You did your homework. You read a few articles, gathered information, and made sure you were well-prepared for your first trip to Japan.
But guess what? Even with all that prep, you might still encounter a few unexpected culture shocks.
Take a peek into Japan’s slightly quirky everyday life from Ronnie’s perspective – and see how he navigates the little surprises that caught him off guard.
[Check out our guide to preparing for a trip to Japan]
- 1. Culture Shocks That Travelers Often Encounter
- 1-1. Short Restaurant Opening Hours
- 1-2. Complicated Restaurant Ordering Systems
- 1-3. Overly Polite Staff Can Be Confusing
- 1-4. The “Silence” Rule in Public Spaces
- 1-5. Train Etiquette Is Way Too Strict
- 1-6. The Vinyl Umbrella Festival on Rainy Days
- 1-7. Slipper Culture and Toilet Slippers in Japan
- 1-8. Coins Accumulate Quickly
- 1-9. Gift-Giving Customs Are Surprisingly Unique
- 1-10. Japan’s Trash Rules Can Be Surprisingly Complicated
- 2. Conclusion
1. Culture Shocks That Travelers Often Encounter
1-1. Short Restaurant Opening Hours
In Japan, most restaurants that don’t primarily serve alcohol tend to close around 9 PM.
It’s a good idea to check the opening hours of your desired restaurant in advance.
Ronnie’s Comment:
“Maybe they think when night comes ’round,
monsters start to roam the town.”
1-2. Complicated Restaurant Ordering Systems
In Japan, there are various ways to order food at restaurants.
A waiter might take your order, you may need to buy a meal ticket before sitting down, write your order on a piece of paper, or even place your order via a smartphone.
It’s a good idea to observe how local customers do it.
Ronnie’s Comment:
“Oh, dear Lord,
why must I endure this ordering discord?”
1-3. Overly Polite Staff Can Be Confusing
In Japan, exceptional customer service is a cultural norm.
For instance, in clothing stores, staff may escort you to the entrance while carrying your purchase, even if it’s just a $5 pair of socks.
This level of attentiveness is common and reflects the country’s emphasis on hospitality.
Ronnie’s Comment:
“Maybe they thought I was a celebrity…
Oh wait, someone once said I looked like Timothée Chalamet.”
1-4. The “Silence” Rule in Public Spaces
Many public places in Japan require a quiet atmosphere.
It might be quieter than what you’re imagining right now – almost like stepping into a world with minimal noise.
However, there’s no need to overthink it. As long as you’re not disturbing others, you’ll be just fine.
Ronnie’s Comment:
“So even if I’m in a good mood,
I have to walk around looking like a brooding dude?”
1-5. Train Etiquette Is Way Too Strict
Among public spaces, crowded transportation, especially trains, requires extra attention to manners since they are enclosed environments.
Here are some basic rules to keep in mind:
- Don’t talk loudly on the phone
- Be mindful of sound leakage from headphones/earphones
- Don’t occupy seats with luggage
If you’d like to learn more, check out the article below.
Ronnie’s Comment:
“When it comes to train rules, my brain’s about to burst like a fool!”
[Read more about train etiquette]
1-6. The Vinyl Umbrella Festival on Rainy Days
In Japan, when you think of umbrellas, vinyl umbrellas are practically synonymous.
Many people favor these cheap, transparent umbrellas because:
- They’re not a big loss if misplaced
- They’re lightweight
- You can buy them anywhere
It’s not uncommon to see umbrella stands filled with identical vinyl umbrellas.
Sometimes, a “magician” might even swap an old vinyl umbrella for a newer one, so if you’re worried, it’s best to keep yours with you instead of leaving it in the stand.
Ronnie’s Comment:
“Students all wear the same uniform, everyone on the street is masked, and the umbrella stand is full of clones… I’ve got it! Japanese people are secretly trained in the art of blending into the shadows like ninjas!”
1-7. Slipper Culture and Toilet Slippers in Japan
In Japan, it’s common to wear slippers indoors, but there’s a catch: there are different types of slippers for different areas, such as regular indoor slippers and toilet slippers.
They are not interchangeable, so make sure to use the right pair!
If you’d like to learn more about Japan’s shoe etiquette, check out the article below.
Ronnie’s Comment:
“I’ve got it! If I invent slippers that work indoors, outdoors, and in the bathroom, I’ll be a millionaire!”
1-8. Coins Accumulate Quickly
Japanese coins come in a wide variety, with six denominations in circulation (1 yen, 5 yen, 10 yen, 50 yen, 100 yen, 500 yen).
Prices are often set down to the single yen, so your wallet can quickly fill up with coins.
Just because your wallet feels heavy doesn’t mean you’ve hit the jackpot!
Ronnie’s Comment:
“If I string all these coins with holes together and make a necklace… I’d look like a rap star, right?”
1-9. Gift-Giving Customs Are Surprisingly Unique
In Japan, there’s a unique culture around giving gifts, especially souvenirs.
It’s often considered impolite for the recipient to open the gift immediately after receiving it.
Except for close friends’ birthday presents, it’s customary to take it home and open it later.
Another point that confuses travelers is the beautifully wrapped packaging, which feels almost too perfect to tear open.
Moreover, the giver might say something like, “It’s just a small, humble gift,” as a form of humility, which may sound odd to those not used to such expressions.
But don’t worry, it’s not like they’re thinking, “Well, it’s just a cheap thing, but if I wrap it nicely, it’ll look good enough.”
Ronnie’s Comment:
“I told my American friend, ‘I sent you a humble little gift from Japan,’ and he seemed kinda mad. I guess he just doesn’t know proper manners!”
1-10. Japan’s Trash Rules Can Be Surprisingly Complicated
There aren’t many trash cans in public spaces in Japan.
If you can’t find one, it’s best to keep your trash in your bag until you reach a place where you can properly dispose of it, like your hotel room.
Additionally, the rules for sorting trash can be quite detailed, which may be confusing.
If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to ask hotel staff or locals – they’ll likely be happy to help!
Ronnie’s Comment:
“Carrying trash like it’s part of my stash,
Running ’round town just to find a trash!”
2. Conclusion
Visiting Japan can come with a few culture shocks, but that’s part of the adventure!
Instead of feeling overwhelmed, take a page from Ronnie’s book and just laugh it off.
These little mishaps are what make your trip truly memorable.
So, when something unexpected happens, just think, “That’s the Japanese way!”
Relax, go with the flow, and enjoy the unique charm of Japan.
Ronnie’s Final Thought:
“Even if I mess up again, Japan’s got me covered. After all, they wrap even ‘humble’ gifts like they’re priceless!”
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