Is The Japanese Culture Really Right For You?
While visiting or living in Japan is an exciting prospect, the Japanese culture is not for everyone. As a foreigner, you may encounter parts of the culture that you dislike, are uncomfortable with, or flat out hate. Remember that there are three phases of cultural integration: euphoria, ambivalence and criticism, and integration. Many people spend years in the second phase, due to some aspects of Japanese culture mentioned below.
Women play a very different role in Japanese culture than they do in the West. In Japan, it is not uncommon for women to leave the workforce when they marry.Is this new to you? Catch up here In fact, it is almost expected that a woman do so. While women do control the purse strings, they do not receive the same respect that men do in many situations.
As a foreigner, you will be the ultimate outsider in a culture with a strong “us vs. them” mentality. The people you meet will treat you with respect and kindness, but it may take time for true acceptance. Prepare for many comments about how well you use chopsticks, even if you live in the country for years.
The Japanese culture also encourages conformity and maintains a strict social structure based on respect for those above you. Do not expect to become such close friends with your superiors or upperclassmen that you can use informal speech.
Finally, be prepared for some unexpected culture shocks. In Japan, many homes do not have dryers or air conditioning. Tips are included in the price of food, so tipping might even be considered insulting. Toilets, especially in train stations and other public places, are set in the ground so you must squat over them carefully. You will also need to bring your own toilet paper if you plan on going out.
Although there are many negative aspects of Japanese culture, there are many positive ones, too. Reading the above aspects of Japanese culture may scare away some people. If, however, you choose to stick with it and immerse yourself in the culture and the language, you will find visiting Japan a deeply rewarding experience.
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