Welcome
to Japan! This friendly nation has something to offer everyone. Japan
has a fascinating culture rooted in centuries old traditions. Yet, in
the last 100 years, Japan has undergone immense change from an insular,
agrarian state to a modern, industrial nation. Throughout Japan’s
history, despite the sometimes slow, sometimes fast changes, a common
thread holds its culture together.
With its centuries old
history there is much to be learned and studied if one chooses.
Whether an observer, or a participant, one cannot escape the
fascinating culture of this country. There are numerous books in English
that provide interesting insights into the culture.
Joining groups and clubs is an easy way to begin the process of
learning about the culture. If you have a particular interest in an
activity such as Ikebana (the Japanese art of flower arranging),
consider joining an organization that provides courses in this art. (top
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Meeting your new neighbors:
It
is customary for the new arrival to bring a small gift to your neighbors
and introduce your family. In case of a problem, you will more than
likely have to rely on your neighbors! Don’t be concerned if your
Japanese neighbors and friends do not invite you into their homes.
Japanese rarely entertain in their homes, primarily due to space
limitations. (top
of page)
The combination of
Japan’s numerous mountain ranges and the length of the archipelago (22°of
latitude) produces a complex climate. Hokkaido, to the far north, has
short summers and long winters with heavy snowfalls. The southern
islands of Okinawa enjoy a subtropical climate. Tokyo, located in the
Kanto area, has four distinct seasons with temperatures ranging from 0℃(32°F)
to 32℃(92°F).
Spring in Tokyo begins about mid-March and is generally mild with
an average temperature of 13℃(55°F).
Summer, from July to early September, is humid with an average
temperature of 25℃（77°F.
Autumn is pleasant and mild with sunny skies and an average temperature
of 16℃（62°F）.
Winter is bright and sunny, but cold with occasional light snow. The
average temperature in January and February is 0℃(32°F).
Japan uses the Celsius scale in stating temperatures (to convert
Celsius to Fahrenheit multiply by 1.8 and add 32. To convert Fahrenheit
to Celsius subtract 32 and multiply by 5/9).
Japan frequently has earthquakes. Most earthquakes felt in the
Tokyo area are of low intensity. The building may sway or even a few
objects may fall of a shelf, but no major earthquake has occurred in
Tokyo since 1923. Ward offices provide detailed information on
preparations for earthquakes, procedures in the event of an earthquake,
and evacuation instructions.
When an earthquake occurs:
･
turn off gas, heaters and
other appliances and extinguish all fires.
･
open an exit door and one
or more windows in order to have an exit.
･
move to a place that is
free from falling objects, such as under a strong table
or doorway.
After the earthquake subsides, listen for official information on
the TV, radio or loudspeakers. NHK will broadcast information and
instructions in English on their TV stations. FEN and NHK radio stations
will also broadcast in English
If severe damage occurs or there is a fire, go to the evacuation
site designated for your area. Ward offices have detailed information on
evacuation procedures and sites.
Preparation for earthquakes is an essential part of living in
Japan. It is important to be prepared so as not to cause panic. Some
basic preparedness measures include:
-
Storing
three days of water and food in a convenient place.
-
Learning
where the evacuation site is for your area. If family members are at
work and school, be sure they know where to go and where you can
find each other when it is safe.
-
Registering
at your home country embassy or consulate so they know who their
citizens are and who to contact during an emergency.
-
Preparing
an emergency kit containing: first aid kit, flashlight, transistor
radio, blanket, candles, matches, watch or battery-operated clock,
special medicines, toothbrush, toothpaste, pen, paper, money, and a
photocopy of your Alien Registration Card and title page of your
passport.
Late summer is the beginning of the typhoon season. September, in
particular, has always been a month when typhoons have bombarded this
chain of islands. Television and radio updates are broadcast frequently
when this season approaches. As power failures are common, be sure to
keep candles handy. Also have a supply of water ready, as water service
may be cut off.
The rainy season is generally from the beginning of June to
mid-July in the Kanto region. You can be assured of rain or drizzle
almost every day during this period.
Humidity levels will stay very high and special care should be
taken to avoid mold in your closets and other closed areas if you do not
have air conditioning. Most foodstuffs should be kept in the
refrigerator to avoid mold.
(top
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Registering yourself (Alien registration)
Foreign nationals
planning to stay in Japan for more than 90 days are required to register
at the ward, city, town or village office of his/her residence within 90
days of arrival. Registration involves filling out a form, showing your
passport, and providing two photographs (3.5 cm x 4.5 cm). A temporary
certificate will be issued and you will be given a date to return to the
ward office (usually within 10 days) to pick up the permanent Alien
Registration Card, a small wallet size laminated card. All foreign
nationals age 16 or over are required to carry their Alien Registration
Card at all times.
The Alien Registration Card is necessary in order to obtain a
driver’s license, a re-entry permit and to enroll in the National
Health Insurance program.
Any change to your original application should be reported to the
ward office within 14 days of the change. Changes to report include:
change of address, new employer, status of residence, authorized period
of stay, and issuance of new passport.
The local ward office will send you a notification prior to the
expiration of your Alien Registration Card. Within 30 days of expiration
you must renew your Alien Registration Card. The renewal process is the
same as the original application process with the exception of filling
out a renewal form rather than an application form and you will not be
required to be fingerprinted again.
(top
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Re-entry permit
The re-entry permit
is mandatory for all foreign residents who wish to travel outside Japan.
The permit is issued at all immigration offices. With this permit, a
foreign national wishing to leave Japan temporarily need not obtain a
new visa upon returning to Japan, and will be able to continue his/her
stay under the same status of residence.
There are two types of re-entry permits: single and multiple. In
either case, the term of validity is limited to the date of expiration
of the period of stay of the current visa and the maximum term is one
year. Those in Japan for short-term residence (under 90 days) cannot
apply for re-entry permission.
The
application for a re-entry permit requires that you fill out a form and
show your passport and Alien Registration Card. A stamp is purchased at
a post office or facility provided at immigration offices for \3,000 for
a single re-entry permit and JPY 6,000 for a multiple re-entry permit.
The procedure usually takes one hour or more.
Tokyo residents can go to one of two immigration offices:
Otemachi or Hakozaki. The
Hakozaki office is located in the Tokyo City Air Terminal (TCAT)
building. A re-entry permit can be obtained at TCAT on your way to the
airport if you allow an extra hour and are willing to take the chance
that no complications will occur. Try to avoid busy times such as
Mondays and Fridays or the wait could be quite long.
(top
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Driver’s license
To drive in Japan
you must be 18 years old and obtain an international driver’s license
from your home country or transfer your foreign driver’s license to a
Japanese one.
Check the
requirements for obtaining a license or renewal before you go to a
licensing center. Call (03) 3450-5000 for a Japanese recording or call
and press 19 for the recording in English.
As of May 10, 1994, to transfer a foreign license to a Japanese
license the following items are required: driver’s license from your
home country issued more than three months prior to your arrival in
Japan, a translation of the driver’s license, Alien Registration Card
(or temporary certificate), one black and white or color photograph (3cm
x 2.4cm), passport, and fee of Y 3,800.
The translation of your driver’s license must be from your
embassy or consulate or from the Japan Automobile Federation (JAF). The
JAF provides the easiest and fastest way to get the translation. Send
JAF a photocopy of your license (both sides) by genkin kakitome “registered
mail for cash” in the amount of Y 3,700. They will usually send you
the translation within ten days. JAF sells a helpful publication in
English entitled “Rules of the road” for JPY 2,000 which you need to
study for the written test. For more information, call JAF in Tokyo at
(03) 3436-2811 and ask for the kokusai-bu (international affairs
department).
Motorcycle license-testing procedures vary with the size of the
machine. Before you can obtain a license for a 750cc motorcycle, you
must demonstrate that you can lift one after it falls over!
You must apply at the license office nearest your place of
residence in Japan. Your ward, town, or city office can tell you where
this is located. Applications for licenses are accepted from 8:30 a.m.
to 11:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Most Tokyo residents use the Samezu licensing office in the
Shinagawa area. The three testing centers are:
・
Samezu Driver’s License Testing Center (03)3474-1374
・
Koto Driver’s License Testing Center (03)3699-1151
・
Fuchu Driver’s License Testing Center
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Places of worship
English
services are held at the following places of worship:
Roman
Catholic
－Franciscan
Chapel Center in Roppongi, Minato-ku
(03) 3401-2141
－Saint
Anselm’s Benedictine Priory, Kami-Osaki, Shinagawa
-ku (03-) 3491-6966
－St.
Ignatius Church, Kojimachi, Chiyoda-ku
(03) 3263-4584
－St.
Mary’s Cathedral, Sekiguchi, Bunkyo-ku
(03) 3941-3029
Anglican/Episcopal －St.
Alban’s Church, Shiba-koen, Minato-ku
(03) 3431-8534
Baptist
－Tokyo
Baptist Church, Hachiyama-cho, Shibuya-ku
(03) 461-8425
Interdenominational －Tokyo
Union Church, Jingumae, Shibuya-ku
(03) 3400-0047
Lutheran
－St.
Paul International Lutheran Church
Fujimi, Chiyoda-ku (03) 3261-3740
Judaic
－The
Jewish Community of Japan, Hiroo, Shibuya-ku
(03) 3400-2559
Islamic
－Islamic
Center Japan, Ohara, Setagaya-ku
(03) 3460-6169 (top
of page)
Medical care and facilities
Medical care is very
good in Japan. It is advisable to visit a doctor soon after your
arrival. Find out which medical facilities the doctor is affiliated with
and determine if you can communicate with the doctor. Doctors are
limited to practicing in hospitals with which they are affiliated. The
doctor should practice at a hospital that is near your home.
Most hospitals do not accept appointments so the wait may be one
hour or more. In the event of an emergency, a foreigner can access any
medical emergency facility that is open, but the staff is not likely to
speak much English. Most major hospitals and clinics with English
speaking staff and / or foreign physicians are located within the
Yamanote Line. You can prepare yourself for emergencies by obtaining a
list of hospitals and clinics near your home and the days and hours they
are open for different types of services. Not all hospitals and clinics
are open every day and some do not accept emergency cases. Some
hospitals and clinics with English-speaking staff are listed below:
*
International Catholic Hospital, Shinjuku-ku (03) 3951-1111
*
International Clinic, Minato-ku (03) 3582-2646
*
Japan Red Cross Medical Center, Shibuya-ku (03) 3400-1311
*
Jikei University School of Medicine Hospital, Minato-ku (03) 433-1111
*
Keio University Hospital, Shinjuku-ku (03) 3353-1211
*
National medical Clinic, Minato-ku (03) 3473-2057
*
St. Luke’s International Hospital, Chuo-ku (03) 3541-5151
*
Tokyo Medical and Surgical Clinic, Minato-ku (03) 3436-3028
Ambulance service is operated by the municipal of prefectural
fire department. It is free of charge. Dial 119 and give the operator
your name, address and telephone number.
The operator may not speak English, so it is recommended to have
the information written down next to your telephone in Japanese:
I
need an ambulance.
Kyukyusha o onegaishimasu.. or Kaji desu. (fire)
My
name is .
Namae wa desu.
or
Watashi wa
desu.
My
address is .
Jusho wa .
The
name of my apartment is .
Apart no namae wa
.
Manshon no namae
wa .
I
live near .
no chikaku desu.
(Subway station,
convenience store, cross street)
(This is not
necessary, but may help.)
My
telephone number is .
Denwa bango wa
desu.
Even if you cannot communicate with the operator, do not hang up.
The fire department will trace your call and dispatch an ambulance.
Ambulance attendants are trained in basic first aid only. After
determining the injury or illness, the attendant will ask the dispatcher
for the appropriate hospital bases on the nature of the medical services
needed and availability of doctors and equipment.
For helpful information, call :
･ Foreign
Nurses Association of Japan (03) 3405-1233
(This number frequently changes). Call TELL (03) 5721-4347 for
the
current correct number if this is incorrect.
・
Association of Medical
Doctors for Asia (03) 5285-8181
Organized by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government to provide medical
Information to foreigners.
･
International Medical Information Center (03) 5285-8088
Provides referrals and interpretation on the Japanese medical
system for
Foreigners.
Most prescriptions written by doctors from countries other than
Japan will not be accepted in Japan. Some prescription drugs may be sold
over-the-counter in Japan.
Take
your prescription to your doctor and he will tell you if it can be
filled or if a suitable substitute can be prescribed.
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Mail services
Mail service is
prompt and safe. Rarely is mail lost. Local service can actually arrive
at its destination on the same day in some cases and generally the next
day in many cases. Standard size letters weighing up to 25g cost JPY 80.
International mail is divided into four types:
・
Letter Post: includes letters, postcards, printed matter, small
packets and
literature
for the blind up to 2kg. A standard size letter to the United
States
weighing up to 10g cost JPY 110 (subject to change)
・
Parcel Post: up to 20kg (certain destinations are limited to
10kg)
・
Express Mail Service (EMS): business documents and general
articles.
・
Intelpost: The fastest international mail; combines facsimile and
the international postal network.
Post offices handle many services in addition to traditional
postal services. Most offer special envelopes for sending cash, revenue
stamps required for some documents, banking and insurance services, and
boxes and bags to send large or bulky items.
Post offices are generally open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Some
large post offices are open until 7:00 p.m. with limited service on
Saturdays, and some major Post Offices have a 24 hour window for parcel
pick ups.
Red mailboxes are for regular mail and for special delivery mail.
The slot on the left is for post card and mail while the on the right is
for others including foreign countries and special delivery mail. All
areas have postal codes consisting of three- to five-digit numbers. The
postal code eliminates the need to include the name of the prefecture in
the address. Most envelopes have printed boxes in which to write the
postal code.
(top
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Police
Japan is a very safe
place to live. The Japanese pride themselves on this fact and rightly
so. However, practical precautions should be taken at all times. Crime
does occur in Japan.
Police boxes, called koban, are open 24 hours a day to
handle reports of burglary, violence, provide directions, process lost
and found articles, accept reports of missing persons and accidents,
and, or course, the patrol neighborhoods. In neighborhoods with single
family houses, a policeman may come to visit a new arrival to introduce
himself (usually Japanese arrivals).
Local police stations keep lost items for one month. The items
are then forwarded to the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department’s lost
and found division (03) 3814-4151.
For emergencies, report directly to the local police station or
call 110. Most public pay phones are equipped with an emergency call
button for this purpose. If there is no emergency call button, insert a
Y10 or Y100 coin and dial 110. Your coin will be returned after the
call.
(top
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Garbage collection
In 1993, the
Japanese Metropolitan Government issued very strict rules about garbage
collection in an effort to increase recycling efforts. Japan has been
recycling many items for several years. However, the residents were
asked to voluntarily separate paper from glass and the like. Starting in
1994, it is now mandatory within Tokyo’s 23 Wards to separate burnable
and non-burnable garbage and place it in special bags.
Within one month of the new rules, over 80% compliance was
reported. Many landlords or maintenance managers will return your
garbage to your front door if you do not dispose of your garbage
properly.
Burnable trash is generally collected two or three times
each week. Non-burnable trash is collected once or twice a week.
Burnable trash includes: paper, paper products, food, milk and juice
cartons, cloth, magazines and newspapers. Non-burnable trash includes:
glass, metal, sharp objects, plastic, and rubber. Trash is not to be put
out before collection day and there are designated areas for placement.
Ask your neighbor, landlord or maintenance manager about the proper
disposal of all items and days of collection. This information is also
posted on utility poles in Japanese in your neighborhood.
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Organizations
There are hundreds
of organizations, clubs, associations and special interest groups in the
Tokyo metropolitan area. The following list is just a sample of
organizations to become involved in to enjoy your life in Tokyo. If you
have a particular interest in some activity not listed here, call the
Tokyo English Life Line (TELL) at (03) 5721-4347 and they will help
locate a contact. TELL publishes a calendar each year that lists the
names and telephone numbers of over 150 groups. Refer to the calendar
for current telephone numbers.
Association
of Foreign Wives of Japanese (AFWJ)
Provides members with friendship, support, mutual help in adapting to
Japanese society, and opportunities for social, emotional and
professional growth.
Cancer
Support Group
Offers support, lectures and information about cancer.
College
Women’s Association of Japan (CWAJ)
International group dedicated to serving the community in
educational and cultural fields. Encourages
cultural exchange between Japanese and English speaking people of all
nationalities.
Ikebana
International Non-profit cultural
organization established for the purpose of spreading the appreciation
of Japanese flower arranging and related arts throughout the world.
Japan
Animal Welfare Society (JAWS) Formed in
1956 by a group of foreigners and Japanese with the objective of
preventing or ameliorating cruelty to all living creatures.
Refugees International―Japan
Primary purpose is to raise funds for
efficient and careful distribution to relief organizations in Africa,
South East Asia, Pakistan and the Middle East.
Toastmasters Studies the art of
communication through prepared and extemporaneous talks on many
subjects.
Tokyo
English Life Line (TELL) Non-profit
organization sponsored by the English language churches of Tokyo.
Provides information, counseling lectures and referrals.
Tokyo
International Players (TIP) Founded in
1896 to bring English-language theatre to Tokyo audiences.
Y.M.C.A.
Promotes Christian values and enhances the quality of life in the
community through programs stressing physical, spiritual and mental
wellness.
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Where to get help / Emergency numbers
Here is a useful
list of telephone numbers to keep by your telephone for emergencies and
general information:
* AIDS Hotline (03) 3359-2477
* Counseling Center
of Tokyo (03) 3953-2495
* Directory
Information in English (NTT) (03) 3277-1010
* Fire / Ambulance
119
* Foreign
Residents’ Advisory Center (03) 5320-7744
* Hospital
Information (03) 3212-2323
* Japan Hotline (03)
3586-0110
* Japan Helpline
(0120) 461-997
* Labor Counseling
Center, Tokyo Metropolitan Government (03) 5320-6110
* Labor Counseling
for Foreign Workers (0425) 201-1350
* Police 110
* Salvation Army
(03) 3237-0881
* Tokyo English Life
Line (TELL) (03) 5721-4347
(top
of page)
Books
City maps, subway
maps and other sources of information about life in Tokyo are available
at hotels and large bookstores such as Maruzen, Books Kinokuniya,
Sanseido and the Aoyama Book Centers in Roppongi, Hiroo, Kanda, Shinjuku
and Shinbashi. Some major
train and subway stations also have English-language maps and guides at
information desks. Another excellent source of English-language
information and maps is the Tourist Information Center (03) 3502-1461 in
Yurakucho, a 5 minutes’ walk from the Imperial Hotel.
Two of the best map guides of Tokyo are “Tokyo: A Bilingual
Atlas”, a small book with detailed maps of Tokyo neighborhoods, and
“Tokyo: A Bilingual Map” focusing on the city center.
(top
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Trains and subways
Japan has one of the world’s best
transportation systems. While city streets are contested with cars and
trucks and buses, the subway and train systems run on time and are
generally litter free.
Most trains and subways run from about 5:00 a.m. until sometime
between midnight and 1:00 a.m. Names of stations are posted in romanized
Japanese. When taking trains and subways, distance is measured by number
of stations and transfers. Consider whether the commute will be a
straight shot or whether transfers are necessary.
Remember that transfers during rush hours (7:30 a.m.－9:30
a.m. and 5:00 p.m.－7:00
p.m.) are more hectic and time consuming. When calculating train or
subway travel time, multiply the number of stations along the route by 3
minutes to arrive at a general time estimate.
In the ticket machine area there is a large map showing the
station names. Some maps are in English and some are in Japanese. Locate
the station nearest your destination. The fare will be clearly marked.
If you’re not sure, ask the station attendant or purchase the lowest
fare ticket. When you arrive at your destination, go to a Fare
Adjustment Machine, Fare Adjustment Counter or see the station attendant
to pay the amount due.
Many train and subway lines sell orange cards (JR), metro
cards(subway) and prepaid cards in denominations of JPY 1,000, JPY
3,000, JPY 5,000 and JPY 10,000.
Commuter passes are also available for one-three-and six-month
periods and result in a savings from purchasing a daily ticket.
Many foreigners can relate stories with a happy-ending about
losing their possessions on the trains and subways. Most items are
recovered and can be picked up at the lost and found offices. For
information call:
| JR
East Infoline |
(03)
3423-0111 |
| JR
Tokyo |
(03)
3231-1880 |
| JR
Shinjuku |
(03)
3354-4019 |
| JR
Ueno |
(03)
3841-8069 |
| TRTA
Lost and Found |
(03)
3834-5577 |
| TRTA
Subway Information |
(03)
3837-7111 |
| Toei
Lost and Found |
(03)
3815-7229 |
Buses
The Tokyo bus system
is quite good. Most bus services end at about 10:30 p.m., especially in
the suburbs. Recently, some late-night runs have been added in some
areas. Many buses have
their destinations written in English and also have numbers
corresponding to their routes. A taped announcement in Japanese will
tell you the next stop. You must press the button above your seat to
request the driver to stop at the next stop. The driver may not stop at
a bus stop if no one pushed the button and no one is standing at the
stop waiting to board the bus. Bus fares are currently Y 200 Y 210
depending on the bus line. There is no transfer system, so you must pay
the full fare each time you transfer to another bus.
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Taxis
To catch a taxi,
raise your hand to flag down a taxi, wait at one of the taxi stands
located on major streets and at subway and train stations, or you can
telephone for one to come to you. There are places where taxis are not
allowed to stop. Most of these areas are near intersections.
In Japan, the left rear door is mechanically controlled and
operated by the driver, so you do not need to open the door, it will be
done for you.
It is very helpful to have your destination written out in
Japanese for the driver. Many
drivers do not speak English, but will understand the names of major
hotels or areas. Taxi drivers can refuse riders if they do not
understand the destination.
When you arrive at your destination, pay the amount registered on
the meter. No tipping is necessary or expected. It’s a good idea to
ask for a receipt. The fare is a combination of distance and time. The
meter starts at Y 600 – Y 660 for the first 2 km and increases by
Y 90 for each 347 meters and when moving slower than 10 km/h an
additional Y 90 for every 2 minutes and 5 seconds. Between the hours of
11:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. there is a 30% late hour surcharge.
If you discover that you left an item in a taxi, call the taxi
company immediately. If you have your receipt, it will include the
telephone number and taxi number, making it easy to track down the
correct taxi within minutes. If you didn’t keep the receipt and
can’t remember the name of the taxi company, call the Tokyo Taxi
Kindaika Center (03) 3648-0300. This number is available 24 hours a day.
They will help you to locate the taxi company and your lost item. (top
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Driving
(See
information on obtaining a Japanese driver’s license under Government
Formalities.)
Commuting by car can be difficult due to heavy traffic and the
lack of parking spaces. However,
if you will be commuting by car, ask a real estate agent to drive you to
your office during normal commuting hours to get an idea of the traffic
conditions. In order to own a car you must have a registered parking
space. Street parking is illegal and enforcement is becoming stricter.
Public car parks can be prohibitively expensive. If your apartment or
house does not come with a parking space you will have to search your
area for one (often paid on a monthly contractual basis. Many houses and
apartments in Tokyo have parking spaces available, usually for an
additional rental fee. Request
that your real estate agent show you the parking space.
Owing a car can be quite expensive. New cars must be inspected
after the first three years and then every two years thereafter. Used
cars must be inspected every two years.
Cars more than ten years old must be inspected every year.
The cost of an automobile maintenance inspection (shaken)
increases with the size and age of the car. As an example, the second
inspection fee for a car with a 1,400cc to 1,800cc engine will cost
between JPY 60,000 and JPY 80,000. This required inspection can take
three to five days! Most people rely on the car dealer where they
purchased the car or a local service station to take the car to the
inspection office for them.
There are three different taxes levied on automobiles: the
Automobile Acquisition Tax paid when purchasing a new car; the
Automobile tonnage Tax paid at the time of purchase and with every
maintenance inspection (shaken); and the automobile Tax paid
annually.
Motorcycles are very popular in Japan because of congested
roadways and difficulty and cost in finding parking space for an
automobile. Motorcycles are also popular and machines up to 250cc are
exempt from the costly shaken. Motorcycles over 250cc are not
allowed on some city streets from 11:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Expressways will get you from one end of the country to the
other, but at a rather high cost. For example, from Tokyo to Kyoto it
can cost JPY 10,000 in tolls. There are good rest stops and service
centers at regular intervals and road signs are generally good.
The Japan Automobile Federation (03) 3436-2811 offers service if
your car breaks down and you need help. They will also give you
information and assistance on obtaining a driver’s license. The
membership fee is very reasonable and recommended.
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Airports
There are two major
airports serving Tokyo: Tokyo International Airport in Haneda (usually
referred to as Haneda Airport) and the New Tokyo International Airport
in Chiba Prefecture, (usually referred to as Narita Airport)
Most domestic flights arrive and depart from Haneda. The airport
is accessible by monorail, Airport Limousine bus, taxi and private car.
The monorail from Hamamatsucho Station takes 20 minutes and is the most
convenient form transportation.
Narita
Airport is used primarily for international travel. Travel between
downtown Tokyo and Narita Airport is by train, bus, taxi, or private
car. Train service is provided by Narita Express, Keisei Skyliner and
Airport Narita. All stop at Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 of Narita Airport.
The JR Narita Express (NEX) takes 53 minutes from Tokyo Station.
Extended service is provided to Ikebukuro, Shinjuku, and Yokohama.
Reservations
can be made up to one month in advance. The Keisei Skyliner (train)
leaves from Keisei Ueno Station and Nippori Station and takes 70
minutes. Reservations
should be made on both trains in advance.
The
Rapid Express called Airport Narita on the JR Sobu Line takes 80 minutes
from Tokyo Station. Seats cannot be reserved on these trains.
Airport Limousine buses leave from the Tokyo City Air Terminal (TCAT)
at Hakozaki and from major hotels and some rail stations in Tokyo, as
well as Yokohama City Air Terminal (YCAT) and Haneda Airport. The
Hanzomon Line goes directly to TCAT (Suitengumae Station) where you can
check in your luggage at the airline desk (most major airlines are
represented at TCAT) and go through immigration formalities before
taking the bus to the airport. It usually takes between 70 and 80
minutes from TCAT to Narita Airport. Buses leave several times each hour
and it is not necessary to make a reservation in advance.
The taxi fare from Tokyo Station to Narita Airport is
approximately Y 20,000 plus. It
takes about the same amount of time as the bus.
Parking is available at both airports if you drive your own car.
Arrangements can be made in advance for you to drop off your car at the
terminal and have it brought back in front of the terminal when you
return. Off-site long-term parking is also available at a lower cost.
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Department stores
Department stores
are generally open from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (or later) six days a
week. The one closing day is usually a weekday and most are open on
Sundays and holidays. Major department stores sell everything from food
to clothing to furniture and even tickets to entertainment events. Many
department stores will deliver your purchases to your home for a small
fee or free if you purchase a certain amount. Some stores, such as
Seibu, Matsuya and Isetan, have Foreign Customer Service Assistance
which can be very helpful in trying to locate particular goods or to
answer any questions you have.
Large department stores are generally located near large train
and subway stations such as Odakyu (Shinjuku), Takashimaya (Nihonbashi),
Mitsukoshi (Nihonbashi and Ginza), Tokyu (Shibuya and Nihonbashi), Parco
(Shibuya), Daiei (Gakugei-Daigaku), Isetan (Shinjuku), Matsuya (Ginza),
and Daimaru (Tokyo Station). Specialty clothing stores and
trendyboutiques are located throughout central Tokyo and can be easily
found in Omotesando, Azabu, Aoyama, Daikanyama, Shibuya, Roppongi,
Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, and Jiyugaoka.
Tokyu Hands department store is about a 10 minutes’ walk from
Shibuya Station and is popular with foreigners because of the variety of
household goods available and “do it yourself” supplies such as
tools, hardware, sewing goods, hobby supplies and arts and crafts.
Japanese clothes are known for their fine workmanship and offer a
wide variety of styles. Unfortunately, many foreigners find that
Japanese clothes do not fit as well as clothes from their home country.
Most department stores offer imported clothing as well as Japanese.
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Food shopping
A large variety of
Japanese and imported foodstuffs can be found in Tokyo. The two most
popular supermarkets for international foods are National Azabu
supermarket in Hiroo and Kinokuniya supermarket in Omotesando. Other
large supermarkets, such as meidi-ya and Daimaru Peacock have branches
throughout the city and also carry many imported goods. Large department
stores have extensive food markets located in the basements of the
buildings (usually accessible directly from the subway). In addition to
fresh food, there is a large selection of precooked take-out food. Some
stores have free delivery services within the Tokyo metropolitan area
for purchases over JPY 10,000.
Neighborhood supermarkets and specialty shops carry basic staples
and perishables. Large
supermarkets such as Tokyu, Daiei and Itoyokado are popular as they are
convenient and less expensive than department stores, and offer daily
discounts on many items. 24-hour convenience stores and vending machines
can be found throughout Tokyo. The cost of a drink in the convenience
stores and supermarkets are cheaper than in a vending machines.
Neighborhood shopping will include greengrocers, butchers, fishmongers,
rice stores, tofu stores, take-away food stores and liquor stores. A
helpful guide to buying Japanese food is “A Guide to Food Buying in
Japan” by Carolyn R. Krouse.
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of page)
Pharmacies
Most prescriptions
written by doctors from overseas will not be accepted in Japan.
Some prescription drugs may be sold over-the-counter in Japan.
Bring the prescription to the pharmacist or your doctor and he will tell
you if it can be filled or if a suitable substitute can be prescribed.
Pharmacies and drug stores are plentiful. Here are a few where
you can find some imported products and more importantly, you can find
some English-speaking pharmacists who can assist you in buying the right
product for your needs:
・
National Azabu Pharmacy Minami-Azabu (Hiroo Station, Hibiya Line9
(03)
3442-3176
・
Medical Despensary Shiba-koen (across from Tokyo Tower
(03)
3434-5817
・
American Pharmacy Yurakucho (Hibiya Station, Hibiya Line)
(03)
3271-4034
・
Hill Pharmacy Roppongi (Roppongi Station, Hibiya Line)
(03)
3583-5044
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Catalog shopping
A
wide range of items are available through local mail order. In
particular, many companies specialize in food items such as vegetables,
health food and dairy products. A
popular discount catalog shopping service for foreigners is the Foreign
Buyers Club (078) 857-9001. They can import almost any item from the
United States, usually in bulk orders.
Some foreign suppliers will sell goods and ship them to Japan.
Check with individual companies.
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Cultural interests
Tokyo
has a museum for everyone! Listed below is just a sample of some of the
Popular
museums and the works of art displayed. Most museums are closed on
Mondays, but call to check on hours and days.
*
and paintings. JR or subway to Yurakucho.
*
Japan Folk Crafts Museum (03) 3467-4527.
Japanese crafts. Inokashira Line to Komaba-todaimae.
*
National Museum of Western Art (03) 3828-5131. Works by Monet, Renoir,
Rodin, Matsukata. JR, subway or Keisei Line to Ueno.
*
National Science museum (03) 3822-0111. The largest general museum of
natural science in Japan. JR, subway or keisei Line to Ueno.
*
Ota Memorial Museum of Art (03) 3403-0880. Woodblock prints (ukiyoe)
and paintings. Yamanote Line to Harajuku.
*
Sumo Museum
(03) 3622-0366. History of sumo wrestling. Sobu Line to Ryogoku.
*
Suntory Museum of Art (03) 3470-1073. Ancient Japanese paintings,
ceramics, traditional costumes, lacquerware, furniture. ubway to
Aksakamitsuke.
*
Sword Museum (03) 3379-1386. Japanese swords exhibits including some
national treasures. Odakyu Line to Sangubashi.
*
Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum (03) 3823-6921. One of the world’s
leading art galleries. Japanese modern art. JR, subway or Keisei Line to
Ueno.
*
Tokyo Metropolitan Museum of Photography (03) 3280-0031.
Photography exhibits. JR Yamanote or Hibiya Line to Ebisu.
*
Tokyo National museum (03) 3822-1111. Japanese and oriental paintings,
sculptures, archaeological objects, national treasures. JR, subway or
Keisei Line to Ueno.
*
Ueno Royal Museum (03) 3833-4191. Japanese modern art and calligraphy.
JR, subway or Keiseii Line to Ueno.
Major department stores reserve their top floors for exhibiting
new and classical works of art, paintings, sculpture, crafts and more.
Check newspapers for dates and
time. (top
of page)
Parks and gardens
Hanami
is a Japanese term for cherry blossom viewing. Cherry blossoms usually
bloom curing the first week of April. Hanami
picnics and after-work parties are very popular. This annual custom started as a Buddhist ceremony among court
nobles of the 12th century. By the 17th century, hanami
became popular for everyone. Cherry blossoms can be seen throughout
Tokyo. Especially popular for hanami is Ueno Park, Yasukuni
shrine and Shinjuku-gyoen.
*
Arisugawa Memorial Park, Hibiya Line to Hiroo.
Prince Arisugawa donated this park to the city of
Tokyo which opened to the public in 1934.
*
Hama Rikyu Garden, JR or subway lines to Shinbashi.
Detached palace garden on the Sumida river where cruise boats
leave for tours.
*
Imperial Palace East Garden, Tozai Line to Takebashi.
Site of Edo Castle originally constructed in 1457.
Residence of Emperor since 1869.
*
Inokashira park, JR, Tozai or Inokashira Line to Kichijyoji.
Boating on the pond, good for quiet walks, aquarium and zoo are
within the park area.
*
Kinuta Park, Shin Tamagawa Line to Yoga or Odakyu Line to Chitose-Funabashi.
Once a golf course, now popular for picnics and walks.
It also has a bicycle path around the park and the Setagaya Art
Gallery is also here.
*
Komazawa Park, Shin Tamagawa Line to Komazawa-Daigaku.
Began as Tokyo Olympics site equipped for athletic games, cycling
courses, walls for tennis practice, a pool, roller-skating.
*
Kyu-Furukawa Garden, JR Keihin Tohoku Line to Kami-Nakazato.
See the contrast between a Japanese and Western style garden.
Famous for its variety of roses.
*
Meiji Shrine Outer Garden, JR Chuo Line to Shinanomachi or Gaienmae.
Site of 1964 Olympics. Extensive
sports and cultural facilities.
*
Rikugien Garden, JR Yamanote Line to Komagome.
Japanese-style garden.
*
Shinjuku-gyoen, Marunouchi Line to Shinjuku-gyoenmae. The largest garden
in the Tokyo metropolitan area. Three different style gardens: French,
English and Japanese.
*
Ueno Park, JR or subway lines to Ueno. Many art galleries, a museum and
a zoo. Hundreds of cherry blossom trees line the main street through the
park.
*
Yoyogi
Park, JR Yamanote Line to Harajuku. Bicycle path circles the park and
lots of open space, playground.
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Sports and recreation
Whether a spectator
or an active participant, every kind of sport and recreation facility is
available in Japan.
Japan’s most popular sports are baseball, Soccer and sumo.
Tickets are available for sale at the stadiums or one of the
Ticket Pia (03) 5237-9999 or Playguide (03) 3257-9999 offices in advance
or on the day of the event.
Six sumo tournaments are held each year: in Tokyo in January, May
and September; in Osaka in March; in Nagoya in July; and in Fukuoka in
November. Each tournament
lasts fifteen days beginning and ending on a Sunday.
Ticket prices range from JPY 2,300 to JPY 10,000. All tournaments are sell-outs, so purchase tickets early.
There are twelve professional baseball teams in Japan with six
located in and around Tokyo. There
are two leagues and They play a hundred and thirty games each season.
Most games are played at night.
Tickets can be difficult to get when the Yomiuri Giants, the most
popular baseball team, are playing.
If Japan had a national game it would be pachinko.
As you walk down any street in Japan, you can’t miss the
brightly lit and garish façade of the pachinko parlor.
You can always find one near a train station.
Japanese businessmen, housewives and students sit intently and
quietly in front of what appear to the Western eye to be upright pinball
machines. Like pinball,
ball bearings are flung into the machine one at a time and points are
massed according to which holes the ball bearings fall into.
Players only control the strength with which the ball bearing is
released. For \100 you get
twenty balls. If you’re
lucky, you win balls back which can be traded in for cigarettes,
calculators, watches and even food.
Horse racing has become a popular spectator sport.
There are two tracks in the Tokyo area with races on Saturdays
and Sundays. Call the Japan
Racing Association (03) 3591-5251 for information.
There are many public swimming pools and tennis courts throughout
Tokyo. Call or visit your
local ward office for details on availability and cost.
You will need reservations for tennis courts.
Golf courses are located outside of Tokyo and are very expensive.
Golf is very popular with businessmen who take their clients out
for a day of golf. Numerous
driving ranges can be found throughout Tokyo some accommodating up to
two hundreds or more people. Many
are located on rooftops and some are three and four stories high.
Skiing and snow-boarding are popular with young and old alike.
A two to three hour train ride will bring you to several
different ski resorts. Traveling
with a group is the best way to enjoy a ski trip for the first time.
Almost 70% of Japan’s landmass is mountainous providing
extensive opportunities for hikers and climbers.
The most famous and crowded trek is to conuer Mt. Fuji.
However, the most beautiful treks are in Hokkaido and the Japan
Alps. Trails are
well-kept and at the end of the day, you can relax in an onsen
(hot springs).
Because of the many active volcanoes in Japan, there are over
2,000 hot spring areas open to the public throughout the year. It is believed that onsen are effective for the
treatment of exhaustion, rheumatism and neuralgia.
Japan has been host to many international sporting events such as
the Summer and Winter Olympics (in 1998 Japan hosted the Summer and
Winter Olympics), World Cup skiing, PGA
golf tournaments, tennis tournaments and more.
The martial arts or budo, thich include, judo karate,
kendo and aikido, can be practiced at special schools or dojo
and at some health clubs throughout Japan.
For the whole family, try a visit to an amusement park:
*
Amusement Park Toshimaen
(03) 3990-3131.
Water slides and
various rides.
*
Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo
Disney Sea (0473) 54-0001.
The most popular
amusement park. It is best to buy tickets for a particular day in advance.
*
Tokyo Sesame Place (0425)
95-1152.
See Sesame Street’s famous characters.
*
Tokyo
Summer Land (0425) 58-6511. Water slides and
numerous indoor and outdoor pools and rides.
Other recreational activities for the family include zoos,
planetariums, botanical gardens and aquariums.
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Entertainment
Theaters
There are
many movie theaters throughout Tokyo. Several are located in Shibuya,
Yurakucho, Ikebukuro and Shinjuku. Check the English-language magazines
and newspapers for current shows. Advanced tickets can be purchased at
discount prices. The
largest ticketing agency is Ticket Pia (03) 5237-9999, which provides
information on all kinds of events. Other ticketing bureaus are Kyodo
Tokyo (03) 3407-8155, Ticket Saison (03) 3286-5482, and CN Playguide
(03) 3257-9999.
Kabuki is a
traditional Japanese performing art dating from three hundred years ago.
It is performed by an all-male cast, and major roles have been performed
by generations of actors from the same family. It was essentially a form
of theater for the common people; tales of heroic warriors, romances and
family affairs. The decorative costumes and exaggerated acting style are
highly eloquent, making the play enjoyable even if you cannot understand
the classical language used by the actors. Sometimes programs are
available in English and / or earphones can be rented. Kabuki can
be seen at Kabuki-za (03) 3541-3131 or the National Theater of
Japan (03) 3255-7411.
Other forms of
Japanese theater include Noh, a highly stylized and philosophical
form of theater and Kyogen, similar to Noh but featuring
comical performances.
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Tokyo has an endless
variety of nightclubs, discos, karaoke bars, pubs, live-music houses and
restaurants. The most popular areas are: Reppongi, Shinjuku, Ikebukuro,
Ueno, Shibuya, Ginza and Akasaka. Nightclubs with hostesses can be very
expensive. Before entering
a nightclub ask what the charges are.
References from friends along with information found in
newspapers, magazines and books are your best bet for finding the type
of place that suits you. (top
of page)
Festivals and holidays
There are fourteen
national holidays in Japan and hundreds of festivals throughout the
year. From national festivals to neighborhood festivals, observe or
participate in them and feel the culture for yourself. All the holidays
are listed below. (top
of page)
January
1st:
New year’s day (ganjitsu). January 1-3 is called oshogatsu.
Japanese visit shrines or
temples to pay respect to ancestors and to pray for safety and good
luck. In early January, people visit their relatives and friends to
exchange New Year’s greetings.
10th
(Varies)
Coming
of age day (seijin no hi). In honor of young people who have
reached the age of twenty. Most
cities and towns sponsor ceremonies
at
local shrines. This day also celebrates the end of winter and a time to
drive out evil spirits by throwing beans. This ritual is called setsubun.
February
11th
National foundation day (kenkoku kinenbi). According to
legends, Jinmu ascended to the throne as Japan’s first emperor
over 2600 years ago.
March
20th
Vernal equinox day (shunbun no hi). The coming of spring.
People visit ancestral graves and Buddhist temples hold special
services.
April
29th
Greenery
Day (midori no hi). Commemorates
the late Emperor Showa’s birthday; named for his appreciation
of nature. Begins “Golden
Week” holidays.
May
3rd
Constitution memorial day (kenpo kinenbi). The anniversary
of the 1947 adoption of the national constitution of Japan.
4th
People’s holiday (kokumin no kyujitsu). No particular
meaning.
5th
Children’s day (kodomo no hi). Celebration wishing
children happiness and prosperity. Ends “Golden Week” holidays.
June
No public holidays in June.
July
18
Ocean day
August
13-16
Most business and government offices are open during this time. Celebration
of ancestors (obon). Many Japanese return to their hometowns.
According to Buddhist tradition, this is a time when ancestors
return to earth.
September
15
th
Respect-for-the aged day (keiro no hi).
23rd
Autumnal equinox day (shubun no hi). The first day of autumn and
time to remember ancestors. If this holiday falls on a Sunday, it is observed
on September 24th.
October
10th
Health-sports day (taiiku no hi). Established in
commemoration of the Tokyo Olympics to encourage people to enjoy sports
and lead a healthy life.
November
2nd
Culture day (bunka no hi). To encourage people to
appreciate peace, freedom and culture.
23rd
Labor thanksgiving day (kinro kansha no hi). Honors working
people.
December
23rd
Emperor’s birthday (tenno tanjobi). The imperial palace will be
open to the public to honor emperor Akhito’s birthday.
If a holiday falls on a Sunday, then it is observed on the next
day.
Travel
An easy way to get
to know Tokyo is to take a half or whole day tour with an
English-speaking guide. There are many agencies providing this service.
Many tours start and end at major hotels. These hotels have an English
brochure describing the dates, times and costs. There are numerous
travel agencies throughout Tokyo that can also provide the information,
but not many will have it in English.
The Japanese love to travel. They visit their hometowns,
ancestors’ villages, go mountain climbing and skiing.
There are three times each year which are particularly popular
for excursions: Golden Week (April 29 through May 5), obon
(mid-August) and New Year’s (end of December through first week in
January). Plan six months or more ahead of these times to insure
reservations or, better yet, try to plan your travel at other times.
Hotel rates and plane fares will generally be higher during these times.
A good way to start your travel plans is to purchase some books
about various destinations. There is a book in English about every major
city in Japan. In addition, books are available on hiking, biking,
skiing, antiquing, scuba diving, fishing, exploring, relaxing, and
almost anything you can think of. There are books on one-day, weekend
and longer trips. Information will include all forms of transportation
(local train, bullet train, boat, airplane and driving) as well as where
to stay and where to eat for all ranges of budgets.
Travel
books in English can be found at major hotels and bookstores.
The
Japan National Tourist Organization (JNTO) has both Japanese and
overseas offices and produces many useful publications. JNTO operates
three Tourist Information Centers (TIC) in Japan:
・
Narita Airport
(0476) 34-6251
・
Tokyo
(03) 3502-1461
・
Kyoto
(075) 371-5649
TIC offices do not make reservations or bookings but will direct
you to agencies which can, such as the Japan Travel Bureau (JTB) or the
Nippon Travel Agency (NTA).
In Tokyo and Kyoto, Teletourist Service provides 24-hour taped
information on current events. In Tokyo, call (03) 3503-2911 (English)
and in Kyoto, call (075) 361-2911 (English).
Japan Travel-Phone is a nationwide telephone service for
English-language assistance and travel information. Call toll-free
outside Tokyo or Kyoto (0120) 222-800 for information on eastern Japan
or (0120) 444-800 for information on western Japan.
When calling within Tokyo or Kyoto, call the TIC numbers listed
above.
Japan’s transportation network is extremely organized and
certainly the most punctual you will find anywhere,
All forms or transportation are available in Japan, but train
service deserves special recognition. Japan’s rail system is fast,
frequent, clean, safe, comfortable and expensive.
The fastest and most well known train service is the Shinkansen―also
known by foreigners as the “bullet train.”
There
are three Shinkansen routes starting from Tokyo:
1.
1. The Tokaido Line runs from Tokyo to Shin-Osaka and
continues to Fukuoka / Hakata as the Sanyo Line. The Nozomi and Hikari
service stop only at main stations and the Kodama service stops at all Shinkansen
Stations.
2.
The Tohoku Line runs from Tokyo to Sendai to Morioka. The
Yamabiko is the express train and the Aoba is the local train.
3.
The Joetsu Line runs from Tokyo to Niigata. The Asahi is the
express train and the Toki is the local train.
While the Shinkansen routes run most of the length of
Honshu, a network of Japan Railway (JR) lines supplemented by shorter
private lines cover much of the rest of Japan. The slowest trains
stopping at all stations are called futsu. The ordinary express
or kyuko stops at a limited number of stations. A variation on
the kyuko train is the kaisoku or rapid services. The
fastest regular trains are the tokkyu or limited express service.
On futsu services, there are no reserved seats. You can
choose reserved or unreserved travel on the kyuko, tokkyu and Shinkansen
trains. First class or “green car” seats are also available on the Shinkansen.
Reserved seat tickets can be purchased up to one month in advance.
(top
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Religion
Most Japanese see
religion as an extension of daily life.
Shinto and Buddhism are the two major religions in Japan. In some
homes you can find a Shinto altar and a Buddhist altar. Followers of
Shinto call upon deities to ensure a happy life in the here and now.
Such as safe births, happy marriage, good luck in examinations and
prosperity. Followers of
Buddhism call upon deities to take care of the life hereafter, such as
funerals and the spirits of ancestors.
In addition to spiritual support from Shinto and Buddhism, many
Japanese principles are derived from Confucianism. These principles
include acceptance of one’s position in a group of hierarchy, loyalty
and respect for superiors, and observance of etiquette.
(top
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Meeting
and communicating with the Japanese
The Japanese are
interested in learning about other cultures, but sometimes, mostly due
to language barriers, they are shy to open conversations. This is
particularly true outside of big cities.
Any attempt to reach out and start a conversation is greatly
appreciated by the Japanese. Once into a conversation, it’s not uncommon for a variety
of topics, some personal, to be covered in a very short period of time.
Business
/ name cards－meishi
Introductions in
Japan generally include an exchanbe of name cards known as meishi
in Japanese. Presenting a meishi is an act of courtesy and even
people who are not working for a company find it helpful to have meishi
to ease introductions. With a meishi in hand, a Japanese acquaintance does
not risk losing face by continually asking your name or addressing you
incorrectly.
(top
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Hints
on presenting meishi
Storing
Meishi
*
Keep the meishi close at hand but not in your hip pocket.
*
Protect them in a card holder so that they do not become worn or bent.
Giving
Meishi
*
A meishi should be passed first from inferior to superior, or
seller to buyer.
*
Pass your meishi while introducing yourself.
*
Present it chest level with both hands if possible.
*
Present the meishi so that the receiver can read it without
having to turn it around.
Receiving
Meishi
*
Receive the other person’s meishi with both hands while standing up
and continue to hold it until the other person puts down your meishi.
･
It’s acceptable to write the pronunciation of someone’s name
on their meishi. However, it's best to ask permission
first!"
*
If sitting, keep the meishi on a table in front of you to help in
remembering names. Once you have learned the names, discreetly put the card away
in your card holder.
*
Address a business acquaintance by his / her name and title.
Example: Suzuki-kacho(name- section chief).
*
Ask
someone for his / her meishi at the conclusion of a talk if they
haven’t offered you one.
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Communication
styles
Understanding facial expressions and body language are said to be
the key to understanding the Japanese persona. Japanese use this
non-verbal behavior to create the mask of impassivity essential in their
culture.
Japanese children are uninhibited and naturally expressive, but
by adulthood, direct expression of emotions, especially through the
face, is considered uncultivated and improper.
True feelings must be filtered and modified so that when they are
expressed they are suitable for public consumption and as a result
don’t disrupt wa (harmony).
Tatemae in Japanese means something like “dressed for
public consumption” and it is essential to the Japanese idea of social
harmony. Some form of tatemae behavior is appropriate to every
occasion and it is usually expressed non-verbally.
(top
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The
different faces
*
Shirankao―”know
nothing face” is used especially where the individual wishes to avoid
communication or involvement.
*
The mask of a smile is often used in adverse situations.
*
The
other commonly used face is that of surprise. It is a form of flattery
among Japanese and is often extremely exaggerated, but ranks high for
courtesy.
Eyes
*
It is considered disrespectful to stare into another person’s
eyes, especially a senior. Avoid prolonged, direct eye contact.
Japanese
people close their eyes frequently and in situations where it would be
considered disrespectful by other nationalities. The Western mind relies
on eye contact to gain feedback and appreciation, but it is common for
Japanese to have their eyes closed during lectures or meetings for
example, making it difficult for one to gather feedback.
*
The Japanese will avoid eye contact to give themselves privacy in
crowded situations whether on the train, sidewalk, or highway.
* Hostility
is expressed with steely eyes and the mouth drawn in a tight line.
(top
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Differences
in Japanese and Western styles of communication
・
The Japanese
emphasize “we” over “I” whereas Westerners consider the Individual
more important.
・
Differences
between people’s age, sex and status are more important to the
Japanese.
・
Non-verbal
communication plays a much larger part and silence, considered bad by
Westerners, are thought meaningful.
・
Confrontation,
debate and sarcasm are to be avoided at all costs in Japanese society
whereas they are valued and enjoyed by Westerners.
・
In Japan,
listening patiently until the speaker has completed a thought is wise
and polite.
When
visiting a Japanese home
:
・ Sliding front
doors in Japan are not meant for knocking. If there is no bell to
ring, slide the door open step into the entrance, and call out Gomen
kudasai or “Excuse me.”
・ Remove your shoes
and leave them facing the front door at the entrance.
While doing this take care not to show your back to your host or hostess.
・
Take a small gift
to your host and hostess. Sweets, fruits, flowers, liquor or a gift from your hometown are appropriate gifts.
・
The hostess may
stay in the kitchen and not eat at the table. Exquisite food preparation
is her gift to the guests.
・
Overnight guests
are honored with the opportunity to bathe first while the bath water is
hot and clean. Soap-up and rinse outside the tub using the bathing pails
provided, then get into the tub for a relaxing soak.
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Dining
Opening
toast
・ Sake
or beer is commonly served at Japanese meals. After being seated there
is a toast to begin the meal. Glasses are raised to the expression of“kanpai”―the Japanese
equivalent of “cheers.”
・ When someone
offers to fill your glass, it is polite to hold up your cup or allow
him/her to pour, after which you should return the favor and fill your
neighbor’s glass.
・ If you don’t
want to drink alcohol, it is acceptable to request an alternative
beverage for toasting. If none are available, receive the offer and
pretend to drink. This “showing of politeness” is common.
・ Because Japanese
prefer not to mix rice and alcohol, sometimes rice will not be served
until the end of the meal.
Itadakimasu
・ Before eating,
the Japanese say “itadakimasu”, which literally means “I
will receive.” This saying is in the honorific form to recognize that
one is receiving from “someone above”. The “someone above” may
be thought of a god, farmer, buyer, or chef of the meal.
Chopsticks
・
Don’t pass food
from one pair of chopsticks to another pair of chopsticks.
Japanese cringe if they
see food being passed from one person’s chipsticks toanother
person’s chopsticks. This is
because in the Buddhist funeral ceremony, the bones of the cremated body
are passed between relatives by chopsticks as part of the ritual.
・
Don’t stand
your chopsticks up vertically in a bowl.
On a Buddhist altar, a
bowl of rice with chopsticks stuck vertically up is left out as a meal
for dead spirits. Rest chopsticks
so that they are horizontal with the table.
・
Don’t stab food
with chopsticks.
Eating
・
Respect the food you are served by leaving no dish
untouched.
Comments on both the taste
and appearance of the food are appreciated.
・
When asking for another helping or receiving food from a server, give
and take your dish with both hands.
・
In Japan,
slurping soup, noodles, and tea is an expression of appreciation for
then delicious taste of the food.
Gochisosama
deshita
・
One concludes a
meal by saying “gochisosama deshita”, which literally means
“that was a feast.”
(top
of page)
Gift
giving
In Japan, gift-giving is an important tradition that has its own
specific guidelines. Although it’s not necessary to follow the guidelines
exactly, Japanese are pleased when visitors are familiar with their
customs. Be aware that the numbers four and nine are considered unlucky
in Japan and it is best to avoid giving sets of items with these counts.
Foreigners are often showered with many personal gifts and are
uncomfortable by this show of Japanese generosity. In response, send a
sincere note of thanks. It’s difficult to play the endless Japanese
game of gift matching in which a kindness or gift received is
reciprocated with a gift of a matching value. Remember, however, that at
some point your Japanese hosts may visit you in your home country. At
that time you can reciprocate their generosity by entertaining them the
same way you would entertain your own good friends.
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of page)
Omiyage
The custom of omiyage
reaches back into Japanese history when travel was not so common. Long
ago, and still today, it was customary for people to give money to
someone going on a trip. This money was for the traveler to spend and
enjoy on the trip. It was
also to be used to buy omiyage, a small momento of the place
visited, to bring back and share with those who were not able to travel.
The sharing of omiyage is like “show and tell.”
Gift-giving
seasons
To express
appreciation to customers, businesses sometimes send gifts once or twice
a year during the two traditional gift-giving seasons. Oseibo is
the year-end gift-giving exchange and ochugen is the mid-summer(July
1st-13th)exchange. At these times, businesses will
often send a food item, cleaning agent, or other small gift to their
customers. Department stores prepare big displays of goods preboxed for
these seasons and gifts are wrapped there and sent directly to the
receiver. Oseibo and
ochugen gift exchanging is not limited to business relations. It
is also practiced in old traditional families.
(top
of page)
Wedding
ceremonies
When you are invited
to a wedding ceremony, in most cases you are actually being invited to
the reception party called hiroen. Most men wear black suits and
white ties and the women may wear kimono or formal dresses.
It is expected that you will give a gift of money (oshugi)
enclosed in a decorative envelope on happy occasions, called shugibukuro.
Give the envelope to the receptionist when you register your name. (top
of page)
