Return to Kato, Japan

Hi fellow travelers, I've returned to Japan again this year (Jan 2013) and will try to share some thoughts on my second experience here. So, culturally, I'd say the very important things are to be very polite and grateful. It isn't hard because everyone I meet is very generous with their time, gifts, and knowledge. So, thanking people a couple of times, is okay. Mostly I'm just myself and the people here really respond kindly to me. Hospitality is huge. It is very important to the Japanese to anticipate the needs of guests so that the guest is comfortable and doesn't have to ask for anything. It is a sort of pride or shame if a guest doesn't have to or does have to ask for something they need. The anticipation of the need is amazing; they put a lot of thought into what you will need and when you will need it. For example, when you arrive here, they will have thought about your need for 1) rest, 2) food/drink and 3) Japanese currency and mobile phone and planned getting those needs met into your schedule. There can be ultra-formality and a reserve. It is not to hold back from people, it's more of not wanting to push one's self onto others, a sort of timidity. Once folks know that you are receptive to them, they appreciate the openness and do open up to you. Bowing is big. One bows one's head to show respect 1) for the degree necessary for the occasion and 2) to the individual in terms of status. Status identification is the hard part. I ask trustworthy colleagues for insider information as to whom is highest ranking, etc. In seating arrangements at meetings and dinners, one can tell the level of status. For example, the highest ranking individual, whether in power at work or age, is given the best seat. The best seats are usually obvious- head of the table, middle of the table so they can discuss important matters (lol) and make deals, closest to the action, like in the tea ceremony next to the tea maker. Harmony is another cultural influence that one can see everywhere. It is the Buddhist influence, I think that guides them to strive to be in balance within themselves, in relationships and with their environment. Harmony, I think for them, is about balance and symmetry as much as it is smoothness and calm. So, you will see the idea of balance and harmony as guiding principles in everything from the design of buildings and gardens, to friendships, and art.