to someone who has achieved a certain level of mastery in an art form or some other skill: accomplished novelists, musicians, artists and martial artists. 3. Seiza (正座 or 正坐) – [say za] literally means “proper sitting” and is the Japanese term for one of the traditional formal ways of kneeling in Japan. To sit seiza-style in Kyokushin, one must first be kneeling on the floor, folding one’s legs underneath one’s thighs, while resting the buttocks on the heels. The ankles are turned outward as the tops of the feet are lowered so that, in a slight “V” shape, the tops of the feet are flat on the floor and big toes sometimes are overlapped, and the buttocks are finally lowered all the way down. Within Kyokushin the fists are placed on the upper thigh. The back is kept straight, though not unnaturally stiff. Traditionally, women sit with the knees together while men separate them slightly, roughly two fist widths of distance between the knees.

12 Japanese Words You Need To Know For Karate | The Martial Way

It is used in all schools to address teachers and professors, as well as professionals such as lawyers, doctors, politicians, and other figures of authority. The word is also used to show respect to someone who has achieved a certain level of mastery in an art form or some other skill: accomplished novelists, musicians, artists and martial artists. 3. Seiza (正座 or 正坐) – [say za] literally means “proper sitting” and is the Japanese term for one of the traditional formal ways of kneeling in Japan. To sit seiza-style in Kyokushin, one must first be kneeling on the floor, folding one’s legs underneath one’s thighs, while resting the buttocks on the heels. The ankles are turned outward as the tops of the feet are lowered so that, in a slight “V” shape, the tops of the feet are flat on the floor and big toes sometimes are overlapped, and the buttocks are finally lowered all the way down. Within Kyokushin the fists are placed on the upper thigh. The back is kept straight, though not unnaturally stiff. Traditionally, women sit with the knees together while men separate them slightly, roughly two fist widths of distance between the knees.

Etiquette in Asia - Wikipedia Etiquette in Asia
Etiquette in Asia
Contents
Bangladesh
Brunei
China
India
Indonesia
Japan
Korea
Malaysia
Pakistan
Philippines
Singapore
Thailand
Turkey
See also
References
External links
 Although if one of you is drinking from a bottle to glass and the other one is drinking just from a glass, it is fine to pour yourself because otherwise you will be in for a long wait. Blowing one's nose in public is a faux pas. Also, the Japanese do not use their handkerchief for hanakuso, which literally translates as "nose shit". For women, not wearing cosmetics or a brassiere may be seen as unprofessional or expressive of disregard for the situation. Though many Japanese are lenient with foreigners in this regard, it is a faux pas not to use polite language and honorifics when speaking in Japanese with someone having a higher social status. The Japanese honorific "san" can be used when speaking English but is never used when referring to one’s self. Japanese place surnames before given names but often reverse the order for the benefit of Westerners. A smile or laughter from a Japanese person may mean that they are feeling nervous or uncomfortable, and not necessarily happy. Tipping is rarely practiced in Japan, and can be considered as an insult, except in certain cases, such as tipping your surgeon for an operation, when visiting a high class ryokan, or when dealing with house movers. Consult the locals to be sure what is appropriate.

Etiquette in Asia - Wikipedia

Although if one of you is drinking from a bottle to glass and the other one is drinking just from a glass, it is fine to pour yourself because otherwise you will be in for a long wait. Blowing one's nose in public is a faux pas. Also, the Japanese do not use their handkerchief for hanakuso, which literally translates as "nose shit". For women, not wearing cosmetics or a brassiere may be seen as unprofessional or expressive of disregard for the situation. Though many Japanese are lenient with foreigners in this regard, it is a faux pas not to use polite language and honorifics when speaking in Japanese with someone having a higher social status. The Japanese honorific "san" can be used when speaking English but is never used when referring to one’s self. Japanese place surnames before given names but often reverse the order for the benefit of Westerners. A smile or laughter from a Japanese person may mean that they are feeling nervous or uncomfortable, and not necessarily happy. Tipping is rarely practiced in Japan, and can be considered as an insult, except in certain cases, such as tipping your surgeon for an operation, when visiting a high class ryokan, or when dealing with house movers. Consult the locals to be sure what is appropriate.

Things Americans Do That Are Rude Around the World 11 things people in the US do that could be considered rude elsewhere
11 things people in the US do that could be considered rude elsewhere
Jessica Booth
A thumbs up can be offensive.
Laughing with your mouth open is often thought to be impolite in Japan.
Travelers recommend covering your mouth when you laugh in Japan.
Adjusting your meal to your liking might be considered rude in many countries.
Making substitutions to a meal isn't expected everywhere around the world.
Using your left hand for eating is bad form in some Muslim countries.
The left hand is considered unclean.
Tipping is considered to be rude behavior in many countries, including Japan and South Korea.
South Korea and Japan are no-tip cultures.
Showing up late is unacceptable in countries like Germany.
Being late isn't going to fly in Germany.
Eating anywhere that doesn't serve food is impolite in Japan.
It's considered bad manners to eat on the go.
Giving a thumbs up sign is very offensive in some places.
Thumbs up is the same as your middle finger in some countries.
It can be rude not to take second helpings in countries like the Philippines.
Leaving a little bit is the way to go.
Chewing gum in public is a big no-no in Luxembourg, France, Switzerland, and Singapore.
There are lots of places were chewing gum isn't generally accepted.
Blowing your nose in public is thought to be repulsive in many countries.
This isn't something that is done in public.
Opening a gift in front of the person who gave it to you is thought to be rude in some parts of India and Egypt.
It isn't always a good look to open your present in front of other people.
SEE ALSO: Language differences between Brits and Americans
FOLLOW US: INSIDER is on Facebook
 Travelers recommend covering your mouth when you laugh in Japan. The OC/IMDb
In the United States, people are never afraid to laugh loudly and boldly wherever they are. For anyone visiting Japan, though, tourists may want to be more careful. People are generally expected to cover their mouths with their hand when they laugh, according to Cultura Atlas. Of course, not everyone will do this, but it's worth keeping in mind should you travel there. Adjusting your meal to your liking might be considered rude in many countries. Making substitutions to a meal isn't expected everywhere around the world. Shutterstock
In the US, it's so common to adjust restaurant meals to your liking (adding, removing, or substituting ingredients, asking for condiments, etc.) that it's thought to be impolite if a restaurant won't let you do so. But in many other countries, such as France, Italy, Spain, and Japan, doing something like this could be considered rude to the chef.

Travelers recommend covering your mouth when you laugh in Japan. The OC/IMDb
In the United States, people are never afraid to laugh loudly and boldly wherever they are. For anyone visiting Japan, though, tourists may want to be more careful. People are generally expected to cover their mouths with their hand when they laugh, according to Cultura Atlas. Of course, not everyone will do this, but it's worth keeping in mind should you travel there. Adjusting your meal to your liking might be considered rude in many countries. Making substitutions to a meal isn't expected everywhere around the world. Shutterstock
In the US, it's so common to adjust restaurant meals to your liking (adding, removing, or substituting ingredients, asking for condiments, etc.) that it's thought to be impolite if a restaurant won't let you do so. But in many other countries, such as France, Italy, Spain, and Japan, doing something like this could be considered rude to the chef.

9 Things That Are Surprisingly Offensive in Asia 9 Things That Are Surprisingly Offensive in Asia
9 Things That Are Surprisingly Offensive in Asia
1. Keep your hands below the neck
2. Master chopstick etiquette
3. Eat with your hands
4. Hold your liquor
5. Don’t blow your nose
6. Watch your hands
7. Don’t tip
8. Prioritize showing respect
9. Don’t chew gum
Sign up for the Daily Wander newsletter for expert travel inspiration and tips
 In Cambodia and other Southeast Asian countries, pointing with one finger is rude. If you have to single out a thing or a direction, it’s safest to gesture with your full hand, palm up. In Korea, Japan, and Thailand giving or receiving with one hand is a big no-no. With everything from giving gifts to handing money to a cashier—always use two hands. 7. Don’t tip
It’s actually insulting to leave a tip in Japan. Rather than relying on tips to make up the bulk of their wages, Japanese workers feel they are getting paid to do their job and take pride in doing it well. They don’t need an added incentive which, in fact, comes off rather patronizing and embarrassing. 8. Prioritize showing respect
Respect is an important basic cultural tenant in Asia and is taken very seriously.

In Cambodia and other Southeast Asian countries, pointing with one finger is rude. If you have to single out a thing or a direction, it’s safest to gesture with your full hand, palm up. In Korea, Japan, and Thailand giving or receiving with one hand is a big no-no. With everything from giving gifts to handing money to a cashier—always use two hands. 7. Don’t tip
It’s actually insulting to leave a tip in Japan. Rather than relying on tips to make up the bulk of their wages, Japanese workers feel they are getting paid to do their job and take pride in doing it well. They don’t need an added incentive which, in fact, comes off rather patronizing and embarrassing. 8. Prioritize showing respect
Respect is an important basic cultural tenant in Asia and is taken very seriously.

Japanese body language and gestures - Lingualift Japanese body language and gestures
Japanese body language and gestures
The basics of not offending or frightening people
Counting backwards and beckoning someone to go away
Looking at your shoes
Saying what’s not said
 Looking at your shoes
No mention of Japanese body language is complete without the bow. Bowing in Japan shows respect toward the other person. For men, you put your hands on the sides of your legs. Women commonly place their palms flat on the front of their legs. Then, you lower your head so that the other person can give you a comical slap if they want to. The depth and length of time of the bow depends on the situation and social rank of each person. For a regular bow, take a second to look at the other person’s shoes. If you really want to show respect, examine your own shoes for a minute. Friends casually acknowledge each other or say thinks with a smile and quick head nod. Saying what’s not said
In Japan, silence is golden.

Japanese body language and gestures - Lingualift

Japanese body language and gestures
Japanese body language and gestures
The basics of not offending or frightening people
Counting backwards and beckoning someone to go away
Looking at your shoes
Saying what’s not said

Looking at your shoes
No mention of Japanese body language is complete without the bow. Bowing in Japan shows respect toward the other person. For men, you put your hands on the sides of your legs. Women commonly place their palms flat on the front of their legs. Then, you lower your head so that the other person can give you a comical slap if they want to. The depth and length of time of the bow depends on the situation and social rank of each person. For a regular bow, take a second to look at the other person’s shoes. If you really want to show respect, examine your own shoes for a minute. Friends casually acknowledge each other or say thinks with a smile and quick head nod. Saying what’s not said
In Japan, silence is golden.

Things Americans Do That Are Rude Around the World 11 things people in the US do that could be considered rude elsewhere
11 things people in the US do that could be considered rude elsewhere
Jessica Booth
A thumbs up can be offensive.
Laughing with your mouth open is often thought to be impolite in Japan.
Travelers recommend covering your mouth when you laugh in Japan.
Adjusting your meal to your liking might be considered rude in many countries.
Making substitutions to a meal isn't expected everywhere around the world.
Using your left hand for eating is bad form in some Muslim countries.
The left hand is considered unclean.
Tipping is considered to be rude behavior in many countries, including Japan and South Korea.
South Korea and Japan are no-tip cultures.
Showing up late is unacceptable in countries like Germany.
Being late isn't going to fly in Germany.
Eating anywhere that doesn't serve food is impolite in Japan.
It's considered bad manners to eat on the go.
Giving a thumbs up sign is very offensive in some places.
Thumbs up is the same as your middle finger in some countries.
It can be rude not to take second helpings in countries like the Philippines.
Leaving a little bit is the way to go.
Chewing gum in public is a big no-no in Luxembourg, France, Switzerland, and Singapore.
There are lots of places were chewing gum isn't generally accepted.
Blowing your nose in public is thought to be repulsive in many countries.
This isn't something that is done in public.
Opening a gift in front of the person who gave it to you is thought to be rude in some parts of India and Egypt.
It isn't always a good look to open your present in front of other people.
SEE ALSO: Language differences between Brits and Americans
FOLLOW US: INSIDER is on Facebook
 grki
It might be commonplace to grab food and eat on-the-go in the US, but not in Japan. This is especially true of eating strong smelling food on public transport. Giving a thumbs up sign is very offensive in some places. Thumbs up is the same as your middle finger in some countries. AP Photo/Lionel Cironneau
A lot of countries consider a thumbs up sign to be the equivalent of the middle finger, including in parts of West Africa, Russia, Australia, Iran, Greece, and Sardinia, Slate reported. That said, some people have adopted this hand movement to have a positive association, so it depends on where you are. Read more: 5 everyday hand gestures that can get you in serious trouble outside the US
It can be rude not to take second helpings in countries like the Philippines. Leaving a little bit is the way to go. YelenaYemchuk/ iStock
In some places, etiquette says that at first rejecting second helpings or doggie bags, but ultimately accepting them, is the polite thing to do. "

grki
It might be commonplace to grab food and eat on-the-go in the US, but not in Japan. This is especially true of eating strong smelling food on public transport. Giving a thumbs up sign is very offensive in some places. Thumbs up is the same as your middle finger in some countries. AP Photo/Lionel Cironneau
A lot of countries consider a thumbs up sign to be the equivalent of the middle finger, including in parts of West Africa, Russia, Australia, Iran, Greece, and Sardinia, Slate reported. That said, some people have adopted this hand movement to have a positive association, so it depends on where you are. Read more: 5 everyday hand gestures that can get you in serious trouble outside the US
It can be rude not to take second helpings in countries like the Philippines. Leaving a little bit is the way to go. YelenaYemchuk/ iStock
In some places, etiquette says that at first rejecting second helpings or doggie bags, but ultimately accepting them, is the polite thing to do. "

Things Americans Do That Are Rude Around the World 11 things people in the US do that could be considered rude elsewhere
11 things people in the US do that could be considered rude elsewhere
Jessica Booth
A thumbs up can be offensive.
Laughing with your mouth open is often thought to be impolite in Japan.
Travelers recommend covering your mouth when you laugh in Japan.
Adjusting your meal to your liking might be considered rude in many countries.
Making substitutions to a meal isn't expected everywhere around the world.
Using your left hand for eating is bad form in some Muslim countries.
The left hand is considered unclean.
Tipping is considered to be rude behavior in many countries, including Japan and South Korea.
South Korea and Japan are no-tip cultures.
Showing up late is unacceptable in countries like Germany.
Being late isn't going to fly in Germany.
Eating anywhere that doesn't serve food is impolite in Japan.
It's considered bad manners to eat on the go.
Giving a thumbs up sign is very offensive in some places.
Thumbs up is the same as your middle finger in some countries.
It can be rude not to take second helpings in countries like the Philippines.
Leaving a little bit is the way to go.
Chewing gum in public is a big no-no in Luxembourg, France, Switzerland, and Singapore.
There are lots of places were chewing gum isn't generally accepted.
Blowing your nose in public is thought to be repulsive in many countries.
This isn't something that is done in public.
Opening a gift in front of the person who gave it to you is thought to be rude in some parts of India and Egypt.
It isn't always a good look to open your present in front of other people.
SEE ALSO: Language differences between Brits and Americans
FOLLOW US: INSIDER is on Facebook
 Showing up late is unacceptable in countries like Germany. Being late isn't going to fly in Germany. NBC
If you live by the term "fashionably late," you might want to adjust that when visiting places like Germany, where they might assume it means you think your time is more valuable than anyone else's. Eating anywhere that doesn't serve food is impolite in Japan. It's considered bad manners to eat on the go. grki
It might be commonplace to grab food and eat on-the-go in the US, but not in Japan. This is especially true of eating strong smelling food on public transport. Giving a thumbs up sign is very offensive in some places. Thumbs up is the same as your middle finger in some countries. AP Photo/Lionel Cironneau
A lot of countries consider a thumbs up sign to be the equivalent of the middle finger, including in parts of West Africa, Russia, Australia, Iran, Greece, and Sardinia, Slate reported.

Showing up late is unacceptable in countries like Germany. Being late isn't going to fly in Germany. NBC
If you live by the term "fashionably late," you might want to adjust that when visiting places like Germany, where they might assume it means you think your time is more valuable than anyone else's. Eating anywhere that doesn't serve food is impolite in Japan. It's considered bad manners to eat on the go. grki
It might be commonplace to grab food and eat on-the-go in the US, but not in Japan. This is especially true of eating strong smelling food on public transport. Giving a thumbs up sign is very offensive in some places. Thumbs up is the same as your middle finger in some countries. AP Photo/Lionel Cironneau
A lot of countries consider a thumbs up sign to be the equivalent of the middle finger, including in parts of West Africa, Russia, Australia, Iran, Greece, and Sardinia, Slate reported.

Japanese Culture Facts: 23 Things You May Not Have Known | Udemy Blog Japanese Culture Facts: 23 Things You May Not Have Known
Japanese Culture Facts: 23 Things You May Not Have Known
Udemy Editor
Empower your team. Lead the industry.
Facts About Japan’s Culture
 For foreigners, it’s acceptable to simply shake hands upon meeting, but the traditional form of greeting is a bow, with how far you bow being relative to the respect shown to the recipient. As you would expect, table manners are many and stringent in Japan. Always wait to be told where to sit, and remember that the guest of honor, or the eldest guest, is usually seated at the center. Chopstick use is important and comes with its own set of rules. Never point with them, never pierce your food with them, and lay them on the chopstick rest when chewing, making sure not to cross them. Eat a little bit of everything, and make sure to not mix rice with other food, like many Westerners do – try some of the food, then the rice. Even though it seems like a strict country, Japanese people understand that foreigners may not know about their cultural nuances, and are very understanding of any faux pas that might occur, as long as the offender is respectful. They w

Japanese Culture Facts: 23 Things You May Not Have Known | Udemy Blog

Japanese Culture Facts: 23 Things You May Not Have Known
Japanese Culture Facts: 23 Things You May Not Have Known
Udemy Editor
Empower your team. Lead the industry.
Facts About Japan’s Culture

For foreigners, it’s acceptable to simply shake hands upon meeting, but the traditional form of greeting is a bow, with how far you bow being relative to the respect shown to the recipient. As you would expect, table manners are many and stringent in Japan. Always wait to be told where to sit, and remember that the guest of honor, or the eldest guest, is usually seated at the center. Chopstick use is important and comes with its own set of rules. Never point with them, never pierce your food with them, and lay them on the chopstick rest when chewing, making sure not to cross them. Eat a little bit of everything, and make sure to not mix rice with other food, like many Westerners do – try some of the food, then the rice. Even though it seems like a strict country, Japanese people understand that foreigners may not know about their cultural nuances, and are very understanding of any faux pas that might occur, as long as the offender is respectful. They w

10 Japanese Business Etiquette Rules | All About Japan 10 Japanese Business Etiquette Rules
10 Japanese Business Etiquette Rules
1. Wait Before Sitting Down
2. Seating Arrangements By Rank
3. Take Off Your Coat Before Entering a Building
4. Learn Formal Greetings & Closings for Business Correspondence
5. Get on the Elevator in the Proper Order
 10 Japanese Business Etiquette Rules | All About Japan
10 Japanese Business Etiquette Rules
Updated January 26, 2017 | Business , Life in Japan
kaigai-matome.net
There's quite a long list of dos and don'ts when it comes to business etiquette in Japan, so to simplify it we have compiled 10 common business manners you're likely to encounter. 1. Wait Before Sitting Down
www.photo-ac.com
When visiting someone else’s office, wait until the host says “Please, have a seat,” before sitting down. Actually, that sort of seems like common courtesy, regardless of whether you’re a visitor to someone’s workplace or a guest in their home. 2. Seating Arrangements By Rank
karakuchi-info.net
Japanese society is often concerned with relative status in social relationships. Obviously, higher-ranking employees are considered higher status, but so are guests, those with more experience and those who are simply older. The above diagram shows the proper place for each one to sit, with the entrance at the bottom left and the leader of the meeting or gicho (議長) in the center. As you can see there are different rules for different room layouts as well as for trains and taxis, but generally, the person with the highest status (No. 1) is next to the meeting leader.

10 Japanese Business Etiquette Rules | All About Japan

10 Japanese Business Etiquette Rules
10 Japanese Business Etiquette Rules
1. Wait Before Sitting Down
2. Seating Arrangements By Rank
3. Take Off Your Coat Before Entering a Building
4. Learn Formal Greetings & Closings for Business Correspondence
5. Get on the Elevator in the Proper Order

10 Japanese Business Etiquette Rules | All About Japan
10 Japanese Business Etiquette Rules
Updated January 26, 2017 | Business , Life in Japan
kaigai-matome.net
There's quite a long list of dos and don'ts when it comes to business etiquette in Japan, so to simplify it we have compiled 10 common business manners you're likely to encounter. 1. Wait Before Sitting Down
www.photo-ac.com
When visiting someone else’s office, wait until the host says “Please, have a seat,” before sitting down. Actually, that sort of seems like common courtesy, regardless of whether you’re a visitor to someone’s workplace or a guest in their home. 2. Seating Arrangements By Rank
karakuchi-info.net
Japanese society is often concerned with relative status in social relationships. Obviously, higher-ranking employees are considered higher status, but so are guests, those with more experience and those who are simply older. The above diagram shows the proper place for each one to sit, with the entrance at the bottom left and the leader of the meeting or gicho (議長) in the center. As you can see there are different rules for different room layouts as well as for trains and taxis, but generally, the person with the highest status (No. 1) is next to the meeting leader.

Things Americans Do That Are Rude Around the World 11 things people in the US do that could be considered rude elsewhere
11 things people in the US do that could be considered rude elsewhere
Jessica Booth
A thumbs up can be offensive.
Laughing with your mouth open is often thought to be impolite in Japan.
Travelers recommend covering your mouth when you laugh in Japan.
Adjusting your meal to your liking might be considered rude in many countries.
Making substitutions to a meal isn't expected everywhere around the world.
Using your left hand for eating is bad form in some Muslim countries.
The left hand is considered unclean.
Tipping is considered to be rude behavior in many countries, including Japan and South Korea.
South Korea and Japan are no-tip cultures.
Showing up late is unacceptable in countries like Germany.
Being late isn't going to fly in Germany.
Eating anywhere that doesn't serve food is impolite in Japan.
It's considered bad manners to eat on the go.
Giving a thumbs up sign is very offensive in some places.
Thumbs up is the same as your middle finger in some countries.
It can be rude not to take second helpings in countries like the Philippines.
Leaving a little bit is the way to go.
Chewing gum in public is a big no-no in Luxembourg, France, Switzerland, and Singapore.
There are lots of places were chewing gum isn't generally accepted.
Blowing your nose in public is thought to be repulsive in many countries.
This isn't something that is done in public.
Opening a gift in front of the person who gave it to you is thought to be rude in some parts of India and Egypt.
It isn't always a good look to open your present in front of other people.
SEE ALSO: Language differences between Brits and Americans
FOLLOW US: INSIDER is on Facebook
 It's also thought to be very rude in Turkey to blow your nose during a meal. Opening a gift in front of the person who gave it to you is thought to be rude in some parts of India and Egypt. It isn't always a good look to open your present in front of other people. Flickr/JD Hancock
In some parts of India and Egypt, opening a gift as soon as you get it in front of the presenter is thought to be impolite, according to Condé Nast Traveler, because it can be considered, awkward or greedy. Instead, set the gift aside fully wrapped and open it later. Visit INSIDER's homepage for more. SEE ALSO: Language differences between Brits and Americans
FOLLOW US: INSIDER is on Facebook
Close icon
Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. It indicates a way to close an interaction, or dismiss a notification.

It's also thought to be very rude in Turkey to blow your nose during a meal. Opening a gift in front of the person who gave it to you is thought to be rude in some parts of India and Egypt. It isn't always a good look to open your present in front of other people. Flickr/JD Hancock
In some parts of India and Egypt, opening a gift as soon as you get it in front of the presenter is thought to be impolite, according to Condé Nast Traveler, because it can be considered, awkward or greedy. Instead, set the gift aside fully wrapped and open it later. Visit INSIDER's homepage for more. SEE ALSO: Language differences between Brits and Americans
FOLLOW US: INSIDER is on Facebook
Close icon
Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. It indicates a way to close an interaction, or dismiss a notification.

20 Facts On Japanese Culture You Probably Never Knew - Japanology 20 Facts On Japanese Culture You Probably Never Knew
20 Facts On Japanese Culture You Probably Never Knew
1. Chopsticks
2. Bowing
3. Bathroom Slippers
4. Anime
5. Slurping Noodles
6. Eating Sushi
7. Chankonabe
8. Onsen Etiquette
9. Literacy
10. Fugu
11. Morning Exercise
12. Sitting Seiza
13. Colds and Allergies
14. Bathing
15. Walking While Eating or Smoking
16. Coffee
17. Geisha
18. Pouring Drinks
19. Oshibori
20. Non-Verbal Communication
 Older Japanese people sometimes sit with their legs out in front of them, which is completely acceptable. 13. Colds and Allergies
Photo by Stephan Geyer via Flickr
When you suffer from a cold or hayfever in Japan, it’s polite to wear a mask. Japanese people also avoid blowing their noses in public, as it’s seen as rude. 14. Bathing
In Japan, a bath at home is for relaxation, rather than for cleaning. So Japanese people do not use soap in their baths. Instead, they shower first and then soak in the bath afterwards. 15. Walking While Eating or Smoking
Photo by C.K. Tse via Flickr
Walking down the street while eating is not acceptable in Japan.

Older Japanese people sometimes sit with their legs out in front of them, which is completely acceptable. 13. Colds and Allergies
Photo by Stephan Geyer via Flickr
When you suffer from a cold or hayfever in Japan, it’s polite to wear a mask. Japanese people also avoid blowing their noses in public, as it’s seen as rude. 14. Bathing
In Japan, a bath at home is for relaxation, rather than for cleaning. So Japanese people do not use soap in their baths. Instead, they shower first and then soak in the bath afterwards. 15. Walking While Eating or Smoking
Photo by C.K. Tse via Flickr
Walking down the street while eating is not acceptable in Japan.

Japanese Business Etiquette Tips for Success Japanese Business Etiquette: Dos and Don'ts
Japanese Business Etiquette: Dos and Don'ts
Japanese Greetings and Introductions
Japanese Etiquette for Receiving Business Cards
Removing Your Shoes
Dos and Don'ts in Japanese Business Etiquette
The Team Mindset
Japanese Table Manners
 Avoid asking personal questions at first. Although your intentions may be good, you should wait to ask about someone's family or interests outside of work. Blowing your nose in public is generally frowned upon in Japanese etiquette. Excuse yourself to the toilet or go outside to clear your nose. Sniffling to avoid blowing the nose is acceptable. Avoid pointing at people with a finger when gesturing. Pointing, whether with fingers, feet, or chopsticks, is considered especially rude in Japan. The numbers four and nine are considered unlucky in Japanese culture. The word for four ( shi ) is the same as the word for death, while the word for nine ( ku ) can mean suffering. Avoid giving gifts or anything else in sets of four or nine.

Japanese Business Etiquette Tips for Success

Japanese Business Etiquette: Dos and Don'ts
Japanese Business Etiquette: Dos and Don'ts
Japanese Greetings and Introductions
Japanese Etiquette for Receiving Business Cards
Removing Your Shoes
Dos and Don'ts in Japanese Business Etiquette
The Team Mindset
Japanese Table Manners

Avoid asking personal questions at first. Although your intentions may be good, you should wait to ask about someone's family or interests outside of work. Blowing your nose in public is generally frowned upon in Japanese etiquette. Excuse yourself to the toilet or go outside to clear your nose. Sniffling to avoid blowing the nose is acceptable. Avoid pointing at people with a finger when gesturing. Pointing, whether with fingers, feet, or chopsticks, is considered especially rude in Japan. The numbers four and nine are considered unlucky in Japanese culture. The word for four ( shi ) is the same as the word for death, while the word for nine ( ku ) can mean suffering. Avoid giving gifts or anything else in sets of four or nine.

9 Japanese Traditions You Need to Know | Japanese Culture 9 Japanese Traditions
9 Japanese Traditions
1. No Tipping in Japan
2. Onsen Etiquette
3. Shugi Bukuro
4. Eating on the go in Japan…
5. Summer Matsuri Clothes
6. Zabuton Throwing
7. Setsubun
8. Dondo Yaki
9. Gift-giving
What is the Japanese Tanabata Festival?
Shibori Dyeing Techniques
 It is very disrespectful to walk and eat in Japan, and often simply in public spaces. Here, the idea of ‘ ikkai ichi dōsa ‘ or ‘one thing at a time’ is very important. If you buy something at the supermarket, it is best to take it home to eat. If you buy food from a stall in the street, there is often seating provided to eat at. Eating on the sacred grounds of temples and shrines is extremely disrespectful! It is only acceptable during a festival when food stalls are set up – even then, there may be seating to use! I also wouldn’t recommend eating in a station, and definitely not on the train! Luckily, many convenience stores ( konbini) provide a seating area where you can enjoy your melon-pan or kare-man! If you’re looking for a snazzy new way to do lunch-on-the-go, why not check out this traditional Japanese bentō box? Courtesy of Get Hiroshima
5.

9 Japanese Traditions You Need to Know | Japanese Culture

9 Japanese Traditions
9 Japanese Traditions
1. No Tipping in Japan
2. Onsen Etiquette
3. Shugi Bukuro
4. Eating on the go in Japan…
5. Summer Matsuri Clothes
6. Zabuton Throwing
7. Setsubun
8. Dondo Yaki
9. Gift-giving
What is the Japanese Tanabata Festival?
Shibori Dyeing Techniques

It is very disrespectful to walk and eat in Japan, and often simply in public spaces. Here, the idea of ‘ ikkai ichi dōsa ‘ or ‘one thing at a time’ is very important. If you buy something at the supermarket, it is best to take it home to eat. If you buy food from a stall in the street, there is often seating provided to eat at. Eating on the sacred grounds of temples and shrines is extremely disrespectful! It is only acceptable during a festival when food stalls are set up – even then, there may be seating to use! I also wouldn’t recommend eating in a station, and definitely not on the train! Luckily, many convenience stores ( konbini) provide a seating area where you can enjoy your melon-pan or kare-man! If you’re looking for a snazzy new way to do lunch-on-the-go, why not check out this traditional Japanese bentō box? Courtesy of Get Hiroshima
5.

Things Americans Do That Are Rude Around the World 11 things people in the US do that could be considered rude elsewhere
11 things people in the US do that could be considered rude elsewhere
Jessica Booth
A thumbs up can be offensive.
Laughing with your mouth open is often thought to be impolite in Japan.
Travelers recommend covering your mouth when you laugh in Japan.
Adjusting your meal to your liking might be considered rude in many countries.
Making substitutions to a meal isn't expected everywhere around the world.
Using your left hand for eating is bad form in some Muslim countries.
The left hand is considered unclean.
Tipping is considered to be rude behavior in many countries, including Japan and South Korea.
South Korea and Japan are no-tip cultures.
Showing up late is unacceptable in countries like Germany.
Being late isn't going to fly in Germany.
Eating anywhere that doesn't serve food is impolite in Japan.
It's considered bad manners to eat on the go.
Giving a thumbs up sign is very offensive in some places.
Thumbs up is the same as your middle finger in some countries.
It can be rude not to take second helpings in countries like the Philippines.
Leaving a little bit is the way to go.
Chewing gum in public is a big no-no in Luxembourg, France, Switzerland, and Singapore.
There are lots of places were chewing gum isn't generally accepted.
Blowing your nose in public is thought to be repulsive in many countries.
This isn't something that is done in public.
Opening a gift in front of the person who gave it to you is thought to be rude in some parts of India and Egypt.
It isn't always a good look to open your present in front of other people.
SEE ALSO: Language differences between Brits and Americans
FOLLOW US: INSIDER is on Facebook
 Yulia Mayorova/ Shutterstock
Some of the things people from the US might do could be considered rude in other countries around the world . Laughing with your mouth open is often thought to be impolite in Japan. Tipping is considered rude behavior in Japan and Korea. Giving a thumbs up sign is very offensive in some places. When traveling to a different country, the last thing anyone wants to do is offend the people who live there. Unfortunately, avoiding that is often complicated, even if you think you're being polite. Some of the things people in the United States do all the time that seem innocent can come off as rude and inappropriate to other people around the globe. The only way to really avoid being impolite when going abroad is to be aware of the behaviors that will make you seem that way and to try as hard as you can to avoid them, even if they come as second nature to you. Here are a few things people from the US may do that could be considered rude in other countries. Laughing with your mouth open is often thought to be impolite in Japan.

Yulia Mayorova/ Shutterstock
Some of the things people from the US might do could be considered rude in other countries around the world . Laughing with your mouth open is often thought to be impolite in Japan. Tipping is considered rude behavior in Japan and Korea. Giving a thumbs up sign is very offensive in some places. When traveling to a different country, the last thing anyone wants to do is offend the people who live there. Unfortunately, avoiding that is often complicated, even if you think you're being polite. Some of the things people in the United States do all the time that seem innocent can come off as rude and inappropriate to other people around the globe. The only way to really avoid being impolite when going abroad is to be aware of the behaviors that will make you seem that way and to try as hard as you can to avoid them, even if they come as second nature to you. Here are a few things people from the US may do that could be considered rude in other countries. Laughing with your mouth open is often thought to be impolite in Japan.

Etiquette Differences Between Japan and the US 5 surprising etiquette differences between the US and Japan
5 surprising etiquette differences between the US and Japan
Kristie Kam
The etiquette in Japan is vastly different from etiquette in the United States.
1. While Americans greet each other with a handshake or hug, Japanese people usually nod or bow
In Japan, the greeting doesn't require physical touch.
2. Tipping in restaurants is essentially mandatory in the US, but not in Japan
In Japan, tipping is not necessary.
3. Table manners differ between the 2 countries
4. Though many Americans take off their shoes when they enter their homes, it isn't really optional in Japan
In Japan, removing your shoes when you go indoors is usually not optional.
5. Public transit rules are different in the US and Japan
Out of politeness, the trains in Japan are generally quiet.
Sign up for the Insider Life newsletter for our top reads in luxury, real estate, travel and more.
SEE ALSO: A quick guide to business etiquette around the world
 Table manners differ between the 2 countries
enterphoto/Shutterstock
In the US, diners should know their utensil locations and not rest their elbows on the table. As soon as Americans are seated, the usual practice is to unfold the napkin and put it on their laps until the meal is finished. Americans also should not start eating before everyone at the table is served. When you sit down for a meal in Japan, the rules are quite different. First and foremost, polish your chopsticks skills — do not stick them into your food so they stand upright or cross them on top of your bowl, according Makiko Itoh of the Japanese food blog Just Hungry. Both of these things are reminiscent of funeral rituals in Japan, and are considered rude. Prior to eating, Japanese people will often say "itadakimasu" to show respect to the food or the chef who made the food. 4. Though many Americans take off their shoes when they enter their homes, it isn't really optional in Japan
In Japan, removing your shoes when you go indoors is usually not optional. Ft.

Etiquette Differences Between Japan and the US

5 surprising etiquette differences between the US and Japan
5 surprising etiquette differences between the US and Japan
Kristie Kam
The etiquette in Japan is vastly different from etiquette in the United States.
1. While Americans greet each other with a handshake or hug, Japanese people usually nod or bow
In Japan, the greeting doesn't require physical touch.
2. Tipping in restaurants is essentially mandatory in the US, but not in Japan
In Japan, tipping is not necessary.
3. Table manners differ between the 2 countries
4. Though many Americans take off their shoes when they enter their homes, it isn't really optional in Japan
In Japan, removing your shoes when you go indoors is usually not optional.
5. Public transit rules are different in the US and Japan
Out of politeness, the trains in Japan are generally quiet.
Sign up for the Insider Life newsletter for our top reads in luxury, real estate, travel and more.
SEE ALSO: A quick guide to business etiquette around the world

Table manners differ between the 2 countries
enterphoto/Shutterstock
In the US, diners should know their utensil locations and not rest their elbows on the table. As soon as Americans are seated, the usual practice is to unfold the napkin and put it on their laps until the meal is finished. Americans also should not start eating before everyone at the table is served. When you sit down for a meal in Japan, the rules are quite different. First and foremost, polish your chopsticks skills — do not stick them into your food so they stand upright or cross them on top of your bowl, according Makiko Itoh of the Japanese food blog Just Hungry. Both of these things are reminiscent of funeral rituals in Japan, and are considered rude. Prior to eating, Japanese people will often say "itadakimasu" to show respect to the food or the chef who made the food. 4. Though many Americans take off their shoes when they enter their homes, it isn't really optional in Japan
In Japan, removing your shoes when you go indoors is usually not optional. Ft.

20 Facts On Japanese Culture You Probably Never Knew - Japanology 20 Facts On Japanese Culture You Probably Never Knew
20 Facts On Japanese Culture You Probably Never Knew
1. Chopsticks
2. Bowing
3. Bathroom Slippers
4. Anime
5. Slurping Noodles
6. Eating Sushi
7. Chankonabe
8. Onsen Etiquette
9. Literacy
10. Fugu
11. Morning Exercise
12. Sitting Seiza
13. Colds and Allergies
14. Bathing
15. Walking While Eating or Smoking
16. Coffee
17. Geisha
18. Pouring Drinks
19. Oshibori
20. Non-Verbal Communication
 Chopsticks
Photo by Jessica Spengler via Flickr
Good table manners are highly regarded in Japanese culture and correctly using chopsticks is an important part of polite dining. So when using chopsticks in Japan, don’t stab or cut your food with them. Instead, you should lift the food as it is to your mouth. Don’t point at something with your chopsticks, as this is rude in Japanese culture. Meanwhile, you should never leave your chopsticks sticking upright in a bowl of rice, as this is associated with funeral customs. Instead, place them on the chopstick rest in between bites or when you finish eating. 2. Bowing
Photo by Akuppa John Wigham via Flickr
Bowing (known as ojigi) is the traditional form of greeting in Japan. However, bowing can also be used to indicate gratitude, congratulations, or an apology. In casual daily situations, a bow is often a simple nod of the head.

20 Facts On Japanese Culture You Probably Never Knew - Japanology

20 Facts On Japanese Culture You Probably Never Knew
20 Facts On Japanese Culture You Probably Never Knew
1. Chopsticks
2. Bowing
3. Bathroom Slippers
4. Anime
5. Slurping Noodles
6. Eating Sushi
7. Chankonabe
8. Onsen Etiquette
9. Literacy
10. Fugu
11. Morning Exercise
12. Sitting Seiza
13. Colds and Allergies
14. Bathing
15. Walking While Eating or Smoking
16. Coffee
17. Geisha
18. Pouring Drinks
19. Oshibori
20. Non-Verbal Communication

Chopsticks
Photo by Jessica Spengler via Flickr
Good table manners are highly regarded in Japanese culture and correctly using chopsticks is an important part of polite dining. So when using chopsticks in Japan, don’t stab or cut your food with them. Instead, you should lift the food as it is to your mouth. Don’t point at something with your chopsticks, as this is rude in Japanese culture. Meanwhile, you should never leave your chopsticks sticking upright in a bowl of rice, as this is associated with funeral customs. Instead, place them on the chopstick rest in between bites or when you finish eating. 2. Bowing
Photo by Akuppa John Wigham via Flickr
Bowing (known as ojigi) is the traditional form of greeting in Japan. However, bowing can also be used to indicate gratitude, congratulations, or an apology. In casual daily situations, a bow is often a simple nod of the head.

Some Manners To Understand Before Using a Public Toilet in Japan | Japan Info Some Manners To Understand Before Using a Public Toilet in Japan
Some Manners To Understand Before Using a Public Toilet in Japan
1. Squat toilet
2. Western-style toilet
Which button to press?
What should I do with the used toilet paper?
 Today, we would like to give you a few tips about using the Japanese public toilets and the common manners of toilet use. When you travel abroad, you often face a problem of the cultural differences regarding the restroom use. And, of course, the Japanese public toilets may cause you some trouble due to the high-technology systems. Moreover, the toilets only have descriptions written in Japanese. When most people use it, they may realize that they can not understand what exactly to press and how to flash a toilet. Therefore, let’s check the styles of the toilets in Japan first. Commonly, there are two main styles of the toilets in Japan: 1. Squat toilet
jp.fotolia.com/
The Japanese-style flush toilet is a traditional squat toilet. It has the shape as shown in the photo above.

Today, we would like to give you a few tips about using the Japanese public toilets and the common manners of toilet use. When you travel abroad, you often face a problem of the cultural differences regarding the restroom use. And, of course, the Japanese public toilets may cause you some trouble due to the high-technology systems. Moreover, the toilets only have descriptions written in Japanese. When most people use it, they may realize that they can not understand what exactly to press and how to flash a toilet. Therefore, let’s check the styles of the toilets in Japan first. Commonly, there are two main styles of the toilets in Japan: 1. Squat toilet
jp.fotolia.com/
The Japanese-style flush toilet is a traditional squat toilet. It has the shape as shown in the photo above.

Japanese Culture Facts: 23 Things You May Not Have Known | Udemy Blog Japanese Culture Facts: 23 Things You May Not Have Known
Japanese Culture Facts: 23 Things You May Not Have Known
Udemy Editor
Empower your team. Lead the industry.
Facts About Japan’s Culture
 To learn more about non-verbal communication here in the West, this course on how to read body language will show you how to interpret others’ movements. Containing the highest proportion of elderly people in the world, about 23% of Japanese people are over the age of 65. Older people are revered and honored in Japan, even being the first to be served food and drinks at a meal. There are many subtleties involved in meeting someone for the first time in Japan. One usually waits to be introduced, as it’s seen as impolite to introduce yourself. For foreigners, it’s acceptable to simply shake hands upon meeting, but the traditional form of greeting is a bow, with how far you bow being relative to the respect shown to the recipient. As you would expect, table manners are many and stringent in Japan. Always wait to be told where to sit, and remember that the guest of honor, or the eldest guest, is usually seated at the center. Chopstick use is important and comes with its own set of rules. Never point with them, never pierce your food with them, and lay them on the chopstick rest when chewing, making sure not to cross them.

To learn more about non-verbal communication here in the West, this course on how to read body language will show you how to interpret others’ movements. Containing the highest proportion of elderly people in the world, about 23% of Japanese people are over the age of 65. Older people are revered and honored in Japan, even being the first to be served food and drinks at a meal. There are many subtleties involved in meeting someone for the first time in Japan. One usually waits to be introduced, as it’s seen as impolite to introduce yourself. For foreigners, it’s acceptable to simply shake hands upon meeting, but the traditional form of greeting is a bow, with how far you bow being relative to the respect shown to the recipient. As you would expect, table manners are many and stringent in Japan. Always wait to be told where to sit, and remember that the guest of honor, or the eldest guest, is usually seated at the center. Chopstick use is important and comes with its own set of rules. Never point with them, never pierce your food with them, and lay them on the chopstick rest when chewing, making sure not to cross them.

12 Japanese Words You Need To Know For Karate | The Martial Way
OSU!
Archives
 To sit seiza-style in Kyokushin, one must first be kneeling on the floor, folding one’s legs underneath one’s thighs, while resting the buttocks on the heels. The ankles are turned outward as the tops of the feet are lowered so that, in a slight “V” shape, the tops of the feet are flat on the floor and big toes sometimes are overlapped, and the buttocks are finally lowered all the way down. Within Kyokushin the fists are placed on the upper thigh. The back is kept straight, though not unnaturally stiff. Traditionally, women sit with the knees together while men separate them slightly, roughly two fist widths of distance between the knees. 4. Shomen ni rei – [show men nee ray] literally means “bow to the front”, and denotes respect to all the practitioners that came before us (our instructor’s instructor and so forth) which is usually followed by, “Sensei ni rei” (bow to the teacher), this is followed by “Otagai ni rei” (bow to others), to show respect to all of your training partners. If there is a Shihan present, you will say Shihan ni rei (bow to the master instructor). From seiza (kneeling), facing the front of the dojo, bow (rei) at the waist placing first your left fist and then your right fist on the floor in front of you. Keep your back straight and avoid raising your hips.

To sit seiza-style in Kyokushin, one must first be kneeling on the floor, folding one’s legs underneath one’s thighs, while resting the buttocks on the heels. The ankles are turned outward as the tops of the feet are lowered so that, in a slight “V” shape, the tops of the feet are flat on the floor and big toes sometimes are overlapped, and the buttocks are finally lowered all the way down. Within Kyokushin the fists are placed on the upper thigh. The back is kept straight, though not unnaturally stiff. Traditionally, women sit with the knees together while men separate them slightly, roughly two fist widths of distance between the knees. 4. Shomen ni rei – [show men nee ray] literally means “bow to the front”, and denotes respect to all the practitioners that came before us (our instructor’s instructor and so forth) which is usually followed by, “Sensei ni rei” (bow to the teacher), this is followed by “Otagai ni rei” (bow to others), to show respect to all of your training partners. If there is a Shihan present, you will say Shihan ni rei (bow to the master instructor). From seiza (kneeling), facing the front of the dojo, bow (rei) at the waist placing first your left fist and then your right fist on the floor in front of you. Keep your back straight and avoid raising your hips.

10 Things You Should Avoid Doing When Using Chopsticks in Japan | tsunagu Japan 10 Things You Should Avoid Doing When Using Chopsticks in Japan
10 Things You Should Avoid Doing When Using Chopsticks in Japan
Chopstick Culture in Japan
1. Don't Tap Your Chopsticks Against Tableware
2. Don't Pass Food Between People with Chopsticks
3. Do Not Rub Disposable Chopsticks Together
4. Do Not Stick Chopsticks Straight Up in a Bowl of Rice
5. Do Not Cross Chopsticks into an X Shape
6. Do Not Say "Itadakimasu" (Thank You for This Food) While Holding Chopsticks
7. Do Not Use Chopsticks to Pull Plates/Bowls Toward You
8. Do Not Use Chopsticks to Point at Objects or People
9. Do Not Grasp Chopsticks in Your Palm
10. Do Not Stab Food with Chopsticks
Enjoy Eating in Japan While Remaining Wary of Kiraibashi!
 In the following centuries, Japan developed its own culture around chopstics, and now there is a set of established manners and etiquette for eating with them. In fact, there is even a specific word used to denote the things that you shouldn't do with chopsticks - "kiraibashi." Kiraibashi includes actions that are deemed rude, unpleasant to those around you, and/or disrespectful to the people who made the food you are eating. This article will introduce 10 things to keep in mind when using chopsticks in Japan so as not to offend those around you. Of course, you don't have to worry so much if you are not that skilled at using chopsticks yet, as they can take a while to truly master. However, once you learn the proper manners of chopstick use in Japan, we urge you to do your best to follow them while in the country. 1. Don't Tap Your Chopsticks Against Tableware
Holding your chopsticks like drumsticks and tapping on plates or glasses is called "tataki-bashi" and is considered very rude. In addition to the unpleasant clinking sound it makes, this act is also considered quite childish. In addition, there is an old suspicion in Japan that tapping againt bowls draws evil spirits, which may be another reason for this etiquette rule.

10 Things You Should Avoid Doing When Using Chopsticks in Japan | tsunagu Japan

10 Things You Should Avoid Doing When Using Chopsticks in Japan
10 Things You Should Avoid Doing When Using Chopsticks in Japan
Chopstick Culture in Japan
1. Don't Tap Your Chopsticks Against Tableware
2. Don't Pass Food Between People with Chopsticks
3. Do Not Rub Disposable Chopsticks Together
4. Do Not Stick Chopsticks Straight Up in a Bowl of Rice
5. Do Not Cross Chopsticks into an X Shape
6. Do Not Say "Itadakimasu" (Thank You for This Food) While Holding Chopsticks
7. Do Not Use Chopsticks to Pull Plates/Bowls Toward You
8. Do Not Use Chopsticks to Point at Objects or People
9. Do Not Grasp Chopsticks in Your Palm
10. Do Not Stab Food with Chopsticks
Enjoy Eating in Japan While Remaining Wary of Kiraibashi!

In the following centuries, Japan developed its own culture around chopstics, and now there is a set of established manners and etiquette for eating with them. In fact, there is even a specific word used to denote the things that you shouldn't do with chopsticks - "kiraibashi." Kiraibashi includes actions that are deemed rude, unpleasant to those around you, and/or disrespectful to the people who made the food you are eating. This article will introduce 10 things to keep in mind when using chopsticks in Japan so as not to offend those around you. Of course, you don't have to worry so much if you are not that skilled at using chopsticks yet, as they can take a while to truly master. However, once you learn the proper manners of chopstick use in Japan, we urge you to do your best to follow them while in the country. 1. Don't Tap Your Chopsticks Against Tableware
Holding your chopsticks like drumsticks and tapping on plates or glasses is called "tataki-bashi" and is considered very rude. In addition to the unpleasant clinking sound it makes, this act is also considered quite childish. In addition, there is an old suspicion in Japan that tapping againt bowls draws evil spirits, which may be another reason for this etiquette rule.

Etiquette in Japan – Walk Japan Etiquette
Etiquette
Etiquette
Ryokan Etiquette
Removing shoes and wearing slippers
Slippers on tatami and in toilets
Private and respected areas
Arranging the futon
Yukata Pajamas
Shared Bathtubs
Onsen etiquette
Before entering the onsen hot spring baths
In the onsen
Dining Manners
Chopstick do’s and don’ts
Leaving excess food
Refilling a companions glass
Manners before and after eating
Hand towels
Blowing your nose
Travel etiquette
Walking and eating in Japan
Manners on the train
Manners on the hiking trails
Tipping
Cash
Taxi travel
Umbrella covers and stands
Pointing
Exchanging business cards
Formal seating arrangements
Souvenirs
 Manners before and after eating
It is polite to say Itadakimasu (a humble-honorific meaning “to receive” ) once before eating or drinking, and Gochiso sama deshita (“It was a feast”) to your host or the restaurant’s staff after finishing your meal. Hand towels
Upon sitting for a meal, the host or waiting staff will offer you a towel which may be warm or cool depending on the season. These towels are called Oshibori and should be used to clean your hands before eating. They are typically not for wiping the face or table. Napkins should also be provided for these purposes. If oshibori are not offered, they can usually be found wrapped on the table. Blowing your nose
Refrain from blowing your nose in front of other people and only use paper tissues for the purpose. If you cannot help having a blow or need to sneeze turn your back on your Japanese counterpart. When face to face a dainty dab or wipe is not considered rude. Travel etiquette
Walking and eating in Japan
Japanese tend not to eat while walking along or standing around on the street.

Etiquette in Japan – Walk Japan

Etiquette
Etiquette
Etiquette
Ryokan Etiquette
Removing shoes and wearing slippers
Slippers on tatami and in toilets
Private and respected areas
Arranging the futon
Yukata Pajamas
Shared Bathtubs
Onsen etiquette
Before entering the onsen hot spring baths
In the onsen
Dining Manners
Chopstick do’s and don’ts
Leaving excess food
Refilling a companions glass
Manners before and after eating
Hand towels
Blowing your nose
Travel etiquette
Walking and eating in Japan
Manners on the train
Manners on the hiking trails
Tipping
Cash
Taxi travel
Umbrella covers and stands
Pointing
Exchanging business cards
Formal seating arrangements
Souvenirs

Manners before and after eating
It is polite to say Itadakimasu (a humble-honorific meaning “to receive” ) once before eating or drinking, and Gochiso sama deshita (“It was a feast”) to your host or the restaurant’s staff after finishing your meal. Hand towels
Upon sitting for a meal, the host or waiting staff will offer you a towel which may be warm or cool depending on the season. These towels are called Oshibori and should be used to clean your hands before eating. They are typically not for wiping the face or table. Napkins should also be provided for these purposes. If oshibori are not offered, they can usually be found wrapped on the table. Blowing your nose
Refrain from blowing your nose in front of other people and only use paper tissues for the purpose. If you cannot help having a blow or need to sneeze turn your back on your Japanese counterpart. When face to face a dainty dab or wipe is not considered rude. Travel etiquette
Walking and eating in Japan
Japanese tend not to eat while walking along or standing around on the street.

An Introduction to Japanese Chopstick Etiquette An Introduction to Japanese Chopstick Etiquette
An Introduction to Japanese Chopstick Etiquette
Top Two Chopstick Taboos in Japan
1. Standing Your Chopsticks Up Vertically (立て箸)
2. Passing Food from Chopstick to Chopstick (拾い箸)
Other Actions to Avoid
Placing Chopsticks Across a Bowl (渡し箸)
Talking with Your Hands… and Chopsticks (踊り箸)
Stabbing Food (指し箸)
Sucking on Your Chopsticks (ねぶり箸)
Hovering over Food (迷い箸)
Taking from Shared Dishes (逆さ箸)
Moving Your Bowl (寄せ箸 ・ 持ち箸)
Washing Your Chopsticks in Soup (洗い箸)
Chopsticks Tips for Beginners
Use a Light Pair of Chopsticks
Adjust Your Grip
Lift Your Bowl and Slurp Away
Practice Makes Perfect
And One More Thing...
FluentU - Learn a Language with Real World Videos!
 There are a lot of “chopstick taboos” so we’ll start with the two things you should absolutely avoid when dinning at a ninja restaurant. Download: This blog post is available as a convenient and portable PDF that you  can take anywhere. Click here to get a copy. ( Download)
Try FluentU for FREE! Top Two Chopstick Taboos in Japan
1. Standing Your Chopsticks Up Vertically (立て箸)
One of the biggest and most frequent taboos is placing your chopsticks vertically in your bowl. At Japanese funerals, a bowl of rice is left with two chopsticks standing vertically in the center. When you place chopsticks straight upright in a bowl, it’s said to bring bad luck. Bad luck aside, this chopstick no-no continues in many Asian countries so make use of those chopstick rests (箸置き) by your dish!

An Introduction to Japanese Chopstick Etiquette

An Introduction to Japanese Chopstick Etiquette
An Introduction to Japanese Chopstick Etiquette
Top Two Chopstick Taboos in Japan
1. Standing Your Chopsticks Up Vertically (立て箸)
2. Passing Food from Chopstick to Chopstick (拾い箸)
Other Actions to Avoid
Placing Chopsticks Across a Bowl (渡し箸)
Talking with Your Hands… and Chopsticks (踊り箸)
Stabbing Food (指し箸)
Sucking on Your Chopsticks (ねぶり箸)
Hovering over Food (迷い箸)
Taking from Shared Dishes (逆さ箸)
Moving Your Bowl (寄せ箸 ・ 持ち箸)
Washing Your Chopsticks in Soup (洗い箸)
Chopsticks Tips for Beginners
Use a Light Pair of Chopsticks
Adjust Your Grip
Lift Your Bowl and Slurp Away
Practice Makes Perfect
And One More Thing...
FluentU - Learn a Language with Real World Videos!

There are a lot of “chopstick taboos” so we’ll start with the two things you should absolutely avoid when dinning at a ninja restaurant. Download: This blog post is available as a convenient and portable PDF that you  can take anywhere. Click here to get a copy. ( Download)
Try FluentU for FREE! Top Two Chopstick Taboos in Japan
1. Standing Your Chopsticks Up Vertically (立て箸)
One of the biggest and most frequent taboos is placing your chopsticks vertically in your bowl. At Japanese funerals, a bowl of rice is left with two chopsticks standing vertically in the center. When you place chopsticks straight upright in a bowl, it’s said to bring bad luck. Bad luck aside, this chopstick no-no continues in many Asian countries so make use of those chopstick rests (箸置き) by your dish!

Etiquette in Japan – Walk Japan Etiquette
Etiquette
Etiquette
Ryokan Etiquette
Removing shoes and wearing slippers
Slippers on tatami and in toilets
Private and respected areas
Arranging the futon
Yukata Pajamas
Shared Bathtubs
Onsen etiquette
Before entering the onsen hot spring baths
In the onsen
Dining Manners
Chopstick do’s and don’ts
Leaving excess food
Refilling a companions glass
Manners before and after eating
Hand towels
Blowing your nose
Travel etiquette
Walking and eating in Japan
Manners on the train
Manners on the hiking trails
Tipping
Cash
Taxi travel
Umbrella covers and stands
Pointing
Exchanging business cards
Formal seating arrangements
Souvenirs
 If oshibori are not offered, they can usually be found wrapped on the table. Blowing your nose
Refrain from blowing your nose in front of other people and only use paper tissues for the purpose. If you cannot help having a blow or need to sneeze turn your back on your Japanese counterpart. When face to face a dainty dab or wipe is not considered rude. Travel etiquette
Walking and eating in Japan
Japanese tend not to eat while walking along or standing around on the street. However, it is acceptable to drink while standing aside a vending machine. Eating and drinking on local trains, but not long distance express trains, is also frowned upon. Manners on the train
When riding on trains and buses turn your mobile/cell phone to silent mode and do not use it for conversation. Text messaging, though, is not considered a problem and you will see many Japanese furiously tapping away. Manners on the hiking trails
Rubbish bins are hard to come by even in large cities, let alone in small villages and hiking trails.

Etiquette in Japan – Walk Japan

If oshibori are not offered, they can usually be found wrapped on the table. Blowing your nose
Refrain from blowing your nose in front of other people and only use paper tissues for the purpose. If you cannot help having a blow or need to sneeze turn your back on your Japanese counterpart. When face to face a dainty dab or wipe is not considered rude. Travel etiquette
Walking and eating in Japan
Japanese tend not to eat while walking along or standing around on the street. However, it is acceptable to drink while standing aside a vending machine. Eating and drinking on local trains, but not long distance express trains, is also frowned upon. Manners on the train
When riding on trains and buses turn your mobile/cell phone to silent mode and do not use it for conversation. Text messaging, though, is not considered a problem and you will see many Japanese furiously tapping away. Manners on the hiking trails
Rubbish bins are hard to come by even in large cities, let alone in small villages and hiking trails.

10 Different Ways to Be Polite in Japan 10 Different Ways to Be Polite in Japan
10 Different Ways to Be Polite in Japan
Pour your friend’s drink
Use your hand to point
Stand on the correct side
Keep it down on the train
Blow your nose in private
Wash before getting in the onsen
Socks are for tatami
Smoke in designated areas
Stop for a snack
Oshibori are for hands
 The most important pouring rules: pour for your superior, pour for your boss, and pour for your customer. Pour the drinks at nomikai - drinking parties | © Quinn Dombrowski/Flickr
Use your hand to point
When indicating direction, places, or people, the Japanese prefer to use their whole hand to point (if at all) rather than an index finger. But when indicating “me,” it’s fine to use your pointer – just know that the Japanese point to their nose to mean “I,” rather than their chest. Stand on the correct side
On escalators in the Kanto region, including Tokyo, people who want to stand and let the moving stairs do the work situate themselves on the left side. In the Kansai region, which includes Osaka and Kyoto, you’ll want to stand on the right. So try not to stand on the wrong side and get in the way of people who are in a hurry – they’ll usually be too polite to even say sumimasen (excuse me). Escalators in Tokyo Solamachi (Skytree Town) | © Dick Thomas Johnson/Flickr
Keep it down on the train
Few things are more annoying than noisy passengers on a quiet train. Most people are trying to read, rest, or gather their thoughts before arriving at their destination, and having loud conversations on the subway is considered rude. If you have to take a phone call, most lines have designated cars for that.

10 Different Ways to Be Polite in Japan

10 Different Ways to Be Polite in Japan
10 Different Ways to Be Polite in Japan
Pour your friend’s drink
Use your hand to point
Stand on the correct side
Keep it down on the train
Blow your nose in private
Wash before getting in the onsen
Socks are for tatami
Smoke in designated areas
Stop for a snack
Oshibori are for hands

The most important pouring rules: pour for your superior, pour for your boss, and pour for your customer. Pour the drinks at nomikai - drinking parties | © Quinn Dombrowski/Flickr
Use your hand to point
When indicating direction, places, or people, the Japanese prefer to use their whole hand to point (if at all) rather than an index finger. But when indicating “me,” it’s fine to use your pointer – just know that the Japanese point to their nose to mean “I,” rather than their chest. Stand on the correct side
On escalators in the Kanto region, including Tokyo, people who want to stand and let the moving stairs do the work situate themselves on the left side. In the Kansai region, which includes Osaka and Kyoto, you’ll want to stand on the right. So try not to stand on the wrong side and get in the way of people who are in a hurry – they’ll usually be too polite to even say sumimasen (excuse me). Escalators in Tokyo Solamachi (Skytree Town) | © Dick Thomas Johnson/Flickr
Keep it down on the train
Few things are more annoying than noisy passengers on a quiet train. Most people are trying to read, rest, or gather their thoughts before arriving at their destination, and having loud conversations on the subway is considered rude. If you have to take a phone call, most lines have designated cars for that.

An Introduction to Japanese Chopstick Etiquette An Introduction to Japanese Chopstick Etiquette
An Introduction to Japanese Chopstick Etiquette
Top Two Chopstick Taboos in Japan
1. Standing Your Chopsticks Up Vertically (立て箸)
2. Passing Food from Chopstick to Chopstick (拾い箸)
Other Actions to Avoid
Placing Chopsticks Across a Bowl (渡し箸)
Talking with Your Hands… and Chopsticks (踊り箸)
Stabbing Food (指し箸)
Sucking on Your Chopsticks (ねぶり箸)
Hovering over Food (迷い箸)
Taking from Shared Dishes (逆さ箸)
Moving Your Bowl (寄せ箸 ・ 持ち箸)
Washing Your Chopsticks in Soup (洗い箸)
Chopsticks Tips for Beginners
Use a Light Pair of Chopsticks
Adjust Your Grip
Lift Your Bowl and Slurp Away
Practice Makes Perfect
And One More Thing...
FluentU - Learn a Language with Real World Videos!
 Top Two Chopstick Taboos in Japan
1. Standing Your Chopsticks Up Vertically (立て箸)
One of the biggest and most frequent taboos is placing your chopsticks vertically in your bowl. At Japanese funerals, a bowl of rice is left with two chopsticks standing vertically in the center. When you place chopsticks straight upright in a bowl, it’s said to bring bad luck. Bad luck aside, this chopstick no-no continues in many Asian countries so make use of those chopstick rests (箸置き) by your dish! You can also get crafty and rest disposable chopsticks on the bag they came in. 2. Passing Food from Chopstick to Chopstick (拾い箸)
Another “deadly” mistake is to share food by passing it with your chopsticks, and having another person take it with theirs. This taboo is also funeral-related. At funerals in Japan, the bone fragments of the deceased are passed from person to person with a pair of chopsticks.

Top Two Chopstick Taboos in Japan
1. Standing Your Chopsticks Up Vertically (立て箸)
One of the biggest and most frequent taboos is placing your chopsticks vertically in your bowl. At Japanese funerals, a bowl of rice is left with two chopsticks standing vertically in the center. When you place chopsticks straight upright in a bowl, it’s said to bring bad luck. Bad luck aside, this chopstick no-no continues in many Asian countries so make use of those chopstick rests (箸置き) by your dish! You can also get crafty and rest disposable chopsticks on the bag they came in. 2. Passing Food from Chopstick to Chopstick (拾い箸)
Another “deadly” mistake is to share food by passing it with your chopsticks, and having another person take it with theirs. This taboo is also funeral-related. At funerals in Japan, the bone fragments of the deceased are passed from person to person with a pair of chopsticks.

How to behave in Japan: Essential Japanese manners and etiquette | You Could Travel How to behave in Japan: Essential Japanese manners and etiquette
How to behave in Japan: Essential Japanese manners and etiquette
Table of Contents
Learn a few basic words in Japanese
It is impolite to drink or eat on the street
Do not leave your rubbish behind
Essential Japanese Manners & Etiquette
Don't pour your own drink if you are out with others
Sharing food with chopsticks
Don't point at someone with your chopsticks and do not leave your chopsticks standing upright in your food
No Pointing
No sugar or cream
Slurp away
Don't blow your nose
The best Japanese etiquette: No tipping
Where to stay in Tokyo - Best Areas & Hotels [updated for 2021]
Don't count the change
Don't be late
Don't stare
No phone calls, please
51 Best Things to do in Tokyo
Be generally quiet
Respect, Respect, Respect
No shouting
Always stick to your side of the road
Shoes off
Toilet slippers
Visiting a Japanese person
Gift away
Have a tattoo?
Onsen time
How to bathe
Bow or Nod
Paying the check
Use the wet towel properly
Put your chopsticks back in their place
Don't drink before saying kanpai
Elevator manners and etiquette
Business cards with both hands
Take the backpack off
Taxi
Keep smoking at bay
Formal Wear
Don't interrupt people
No soy for the rice
Pin this now
Stick your umbrella in a sleeve
Hello miso soup
Cory-san from Japan
 I see people use the chopsticks as drumsticks. This is extremely rude in Japan, please refrain from doing so. Don't move plates around with your chopsticks (you wouldn't do that with your fork or spoon would you?). When picking food from a shared plate, make sure you offer people space as it is not nice for two people to grab from the same dish at the same time. These are not particular customs they are just about using common sense and behaving like an educated adult when out in a public place. No Pointing
Pointing is considered threatening in Japan and it should be avoided. If you ask for directions, people tend to indicate directions with an open hand. They sometimes offer verbal directions without gestures. I found this behaviour incredibly interesting while in Japan. I actually love it so much that I adopted it all the time.

How to behave in Japan: Essential Japanese manners and etiquette | You Could Travel

How to behave in Japan: Essential Japanese manners and etiquette
How to behave in Japan: Essential Japanese manners and etiquette
Table of Contents
Learn a few basic words in Japanese
It is impolite to drink or eat on the street
Do not leave your rubbish behind
Essential Japanese Manners & Etiquette
Don't pour your own drink if you are out with others
Sharing food with chopsticks
Don't point at someone with your chopsticks and do not leave your chopsticks standing upright in your food
No Pointing
No sugar or cream
Slurp away
Don't blow your nose
The best Japanese etiquette: No tipping
Where to stay in Tokyo - Best Areas & Hotels [updated for 2021]
Don't count the change
Don't be late
Don't stare
No phone calls, please
51 Best Things to do in Tokyo
Be generally quiet
Respect, Respect, Respect
No shouting
Always stick to your side of the road
Shoes off
Toilet slippers
Visiting a Japanese person
Gift away
Have a tattoo?
Onsen time
How to bathe
Bow or Nod
Paying the check
Use the wet towel properly
Put your chopsticks back in their place
Don't drink before saying kanpai
Elevator manners and etiquette
Business cards with both hands
Take the backpack off
Taxi
Keep smoking at bay
Formal Wear
Don't interrupt people
No soy for the rice
Pin this now
Stick your umbrella in a sleeve
Hello miso soup
Cory-san from Japan

I see people use the chopsticks as drumsticks. This is extremely rude in Japan, please refrain from doing so. Don't move plates around with your chopsticks (you wouldn't do that with your fork or spoon would you?). When picking food from a shared plate, make sure you offer people space as it is not nice for two people to grab from the same dish at the same time. These are not particular customs they are just about using common sense and behaving like an educated adult when out in a public place. No Pointing
Pointing is considered threatening in Japan and it should be avoided. If you ask for directions, people tend to indicate directions with an open hand. They sometimes offer verbal directions without gestures. I found this behaviour incredibly interesting while in Japan. I actually love it so much that I adopted it all the time.

Bowing in Japan - Wikipedia Bowing in Japan
Bowing in Japan
Contents
History
In the business world
Eshaku
Keirei
Saikeirei
Zarei
Saikeirei (zarei version)
Futsūrei
Senrei
In various activities
Kendo
Shinto shrine visits
Funerals
The tea ceremony
When to bow
How to bow
See also
References
Bibliography
External links
 Nowadays, the ojigi customs based on the doctrines of the Ogasawara School of warrior etiquette—which was founded some 800 years ago—is the most prevalent in society. Zarei (bowing while kneeling)
Play media
Students wearing suits, hakama and a kimono bow to the president of the school and then to the audience at the 2015 Waseda University graduation ceremony in Japan. In modern-day Japan, bowing is a fundamental part of social etiquette which is both derivative and representative of Japanese culture, emphasizing respect and social ranks. From everyday greetings to business meetings to funerals, ojigi is ubiquitous in Japanese society and the ability to bow correctly and elegantly is widely considered to be one of the defining qualities of adulthood. Therefore, even though most Japanese people start bowing at a very young age, many companies in Japan will take the extra effort to specially train their employees on how to bow in business meetings. Generally speaking, ojigi in Japan can be coarsely divided into two categories: zarei ( 座礼 ), bowing while kneeling, and ritsurei ( 立礼 ), bowing while standing. In either case, it is considered essential to bend one's body only at the waist and keep one's back completely straight during the bowing gesture. Failure to do so is often thought of as an indication of lethargy, insincerity and even disrespect. Different sub-categories of ojigi vary mainly in the angles of inclination of one's body and the positions of one's hands, which are determined both by the status of the person one is bowing to and the scenario or context of gesture.

Bowing in Japan - Wikipedia

Bowing in Japan
Bowing in Japan
Contents
History
In the business world
Eshaku
Keirei
Saikeirei
Zarei
Saikeirei (zarei version)
Futsūrei
Senrei
In various activities
Kendo
Shinto shrine visits
Funerals
The tea ceremony
When to bow
How to bow
See also
References
Bibliography
External links

6 Ethics in Japan that You Need to Know | Japan Info 6 Ethics in Japan that You Need to Know
6 Ethics in Japan that You Need to Know
1. Japanese people like to greet anyone including foreigner
2. Not standing in front of cashier before your turn to pay
3. You will have Japanese slippers when you visit somebody’s house or public place
4. When at the restaurant
5. When you visit shrine or temple
6. Don’t be fussy when ask something
 However, in Japan, unless there is no queue, you have to fall in line (you will see there is a foot sign) before the cashier calls you. 3. You will have Japanese slippers when you visit somebody’s house or public place
jp.fotolia.com/
In japan, you have to take out your shoes and change it with Japanese slippers when you visited somebody house, or other places like office and temples, and other public buildings. 4. When at the restaurant
jp.fotolia.com/
At the restaurant, you will have a towel or wet tissue provided to clean your hands before eating. In japan it is considered impolite to burp. Depend on where you eat, some places require you to return your tray, plate and glass after you put the rest of your food in to garbage when you finished eating. So be watchful and see what people around you doing. 5. When you visit shrine or temple
jp.fotolia.com/
Keep respect to the worshipping places and don’t make a noise.

6 Ethics in Japan that You Need to Know | Japan Info

6 Ethics in Japan that You Need to Know
6 Ethics in Japan that You Need to Know
1. Japanese people like to greet anyone including foreigner
2. Not standing in front of cashier before your turn to pay
3. You will have Japanese slippers when you visit somebody’s house or public place
4. When at the restaurant
5. When you visit shrine or temple
6. Don’t be fussy when ask something

However, in Japan, unless there is no queue, you have to fall in line (you will see there is a foot sign) before the cashier calls you. 3. You will have Japanese slippers when you visit somebody’s house or public place
jp.fotolia.com/
In japan, you have to take out your shoes and change it with Japanese slippers when you visited somebody house, or other places like office and temples, and other public buildings. 4. When at the restaurant
jp.fotolia.com/
At the restaurant, you will have a towel or wet tissue provided to clean your hands before eating. In japan it is considered impolite to burp. Depend on where you eat, some places require you to return your tray, plate and glass after you put the rest of your food in to garbage when you finished eating. So be watchful and see what people around you doing. 5. When you visit shrine or temple
jp.fotolia.com/
Keep respect to the worshipping places and don’t make a noise.

20 Facts On Japanese Culture You Probably Never Knew - Japanology 20 Facts On Japanese Culture You Probably Never Knew
20 Facts On Japanese Culture You Probably Never Knew
1. Chopsticks
2. Bowing
3. Bathroom Slippers
4. Anime
5. Slurping Noodles
6. Eating Sushi
7. Chankonabe
8. Onsen Etiquette
9. Literacy
10. Fugu
11. Morning Exercise
12. Sitting Seiza
13. Colds and Allergies
14. Bathing
15. Walking While Eating or Smoking
16. Coffee
17. Geisha
18. Pouring Drinks
19. Oshibori
20. Non-Verbal Communication
 Instead, place them on the chopstick rest in between bites or when you finish eating. 2. Bowing
Photo by Akuppa John Wigham via Flickr
Bowing (known as ojigi) is the traditional form of greeting in Japan. However, bowing can also be used to indicate gratitude, congratulations, or an apology. In casual daily situations, a bow is often a simple nod of the head. Meanwhile, a longer and deeper bow is more respectful and can signify a formal apology or sincere thanks. Don’t worry if you’re just visiting – it’s completely acceptable for foreigners to shake hands in Japan. 3. Bathroom Slippers
In Japanese homes, there’s typically an area inside the front door, known as genkan, where people swap their shoes for house slippers. Going to the bathroom involves changing slippers again, as cleanliness is an inherent part of Japanese culture.

Instead, place them on the chopstick rest in between bites or when you finish eating. 2. Bowing
Photo by Akuppa John Wigham via Flickr
Bowing (known as ojigi) is the traditional form of greeting in Japan. However, bowing can also be used to indicate gratitude, congratulations, or an apology. In casual daily situations, a bow is often a simple nod of the head. Meanwhile, a longer and deeper bow is more respectful and can signify a formal apology or sincere thanks. Don’t worry if you’re just visiting – it’s completely acceptable for foreigners to shake hands in Japan. 3. Bathroom Slippers
In Japanese homes, there’s typically an area inside the front door, known as genkan, where people swap their shoes for house slippers. Going to the bathroom involves changing slippers again, as cleanliness is an inherent part of Japanese culture.

How to behave in Japan: Essential Japanese manners and etiquette | You Could Travel How to behave in Japan: Essential Japanese manners and etiquette
How to behave in Japan: Essential Japanese manners and etiquette
Table of Contents
Learn a few basic words in Japanese
It is impolite to drink or eat on the street
Do not leave your rubbish behind
Essential Japanese Manners & Etiquette
Don't pour your own drink if you are out with others
Sharing food with chopsticks
Don't point at someone with your chopsticks and do not leave your chopsticks standing upright in your food
No Pointing
No sugar or cream
Slurp away
Don't blow your nose
The best Japanese etiquette: No tipping
Where to stay in Tokyo - Best Areas & Hotels [updated for 2021]
Don't count the change
Don't be late
Don't stare
No phone calls, please
51 Best Things to do in Tokyo
Be generally quiet
Respect, Respect, Respect
No shouting
Always stick to your side of the road
Shoes off
Toilet slippers
Visiting a Japanese person
Gift away
Have a tattoo?
Onsen time
How to bathe
Bow or Nod
Paying the check
Use the wet towel properly
Put your chopsticks back in their place
Don't drink before saying kanpai
Elevator manners and etiquette
Business cards with both hands
Take the backpack off
Taxi
Keep smoking at bay
Formal Wear
Don't interrupt people
No soy for the rice
Pin this now
Stick your umbrella in a sleeve
Hello miso soup
Cory-san from Japan
 It's best to familiarise yourself with the basic Japanese manners and Japanese etiquette. Manners and customs are important in Japan, and even though you are a tourist in the country, you are still expected to follow a few common rules. Don't worry, everything is straight forward and really fun to do anyway. In this article, I will tell you everything you need to know in order to gain respect in Japan and not insult any of the locals. You'll know how to follow some basic rules and try to fit in as much as possible. Here is your guide to etiquette in Japan. Table of Contents
Learn a few basic words in Japanese
It is impolite to drink or eat on the street
Do not leave your rubbish behind
Don't pour your own drink if you are out with others
Sharing food with chopsticks
Don't point at someone with your chopsticks and do not leave your chopsticks standing upright in your food
No Pointing
No sugar or cream
Slurp away
Don't blow your nose
The best Japanese etiquette: No tipping
Don't count the change
Don't be late
Don't stare
No phone calls, please
Be generally quiet
Respect, Respect, Respect
No shouting
Always stick to your side of the road
Shoes off
Toilet slippers
Visiting a Japanese person
Gift away
Have a tattoo? Onsen time
How to bathe
Bow or Nod
Paying the check
Use the wet towel properly
Put your chopsticks back in their place
Don't drink before saying kanpai
Elevator manners and etiquette
Business cards with both hands
Take the backpack off
Taxi
Keep smoking at bay
Formal Wear
Don't interrupt people
No soy for the rice
Stick your umbrella in a sleeve
Hello miso soup
Cory-san from Japan
Learn a few basic words in Japanese
It's always nice to learn a few Japanese words. Don't worry, nobody expects you to speak fluent Japanese but know that it shows you are well mannered when you try your best.

30 Interesting Japanese Traditions - Japan Talk 30 Interesting Japanese Traditions
30 Interesting Japanese Traditions
1. Bonenkai Parties
2. Fukusasa Lucky Bamboo Branches
3. Zabuton Throwing
4. Yamayaki Mountain Burning
5. Mamemaki Bean Throwing
6. Mochi Making
7. Ehomaki Sushi Rolls
8. KFC On Christmas Eve
9. Sumo Salt
10. Towel On Head At Onsen
11. Bowing
12. Love Locks
13. Floating Lanterns
14. Sitting Seiza
15. Dondo Yaki
16. Hatsuhi Sunrise
17. Fundoshi at Festivals
18. Summer Yukata
19. Irasshaimase!
20. Rooster Rakes
Recently on Japan Talk
2021 Sumo Spring Basho in Osaka
2021 Otaru Snow Light Path Festival
2021 Tokyo Marathon Guide
Asahikawa Winter Festival Guide (2021)
 Floating Lanterns
The Japanese tradition of floating lanterns in rivers, known as Toro Nagashi is a ceremony that represents the journey of souls to the afterlife. It's used to celebrate the Japanese Obon holiday, a time of year when it's believed that the spirits of loved ones return to the world. Toro Nagashi ceremonies are also used to commemorate tragic events such as the Atomic Bombing of Hiroshima. 14. Sitting Seiza
Seiza is a traditional way to sit on Japanese tatami floors. It's considered the appropriate way to sit at formal occasions such as rituals at a Shinto Shrine. It's also widely used in Japanese martial arts where posture may be strictly corrected. The average person finds seiza challenging to hold for long periods of time. Older people and anyone who isn't practiced at it find it extremely difficult and are typically forgiven if they need to sit with their legs in front of them. 15.

30 Interesting Japanese Traditions - Japan Talk

30 Interesting Japanese Traditions
30 Interesting Japanese Traditions
1. Bonenkai Parties
2. Fukusasa Lucky Bamboo Branches
3. Zabuton Throwing
4. Yamayaki Mountain Burning
5. Mamemaki Bean Throwing
6. Mochi Making
7. Ehomaki Sushi Rolls
8. KFC On Christmas Eve
9. Sumo Salt
10. Towel On Head At Onsen
11. Bowing
12. Love Locks
13. Floating Lanterns
14. Sitting Seiza
15. Dondo Yaki
16. Hatsuhi Sunrise
17. Fundoshi at Festivals
18. Summer Yukata
19. Irasshaimase!
20. Rooster Rakes
Recently on Japan Talk
2021 Sumo Spring Basho in Osaka
2021 Otaru Snow Light Path Festival
2021 Tokyo Marathon Guide
Asahikawa Winter Festival Guide (2021)

Floating Lanterns
The Japanese tradition of floating lanterns in rivers, known as Toro Nagashi is a ceremony that represents the journey of souls to the afterlife. It's used to celebrate the Japanese Obon holiday, a time of year when it's believed that the spirits of loved ones return to the world. Toro Nagashi ceremonies are also used to commemorate tragic events such as the Atomic Bombing of Hiroshima. 14. Sitting Seiza
Seiza is a traditional way to sit on Japanese tatami floors. It's considered the appropriate way to sit at formal occasions such as rituals at a Shinto Shrine. It's also widely used in Japanese martial arts where posture may be strictly corrected. The average person finds seiza challenging to hold for long periods of time. Older people and anyone who isn't practiced at it find it extremely difficult and are typically forgiven if they need to sit with their legs in front of them. 15.

10 customs you must know before a trip to Japan - Matador Network 10 customs you must know before a trip to Japan
10 customs you must know before a trip to Japan
1. Addressing Someone, Respect
2. Table Manners
3. No Tipping
Matador's Newsletter
Subscribe for exclusive city guides, travel videos, trip giveaways and more!
4. Chopsticks
5. Thresholds
6. Masks
7. Conformity
8. Bathing
9. Speaking English
10. Safety
More like this
 10 customs you must know before a trip to Japan - Matador Network
10 customs you must know before a trip to Japan
Culture Guides Trip Planning Japan
Photo: MintImages /Shutterstock
1. Addressing Someone, Respect
Bowing is nothing less than an art form in Japan, respect pounded into children’s heads from the moment they enter school. For tourists, a simple inclination of the head or an attempt at a bow at the waist will usually suffice. The duration and inclination of the bow is proportionate to the elevation of the person you’re addressing. For example, a friend might get a lightning-fast 30-degree bow; an office superior might get a slow, extended, 70-degree bow. It’s all about position and circumstance. In addition to bowing, addressing someone properly is key. Just as a “Dr. Smith” might feel a little insulted if you were to refer to him as “Smith”, so would a Japanese if you do not attach the suffix “ san ” to their last name, or “ sama ” if you are trying to be particularly respectful.

10 customs you must know before a trip to Japan - Matador Network

10 customs you must know before a trip to Japan
10 customs you must know before a trip to Japan
1. Addressing Someone, Respect
2. Table Manners
3. No Tipping
Matador's Newsletter
Subscribe for exclusive city guides, travel videos, trip giveaways and more!
4. Chopsticks
5. Thresholds
6. Masks
7. Conformity
8. Bathing
9. Speaking English
10. Safety
More like this

10 customs you must know before a trip to Japan - Matador Network
10 customs you must know before a trip to Japan
Culture Guides Trip Planning Japan
Photo: MintImages /Shutterstock
1. Addressing Someone, Respect
Bowing is nothing less than an art form in Japan, respect pounded into children’s heads from the moment they enter school. For tourists, a simple inclination of the head or an attempt at a bow at the waist will usually suffice. The duration and inclination of the bow is proportionate to the elevation of the person you’re addressing. For example, a friend might get a lightning-fast 30-degree bow; an office superior might get a slow, extended, 70-degree bow. It’s all about position and circumstance. In addition to bowing, addressing someone properly is key. Just as a “Dr. Smith” might feel a little insulted if you were to refer to him as “Smith”, so would a Japanese if you do not attach the suffix “ san ” to their last name, or “ sama ” if you are trying to be particularly respectful.

30 Interesting Japanese Traditions - Japan Talk 30 Interesting Japanese Traditions
30 Interesting Japanese Traditions
1. Bonenkai Parties
2. Fukusasa Lucky Bamboo Branches
3. Zabuton Throwing
4. Yamayaki Mountain Burning
5. Mamemaki Bean Throwing
6. Mochi Making
7. Ehomaki Sushi Rolls
8. KFC On Christmas Eve
9. Sumo Salt
10. Towel On Head At Onsen
11. Bowing
12. Love Locks
13. Floating Lanterns
14. Sitting Seiza
15. Dondo Yaki
16. Hatsuhi Sunrise
17. Fundoshi at Festivals
18. Summer Yukata
19. Irasshaimase!
20. Rooster Rakes
Recently on Japan Talk
2021 Sumo Spring Basho in Osaka
2021 Otaru Snow Light Path Festival
2021 Tokyo Marathon Guide
Asahikawa Winter Festival Guide (2021)
 It's considered the appropriate way to sit at formal occasions such as rituals at a Shinto Shrine. It's also widely used in Japanese martial arts where posture may be strictly corrected. The average person finds seiza challenging to hold for long periods of time. Older people and anyone who isn't practiced at it find it extremely difficult and are typically forgiven if they need to sit with their legs in front of them. 15. Dondo Yaki
Dondo Yaki is the tradition of burning lucky items such as Omikuji at Shinto Shrines in January. It's considered bad form to throw luck items in the trash, instead they should be burned. Auspicious items sold by shrines are often decorated with the Japanese zodiac symbol of the current year and it's thought to be bad luck to hold on to them after the year ends. 16. Hatsuhi Sunrise
Hatsuhi, literally "first sun", is the Japanese tradition of waking up to see the first sunrise of the year on New Year's Day.

It's considered the appropriate way to sit at formal occasions such as rituals at a Shinto Shrine. It's also widely used in Japanese martial arts where posture may be strictly corrected. The average person finds seiza challenging to hold for long periods of time. Older people and anyone who isn't practiced at it find it extremely difficult and are typically forgiven if they need to sit with their legs in front of them. 15. Dondo Yaki
Dondo Yaki is the tradition of burning lucky items such as Omikuji at Shinto Shrines in January. It's considered bad form to throw luck items in the trash, instead they should be burned. Auspicious items sold by shrines are often decorated with the Japanese zodiac symbol of the current year and it's thought to be bad luck to hold on to them after the year ends. 16. Hatsuhi Sunrise
Hatsuhi, literally "first sun", is the Japanese tradition of waking up to see the first sunrise of the year on New Year's Day.

Dealing With Different Customs & Cultures | Backpacker Travel Dealing With Different Customs & Cultures
Dealing With Different Customs & Cultures
What’s in this Guide
1. Greetings & Communication
The handshake
Eye contact
2. Personal Space
Touching
Holding hands
Public displays of affection (PDA)
3. Personal Hygiene
Blowing your nose & clearing your throat
Face masks
Using your right hand
Toilets & sanitation
4. Gestures
Thumbs and hand signals
Getting someones attention
5. How to Dress
Proper street attire
Religious sites
Take your shoes off when visiting someone’s house or a place of worship
6. Punctuality
7. Eating
Cutlery & hands
Slurping
Appetite
8. Communication
Volume control
Body language
9. Gender Differences
10. Law & Order
Respect authority
Police
Drinking in public
11. Final Tips Before You Go
Find out when festivals, celebrations or religious events are on when planning your trip
Don’t expect other places or people to be like what you are used to
Be careful
The Most Important Lesson – “Respect”
 Getting someones attention
In Asia, when you want to wave the waiter over to your table, do so with your palm faced towards you, and in Ethiopia, you may be shocked at the way the locals treat servers as they would call a dog to heel, but try the same in Europe, then good luck on getting any service at all. If you would like to learn more, we suggest this book – Rude Hand Gestures of the World: A Guide to Offending without Words. 5. How to Dress
Proper street attire
Ladies, those skimpy shorts and bikini top may work well on some beaches in Thailand or the south of France, but even a skirt that isn’t long enough to cover your calves in Aleppo, Syria will get you scorned by the more conservative women and may get you too much unwanted attention from certain men unused to seeing more flesh publicly. Religious sites
Temples, churches, burial grounds and other religious sites can pose a problem depending on where you are. For men, when entering a Jewish synagogue or cemetery, it is customary to cover your head, even if you only have a baseball cap. But the opposite goes in many Christian establishments, where the man should remove his hat. For women, many religious denominations prefer the hair to at least be covered with a scarf or shawl, and the Rastafarian faith won’t let you enter without a skirt. We recommend packing a sarong whenever you travel.

Dealing With Different Customs & Cultures | Backpacker Travel

Dealing With Different Customs & Cultures
Dealing With Different Customs & Cultures
What’s in this Guide
1. Greetings & Communication
The handshake
Eye contact
2. Personal Space
Touching
Holding hands
Public displays of affection (PDA)
3. Personal Hygiene
Blowing your nose & clearing your throat
Face masks
Using your right hand
Toilets & sanitation
4. Gestures
Thumbs and hand signals
Getting someones attention
5. How to Dress
Proper street attire
Religious sites
Take your shoes off when visiting someone’s house or a place of worship
6. Punctuality
7. Eating
Cutlery & hands
Slurping
Appetite
8. Communication
Volume control
Body language
9. Gender Differences
10. Law & Order
Respect authority
Police
Drinking in public
11. Final Tips Before You Go
Find out when festivals, celebrations or religious events are on when planning your trip
Don’t expect other places or people to be like what you are used to
Be careful
The Most Important Lesson – “Respect”

Getting someones attention
In Asia, when you want to wave the waiter over to your table, do so with your palm faced towards you, and in Ethiopia, you may be shocked at the way the locals treat servers as they would call a dog to heel, but try the same in Europe, then good luck on getting any service at all. If you would like to learn more, we suggest this book – Rude Hand Gestures of the World: A Guide to Offending without Words. 5. How to Dress
Proper street attire
Ladies, those skimpy shorts and bikini top may work well on some beaches in Thailand or the south of France, but even a skirt that isn’t long enough to cover your calves in Aleppo, Syria will get you scorned by the more conservative women and may get you too much unwanted attention from certain men unused to seeing more flesh publicly. Religious sites
Temples, churches, burial grounds and other religious sites can pose a problem depending on where you are. For men, when entering a Jewish synagogue or cemetery, it is customary to cover your head, even if you only have a baseball cap. But the opposite goes in many Christian establishments, where the man should remove his hat. For women, many religious denominations prefer the hair to at least be covered with a scarf or shawl, and the Rastafarian faith won’t let you enter without a skirt. We recommend packing a sarong whenever you travel.

Etiquette in Japan - Wikipedia Etiquette in Japan
Etiquette in Japan
Contents
Bathing
Bowing
Making payment
Eating and drinking
Chopsticks
Visiting someone's house
Gifts and gift-giving
Seasonal gifts
Impolite gifts
Other gifts
Greetings
Letters and postcards
Titles
Letter writing materials
Greeting postcards
Respectful language
Service and public employees
Funerals
Special birthdays
Business cards
See also
References
External links
 Please help improve this article either by rewriting the how-to content or by moving it to Wikiversity, Wikibooks or Wikivoyage. (August 2013)
( Learn how and when to remove this template message)
Part of a series on the
Culture of Japan

History
People
Languages
Traditions
Clothing
Etiquette
Funerals
Games
Geisha
Marriage
Onsen / Sentō
Tea ceremony
Values
Mythology and folklore
Mythology
folklore
Cuisine
Festivals
Religion
Buddhism
Christian
New religions
Shinto
Art
Bonsai
Gardens
Ikebana
Pottery and porcelain
Literature
Light novel
Anime
Manga
Poetry
Music and performing arts
Music
Performing arts
J-pop
Kayōkyoku
Noh
Media
Television
Cinema
Anime
Media mix
Mobile phone culture
Video games
Sport
Martial arts
Monuments
World Heritage Sites
Architecture
Cultural Landscapes
Cultural Properties
National Treasures
Symbols
Flag
Coat of arms
Organisations
Museums
Japan portal
v
t
e
Etiquette in Japan form common societal expectations of social behavior practiced throughout the nation of Japan and is highly esteemed. Like many social cultures, etiquette varies greatly depending on one's status relative to the person in question. Customary practices can be traced to all aspects of everyday life in Japan, particularly in homes, schools, and the workplace. Although certain regions may have distinct customs, many of the customs practiced daily are also retained nationally and can be seen in bathing, eating, and language use. Moreover, some customs have changed over the course of Japanese history. It should also be noted that many customs are broad generalizations that continue to change throughout history and may inaccurately represent an entire nation, as regional or local differences exist. Contents
1 Bathing
2 Bowing
3 Making payment
4 Eating and drinking
4.1 Chopsticks
5 Visiting someone's house
6 Gifts and gift-giving
6.1 Seasonal gifts
6.2 Impolite gifts
6.3 Other gifts
7 Greetings
8 Letters and postcards
8.1 Titles
8.2 Letter writing materials
8.3 Greeting postcards
9 Respectful language
10 Service and public employees
11 Funerals
12 Special birthdays
13 Business cards
14 See also
15 References
16 External links
Bathing
A private furo in a ryokan
Bathing is an important part of the daily routine in Japan, where bath tubs are for relaxing, not cleaning the body. Therefore, the body must be cleaned and scrubbed before entering the bathtub or ofuro. This is done in the same room as the tub, while seated on a small stool and using a hand-held shower.

Etiquette in Japan - Wikipedia

Etiquette in Japan
Etiquette in Japan
Contents
Bathing
Bowing
Making payment
Eating and drinking
Chopsticks
Visiting someone's house
Gifts and gift-giving
Seasonal gifts
Impolite gifts
Other gifts
Greetings
Letters and postcards
Titles
Letter writing materials
Greeting postcards
Respectful language
Service and public employees
Funerals
Special birthdays
Business cards
See also
References
External links

Bathroom Etiquette in Japan | USA Today Bathroom Etiquette in Japan
Bathroom Etiquette in Japan
Travel Tips
Using Traditional Japanese and Western-Style Toilets
Sound Princess
Travel Tips Video
Bathroom Slippers
The Japanese Bath
Things to Know When Traveling to Japan
Travel Tips
Etiquette
Space
Language
 The Japanese toilet is sunken into the ground, with a hood covering part of it to prevent water from splashing up when you flush. To use it, you squat or kneel facing the hood with your legs on either side of the toilet. A lever or button near the hood flushes the toilet. The Western-style toilet looks almost exactly as you would expect in Western countries but is often electronic and features several buttons with various wash and dry functions for men and women. If the seat feels warm when you sit down, it probably has a heated seat function. The traditional Japanese toilet is still used in the majority of public restrooms throughout Japan, but Western-style toilets are prevalent in metropolitan areas. Sound Princess
One function of the Western toilet in Japan is famous enough to warrant its own section. The Japanese, particularly women, consider it good manners to silence any sounds you make in the toilet stall. Because of this, many toilets have a Otohime or "Sound Princess" feature. The Otohime masks all sounds by replicating a toilet flushing.

Bathroom Etiquette in Japan | USA Today

Bathroom Etiquette in Japan
Bathroom Etiquette in Japan
Travel Tips
Using Traditional Japanese and Western-Style Toilets
Sound Princess
Travel Tips Video
Bathroom Slippers
The Japanese Bath
Things to Know When Traveling to Japan
Travel Tips
Etiquette
Space
Language

The Japanese toilet is sunken into the ground, with a hood covering part of it to prevent water from splashing up when you flush. To use it, you squat or kneel facing the hood with your legs on either side of the toilet. A lever or button near the hood flushes the toilet. The Western-style toilet looks almost exactly as you would expect in Western countries but is often electronic and features several buttons with various wash and dry functions for men and women. If the seat feels warm when you sit down, it probably has a heated seat function. The traditional Japanese toilet is still used in the majority of public restrooms throughout Japan, but Western-style toilets are prevalent in metropolitan areas. Sound Princess
One function of the Western toilet in Japan is famous enough to warrant its own section. The Japanese, particularly women, consider it good manners to silence any sounds you make in the toilet stall. Because of this, many toilets have a Otohime or "Sound Princess" feature. The Otohime masks all sounds by replicating a toilet flushing.

Eating Out In Japan - Types of Seating at Japanese Restaurants | Let's experience Japan Eating Out In Japan - Types of Seating at Japanese Restaurants
Eating Out In Japan - Types of Seating at Japanese Restaurants
Eating Out In Japan - Types of Seating at Japanese Restaurants
From Bar Seats to Horigotatsu, Japanese Restaurant Seating Options are Diverse
Bar / Counter Seating (Kaunta Seki)
Tatami Seating (Zashiki)
Horigotatsu
Table Seating (Teburu Seki)
Booth Seating
Kotatsu
Private Dining Rooms
Whether Sitting at a Horigotatsu Table or in a Booth, Eating out in Japan Is a Unique Experience
 The staff will then take your ticket and indicate for you to take one of the available open seats at the counter. Tatami Seating (Zashiki)
Zashiki is a traditional Japanese restaurant seating arrangement featuring a low table set on tatami flooring. It’s found in more traditional Japanese restaurants, izakaya, and kaiseki restaurants. Tatami seating may be located either in a private dining room or in one section of an open dining room. Some restaurants offer a mix of table seating and zashiki seating, so if your party is lead to a table in the tatami section of the restaurant, you’ll be expected to remove your shoes before stepping onto the tatami platform. It’s customary to turn your shoes so that they are facing away from the tatami, which makes it easier to put your shoes back on when stepping off the platform after your meal. However, if you need to leave the tatami area briefly, such as to use the restroom, most restaurants offer a pair of slippers or sandals which you can use to walk through the restaurant so that you don’t need to put your shoes back on or walk barefoot through the restaurant. Be sure to watch out when you get to the restroom, though, as it’s common in Japan to have another pair of slippers inside the restroom that are separate from the ones you wear around the restaurant. You should take care not to walk out of the restroom wearing these restroom-only slippers! Horigotatsu
A horigotatsu is a type of traditional Japanese table that’s low to the ground and has a recessed floor beneath it so that people can stretch out their legs.

Eating Out In Japan - Types of Seating at Japanese Restaurants | Let's experience Japan

Eating Out In Japan - Types of Seating at Japanese Restaurants
Eating Out In Japan - Types of Seating at Japanese Restaurants
Eating Out In Japan - Types of Seating at Japanese Restaurants
From Bar Seats to Horigotatsu, Japanese Restaurant Seating Options are Diverse
Bar / Counter Seating (Kaunta Seki)
Tatami Seating (Zashiki)
Horigotatsu
Table Seating (Teburu Seki)
Booth Seating
Kotatsu
Private Dining Rooms
Whether Sitting at a Horigotatsu Table or in a Booth, Eating out in Japan Is a Unique Experience

Eating Out In Japan - Types of Seating at Japanese Restaurants | Let's experience Japan Eating Out In Japan - Types of Seating at Japanese Restaurants
Eating Out In Japan - Types of Seating at Japanese Restaurants
Eating Out In Japan - Types of Seating at Japanese Restaurants
From Bar Seats to Horigotatsu, Japanese Restaurant Seating Options are Diverse
Bar / Counter Seating (Kaunta Seki)
Tatami Seating (Zashiki)
Horigotatsu
Table Seating (Teburu Seki)
Booth Seating
Kotatsu
Private Dining Rooms
Whether Sitting at a Horigotatsu Table or in a Booth, Eating out in Japan Is a Unique Experience
 It’s customary to turn your shoes so that they are facing away from the tatami, which makes it easier to put your shoes back on when stepping off the platform after your meal. However, if you need to leave the tatami area briefly, such as to use the restroom, most restaurants offer a pair of slippers or sandals which you can use to walk through the restaurant so that you don’t need to put your shoes back on or walk barefoot through the restaurant. Be sure to watch out when you get to the restroom, though, as it’s common in Japan to have another pair of slippers inside the restroom that are separate from the ones you wear around the restaurant. You should take care not to walk out of the restroom wearing these restroom-only slippers! Horigotatsu
A horigotatsu is a type of traditional Japanese table that’s low to the ground and has a recessed floor beneath it so that people can stretch out their legs. This allows diners to sit in a tatami area the same way they sit in a Western style chair. It’s commonly found in traditional Japanese restaurants and izakaya, especially in establishments that are for group dining. Table Seating (Teburu Seki)
Many restaurants in Japan offer Western-style table seating these days. At the restaurant entrance, you’ll be asked how many are in your party, and shown to a suitable table. After the meal, it’s common to pay at the register in casual restaurants, but increasingly, restaurants in Japan are starting to take payment tableside like in Western-style restaurants.

Bathroom Etiquette in Japan | USA Today Bathroom Etiquette in Japan
Bathroom Etiquette in Japan
Travel Tips
Using Traditional Japanese and Western-Style Toilets
Sound Princess
Travel Tips Video
Bathroom Slippers
The Japanese Bath
Things to Know When Traveling to Japan
Travel Tips
Etiquette
Space
Language
 Bathroom Etiquette in Japan | USA Today
Things to Know When Traveling to Japan
What Is a European Style Bathroom? Bathroom Etiquette in Japan
Travel Tips
Umiko Sasaki, Leaf Group
Japanese (Photo: ) Bathroom etiquette might seem universal, but there are quite a few differences in Japan that could surprise you. While modern hotels and cities that handle international visitors frequently are more accommodating to Western concepts, a trip to more traditional or rural areas -- or even someone's house -- requires knowledge of Japanese bathroom etiquette. Using Traditional Japanese and Western-Style Toilets
There's a big difference between a traditional Japanese toilet and the Western style to which Americans are accustomed. The Japanese toilet is sunken into the ground, with a hood covering part of it to prevent water from splashing up when you flush. To use it, you squat or kneel facing the hood with your legs on either side of the toilet. A lever or button near the hood flushes the toilet. The Western-style toilet looks almost exactly as you would expect in Western countries but is often electronic and features several buttons with various wash and dry functions for men and women. If the seat feels warm when you sit down, it probably has a heated seat function.

Bathroom Etiquette in Japan | USA Today

Bathroom Etiquette in Japan | USA Today
Things to Know When Traveling to Japan
What Is a European Style Bathroom? Bathroom Etiquette in Japan
Travel Tips
Umiko Sasaki, Leaf Group
Japanese (Photo: ) Bathroom etiquette might seem universal, but there are quite a few differences in Japan that could surprise you. While modern hotels and cities that handle international visitors frequently are more accommodating to Western concepts, a trip to more traditional or rural areas -- or even someone's house -- requires knowledge of Japanese bathroom etiquette. Using Traditional Japanese and Western-Style Toilets
There's a big difference between a traditional Japanese toilet and the Western style to which Americans are accustomed. The Japanese toilet is sunken into the ground, with a hood covering part of it to prevent water from splashing up when you flush. To use it, you squat or kneel facing the hood with your legs on either side of the toilet. A lever or button near the hood flushes the toilet. The Western-style toilet looks almost exactly as you would expect in Western countries but is often electronic and features several buttons with various wash and dry functions for men and women. If the seat feels warm when you sit down, it probably has a heated seat function.

Doing Business in Other Cultures - Mobal Doing Business in Other Cultures
Doing Business in Other Cultures
England
Japan
Spain
China
India
Italy
Germany
Brazil
 When negotiations are in order, it is best to send a senior representative of the company, not a young employee. Business cards are exchanged at the end of a meeting, so be prepared. Always be punctual to appointments, and if you must be late, call. It is always best to rent a Europe phone when traveling to Britain on business so you can make a call if needed. Japan
Be prepared to dress up when doing business in Japan, as Japanese business etiquette does not accept the causal American business attire. Always wait to be directed to your seat for a meeting, as the seating indicates the status of the meeting’s participants and will be determined beforehand. Always wait for the leader of the meeting to tell you to sit, and remain seated until the leader stands at the end of the meeting. Always give a small gift to your host, and if you receive a gift, do not open it in public. Ignoring proper business etiquette in Japan could jeopardize your business in the country, so learn them well. Spain
While Spanish business etiquette may conjure up images of kisses on the cheek, it is slightly more formal today.

Doing Business in Other Cultures - Mobal

Doing Business in Other Cultures
Doing Business in Other Cultures
England
Japan
Spain
China
India
Italy
Germany
Brazil

When negotiations are in order, it is best to send a senior representative of the company, not a young employee. Business cards are exchanged at the end of a meeting, so be prepared. Always be punctual to appointments, and if you must be late, call. It is always best to rent a Europe phone when traveling to Britain on business so you can make a call if needed. Japan
Be prepared to dress up when doing business in Japan, as Japanese business etiquette does not accept the causal American business attire. Always wait to be directed to your seat for a meeting, as the seating indicates the status of the meeting’s participants and will be determined beforehand. Always wait for the leader of the meeting to tell you to sit, and remain seated until the leader stands at the end of the meeting. Always give a small gift to your host, and if you receive a gift, do not open it in public. Ignoring proper business etiquette in Japan could jeopardize your business in the country, so learn them well. Spain
While Spanish business etiquette may conjure up images of kisses on the cheek, it is slightly more formal today.

 Chinese Traditional Etiquette Customs
Chinese Traditional Etiquette Customs
Walking Etiquette
Greeting etiquette
Seating etiquette
Dining etiquette
Etiquette in celebrations and condolences
Traditional etiquette: the most characteristic of Chinese culture; the fist-and-palm salute
Chinese traditional etiquette: the principle of serving tea
 It is also done when people in a higher class return a gesture to the people in the lower class. There is etiquette for the most revered person in the society, which is done by kneeling down with hands and head touching the floor. Today, however, this is only found when people visit the remote countryside around New Year’s. People are accustomed to shaking hands, which is a kind of etiquette introduced from western countries used to introduce oneself. Seating etiquette
The seating etiquette is organized, which varies among people of different classes. People in the highest class are placed in the most honorable seats, while those in the lowest class sit further away. There are rules according to what class a person is placed in that determines where they sit. It would disappoint the host if you were to sit in the wrong seat and would be considered impolite. If you aren’t sure where to sit you should ask the host. For indoor seats, those facing the east are honorable, while seats facing the west are not.

Chinese Traditional Etiquette Customs
Chinese Traditional Etiquette Customs
Walking Etiquette
Greeting etiquette
Seating etiquette
Dining etiquette
Etiquette in celebrations and condolences
Traditional etiquette: the most characteristic of Chinese culture; the fist-and-palm salute
Chinese traditional etiquette: the principle of serving tea

It is also done when people in a higher class return a gesture to the people in the lower class. There is etiquette for the most revered person in the society, which is done by kneeling down with hands and head touching the floor. Today, however, this is only found when people visit the remote countryside around New Year’s. People are accustomed to shaking hands, which is a kind of etiquette introduced from western countries used to introduce oneself. Seating etiquette
The seating etiquette is organized, which varies among people of different classes. People in the highest class are placed in the most honorable seats, while those in the lowest class sit further away. There are rules according to what class a person is placed in that determines where they sit. It would disappoint the host if you were to sit in the wrong seat and would be considered impolite. If you aren’t sure where to sit you should ask the host. For indoor seats, those facing the east are honorable, while seats facing the west are not.