Learn Basic Travel Japanese

I love the Japanese Culture, old and new! I can't get enough of reading about the history Japan and it's rich culture and customs. Here is some interesting facts about Japanese Culture Old and new:

Bowing:
Bowing, known as "ojigi" in Japanese is an integral part of Japanese culture and traditions. Unlike in the west, were bowing is a symbol of subservience, in Japanese culture bowing is a way to show gratitude, respect, greet someone, apologize and so much more. Bowing has many meanings and uses, and the depth of the bow also means something. Whether a nod of the head to a full bent over bow, each means something different and conveys different meanings.

When in Japan, it is important to not take the bow too lightly (just a head nod) or too seriously (full deep bow) as these can be considered disrespectful. Although most Japanese realize that foreigners probably do not understand the complexities of the bow in their society, being considerate and careful with respectful cultural traditions os important, especially when doing business in Japan.

No Shoes:
Gosh, I have been trying to get my husband to observe this one for ever it seems. Maybe we need to move to Japan...

In Japanese homes, shoes are never worn, by residents or visitors. This is critical to the japanese and they do not make exceptions for foreigners on this one.

Once inside the home, the shoes are removed at the door. Slippers are worn on wood flooring, but in rooms with a tatami floor, one wears only socks or bare feet, slippers are to be removed. When entering the washroom (bathroom) one must put on a different pair of slippers, used only in that room.

Bring A Gift When Visiting:
When invited to someone's home in Japan it is expected that you bring a gift. This can be a small gift (Flowers, Saki, etc.) but a token of your appreciation for being invited is customary.

Silence Speaks:
In Japan silence is truly golden. The Japanese respect and revere silence. It is important to know that silence is a form of wisdom in Japan. To speak constantly and unnecessarily is considered foolish and reflects badly on the person. To speak is a privilege and what you say considered a reflection of you, which makes totally sense really. Be aware of silence in Japan, sense it and understand it as something that is valued. Don't feel the need to fill all silences with senseless chatter. As the old proverb says, "better to remain silent and be thought a fool, than to open your mouth and remove any doubt".

Truly though, hearing the words is crucial. You have to be able to hear the inflection and tone, and of course pronunciation to really get the words right. But, just to give you a feel for it, here are the basics on the main essential words & phrases:

Yes: Hai
No: Iie
Hello: Kon-nichiwa
Goodbye: Sayounara
Please: Douzo
Thank You: Arigato
You're welcome: Douitashimashite
Excuse Me: sumimasen
Good morning: O hayou gozaimasu
Good afternoon: Kon-nichiwa
Good evening: Konbanwa
Good night: Oyasuminasai

Rocket Languages teaches through fun association and games. It really imprints the information for easy recall later. I really enjoy their language learning system. Hopefully you will find it as wonderful as I have.

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