Etiquette and Behavior

Etiquette and Behavior

Etiquette and Behavior in Osaka are an integral part of Japanese society. Many Japanese expect foreigners to behave differently and are tolerant of faux pas, but they are pleasantly surprised when people acknowledge and observe their customs.

Bowing in Osaka

Bowing (ojigi) is a very important custom in Japan. The art of bowing is not simple. The features of Bowing in Osaka include:

• The depth of your bow depends on your social position with respect to that of the person you are meeting.
• Younger people and those of lesser status must bow more deeply to indicate their respect and acknowledge their position.
• If you do not understand the complexity of these rules a basic nod of the head will suffice.

Invitation in Osaka

Invitation to a home in Osaka means your host feels comfortable and close to you. If you do receive an invitation, keep the following things in mind:

• Bring along a small gift # a souvenir from your country makes the best present, but food and liquor or anything that can be consumed (and not take up space in the home) is also appreciated.
• Upon entering a home, remove your shoes in the foyer and put on the slippers that are provided.
• Be sure your socks or stockings are in good condition.

Dining Etiquette in Osaka

Japanese are very particular about their etiquette and behavior, which includes:

• Japanese restaurants often provide a small hot towel called an oshibori. This is to wipe your hands but not your face.
• There's no taboo against slurping your noodle soup, though women are generally less boisterous about it than men.
• Pick up the soup bowl and drink directly from it, rather than leaning over the table to sip it.
• If you're not accustomed to eating with chopsticks, ask for a fork instead. Don't point or gesture with chopsticks, or lick the ends.
• When drinking with a friend, don't just pour your own. Take the bottle and pour for the other person too.
• The Japanese don't pour sauces on their rice in a traditional meal. Sauces are intended for dipping foods lightly, not for dunking or soaking.

Itadaki-masu and chisou-sama

The most important table etiquette in Osaka is saying traditional phrases before and after a meal. Japanese people say, "Itadaki-masu" before a meal and say "Gochisou-sama" after a meal. These phrases mean thanks for the food and also indicate the beginning and the ending of a meal. If you are eating with Japanese people, try to say these phrases.

Business Etiquette in Osaka

Most business practices are universal. But there are certain customs that are unique to Japan. The Japanese always appreciate it if you follow the etiquette and behavior that include:

• Meishi (business cards) are mandatory. Upon meeting someone for the first time, it's common to bow and to proffer your business card.
• It's best to have one side printed in Japanese in the business cards.
• Japanese often place the business cards they have received in front of them on a table or desk as they conduct their meetings.
• Most Japanese are not accustomed to using first names in business circumstances.
• Rarely empowered to make decisions, individual businesspeople must confer with their colleagues and superiors.
• It's best not to ask about personal matters. Rather than asking about a person's family, it's better to stick to neutral subjects in conversation.

The best way to know Osaka in particular and Japan at large is to learn and respect the Japanese ways. Etiquette and Behavior in Osaka offers you all the details about Japanese culture and mannerisms.

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