Japan Culture
Social Conventions
Manners and customs are a very important part of life in Japan and respecting these customs will ensure a successful visit. Everyone in Japan bows when they say hello, goodbye, thank you or sorry. It is seen as a term of respect and can also convey remorse or gratitude as well as being a greeting. Much Japanese use a simple head nod in more casual, everyday settings.
Taking off footwear before entering a place is a very traditional Japanese custom. Like bowing, it is a sign of respect and many places will have signs outside asking guests to take their shoes off.
The suffix “san” when referring to someone else is a sign of respect. However, one never refers to themselves as “san”.
It is not common to walk and eat in public. People can sit or stand and eat but walking while doing so is considered very impolite.
Religion
Religion in Japan is a mix of both Shintoism and Buddhism. Religion is rarely preached and serves as more of a moral code or a way of living. Shintoism and Buddhism have coexisted for several centuries. There is a small Christian minority that lives in Japan.
Language
The official language of Japan is Japanese, however, English is the foreign language that everyone must learn and is a compulsory subject in school. It is spoken in Tokyo and other large cities but is not spoken much in rural areas.
Japan Travel Information
At Goway we believe that a well-informed traveller is a safer traveller. With this in mind, we have compiled an easy-to-navigate travel information section dedicated to Japan.
Learn about the history and culture of Japan, the must-try food and drink, and what to pack in your suitcase. Read about Japan's nature and wildlife, weather and geography, along with 'Country Quickfacts' compiled by our travel experts. Our globetrotting tips, as well as our visa and health information will help ensure you're properly prepared for a safe and enjoyable trip. The only way you could possibly learn more is by embarking on your journey and discovering Japan for yourself. Start exploring… book one of our Japan tours today!
Extend Your Trip
After your Japan tour, consider taking the time to visit other destinations. Goway offers exciting China vacation packages, India tours and Thailand vacation packages plus a comprehensive selection of vacation packages in many other Asian countries.
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ASIA by Goway is an exclusive division that specializes in planning and organizing Japan tours, vacations and experiences. Choose from a simple city stopover, a stay of distinction, a small group tour, a stay of distinction, an independent travel module and much more. We want to be your first choice when next you go globetrotting to Japan.
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