What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Yokohama?
We asked people in Yokohama if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!...
"In Yokohama, it is considered rude to eat or drink while walking in public. It's best to consume food and drinks at the place they were purchased or at home. Avoid tipping as it is not customary in Japan and can sometimes be seen as insulting. The Japanese believe good service should be expected and not rewarded with extra money. When using chopsticks, never stick them vertically into your food, especially rice, as this is a ritual performed at funerals. Also, avoid passing food from chopstick to chopstick as this is another funeral rite. It's important to respect the local customs of removing your shoes before entering someone's home, certain restaurants, and temples. Usually, there will be a place provided for shoes, and sometimes slippers will be provided for indoor use. Avoid blowing your nose in public as it is considered impolite. If you need to blow your nose, it's best to excuse yourself and go to a restroom. In Japan, it's considered rude to interrupt or talk over someone. It's best to wait until the other person has finished speaking before you respond. Avoid pointing with your finger, as it's considered rude. If you need to point at something, it's more polite to use your whole hand with your palm facing up. It's considered impolite to be loud or draw attention to yourself in public places, especially on public transportation. It's best to keep your voice down and avoid talking on your phone. When visiting shrines or temples, follow the specific rules and rituals, such as cleansing your hands and mouth before entering, and avoid taking pictures where it's prohibited. Lastly, respect the Japanese culture of punctuality. Being late is considered very rude, so always try to be on time or even a little early," remarked another expat who made the move to Yokohama, Japan.
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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Yokohama?
If you live in Yokohama, newcomers to Yokohama would love to hear your answer to this question.