Japan is famous for having one of the richest and most interesting cultures in the world. If you are getting ready to take a holiday to the Land of the Rising Sun, heading there for business purposes, or just looking to be aware and respectful to people from this country, here are six traditions and rituals that you need to know in order to blend in with the locals and not succumb to an acute case of culture shock. Tea ceremonies are a common part of Japanese culture. This formal yet stylised custom is taken quite seriously. These ceremonies have been greatly influenced by Buddhist practices and the event can be likened to a meditative experience.
Japanese Culture & Tradition Facts: 11 Etiquette Tips Before You Go
Japanese Customs & Traditions, Manners & Etiquette | All Japan Tours
Japan is known for its unique culture and heritage, which has been preserved by the Japanese people since ancient times. The age-old Japanese traditions and customs which give a unique character to the lifestyle of the Japanese people have to be experienced to be truly appreciated. Some of the unique aspects of Japanese life are mentioned here as an introduction to the traditions of Japan. Japanese Gardens : The gardens found in Japanese temples and shrines are inspired by the Shinto religion and the belief in an ideal state of harmony. Earlier, people usually sat on the floor. Furniture only came into widespread use after the late-nineteenth and early twentieth century. Japanese Tea Ceremony : The Japanese ceremony of preparing and offering tea to revered guests is a formal and stylized ritual.
Japanese culture was influenced from ancient times to the Middle Ages primarily by multiple Chinese dynasties and to a lesser extent by other Asian countries. For example the Japanese language uses Chinese characters kanji for writing, but Japanese has no genetic relationship with Chinese. Repeated influence, absorption and selection in various ways have added to the development of a distinct and unique culture. The inhabitants of Japan experienced a long period of relative isolation from the outside world for over years during the Tokugawa shogunate until the arrival of the " Black Ships " and the Meiji period.
Japanese culture and traditions are incredibly unique, making it a dream destination for a lot of travelers—myself included. That said, the fact is that Japan can be an intimidating country for first-time visitors, and not just because of the language barrier. Some places will require that you take off your shoes indoors, especially in a persons home, or anywhere there are tatami mats.