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A human is identified by his/her behavior and manners. When in an alien land, he/she is the representative of the country and leaves an impression on the people. In this respect, the Japanese are considered to be very well mannered and respectful. Etiquette and behavior are an important part of their life they feel pleased to see the foreigners accepting and respecting their behavior. The most important aspect in the Japanese etiquette and behavior is that they bow whenever they meet any one. The depth of the bow depends on the social status of that particular person. If it is a younger one, he has to bow down more before the elder citizens. Some of the Japanese even shake hands as a sign of greeting instead of bowing down.
Entertainments are generally conducted in the restaurants and bars according to Japanese traditions. But if at all you are invited to someone's house it readily means that it is a matter of great honor. It is always recommended to carry a small present for the host and before entering the house, the shoes should be removed and placed in the foyer and slippers provided should be worn. Shoes are for outdoor purposes only and you have to wear a clean socks or stockings.
Etiquette during Dining
The Japanese restaurants give a small hot towel that is called "oshibori" which is used for wiping hands and not face. Even if you want wipe your face with it, in the beginning you have to apply it to the face and then wipe hands. After the oshibori is finished, it has to be rolled or folded and kept. If you are a soup lover, you have to pick up the bowl from the table and drink it directly than sipping it. Chopsticks are used for eating the food of fish and vegetables and while eating rice, you have to pick the bowl in your hand. If it is not possible to eat with the chopsticks, then a fork can be asked for. If you are sharing a dish, to pick up the food, you must use the opposite ends of the chopsticks that were not put into your mouth. After finishing the treat, the chopsticks should be kept by the side of the plate or bowl in stead of sticking it to the food. While enjoying a drink, the pot should be taken and the drink should be served for the other person first and then for that person shall pour it out for you. The sauces that are provided are used to eat only those items that can be dipped and eaten rather than pouring it on top of the main menu. If you ever have to blow your nose then you must move on from the eating place. Even eating in public place is considered as ill manner according to etiquettes and behavior in Tokyo. Etiquette during Business Some formal etiquette is always maintained universally. Some of them especially belong to the Japanese. For example, a business card is a must and while meeting someone for the first time, you have to bow down and hand the card to him. It is recommended to have the printed on both the sides with English and Japanese. This is to make it more convenient as some of the Japanese businessmen have certain problems with the English names. For any ort of social or business occasions, it is a must to reach there on time in business issues, the first names are not used for addressing anyone rather the last names are used and it is better to address yourself to that person who is the eldest in the room. The word -san is used after calling out some one and any sort of anger or misbehavior cannot be shown in the business room. A glass of drink should be made for the companion and not for himself and the women are to be dealt with special respect.
Etiquettes and Behavior in Tokyo are a special aspect of this city. Not only is this city, the whole of Japan popular among all for its culture and heritage with the citizens being tremendously well mannered and respectful towards others. So make it a point to behave yourself while visiting Japan!
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