etiquette

Voices | FOREIGN AGENDA May 12, 2019

The crush is coming: Make peace with the train

by Christopher Kunody

One false move on the Tokyo transit system can lead to a nasty lesson in survival of the slickest.

National / Media | Japan Pulse Feb 10, 2018

Gift-giving etiquette in Japan is driving some recipients crazy

by Kaori Shoji

With spring looming, perhaps it’s time to re-think the national obsession with seasonal gifts and souvenirs. Once a virtual national pastime, the cyclical ritual of obligatory gift-giving could be consigned to history within a matter of years, according to a recent survey conducted by MyNavi.jp. According ...

Business Apr 6, 2017

Knocking, 'recruit suits' and bowing: Etiquette key for Japan's job-seekers

by Isabel Reynolds

Ever thought about how many times to knock on the door when you are heading into a job interview? In Japan, it matters. A shortage of young people means there are two job openings for every applicant, prompting some Japanese companies to consider hiring foreign ...

Language | BILINGUAL Aug 1, 2016

A Japanese guide to dealing with gentlemen callers and unruly dogs

by Daniel Morales

Bookworms often have a rare jewel in their collection that they are unable to throw out — despite efforts to こんまり (Konmari, tidy in the method of Marie Kondo by getting rid of clutter) around the house. For me, this book is the 1965 ...

National / Media | BIG IN JAPAN Dec 13, 2014

Generations square off in a battle for the ages

by Michael Hoffman

You'd think they owned the planet. They think they do — pushing into line at supermarkets, hogging seats on trains, generally behaving as though no one but themselves existed except to provide the services they need. Once upon a time — not very long ago ...