If you live in Japan, you will recognize that there are a number of distinct manners and customs. This is due to the fact that language and culture is strongly connected with respect and politeness.

Bowing may be the first thing that pops into your mind when you think about manners. Japanese people bow a lot. When meeting someone, greeting someone, showing gratitude, apologizing, and saying goodbye. These are some situations that Japanese people are expected to bow. The act of bowing is so natural, that people bow when they are on the phone, even though the person they are talking to cannot see them.

Language that you use towards friends, family, and younger people differs from the language used when speaking to older people and those who you meet for the first time. This polite language is called “keigo.” There is keigo in English too, but the Japanese language has a far larger variety. The suffixes change, you can add adjectives to make words sound more polite, and the type of keigo that you use differs depending on the situation. If you are talking about someone who you respect, it is appropriate to use sonkeigo. On the other hand, if you are talking about yourself to someone who you respect, you use kenjyougo.

The concept of time is another unique Japanese culture. You may notice that Japanese people are very punctual. Trains arrive on time by the minute, business workers are always rushing to their next appointment, and schools are very strict to students who are late to classes. People who arrive 5 to 10 minutes prior to the scheduled time are perceived as good mannered. Also, keeping bosses, seniors, customers, and clients waiting is very disrespectful.

“When in Rome, do as the Romans do.” There is a saying like this in Japan. “Gouni itteha gouni shitagae.” Japanese people, especially in business scenes, will expect everyone to be polite, respectful, and well-mannered.