Rachel H’s Blog

Japan has many customs.  Some that are interesting to note:

1.  Gift Giving:  When invited to a Japanese home it is customary to bring a gift or omiyage.

 2.  Exchanging Business Cards:  In japan, every business relationship begins with an exchange of business cards.  Usually English print on one side and Japanese on the other.  Taking the card and simply putting it in your pocket or wallet is considered rude.

3.  Removing Shoes:  You are expect to remove shoes upon entering a Japanese building including homes and some English schools.

4.  Bowing:  The bow is partof the Japenses culture.  Japanese bow when they meet and depart from one another.

5.  Eating and Drinking:  Chopsticks are part of your eating process.  When done eating you must place your chopstick across your dish.  If going out for a drink you notice that each person takes turns filling the others glass.  It is rude to fill your own.

Japan’s Climate:

Japan has 4 seasons as observed in New England.

Spring is the best time to be in Japan with tempareratures warm but not hot and not too much rain.  March - April has cherry blossoms and festivals.  Summer is the rainy season in June.  It is extremely hot in July and August.

Autumn is close to the spring climate when temperatures become more comfortable.  Fair days and fall colors are just as nice as the cherry blossoms in the spring.

Winter is good for skiing.  The Japanese have not yet figured out how central heating works so the inside climates in Japan are extremely cold.