Local culture in Japan

The local culture in Japan can be astonishingly different to Western culture. In addition to the language barrier, Japanese society has developed a fixed code of acceptable conduct, particularly in the realm of business. Foreigners, or gaijin, very seldom fit into this code without making a considerable effort.

But the Japanese are also very hospitable and friendly towards foreigners, whom they regard as honoured visitors to their country. If expats wish to fit in and become part of Japanese society, the onus will be on them to learn the language, customs, and traditions of Japan. 

Language barrier in Japan

Learning Japanese can be challenging if expats want to go beyond the basics of conversation. Besides the difficulty of learning to read and write Japanese characters, there are highly intricate systems of formal language that even native Japanese speakers find complex and challenging to master.

In general, the Japanese are quite forgiving of language mistakes made by foreigners, but it's advisable to be polite, humble, and cautious, particularly within the context of business interactions.

It's worth noting that English proficiency can vary widely depending on which part of Japan you're in. Generally, the further you are from Tokyo, the less likely you are to find a fluent English speaker. While most Japanese can speak some English, only a small fraction of the population (8 to 10 percent) speaks English fluently.

Non-verbal communication in Japan

As the Japanese value maintaining harmony, they are not the most vocal people. Facial expressions, tone of voice, and posture are often used to convey one's feelings on an issue. Frowning while someone is speaking can be interpreted as a sign of disagreement. Expats may find that the Japanese maintain an impassive expression when speaking. 

While maintaining eye contact is essential, it's best to avoid staring into another person's eyes for an extended period. This is particularly essential when in the presence of someone senior in terms of either age or status. 

Work ethic in Japan

Japanese work ethic is something that foreigners may struggle to understand. The workplace in Japan is competitive, and people are willing to go the extra mile to stand out from their peers. 

A workweek of 70 to 80 hours isn't unheard of, especially in high-pressure industries like finance and technology. The Japanese are also very reluctant to take sick days. Overtime is seen as standard, and it's normal to stay late at the office, even if there isn't any work to be done.

Punctuality is highly valued, and the Japanese rarely arrive at meetings or appointments even a minute late. It's considered rude and disrespectful to arrive late or unprepared.

Saving face in Japan

The concept of saving face is crucial in Japanese society. The Japanese try to avoid confrontation or causing a person any form of embarrassment by putting them on the spot. If expats encounter a personal problem with someone, they should address the issue with the individual privately.

Similarly, rejecting an invitation or request in Japan is considered rude. Instead of directly saying no, one should rather say they will consider the invitation or propose an alternative.