Читать книгу Etiquette Guide to Japan - Boye Lafayette De Mente - Страница 5

Introduction

“Pack your bags. You’re headed to Japan!”

Your boss can be unpredictable and demanding, and this is no exception. You’re being sent off to Tokyo with no time to prepare. You have a ticket, passport, a hastily packed suitcase and little else.

After arriving at Narita Airport, you take the train into the city, and, to your relief, much of the place seems familiar and well organized. Roads, cars, pedestrians, towering buildings. A comfortable climate. But then you start to notice a few things that are quite unlike anything you’ve ever seen.

About a quarter of the population is going about its daily lives while wearing what appear to be surgical masks. Have you arrived during an epidemic?

Some restaurants are fronted by food samples . . . made of plastic. Step inside, and the guy behind the counter immediately shouts something right at you. How do you respond? Should you respond?

A ride down an escalator is accompanied by a recorded announcement delivered by a high-pitched robot-like female voice. What is she saying? And is she trying to tell you something important?

When you meet your Japanese client, not only does he shake your hand, but he bows, and continues to hold on to your business card in both hands as if it were a precious museum piece. Should you do the same?

Arriving in Japan for the first time is an unforgettable experience, exhilarating and enlightening—but at the same time confusing. Over the centuries, this island nation has developed its own elaborate set of formalities and manners. A few have roots in China, but many are uniquely Japanese. Nearly all were developed for specific reasons, and even have a pragmatic role to play. So forget that outdated stereotype about the “inscrutable Japanese.”

That’s why you need to read this book. It will equip you with a thorough understanding of Japanese etiquette to smooth your experiences and help avoid embarrassment. Moreover, this book is entertaining and educational, giving you an insight into the customs of one of the world’s most fascinating societies.