Japanese Customs in Misawa

The Japanese have very good etiquette and are very courteous. When Americans arrive here in Misawa some feel out of touch with the people and their surroundings. Here are a few helpful hints to help you blend in :)

-Japanese baths are traditionally deeper and used for soaking only. If you are using one you would want to cleanse before you jump in. Most american style housing off base has regular baths and showers that Americans are accustomed to.

-If you are visiting an Onsen (hot spring spa) you need to wash off before entering the pool. The geothermal heat and mineral water has many health benefits. Most larger onsen resorts have separate bathing for men and women. No bathing suits allowed.

-Bowing in Japan is another way of saying thank you. It is very important in Japanese society and children learn this at a very young age. The deeper the bow the more formal and emotional the expression is perceived.

-Eating is Japan is one thing I like to do. Before a meal it is tradition to begin the meal with the phrase "Itadakimasu" (I recieve). Just like in America it is polite to eat all your food, chew with your mouth closed and not pick apart the ingredients of the meal. When served rice or soup the bowl may be lifted for easier eating.

-Rice is a staple in Japanese meals. It is normally eaten plain. When eating sushi, or sashimi a separate small dish is given to pour soy sauce and then to dip the sushi in. Pouring soy sauce over rice is not common in the culture.

-Using chopsticks is a challenge for many Americans. Some restaurants in Misawa City offer forks as well. When using the chopsticks you should not pass food to another individuals chopsticks. Also never leave your chopsticks standing up in a bowl of food, it is a image that is reflective of burning incense at a funeral.

-Nearly all off-base housing and japanese housing is wood floors. With that said it is requested that you not wear shoes indoors. When visiting a local japanese house, slippers are offered when you enter the door. Also when visiting it is impolite to show up without a gift.

-Greetings is Japan is one of my favorite things. The Japanese are very good at recognizing a person and welcoming them into a situation or place with a phrase. Ohayo Gazaimasu (good morning), Konnichiwa (good day or hello), and Konbanwa (good evening) are some of the commonly spoken phrases.

- Even with email and texting the writing of letters is still very important. One of the biggest holidays for postcards is New Years. The letters are written in a very formal language and can also incorporate an artistic talent.

-Weddings in Japan are a beautiful occasion. If you are lucky enough to attend one of these it is customary to present the wedding party with a envelope containing money. You might also receive a catalog of gifts like a wedding registry that the wedding party has selected.

-Funerals are a lot like the western funerals. Attendees were black or dark clothing. The entire ceremony is a couple days long and some parts are reserved for the family members only.

-The Japanese people are incredible hard workers. Especially here in the Northern prefectures. Farming is looked on as a demanding career and the people are respected throughout Japan for their tenacity. Within retail outlets many companies train their employees to treat the customer as "Godly".

Hope you enjoyed the article as well as your time in Misawa!