What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Nagoya?
We asked people in Nagoya 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 Nagoya, it is considered rude to eat or drink while walking in public. It's also considered impolite to blow your nose in public, so try to avoid doing so. When using chopsticks, never stick them vertically into your food, as this is associated with funerals. Also, avoid passing food from one set of chopsticks to another, as this is also a funeral ritual. When visiting temples or shrines, be respectful and follow the local customs, such as washing your hands and mouth before entering, and avoid taking pictures where it's prohibited. It's also important to remember to remove your shoes before entering someone's home or certain traditional restaurants and inns. In Japan, punctuality is highly valued, so always try to be on time for appointments or meetings. When greeting someone, a bow is the traditional form of greeting, rather than a handshake. Avoid making loud noises or speaking loudly in public places, as this can be seen as disruptive and disrespectful. When using public transportation, avoid talking on your phone, as it can disturb others. Also, remember to stand on the left on escalators, as the right side is for people in a hurry. Lastly, tipping is not customary in Japan and can sometimes be seen as insulting, so avoid leaving extra money at restaurants or for taxi drivers," remarked another expat who made the move to Nagoya, Japan.
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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Nagoya?
If you live in Nagoya, newcomers to Nagoya would love to hear your answer to this question.