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Transition into Japanese Culture
Daniel Doe
Intercultural Communication
Professor Jane
June 3, 2022
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Transitioning into Japan, with its unique and rich cultural heritage, can present challenges
to newcomers. These confrontations with change might lead people to question their future life
and potentially experience culture shock. This process of transition involves not only adapting to
new values, beliefs, and etiquette but also to distinct communication styles that are intrinsic to
Japanese culture. For a healthy migrant-host relationship, recognizing and respecting the
established norms and practices of the host country is not only crucial for personal adaptation but
fosters a more harmonious relationship between migrants and locals.
Gift giving is common across several cultures, and it is even more prevalent in Japan. In
the context of Japanese culture, giving gifts is considered a fundamental aspect of daily life.
According to World Trade Press (2010), "The symbolic giving of a gift is more important than
the gift’s value" (p. 1). This simple act of giving permeates various aspects of life in Japan, such
as family, work and business interactions. Within family occasions, special events, or business
dealings, the act of offering gifts serves a critical role in fostering connections and mutual
appreciation. In fact, when a co-worker travels, it is expected that they bring back sweets for his
fellow co-workers from that region. It is essential to recognize and follow the proper etiquette for
giving gifts in Japan, as understanding and adhering to these customs are crucial for strong
relationships.
Japanese cuisine is not just about the food itself; it is a reflection of the country's rich
cultural heritage. Traditional dining customs and rituals are deeply ingrained in the Japanese way
of life. As Brown (2021) states “Before you begin eating in the Japanese household, it is
customary to express thanks and appreciation by saying Itadakimasu“ (p. 10). This Japanese
saying is also formally followed after the meal by ‘Gochisousamadeshita’ which means ‘Thank
you for the meal’. The significance of communal eating in Japanese society fosters a sense of
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unity and togetherness. Shared meals provide an opportunity for people to connect and build
relationships. To respect and appreciate Japanese food culture in intercultural encounters, one
should be open to trying new foods, understanding chopstick etiquette, and appreciating the
artistic presentation of dishes.
Transitioning into Japanese culture can present several challenges, such as language
barriers, cultural misunderstandings, and adjusting to different social norms. A strategy for
overcoming this is immersing oneself in the country's pop culture. One of the most obvious
forms of popular culture in Japan is Manga and Anime which you’ll see no shortage of. It is
deeply ingrained in many Japanese upbringings and is a staple of Japanese culture. According to
Hernández-Pérez (2019) “Compiled academic works have taken many approaches to Japanese
popular culture. Most have a special focus on its visual culture; however, manga and anime
seems to be a common feature and, very often, the core of these reflections.” (p.2).
Nonverbal cues hold substantial importance in Japanese communication, often serving as
indicators of emotions, attitudes, and social status. These cues are vital in grasping the true
meaning behind spoken words. Specific gestures such as bowing, eye contact, and hand
movements are deeply embedded in Japanese culture. As Edwin R. (1993) states, "The most
common activity associated with Japanese kinesics is the bow, which is an integral part of daily
life" (p. 9). Bowing is not just a customary greeting but also a way to express gratitude or
respect. Eye contact, in particular, might differ significantly from Western norms. Various
nonverbal behaviors carry unique cultural interpretations and meanings within Japan. Acquiring
a nuanced understanding of these cues is essential to evade unintentional offense or
misunderstandings. Some practical advice for adapting to nonverbal communication in Japanese
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culture involves learning the suitable depth for a bow, maintaining culturally appropriate eye
contact, and observing and replicating the gestures and behaviors of local individuals.
In the sphere of intercultural communication, Japan's cultural dimensions, as
characterized by Hofstede's model, reveal a distinctive orientation towards collectivism,
hierarchy, and long-term orientation. This can be observed in the significance placed on group
harmony, respect for authority, and a perspective on life that emphasizes a broader temporal
context. According to Hofstede Insights (n.d.) "Japanese see their life as a very short moment in
a long history of mankind. From this perspective, some kind of fatalism is not strange to the
Japanese". Such a worldview contributes to the unique cultural fabric of Japan, influencing social
interactions and communication. Understanding these dimensions is vital in engaging effectively
with Japanese culture, particularly in international or cross-cultural settings.
In conclusion, transitioning into Japan involves a multifaceted understanding of cultural
norms, extending from daily interactions to specific practices like gift giving, dining customs,
and nonverbal communication. Embracing Japanese culture also means engaging with its rich
heritage in cuisine, popular culture, and unique societal values. By recognizing and respecting
these elements, newcomers can forge meaningful connections with locals, foster harmonious
relationships and pass through the adjustment phase of cultural adaptation.