It is already imaginable that Japan is full of rules and etiquette that can be a challenge for foreigners. However, the opposite also happens; some habits that we find rude in our country are normal things in Japan.
In this article, we will see 10 rude habits that are common or even part of Japanese culture. Sometimes some issues may seem obvious but should be mentioned.
Table of Contents
Rude habits that are normal – Eating
Calling the waiter loudly – While in the West we raise our hand or discreetly look to get attention, in Japan instead of simply shouting “waiter,” it is common to say sumimasen (excuse me) until someone comes running to assist you; otherwise, they won’t understand your secret signals.
Making noise while eating noodles or soup – In the West, it is rude to make noise while eating; in Japan, this is natural. Slurping noodles or soup shows that you are enjoying the food.
Drinking directly from bowls – In the West, we do not use bowls, but it is considered quite strange for someone to hold the plate at a table to eat closely (at least I have been scolded for that). In Japan, it is very common to hold bowls to drink the broth or finish the dish. In fact, bowls are made for that.
Eating sushi with hands – For Westerners, the most polite way to eat sushi is with hashi (chopsticks). In Japan, however, it is perfectly normal and acceptable to eat all varieties of sushi with hands.
Letting others pour your drink – Sometimes it is common in Brazil for us to pour our own drinks to avoid bothering others; however, in Japan, it is the opposite; you need to let others serve your drink when you are with colleagues or friends. Perhaps when pouring for everyone, you can serve yourself.
Rude habits in the West and common in Japan
Sleeping during activities – It is not a very acceptable habit, but it is common to see people sleeping at work, in school, and especially on the train.
Holding or opening doors – While in the West we need to open, hold, and close doors, especially for women. In Japan, it is not common for this to happen frequently, even when someone is visiting your home. In reality, opening and closing doors is not related to chivalry in Japan.
Cars passing on the crosswalk with pedestrians crossing – At some large intersections, even with the pedestrian signal open, cars tend to cross alongside pedestrians, as their signal is also open.
It is normal, but it may seem strange to a tourist, as in Brazil it is prohibited to pass with a car while someone is on the crosswalk (although they do not respect it). Some simply stop in the middle of the intersection for pedestrians to pass.
Pushing in trains – It is common for you to be pushed or to push people inside trains during rush hour. No one will feel bothered unless you are a pervert.
Weird fashions – In various situations, Japanese people wear clothes that would be embarrassing or wrong in the West. It is common to wear fundoshi that looks like underwear, going out in pajamas in the middle of the street to shop at a konbini, not to mention the freedom that Japanese people have with fashion, such as matching and wearing the same clothes as others or wearing cosplay.
Many things that are strange in the West can be normal in Japan or at least acceptable. If you remember any that did not appear in this article, feel free to comment with us.
Leave a Reply