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Culture Shock in Japan: 10 Surprising Examples You Will Experience

by Nitika Bhatia 14.5k Views

When one thinks about Japan, what instantly pops up in their mind is its anime culture or the Geisha world. However, when you move to Japan, you would be surprised to find how this country is much more than sumo wrestlers, sushi, manga , or J-pop; and is very different from the rest of the world in terms of the way of living, culture, and technology.

So, before the culture shock makes you want to rush back home through the next flight, we have put together a few facts about Japan that would help you prep up for your visit to Japan:  

1. High-tech toilets

You might find it weird that we are starting the list by mentioning toilets, but that’s the first thing you might encounter when you land in Japan. Using these hi-tech toilets might intimidate you with their multiple buttons and varying speeds of the jet spray that if not used with caution might leave you in an embarrassing situation. 

Some toilets even come with remote control and music option to mask the bathroom sounds. If you don’t understand Japanese, use Google translate on your phone to understand how to use these buttons.

2. Chopsticks

Chopsticks are at the heart of the Japanese food world. No matter where if you’re eating out at a fancy restaurant or taking away a quick meal from a convenience store, you will find that every local meal is eaten with chopsticks.

 While you can ask for a fork and knife at some restaurants, not all food outlets offer this luxury. So, it’s best that you learn some do’s and don’t of using chopsticks before your travel. It will come out to be helpful if you are planning to be in Japan for a long time and want to try the local cuisines. 

3. No honking

When you visit Japan, you will be pleasantly surprised to find that there is pretty much no honking of horns or loud music blaring from the cars. 

Even when there are traffic jams (frequent during the holiday season), you will find the locals patiently waiting for the jams to clear without creating any ruckus or honking incessantly which is common in many countries. 

4. Vending machines

You can never go thirsty no matter in which remote corner of Japan you are, thanks to the vending machines. You’ll find them everywhere – streets, parks, and even on the top of Mt Fuji (no, we are not kidding). 

While most machines carry hot and cold drinks for a reasonable 100 to 200yen, you’ll even find machines carrying ready-to-eat meals, cigarettes, and disposable cameras in many places.

5. Queue up

Many travelers find it strange when they see Japanese people lined up in queues almost everywhere they go. Whether you’re going to a convenience store, bus station, or a restaurant – you’ll find the locals queued up patiently waiting for their turn. 

Even when you are riding an escalator, you’ll find people queued up on the left and leaving the space on the right for rushing passengers (this applies to Tokyo, but may differ for other cities). 

So, instead of barging in and breaking a queue that might anger others around you (and is also considered very rude in Japanese culture), check where the queue ends and line up accordingly.

6. No English

While English is considered a common language and used often in many countries around the world, Japanese people are still not very comfortable communicating in the same.

You might think that you would find English-speaking staff at supermarkets or restaurants, it is still not very common, especially outside the Tokyo area. Even though English is a part of the school curriculum, the Japanese rarely use the language in a social environment.  

Therefore, it’s always better to l earn a few Japanese phrases to make your visit smoother. 

Japan’s taxi system is one of the best in the world, even though priced at a higher side compared to many countries – you need not worry about being overcharged.

But what might surprise you the most are the automatic taxi doors that open to your left. The doors are operated via a lever near the driver’s seat and also shut automatically, thus also saving you from touching the door handles that might be dirty (quite a blessing during the pandemic, right?) .  

8. Earthquake warnings

Japan is prone to frequent earthquakes and that’s why the authorities try to warn the locals through Earthquake Early Warnings System.

Those who don’t know about this system might find themselves in a shock when all of a sudden all phones around them start vibrating and beeping at the same time. But there’s no need to panic, as usually, these alerts pop up when the earthquake begins thus giving you enough time to find shelter or to be prepared for strong tremors. 

9. Convenience stores redefined

Convenience stores in Japan offer much more than just food and drinks and can prove to be a life savior for someone new in the country. 

You’ll be pleased to find multiple convenience stores like 7/11, Lawson, and Family Mart on every street, that are open 24/7. Many of them offer facilities like print/fax machines, ATMs, home supplies, personal hygiene products, and free public bathrooms. 

10. Accuracy of public transport

Punctuality is a vital part of Japanese culture, which also shows up in their public transport system. So, if you plan to catch a bus or a train, make sure you arrive at the station on time as the transport would always be accurate.

On an occasion that a train is running late due to some reason, they’ll be announcing the delays (even if it’s a 30-second delay) in English and in Japanese through the speakers and display screens in the train.

While these are some of the many common cultural shocks that a foreigner might face in Japan, every day can be a new experience in this beautiful country. So, when you plan your visit, come with an open mind and heart to embrace the local traditions and gain new insights about Japanese customs and culture. 

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Guide to Japanese Culture Shock

By Jashan | Updated November 30, 2020

Travelling to a new country can be exciting and frustrating all at once. You may find yourself  becoming overwhelmed with new expectations and settings. Japan is certainly no exception to this  phenomenon, as it is a truly unique country where western culture meets Japanese traditions. Japan  is a perfect example of how old traditions live in harmony with the modern world. It can be difficult to  navigate as a foreigner so we have compiled an article with an abundant amount of information to  help you handle the transition!

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What is Culture Shock?

When you travel to a new country, the experience can be very complex. You may be unfamiliar with the new social norms, and the need to adjust may be a bit too abrupt.  Culture shock is the result of  this sudden change in environment where you no longer have control of conditions you were used to  back home. This heavy load on your mind causes stress which can push you to your limit and make  you burst with anger. 

If you feel like you are experiencing this, here is a link explaining the symptoms of culture shock.

Stages of Culture Shock

Culture shock is not something that everyone experiences the same way, it's different for everyone. Some people are barely fazed by it, while others are pushed to feeling very isolated and depressed. However, there are 4 common stages everyone goes through; “honeymoon”, frustration, adjustment and acceptance. Take a look below to get a better understanding of what to expect at each stage.

Stage 1: The "Honeymoon"

This is the exciting stage where everything is new and you’re curious to see how everything works. In this stage you are still in “awe” by the new culture and your new environment. Just like a honeymoon, this stage is often the least stressful. That does not mean you won’t feel any stress, everything is new so of course there will be mixed feelings about things, but generally you are in a good mood. Just like all good things, the honeymoon stage will eventually come to an end as reality begins to set in.

Stage 2: Frustration

Here you begin to feel almost a type of anger towards the host culture. You begin comparing your home country to your new home. In this stage you often feel that the new country is inferior in many ways, and you get irritated by things you don’t quite understand yet. That excitement you once had begins to die down and a sense of doubt starts to grow in your mind on your future in the new country. You may begin comparing the negatives and the positives of moving to a new country and start leaning towards heading back home. 

Stage 3: Adjustment

By the 3rd stage, you’ve gotten over the difficult part and are now beginning to come to terms with the differences. Maybe you’ve made some friends or figured out how to navigate through the streets. It’s allowed you to become more comfortable with your new life and things seem to be less irritating. The adjustment stage often depends on your ability to cooperate with your environment. If you are someone who is “hard headed” and do not enjoy making changes, the adjustment stage may take longer to approach.

Stage 4: Acceptance

The final stage isn’t really about full acceptance of the situation, but more so coming to terms with knowing your way through the host country. It means when you come home to your apartment/house, it feels like home and not a hotel. At this point you are able to thrive in the new country on your own terms because you’ve realized how to be ok with the new culture. That being said, you are still going to face difficulties in your new home. It is also possible to go back to a previous stage every time you need to adjust to something new, no matter how little of a change it may be.

There is no timeline for how long you will spend at each stage, everyone has their own pace and it’s important to not feel rushed. It is in a way a healing process because you’ve come to a new environment and are trying to build things up again.

Exploring Culture Shock Out and About

When you step out of your house in Japan, you’ve got the whole country to explore. It can be a lot to  take in all at once. You will surely come across interesting aspects of Japanese society that can take  some time to get used to. Here are the most prominent things foreigners have trouble getting used to  in Japan.

Depending on where you live in Japan, you may find yourself having to navigate through large  crowds. The city of Tokyo is the largest city in the world and that means it's also very crowded. If you  come from a small town, you’re definitely going to have a little trouble getting used to pushing through crowds and getting squished on the trains. All you can really do is mentally prepare yourself  to give up some of your personal space when traveling throughout the cities in Japan. Remember to  stay calm and take someone with you so you don’t have the added stress of getting lost.

Restaurants

When eating out in a restaurant in Japan, many foreigners find the customs to be very different from  the west. Here are a couple things foreigners usually are unaware of or forget to consider.

You may think that you are being kind and appreciative by leaving a tip, but it’s actually not seen that  way in Japan. Leaving a tip may very well end up offending the chef or staff. I know, it sounds a little  odd to someone from the west, however in Japan the service is expected to be worth the total bill. 

While sitting at a restaurant in Japan, you may notice people around you making a little noise while  eating. It is actually considered a way of showing appreciation towards the chef for the good food. In  other parts of the world, people are told to eat quietly as a way to be polite, and therefore it can be a  custom some foreigners are a bit unused to.

Vending Machines

It’s not uncommon to come across vending machines in Japan that dispense anything from fresh  fruits to full meals. In fact, you can even grab a shot of sake at certain locations. How great is that! Of course, this can seem a little strange to people from abroad and can lead to some raised eyebrows.

Every country has its own diet and common meals and that can make moving to another place really  difficult. Japan does have restaurants with international cuisine but we all know mom's home cooked  meals are one of a kind. So if you are not used to seafood based cuisine you may feel a bit homesick  as a lot of the menu items are prepared using either fish or seafood broth.

The drinking culture in Japan is something you will come across if you go out with friends to bars and  restaurants. One main thing foreigners should remember is that pouring your own drink can come  across as rude. If you are out with fun friends, they will surely continue pouring you drinks even if you  politely say no. It can be an overwhelming situation for some people who have different approaches.

Interested in Japanese sake? Learn more in our Ultimate Guide to Sake Brewery

Japan’s transportation sector is a very elite system compared to the rest of the world. So as a  newcomer you may be surprised to see some different norms that are practiced on your daily  commute to work.

Punctuality

In many countries, late trains or buses are expected and it can sometimes be caused by the weather.  However, in Japan it is crucial that the trains run on time so people can get to where they need to be  on time. If a train is even a minute late, the train company will issue an apology and give late slips to  the passengers to show their employers or school. So you need to always be at the stop on time or  else you will surely miss your ride.

Talking on your phone with your bestie is just something most people are used to while on public  transport. Well that's maybe not a great idea when taking the train in Japan. It is expected of you to  be respectful of others and not make a lot of noise on public transport. The quietness often catches  foreigners by surprise and can take a while to get used to. If you would like to talk to someone while  on the train, try whispering instead of talking loudly.

Left side of the road

While most of the world drives on the right side of the road, there are places like the UK, Australia,  India, South Africa and Indonesia that drive on the left. Japan happens to be a country that drives on  the left as well. If you are someone coming from a country that drives on the right, this may take some  time to adjust to. Now all the oncoming traffic is on your right side instead of your left. The steering  wheel is also on the left, so things like parking are also an issue. However, your mind will slowly  adjust and you will get used to the new driving customs but not without your share of road rage.

Many people in Japan take a lot of pride in what they do. They want to always offer the best service  and get jobs done as meticulously as possible. Foreigners often really feel the difference in the work  environment when they first start their jobs in Japan. A couple things that take time to adjust to are  punctuality and long hours.

In Japan, there is no such thing as a “small job”, everyone has a job they are expected to do, on time.  Being on time means that you are trustworthy and shows that you respect the people you work with,  and the company you work for. It is a great way to show initiative and progress in your career. In the  west, people tend to be a bit more lenient. Although being late is frowned upon, it’s not as big of a  deal in the west. The stricter expectations on time usually put stress on foreigners and is an aspect of  work culture that is easily targeted for hateful rants.

If you work a normal 9am to 5pm job in America, everyone expects to leave at 5pm. In Japan  however, it could be taken rudely if you leave before your co-workers, so people often say “Osaki ni  shitsurei shimasu” which is used to apologize for leaving work before your coworkers. By staying later  and working longer hours, you are showing how committed you are to the job and how much you  enjoy being at work. So if you catch yourself going home before everyone else, don’t panic, a lot of  other people have been there and can relate to how confusing this can be.

Work dinners

Going out to eat with your boss and co-workers is not an uncommon sight in Japan. It is actually  almost impossible to turn down the invites. Even if you have worked a long day and are not looking  forward to going out, you better prepare yourself for a long night. The dinners are in fact a great way  for the team to build a relationship and celebrate their work. However, foreigners usually find the  dinners to be exhausting because you really have no way out, and like we explained above, if you are  drinking with your friends, it is easy to get carried away.

Want to learn more about Japanese work culture? Read our Guide to Japanese Culture

If you land yourself in cities like Tokyo and Osaka you’ll have a wide range of stores to shop from.  The culture around shopping is a bit different in Japan from many other places around the world.  Below are a couple of aspects foreigners struggle to get used to when shopping in Japan.

When you first arrive in a store, or even just walk by one, a staff member will politely greet you and  say “irasshaimase” and that translates to “welcome”. Staff will often stand outside stores and try to  get you interested in shopping in their stores. Foreigners sometimes get overwhelmed by this and  they may feel it’s invasive to their personal space. Although it is just a polite greeting and they are just  trying to get customers, it can be too much for some people to handle.

Clothing sizes in Japan tend to be smaller than in the west. If you are a size M in the west, you may have to size up to an L in Japan. The reason for this is because the average person in Japan is smaller than in the US or UK. Many stores also offer “japan fit” which is an addition to sizes in stores that normally carry US sizes, such as H&M. The “japan fit” clothing has shorter sleeves and is made  to fit more petite figures. The sizing can therefore make it very difficult for foreigners to find clothes  that fit them properly, especially at stores that are not American brands.

Advertisements

Japan is a booming and vibrant country for a number of reasons, such as its celebrations and advanced technology. Yet when you walk down the streets, there is one thing you’ll never miss, advertisements! Huge boards with funky fonts and bright colours are everywhere. Anything you can imagine is somewhere being advertised on a board or screen. The vast display of these advertisements can be a lot to take in. If you come from a more rural part of a country, the advertisements will surely be something to tackle.

People often go to an Onsen (Japanese hot spring) to relax and destress after long days of work. You may be shocked the first time you go to see everyone walking around confidently naked. That is completely normal and just the way that the bathhouses work. People from abroad generally don’t feel too comfortable with these customs surrounding a bath house, but many find they get used to it over time. Unlike the advertisements however, you can choose to not go to a bathhouse. 

Culture Shock at Home in Japan

Creating a sense of home can be difficult in a foreign country. You may have grown up in a couple different houses back home, but generally they all functioned the same. So you got used to what a kitchen should look like or where everyone sits together, but that may look different in Japan. Here are a couple of things foreigners have trouble getting used to.

Bathrooms in Japan tend to be smaller and more compacted. It’s not uncommon that you will have to close one panel of something to reach the toilet or flip up something to make room for a sink. So, the layout is usually something people from abroad become frustrated with, especially in small apartments.

Many places in Japan have squatting toilets and toilets with advanced features. Although the squatting toilets aren’t very common, you may come across them at some point. However, toilets with advanced features are definitely seen in most homes in Japan. It can take a while to understand what each button or feature is, and sometimes it may even seem unnecessary to foreigners. Most people are actually quite intrigued by the technology.

"Itadakimasu"

When you sit down to eat, make sure you remember to say “itadakimasu” before eating. It's like saying “thank you for the meal” and is done out of respect. In many cultures there are similar traditions, such as saying grace before you eat with your family. After eating you may also say “gochisousama” which is another “thank you for the meal” but this phrase is meant for once you have finished eating.

Ancestor Room

Not so common in apartments, but if you do a homestay with another family, you will often find an ancestor room. The room is designed as a shrine to pay respects to deceased family members. It is important that you don’t disregard common courtesy to be respectful when entering this room. It may be a little strange to someone who is not accustomed to such traditions and therefore can make you feel out of place.

Sitting on the floor

While on the topic of eating, it is also not rare to see people sitting on cushions around a low table when eating. The tradition is usually followed in homes with tatami floors because the floors can get ruined with heavy furniture, such as dining tables. It can be especially difficult for people who have a hard time sitting on floors to become accustomed to this tradition. Therefore, foreigners are often told to think twice before moving into a home with tatami floors because they require special care.

Want to learn more about Japanese house etiquette? Check out our Ultimate Guide to Traditional Japanese House

Coping Strategies

If you are experiencing culture shock, or expect to in the near future, there are a few useful things you can do to help ease the stress.

Admit impact exists

The first step is to realize you are uncomfortable and in distress. By attempting to convince yourself that you are okay and ignoring your feelings, you may end up digging a deeper hole for yourself. It is important to treat culture shock like any other mental health issue because it can lead to depression and isolation. Keep in mind, you are not alone and that culture shock is a totally normal thing to experience, so don’t be too hard on yourself.

Learn rules of new country

By researching the rules of a new country, you are preparing yourself to be knowledgeable of the do’s and don’ts. The more you are aware of what to expect, the less anxious you may feel when you are in the country. It can also help to keep you out of embarrassing situations, and that’s the last thing you need as a foreigner. 

You can check out our article on Japanese Customs to learn about practices you will encounter when in Japan.

Get involved

Finding something you are interested in, such as music or art, and then getting involved in that can help ease you into the new culture. For example you may decide to join a recreational sports team. It may help you feel less like an outsider and you will get to learn about aspects of the culture you are interested in. The activity will also keep your mind off customs in Japan that you may be struggling to adapt to.

Learn the language

Learning a new language can be difficult, but very rewarding. Even learning just the basics, such as common phrases or writing systems, can help you feel less overwhelmed in the new country. It will also allow you to immerse yourself in the culture more swiftly and you will be able to pick up the language quicker once you are in Japan. 

Check out Japan Switch for affordable language lessons

Put your health first

Eating healthy and getting enough sleep are important habits on their own, but especially more when you are going through a tough time. It can be easy to turn to junk food or alcohol when you are stressed, however it won’t help your mental health. Having a balanced diet, sleeping enough and exercising are great ways to keep yourself strong and ready to take on challenges like culture shock.

Explore the country

In your home country, you probably knew your way around and you knew where all the good cafes were. When you move to a new place, you don’t know where anything is and that unfamiliarity can be frightening. Give yourself time to explore streets around where you live first so you can get a feel for the area and become familiar with it. Then move on to discovering places you enjoy being. You’ll be able to bridge a connection with Japan once you begin finding places you like to be.

Want to explore Tokyo? Read our Ultimate Guide to Planning a Day Trip From Tokyo

Making Friends

It can be difficult to go through a transition like this alone, so it’s important to have people around who you can talk to. Making local friends is a guaranteed way to feel more welcomed and immersed in a new country. Apps like Bumble make it so much easier to meet people who are also looking for friends around the globe. Like we said earlier, getting involved in activities you enjoy, will also help you meet people with similar interests in Japan.

Check out Bff Tokyo for a guide to making friends in Japan:

Contact family back home

Check in on family back home so you don’t feel completely disconnected from them when you are in Japan. It’s inevitable to feel homesick in another country when you stay there for a long period of time. Your family and friends are people you most likely feel comfortable talking about your issues with, so it can be therapeutic to vent to them. Surely it would make your family and friends feel better too knowing how you're doing!

Do stuff that reminds you of home

Whether it's a family recipe you enjoyed cooking or something as simple as riding your bike, little things like this can help you develop a feeling of home in your new home. Doing this will keep you in touch with who you are when things may seem a little crazy as you move to a new country. Maybe you could even introduce your new friends to the hobbies you enjoyed doing back home, so you can show them a bit of where you come from and your own traditions.

Avoid idealizing home country

It can be difficult not to compare where you lived before to where you live now, but try not to focus on just the negatives. If you keep idealizing your home country, you’ll miss all the great new things you can enjoy in your new home! It is also important to understand that the Japanese culture does not have to adapt to you, but instead you must adapt to it. Keeping an open mind and having a positive outlook will ensure that you have a smoother transition into the country. Of course it is ok to miss back home, just don’t do it at the expense of what the new country has to offer.

Resources for help

There are many resources to help you cope with culture shock in Japan. A good place to start is getting a check up done by a doctor so they can assess how your overall health is. Here are a few more specific resources to get you started.

Tell Japan is designed specifically for international citizens who would like to receive help for any issue they may be facing. They have 3 ways that they offer support.

• TELL Lifeline: this is an anonymous option for counseling over the phone. It’s quick and confidential.
• TELL counseling: This is a more face to face approach and you will get help from a professional psychologist.
• TELL Outreach: This program is for community outreach and offers mental wellness support on a community level.

Japan Intercultural Consulting

If you would like professional help from a consulting firm, this program is for you. Especially if you are struggling in your work environment, they can provide one on one sessions to help you build connections within the Japanese workforce. 

Foreigner Groups

Another option is to join groups on social media, such as Facebook, with common backgrounds and interests in Japan. These groups often host parties and get togethers where you can meet friends and build relationships that will help you feel less isolated in Japan. 

• BFFTokyo community
• For Empowering Women Japan
• Tokyo Canadian Club

Religous Institutions

Japan also has many different religious institutions such as churches, mosques and temples. If you find harmony in religion, it may be a good idea to look for an institution where you can go to find peace in your new country. It may also help you feel less homesick if you regularly went to a religious institution back home.

Going Back Home

A common thing many people face is “Reverse culture shock”. When you go back home after living in another country for a long period of time, you realize not everything is the same as you remembered it. When you are away from home you may catch yourself often thinking about certain things you miss back home. These memories become so glorified that when you experience being home again after so long, it doesn’t feel the same. For example, certain foods may not taste the same as they did before because you've become accustomed to a new palette of flavours.

It’s important that you speak with your friends and family around you if you feel that maybe you are going through something similar to culture shock again.

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Understanding and Overcoming Japan Culture Shock

How can you overcome Japan culture shock, and what should you do when you feel burned out living in Japan? This week, we answer this question! For more questions on moving to Japan, surviving daily life in Japan, and more, Guidable is here to help. Submit your own questions at the bottom of this post!

Question: What should I do if I feel like leaving Japan?

I feel burned out living in Japan. Talking to other friends in Japan doesn’t really help: they’re either in love with Japan, or they’re overly pessimistic about it. Is this just a normal part of Japan culture shock, or should I leave Japan for good?

Moving to a new country is a big accomplishment, an accomplishment that isn’t without its struggles. One of these struggles is experiencing culture shock.

What is Culture Shock?

Culture shock is a feeling of confusion or frustration when in a foreign culture. Culture shock is common both during travel and living abroad. And almost everyone experiences it. In fact, while you might be experiencing culture shock in Japan, Japanese people might be experiencing culture shock in your country (especially in the case of Paris Syndrome , a severe case of culture shock that is experienced almost exclusively by Japanese tourists in France, causing a delusional state, hallucinations, dizziness, and other unusual symptoms).

Typically, culture shock manifests itself in feelings of boredom, loneliness, homesickness, overwhelm, and fatigue. But not every stage of culture shock is like this. The four stages of culture shock are:

• Honeymoon Phase: You’re feeling positive and excited to explore this foreign culture, and you’re unlikely to notice the flaws and downsides of your new country.
• Irritability and Hostility: You’re starting to notice the negatives, and they’re overwhelming. In fact, you may start to categorize anything different or new as being inferior, viewing the culture from a predominantly negative perspective.
• Gradual Adjustment: You’re starting to adapt, have a more objective view of your surroundings, and overall you feel more relaxed.
• Adaptation of Biculturalism: You’ve found a sense of belonging in and respect for the culture, accepting it as part of your everyday life.

These stages may sound like something you only experience once soon after arriving in Japan. However, the truth is that culture shock goes in cycles, no matter if you’ve lived in Japan for several months or even years. Over time, you will face new frustrations and challenges, as well as explore unfamiliar positives of living in Japan, cycling you through different phases of culture shock again and again.

Here are some common triggers for experiencing the I’m done with Japan side of culture shock that you may be able to relate to:

• Language barrier
• Frustration with cultural differences
• Experiencing discrimination or feeling “othered”
• Being stared at
• Feeling isolated
• Homesickness

How to Deal With Culture Shock in Japan

If you’re feeling tired of living in Japan, it might help to first let go of some of the ideas and expectations you have about Japan.

Many of us come to Japan, as well as other foreign countries, with a  positive “honeymoon” state of mind. That’s why it can be especially disappointing to discover what we don’t like about a new country.

Start noticing when you have an idea of how Japan “should” be – and then let go of those ideas. Chances are, there are things you’d change in your home country too, and no country will ever be exactly as you wish. By letting go of how you think Japan should be, you can start to accept it for what it is.

Remember, too, that culture shock and burnout come and go in waves. Be prepared for the ups and downs, and know that while you may be facing a new struggle living in Japan now, that problem may be solved or handled better with time. Likewise, remember that the exciting parts of living in Japan won’t always be there, either. This is true for life in Japan, as well as life in other countries.

Also, be aware of how others’ ideas and common myths about Japan could be influencing your perspective. For example, if you’ve been told that living in Japan is difficult or that you’ll never fit in, you may start to look for signs to prove this to be true, meanwhile ignoring all the other signs proving that it’s not .

Finally, remember that it’s okay to leave Japan when you feel it’s best. You don’t have to stay in Japan if you’re unhappy. For some, life in Japan may last one year, while others remain in Japan for decades. Even when you’ve overcome Japan culture shock, you may still long to live closer to your family or in a more familiar place. There’s nothing wrong with that.

Life in Japan affects each one of us differently, and only you get to decide what your life and time in Japan means to you.

For more on culture shock in Japan, read this article next to find out how to deal with the “empty gaijin seat”:

“Empty Gaijin Seat” and “Galápagos Syndrome” or How Japanese Sometimes Misunderstand Foreigners

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Brie Schmidt

Writer  /  United States  /  

Writer based in Japan and in love with Tokyo

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Guide to Overcoming Culture Shock in Japan

What are the common causes of culture shock in Japan, and how do you cope and overcome it? Believe it or not, culture shock is a common experience for people who encounter a new and unfamiliar environment. For those moving to Japan, the country’s unique customs, values, and way of life can be both a source of excitement and disorientation.

Whether you are a language school student or someone coming to work in Japan, learning to navigate the cultural norms of Japan can be a challenging but rewarding experience. 

• What is culture shock?
• What triggers culture shock in Japan?
• How to overcome culture shock in Japan? 

What is Culture Shock?

Culture shock is the feeling of disorientation that occurs when a person is exposed to a new and unfamiliar culture. It is a common experience for travelers and people who move to a new country or region and encounter a culture so different from their own. There are many factors that trigger culture shock, including language barriers, differences in social norms and expectations, changes in daily routine and lifestyle, and even food differences. Symptoms of culture shock may include homesickness, anxiety, frustration, loneliness, lethargy, lack of interest in anything, lack of appetite, and more. 

It is widely recognized that there are four stages to culture shock: 

• The Honeymoon Stage when everything about the new culture is exciting and interesting. 
• The Frustration Stage when you start to feel disorientated and uncomfortable at the new culture after the initial excitement has worn off. This is when you will start exhibiting culture shock symptoms like those mentioned above.
• The Adjustment Stage when you gradually adapt to this new environment and make a place for yourself.
• The Acceptance Stage is when you have made peace with the new environment and have fully adjusted. You have accepted the cultural differences and embraced them, feeling comfortable in the now familiar environment. 

While culture shock can be a difficult and uncomfortable experience, it is part and process of adapting to a new culture. There is also comfort in knowing that it is temporary and many people experience and have successfully overcome it. Eventually, you too will overcome culture shock and fully embrace your new surroundings. 

Culture Shock in Japan

Now that you have a basic understanding of culture shock in Japan, the why and how it occurs, let’s have a look at the “what” that causes it. Below, we will introduce the common causes of culture shock in Japan. 

Language Barrier in Japan

The only country in the world that uses Japanese as its main language is, of course, Japan. Therefore, unless you have prior knowledge and education in the Japanese language, you will most certainly face a language barrier. Even for people who have self-studied Japanese to a certain level, being fully immersed in a Japanese environment for the first time can be a jarring experience. Needless to say, beginners coming to study Japanese from scratch may find themselves at a loss. 

There is no avoiding the language barrier, however, there are ways you can mitigate its impact of it. Learning basic Japanese phrases is key and watching Japanese dramas and movies as a practice also helps a lot. The first few days or even weeks will still be difficult but you will get used to native speakers’ speed and dialects much faster as you can recognize common phrases used. 

International students in Japan might have the option of taking Japanese classes immediately once they arrive. However, your options might be limited if you come to Japan as a foreign worker. In that case, it’s best to look for short-term courses with flexible class hours (such as evenings or weekend time) to make sure you’re learning Japanese consistently. In this case, why not take a look at private or part-time courses at Coto Academy to get started?

The Difference in Communication Style in Japan

Japanese people often communicate differently than people from other cultures, using nonverbal cues and subtle gestures to convey meaning. This can be confusing for people who are not used to these communication styles. A common problem many Japanese learners have is the lack of subject matter in sentences, conversations and instructions in Japanese, often leading to pure confusion and misunderstanding. 

There is no other way around this other than getting used to it. The more you communicate with people and listen to conversations, the more you will understand the subtle gestures and hidden contexts. Have comfort in the fact that the locals are understanding of the fact that you are a foreigner and are learning Japanese as a foreign language, and are very willing to explain if you do not understand. In fact, they are simply elated that you have taken the time and are doing your best to learn their language and customs, so no pressure! 

Differences in Social Norms and Expectations in Japan

Bowing as a greeting instead of shaking hands is one of the classic examples of differences in social norms and expectations in Japan compared to other countries. Others include taking off shoes before entering someone’s home and certain buildings and rooms, the usage of polite speech , and adding honorifics or titles to someone’s name . 

Before going to Japan, it is a good idea to look up beforehand about the cultural and social norms to avoid committing a social faux pas. 

Not Used to Japanese Food and Diet

Japanese food is well-known throughout the world, particularly sushi and ramen. Having your fix of Japanese food when the craving arises is fine and all but having Japanese food daily in replacement of your usual can lead to culture shock. This can be especially challenging for vegans, and people with dietary restrictions or allergies. It is not surprising to have a lack of appetite and become sick of Japanese food. 

Luckily, there are many options for foreign cuisine in Japan, especially in major cities. Thai, Indian, Chinese, Korean, Western, Italian, etc. all sorts of restaurants can be found. You can also choose to cook, get supplies from supermarkets (check out our recommended grocery stores and supermarket in Tokyo ), or online, or bring from your home country.      

Manners and Etiquette in Different Situations

Each culture has its own manners and etiquette. Japan in particular is very strict on manners, with different etiquette for different situations and places. For example, proper dining etiquette , manners to uphold when taking public transportation (different manners for different vehicles), visiting manners, shrine and temple manners, specific event manners (funeral, wedding, hospital visits), etc. There is so much to learn that it can be confusing and disorienting for someone experiencing it for the first time.

There are many articles available about the different manners and etiquette to practice in different scenarios in Japan so with some time and effort you can easily learn them. Also, you do not need to learn all of them which can be overwhelming, so just learn them as the occasion arises. It also does not hurt to ask people who can teach you. 

What do foreigners find shocking in Japan? 

There are many things, but what stands out most are:

• Bowing to people as a greeting and sign of respect. In companies, the staff stays bowed to customers as they leave until no longer in sight. 
• Bathing naked with strangers is the cultural norm when visiting hot springs in Japan. 
• All manner of raw and fermented foods. Natto, which is fermented soybeans, is particularly difficult to accept due to its strong pungent smell and sticky slimy texture. 
• Tipping is not part of Japanese culture, never give tips in Japan.
• Omotenashi, the Japanese form of hospitality, frequently shocks visitors to Japan. Hotel and ryokan staff will go out of their way to assist and provide hospitality to customers. 

How to Overcome Culture Shock in Japan

If you are experiencing culture shock in Japan, it is important to remember that these feelings are perfectly normal and will likely fade with time as you become more familiar with the culture. For most people, just letting time do its work is sufficient to recover from culture shock, but for some people, a little effort may be necessary. Let us look at some things we can do to speed up the recovery from culture shock in Japan. 

Embrace the Culture and Try New Things

In some cases, settling down to a regular routine in Japan can cause culture shock as you become disillusioned by Japan. “Japan wasn’t what I expected,” “I thought it would be better”, and such thoughts may plague you. In this case, most likely you have gotten bored with your new routine. We recommend trying new things in Japan. If you’re an international student at a Japanese university , join a club or society and learn about Japanese cultures that you do not already know. 

If you’re not a student, there are ways to immerse into the culture, such as through Japanese language exchange events.

Build a Social Network and Make Friends

Another reason many people have culture shock in Japan is the feeling of isolation and loneliness from leaving friends and family behind. So, go out of your way to make some new friends and build a social network in Japan. It will make Japan feel more like home, and certainly a lot more fun. 

Learn About and Understand the Cultural Differences

Instead of remaining confused and disorientated by the new culture, take some time to learn and understand this new culture so different from your own. Doing so will make it a fun and at the same time learning experience. Once you have undone the knot of confusion that is Japanese culture, not only do you resolve your culture shock issue, but you will also have gained an understanding of Japanese culture. 

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle and Practice Self-Care

A common problem for those afflicted with culture shock is the neglect of one’s health, so take care of yourself during this transition. Things you can do include maintaining a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, and learning to manage your stress through exercise, meditation or relaxing techniques. 

Seek Help if Necessary

If you are finding it difficult to cope with culture shock, it may be helpful to seek support from friends or families or even professionals such as therapists or counselors. There is no shame, so do not be afraid to reach out for help if you need it. 

Worry not if you are having culture shock in Japan, it is a common experience for people who encounter a culture so different from your own and in many cases will naturally go away as time passes. There are ways to speed up the recovery from culture shock as we explained above, so give them a try and see which one(s) work on you best. 

Visiting and living in Japan is a wonderful experience that will become a lifelong memory so do not worry too much about culture shock. Bad things always accompany good things, and darkness is always temporary, so we wish you all the best if you are suffering from culture shock in Japan as it will surely pass.

If you want to learn the Japanese language and navigate through the complicated Japanese culture, have a free online consultation with Coto Academ y. Let’s discuss together the best courses that fit your lifestyle and long-term goal in Japan!

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Culture Shock in Japan: A Guide for International Students Studying in Japan

Moving to a new country, regardless of whether it’s for work or study, should be an incredibly rewarding experience. At times, however, it can be a frustrating and stressful experience. Inevitably, after a honeymoon period where everything seems fantastic, you will experience a crash where your pining for home will seem unbearable. This feeling is what we call “culture shock”. The extent to which you experience culture shock will come down to a variety of factors, including your individual living situation, and the support network you have both in your new country of residence and back home. People are bound to struggle with culture shock to some degree no matter where they move, but moving to Japan can be particularly jarring due to linguistic barriers, though technology does alleviate this somewhat.

In this article we will discuss the commonly recognized stages of culture shock, and what you might do to mitigate it, minimize it, or perhaps largely avoid culture shock while you are studying in Japan .

Table of Contents

Examples of Culture Shock You May Experience in Japan

The stages of culture shock, stage 1: the honeymoon stage, stage 2: the frustration stage, stage 3: adjustment, stage 4: acceptance.

• The expectation of punctuality (eg: arriving 10 mins early to a meeting equals arriving on time) 
• The lack of physical contact in greetings
• The overall lack of spoken English in the service industry and the lack of English menus in many venues
• The high-context nature of the language
• Having to bathe naked with strangers if you go to an onsen (hot spring)
• And many more!

You will find a variety of descriptions of the stages of culture shock online, but a fairly agreed-upon division of the stages goes:

• Frustration

No matter where you are on this continuum, it’s important to remember that you’ll find other people living in Japan at each of these four stages, and your “Senpai” are a great resource for helping you through it. Just remember to listen to their advice.

You’ve just arrived in Japan, and everything is awesome. The culmination of all your planning and hard work has paid off, you’re finally here. The food tastes better, the temples and shrines look amazing, and you can find all your favorite Japanese goods at a fraction of the price back home. You’ve never posted this much to your social media before, as everything is fresh and new and photo-worthy. You’re making new friends and seeing the sites together.

You’ve blundered your way through yet another conversation with a local; why don’t people respond with the Japanese you’ve learnt in your Genki textbook? You think you’ve heard the word gaijin uttered in your presence one too many times, you are certain people are always talking about you, and if someone comments on your chopstick handling skills one more time you’re going to scream.

Most of all, you miss home. Surely things were simpler there. Weren’t they? Why don’t they sell my favourite foods and snacks here? You’re sick of not being able to read packaging easily.

Congratulations, the honeymoon is over, you’ve lost your rose-tinted glasses and you’ve entered stage 2, frustration. When we talk about culture shock, it is really this stage we are referring to. It could certainly be argued that international students get a double dose of culture shock. Not only are you adjusting to a foreign culture, but you are also adjusting to the transition to the culture and responsibilities of being a university student.

Some symptoms of culture shock at this stage can include:

• Irritability
• Being quick to anger
• Intense homesickness
• Panic attacks
• Loss of motivation
• Excessive amounts of time spent on solo activities such as sleeping, gaming or watching TV
• Loss of self-confidence
• Feelings of helplessness or hopelessness
• Associating only with other foreigners

Sounds horrible doesn’t it, but it is important to realise that everyone goes through this stage to some degree or another, and that you will come out of it. Adjusting to a new culture is hard. If you were lucky enough to arrive in Japan at the same time as a group of other people that you’ve made friends with, no doubt you are all going through this at roughly the same time.

It is important that you talk about your feelings with those around you and with a counsellor if needs be. However, remember that you will come out of this second stage due to your efforts to adapt to your new culture and surroundings. So, what are some ways to get out of stage 2 faster?

Keep Studying the Language

Once the honeymoon stage is over, getting to the adjustment stage can be a struggle. If you want to make the most of your time in Japan, you’ll need to study Japanese hard in your first few years here. You’ve got reading and assignments for other subjects of course, but make sure you set aside the time to do it. Studying a language is like going to the gym, only through proper nutrition and training will your language ability increase. You need to take what you’re studying and apply it in the real world. Moreover, studying Japanese is not as hard as you think . Get out there and join a school club, take part in activities on campus, or get a part time job in the kitchen of an izakaya or something. There are jobs here where you don’t need to be given too many instructions, and watching the dynamic in the kitchen and the restaurant floor is a great way to learn the practical, real-world Japanese that probably isn’t in your textbook. So, take a job where you can observe people and interact with them, even if the pay isn’t great. Push through the work, the awkward weirdness of many miscommunications, fail, fail, fail again, then rise. Eventually, the language ability will be there, you’ll have earned it. You’ll get more responsibility in the kitchen or wherever you’re working. You’re part of the team now.

Pay keen attention, mirror what people do, and say what they’d say. In this way you’re continuously understanding the place better, allowing you to engage in it on your own terms. There are some basic rules for working in Japan. Stay positive, don’t mess with the Wa (the harmony), be polite, and most importantly, always be reliable. That is the number one thing asked of you here, reliability. Remember that and you’ll have the time of your life; people will continuously surprise you.

Develop and Maintain a Circle of Friends

You should also put aside time for friends on campus, and living in a dorm must be a hive of energy. Building a community of people around you is the best way to get through stage 2, because when it hits you’ve got friends to go through it together. Nothing bonds people more than the experience of being thrust into a new culture together. Something should be said about the onset of stage 2, it affects the lonely quicker.

Remain Culturally Curious and Objective

When you move to a new country you will see many things that shock you, annoy you, or confuse you. The key is to be curious, not outraged. React calmly and make mental notes of it.

Picture a typical David Attenborough nature documentary. Does he yell things like “Oh My God! That beautiful gazelle got murdered by that cheetah! How Horrific.”? No, he says something like “And the graceful gazelle is taken down by the majestic cheetah”. When you see or experience things that don’t match your cultural expectations you need to be like David Attenborough.

Avoid sweeping generalizations and try to remember that in many situations openly commenting on the culture leaves you open to comparing it to your own in a way that may offend people. Being humble about yourself is an important part of being polite in Japan. Saying things like “In my country we do X…” may sound like you think the Japanese way is inferior and therefore, you will sound rather rude. This is yet another reason why you need to retain a close circle of friends, so you can discuss these things privately and decompress with them. You will need a soundboard, and having multiple soundboards is always better.

“Living in Japan for a year now, I’ve experienced so many situations where I felt the cultural difference between my home country and Japan! It is always a bit confusing to adapt to a new culture and environment, but all these situations I’ve experienced, (some of them quite awkward!) usually turn out to be good surprises or funny stories to tell later. I think a lot of people will agree with me, when it comes to a good cultural shock, Japanese punctuality is the first one that comes to my mind. Compared to France, there is such a big difference with how people manage time and make plans. Being on time in Japan means arriving before the given time while in France, you never really expect someone to show up on time, even in a professional context. Trains here are also perfectly on time, it makes it easier to make plans without stressing about arriving late.

Another cultural shock I’ve experienced is the gift giving culture here. In France, we exchange presents on special occasions, or we sometimes give small gifts to children when meeting someone’s family. In Japan, I feel like it is more common (and sometimes implicitly required), especially with the omiyage culture, which is like a souvenir you would buy for your friends and family after traveling. Each prefecture has their own sweets and while I was a bit confused with what I should buy, for who and how much, I’ve started to get it and it’s become a new habit for me!”

Lucile – 2nd year student from France

You are beginning to get the hang of existing in your new country now. Depending on how deep you crashed, you have become more empathetic, have learned a lot and are less and less annoyed by cultural differences. Your initial honeymoon love for the place is slowly being replaced by a richer and deeper understanding. You’re working your way back to a position where the country, and the experience, will be better for you long term. The frequency and intensity of culture shock symptoms are decreasing by the day. Don’t get down on yourself if you have a little blow-out though, it happens to all of us.

It can be somewhat difficult to recognise when you’ve finally reached stage 4. Perhaps because things just seem normal to you now. You’re usually just getting on with your day. You are perfectly capable of living here forever. Your quality of life at this stage may be largely up to the level of effort you’ve put into becoming fluent in the language. If you do decide to return home after studying or working here for a while, you may even get to experience reverse culture shock!

“ My first memory of culture shock after arriving in Japan for study abroad, was riding an escalator. In my home country, we must stand on the right side of the escalator or stairs at train stations, shopping malls, etc. However, in Japan’s Kanto region, it’s the opposite. At first when I rode on escalators, if I realized I was standing on the side that is incorrect, I had to move to the left side or walk up quickly so as not to block the other passengers. Now, it’s second nature but when I go back to my home country, I must remember to stand on the right! ”

Pannikarn – 3rd year student from Thailand

Culture shock is an inevitable part of moving to a new country for work or study, wherever in the world you’ve decided to make your new home. It is not a syndrome unique to those who have recently started studying in Japan or working in Japan. It’s important to remember that you are not going through it alone, and if you are studying here and really struggling with it there are counselling services available. Most importantly, recognize that it is temporary, and better yet, you’ll have some new stories to tell at the end of it.

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Culture Shocks in Japan that Impacted Me: A UK Perspective

Since culture shocks are inevitable when moving to another country, it is safe to say that Japan is no exception. Read on to find out about our SENPAI, Finn’s experience as someone from the UK moving to Japan.

Adjusting to a New Culture

Almost every visitor to Japan seems to leave with their own unique stories of culture shock, whether that’s an encounter with intense levels of politeness, inescapably common vending machines or high tech toilets with self-warming seats and cleaning nozzles. That said, not every cultural contrast is so obvious. There’s a very good chance that anyone who’s ever traveled to Japan will have taken a trip to the toilets, but other aspects of Japanese culture might take a little longer for you to come face to face with.

Eager for English

If you’re hoping to trap yourself in a monolingual environment where you’ll have no choice but to become a master of Japanese to communicate, you might find it a little more challenging than you thought. Back home in the UK, people often rely on travelers and tourists having a practical grasp of English, but over here I often find that locals are less interested in how well I can communicate in Japanese and more interested in hearing my English accent.

In part that’s likely due to a desire to accommodate tourists, but I really underestimated how many older Japanese bartenders would be waiting for a chance to tell me just how much they loved the Beatles and David Bowie. An interest in Japanese culture may be niche in the UK, but UK culture has really made a mark over here, so in addition to English menus and railway guide translations you probably won’t be short of younger Japanese people excited to chat about Harry Potter.

The Curse of Cheap, Tasty Food

One of the differences close to my heart (maybe closer to my stomach) is the quick, convenient food. In the UK, if you’re not eating home cooked food you’ll probably be out at a slightly costly restaurant or grabbing something cheap, easy and unhealthy. It can be hard to find a midpoint between casual food you can eat on the go and restaurant quality meals you’ll have to patiently wait for, but Japan is totally prepared to cater to anyone who needs to quickly satisfy their hunger without being tempted by less healthy options.

Japan has an assortment of chains which don’t quite fit into the fast food category, but they have restaurants where you can buy standard Japanese meals like gyudon (sliced beef and rice), katsudon (pork cutlet and rice) and soba noodles. The food arrives within minutes and the cost is amazingly low. While it may not be the same experience as reserving a table at a nice restaurant a month in advance, the meals are generally quite healthy and paying a little more for extra vegetables is always an option. What’s more is that some of these chains are even open 24 hours, in case you’re hungry at 3am.

The problem is, when I’m spending time making a dish with ingredients that cost more than a full meal and extra side dishes, the temptation to drop in for a bowl of healthy soba noodles and fried shrimp is hard to resist. On top of that, whatever I’m making is only going to taste half as good so how can I refuse delicious soba in Japan when it’s half the price of soba in the UK?

The Myth of Modern Technology

Japan’s image as a titan of modern technology normally seems well earned. You’ve heard of the giant robots, high speed railways and revolutionary semiconductors. Look a little closer though, and you’ll find places still running happily on analogue tech. Stacks of handwritten documents, fax machines, 90’s flip phones and websites that look stuck in the past. Japan is still a long way away from being a cashless society too, although less self-service checkouts might just help slow automation of jobs here and less self-service checkouts may mean more people are employed. Since the UK has a bad habit of overreaching with technology and making minor problems more complicated, Japan’s attitude of ‘If it isn’t broken don’t fix it’ can be a welcome change in culture.

Long Term Changes

While some differences between home and Japan come across as one time shocks, it’s really the changes that become a part of the everyday that cause the biggest impact. If you’ve stripped down in a public onsen once, the second time round is not that big of a deal. Making a spelling mistake and realising you’ll have to fill in an entire form from the beginning rather than just fixing the one mistake is the switch in culture that really sneaks up on you. 

Discovering these small quirks can be just as satisfying as coming across more well-known culture shocks. You may have to adapt a little, but you might find that keeping an eye out for these everyday details will be what leads you to a more in-depth understanding of Japan and its culture. In the end, your memories of Japan will be made up by a multitude of small, unique experiences rather than a couple of big tourist trips, so remember to get the most out of your time here and let the little things surprise you!

written by Finn Burton

Originally from London, Finn Burton is an English teacher, translator and journalist who has lived and studied in both Tokyo and Kyoto. Most of his time is spent searching for unique places in Tokyo, new music, or Japanese novels to make daily train journeys more interesting. Finn is most active on ADSR Collective, where he writes about fresh electronic music.

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Coping with culture shock

For Americans, working with the Japanese in a business is a challenging cultural adjustment. Even though both sides share a great many values in business, such as respect for education, enthusiasm for new technologies, and honest dealing, assumptions about working can be very different. In order to work most effectively, both the Japanese and Americans must develop awareness of these differences and skills to bridge them. It would be unrealistic to promise that culture shock can be eliminated entirely. Managing culture shock is an ongoing process, but vital to personal well-being and business success.

What is culture shock?

Culture shock refers to the anxiety and disorientation felt when people have to work within a completely different cultural environment. Adjusting to different assumptions about what is appropriate and what is not, and learning how to get things done takes time and effort.

The four stages of culture shock

1) The Honeymoon Stage, when people feel very positive about the new culture. For example, newcomers to Japanese business often appreciate their Japanese counterparts’ politeness and respect.

2) The Frustration Stage, when people struggle with the culture, and begin to react negatively to its ways of doing things. They may begin to criticize the Japanese for their reluctance to communicate negative information.

3) The Adjustment Stage, when people feel more confident in dealing with the new culture, and are able to understand and accept customs. For example, people with more experience in Japanese companies may begin to understand what the Japanese are not expressing directly.

4) The Enthusiasm Stage, when people function well in the culture. They may even begin to prefer the Japanese way of doing things. For example, they may choose to settle differences of opinion in private, rather than in front of the group.

The challenge for people who work with the Japanese is to spend the minimum amount of time in the Frustration Stage and to move on quickly to the Adjustment Stage. Cross-cultural training is an efficient way to start this process. It develops an awareness of how the Japanese do things, and skills for bridging the gap. It also can prevent negative mindsets from developing, if provided early on.

Avoiding getting stuck

Getting stuck in the Frustration Stage can be stressful for the individual and detrimental for business. Spending a lot of time with others who are frustrated and complaining about the Japanese keeps everyone stuck and does not help the situation. Management should be mindful of maintaining a positive attitude. Not participating in negative talk themselves and not condoning it in others discourages the behaviors that block transition to more productive collaboration.

Recognizing our stories

It can be hard to maintain an open mind when involved in a frustrating cross-cultural situation. Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan, Al Switzler, and Stephen R. Covey, the authors of the book, Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes are High , recommend a technique that I will summarize briefly here. When we are reacting negatively to a situation, in this case, in an interaction with the Japanese, not only are we observing the facts of the situation, we are also telling ourselves a story that is our interpretation of the facts. So when the Japanese are not communicating negative information, for example, we may interpret it as, “they are not being truthful,” or “they are hiding the information from me,” or “they don’t trust me,” or some such story. First, we need to acknowledge that we are telling ourselves a story, and that these same facts could be used to tell any number of stories. Then, we need to check out our story, by communicating with the Japanese. Taking our story back to people in our group who are stuck in the Frustration Stage only keeps us more stuck.

“Even monkeys fall out of trees.”

It would be great if we could pass through the stages of culture shock in a steady line from frustration to 100% success. Unfortunately, there are days when it is hard to recognize our own stories, especially when the matter is particularly close to home. It is harder to observe the facts. It is easy to fall back into the Frustration Stage of culture shock.

Several years ago I had an experience that brought this home to me. I was working for a large Japanese company, and one of my tasks was to translate technical documents. After I had been doing this for about a year, headquarters asked me to translate a motivational message from upper management. “At last,” I thought, “here is my chance to show my translation and writing skills.” I worked hard, and delivered the translation, expecting to see it on the company website before long. To my surprise, the translation was sent back to me, covered with corrections in red pencil, most of which were edits to style. “How dare they!” I thought, “Here they hired a translator with an advanced degree, and they won’t leave my work alone. They don’t respect me or my work.”

I had been working with the Japanese for more than twenty years. I was a “Japan specialist” with an advanced degree, and had lived in Japan for ten years. I spoke, read and wrote Japanese. In my business career, my main role had been to help the Japanese and Americans work more smoothly together in the workplace. Yet I was literally seeing red!

Ironically, I had recently spoken with a person in marketing, who was upset that headquarters had made some modifications to her plan for a new product. She wondered why the Japanese had hired her for her track record and then did not accept her recommendations. I had sat with her and explained that the Japanese had a more collaborative work style, and that she working as a member of a team, and that the Japanese on the team were contributing to her idea based on their involvement in the project. I could see her story, and offer a different story. How did I fail to recognize my own story? Even though I was a Japan specialist whose job it was to explain Japanese working styles, at that moment in time, I had no self awareness. As the Japanese saying goes, “Even monkeys fall out of trees.”

Develop personal relationships

What can we do to move on from the Frustration Phase? Limiting venting sessions with other Westerners and developing good relationships with Japanese colleagues can go a long way towards adapting to working with the Japanese. I strongly recommend inviting the Japanese person with whom you are having the most difficulty out for coffee or drinks. Get to know them away from the office. With an open mind, you can question your story, and deal with the facts.

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From America to Japan – My Personal Culture Shock Top 10

Japanese culture can get pretty weird when looking at it from an outside perspective. LIVE JAPAN asked different people about their thoughts about the culture of Japan, and about their personal culture shocks. This time, a woman from the United States, living in Japan for a long time, talks about her unique experience.

1. The Weird Tastes and Names of Original Japanese Food

Japanese food is one of the things that is responsible for one or the other culture shock. Naturally, a lot of Japan’s dishes have their roots in American food culture but usually are uniquely arranged and can taste rather different from their counterparts in the States – at least for someone who is used to the American taste! “McDonald’s tastes the same, of course, but it is interesting to see that Japan’s McDonald’s offers very Japanese things like the matcha milkshake or McFlurry. The pumpkin fries for Halloween or the chocolate sauce fries, for example, aren’t sold in the States at all! In general, Japan has a lot of unique snack and chocolate variations, especially KitKat. There are so many KitKat varieties here, and they make for excellent souvenirs, I think. The one thing that surprised me the most are the Pocky varieties, though. “Men’s Pocky,” what even is that? Why do you need Pocky specifically targeted towards men? I still don’t understand that.”

2. Why is Japanese Peanut Butter Sweet?

“Peanut butter is sweet in Japan, which really took me by surprise! In the United States, peanut butter is salty, so we naturally tend to eat it with sweet jam. Americans like this salty-sweet flavor combination, I think, so snacks such as caramel popcorn and salted peanuts are popular. Maple bacon donuts were also a trend recently.”

3. Tips Getting Refused?

“The first time I went to a restaurant in Japan, I was really shocked that there is no custom of tipping. I tried to tip my waitress multiple times but she just made a distressed face and kept refusing it. In America, I tip to express my feelings about the service, so I really was a bit culture-shocked when I wasn’t able to do that in Japan. On the other hand, tourists are looked at strange when they do not tip the staff in the States. A wait staff’s salary is generally pretty low so I feel sorry that they cannot earn tips in Japan...”

4. Why Is There Always Only Free Size?!

“I always have trouble with the size of clothes in Japan. Why is there sometimes only “free size”/”one-size-fits-all” available? What does “free size” even mean?! (laughs) Obviously, it’s not made to be worn by everyone, so I feel like it’d be better to properly write the size on the garment. In America, there’s usually at least S, M, and L to accommodate to people’s different body shapes, but usually, there are number sizes. I wish more stores in Japan had different sizes.”

5. Japan is Safe – But Are People Careless?

“Compared to New York’s and other subways, I am glad that Japan is really safe. I can go out drinking until late at night here without worrying. Walking home alone late at night seems rather unthinkable in some areas of America. Here, I see people sleeping on the train or leaving their groceries in the basket of their bike without a care in the world. To me, this seems pretty careless.”

6. Being Naked in Front of Others

“Japan’s hot spring and public bath culture is somewhat hard to get used to. Americans can be surprisingly shy when it comes to being naked in front of others, to a point where we generally would be uncomfortable being naked with family members. Even when I was a kid, I don’t think I ever shared the bath with my parents. It’s unthinkable to me that young boys go to a women’s bath, especially ones that are old enough to be elementary schoolers! Now I’ve gotten used to visiting various onsen , but it was definitely a culture shock the first time I went!”

7. Japanese Toilets – They’re not that Clean!?

“’Japanese toilets are so clean!’ is something that you certainly hear a lot. Is that so? I feel like people have their own standards about a clean and a dirty toilet. For me, the thing that stands out isn’t the toilet but rather the lack of soap in a lot of restrooms. How can a restroom really be clean if there’s no soap?”

8. Japanese School Uniforms, Actually a Good Idea!

“I think Japan does school uniforms right. Kids don’t have to deal with clothing issues! In America, most junior highs and high schools don’t have school uniforms, so there is sometimes the issue of bullying over appearance. Kids who can’t afford nice clothes can become a target, so I think school uniforms eliminates a lot of the pressure. Many of the schools that do have school uniforms are usually private and thus a privilege for kids from wealthy families. When you see someone in a school uniform in America, you just assume that they’re either rich or attending a Catholic school.”

9. Japan, Don’t Work so Much!

“Why do you go to work when you have a cold? The salarymen that cough on everybody without a mask in crowded trains really bother me. In America, it’s common courtesy to stay at home if you’ve caught a cold. But people in America also don’t work as much as Japanese people, and the work hours in Japan are also too long. On top of that, women who work full-time are still in charge of the entire household... that is a culture shock for me. The standard that men’s only responsibility is to go to work is still rather prevalent, and I wish that Japan made faster strides towards gender equality.”

10. The Japanese People are Polite in the Most Curious Places!

Last but not least: Japanese concerts ! “When the band talks between songs, the Japanese audience listens very quietly. That certainly is a strange feeling for someone from America. As soon as a band starts their performance, an American audience gets super excited immediately. It’s interesting when artists from abroad come to perform in Japan, they always seem surprised by how quiet the Japanese fans are and say: ‘Where’s the excitement?!’” School uniforms, live venues, and peanut butter – Japan has a lot of little peculiarities that can seem weird, both in a good way and in a not so good way. What kind of things did come to your mind first?

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Essay on Japanese Culture

Students are often asked to write an essay on Japanese Culture in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Japanese Culture

Traditional clothing.

Japanese culture is famous for its traditional clothing. The kimono is the most well-known dress. People wear it on special occasions like festivals and weddings. It’s made of silk and comes in many colors and patterns. The obi is a wide belt tied around the kimono. It’s not just clothing; it’s a symbol of Japanese beauty.

Japanese food is more than just sushi. Rice is a staple in their meals. They also love noodles like ramen and udon. Meals often include fish, pickled vegetables, and miso soup. Eating in Japan is an art. They value presentation and flavor.

Festivals are big in Japan. They celebrate the seasons, like cherry blossoms in spring. There’s music, dancing, and food stalls. Children and adults dress up and enjoy games. Lanterns light up the night. These events show Japan’s love for nature and community.

Japanese arts include delicate crafts and performances. Origami, paper folding, and calligraphy, beautiful writing, are popular. In theaters, you can see kabuki, a dramatic play style with colorful costumes. Their art is about detail and expressing feelings.

Respect is key in Japan. People bow to greet each other. They are polite and considerate. Children learn to respect elders and each other early on. This respect makes their society peaceful and orderly. It’s a core part of being Japanese.

250 Words Essay on Japanese Culture

Japanese traditions.

Japan is known for its unique traditions. Tea ceremonies show the beauty of calm and respect. People sit on tatami mats and enjoy green tea. The host carefully prepares the tea, showing the importance of every step. This tradition helps people find peace and enjoy simple moments.

Festivals and Celebrations

Japanese festivals are colorful and exciting. They celebrate the seasons, like cherry blossoms in spring or leaf colors in autumn. People wear traditional clothes called yukata and enjoy street food. Fireworks light up the sky in summer, and everyone feels joy together.

Arts in Japan

Japanese art includes beautiful paintings, calligraphy, and pottery. Manga and anime are popular among kids. These are comic books and cartoons that tell all kinds of stories. Origami, the art of paper folding, is also famous. With just a paper, you can make animals, flowers, and more.

Japanese Food

Food in Japan is not just about taste but also how it looks. Sushi is a well-known dish made with rice and fish. It’s healthy and delicious. Japanese people also enjoy noodles like ramen and soba. Meals are often served with green tea, which is good for your health.

Respect and Manners

In Japan, people greet each other by bowing. This shows respect. Kids learn to be polite and listen carefully when others speak. Saying “thank you” and “please” is very important. In schools, students clean their classrooms to learn responsibility and respect for their environment.

Japanese culture is rich with traditions, celebrations, art, food, and respect. It’s a beautiful blend of old and new, where each part is important and adds to the whole picture.

500 Words Essay on Japanese Culture

Introduction to japanese culture.

Japanese culture is like a beautiful tapestry, woven with history, traditions, and modern life. It’s a unique blend that forms the way of life in Japan, a country in East Asia. The culture is known for its traditional arts, distinct foods, and strong sense of community. Let’s explore some key parts of this fascinating culture.

Traditional Arts

When you think of Japan, you might imagine delicate paper cranes or beautiful paintings of cherry blossoms. These are part of the traditional arts that have been passed down for generations. Origami, the art of paper folding, is not just a craft but a way for people to express creativity. Calligraphy, which is the art of writing with a brush and ink, is another important traditional art. It’s not just about writing words; it’s about making the writing look like a piece of art.

Food in Japan

Japanese food is famous all over the world. Sushi, which is rice with fish or vegetables, is probably the most well-known dish. But there’s so much more! Try a bowl of ramen, which is a type of noodle soup, or tempura, which is seafood or vegetables that have been battered and fried. Japanese people take great care in preparing and presenting their food, making it not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes.

Festivals, or ‘matsuri’, are a big part of Japanese culture. They are often lively events with music, dance, and colorful costumes. One famous festival is the Cherry Blossom Festival, or ‘Hanami’, where people gather under blooming cherry trees to enjoy the beauty and welcome spring. Another important celebration is ‘Obon’, which is a time to remember and honor ancestors. During this time, people might visit their hometowns, clean family graves, and enjoy traditional dances.

Family and Community

Family is at the heart of Japanese society. Respect for elders and ancestors is very important. Many homes have a small altar called a ‘butsudan’, where they place pictures and offer food to remember family members who have passed away. Community is also key in Japan. People often work together to keep their neighborhoods clean and safe, and there’s a strong sense of helping each other out.

Modern Pop Culture

Japan is not just about tradition; it has a vibrant modern culture too. Japanese anime (animated movies and TV shows) and manga (comic books) are popular all over the world. Characters like Pikachu from Pokémon have fans of all ages. Japanese technology is also cutting-edge, with inventions like high-speed trains and advanced robots.

Japanese culture is a rich mix of old and new. From the quiet beauty of a tea ceremony to the excitement of a high-tech video game, there’s something for everyone. It’s a culture that values both respect for the past and innovation for the future. Learning about Japanese culture can be a fun adventure, full of surprises and new experiences.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

• Essay on Japanese Family
• Essay on Japanese Friend
• Essay on Japanese Holiday

Apart from these, you can look at all the essays by clicking here .

Happy studying!

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Pop idol Koichi Domoto's musical rewrites Japan record for most performances

The musical series "Shock" starring pop idol Koichi Domoto, 45, has marked its 2,018th performance, becoming the most performed play in Japan with the same lead actor.

Domoto, one half of the pop duo Kinki Kids, said at Thursday's curtain call that he hopes his performance will help shine line on others, expressing happiness that he is able to be on stage.

The "Shock" series depicts the life of the main character working hard to make shows in New York.

The initial work in the series was first performed in 2000.

The series is scheduled to end this year with "Endless Shock," which runs until November.

In a time of both misinformation and too much information, quality journalism is more crucial than ever. By subscribing, you can help us get the story right.