I have recently seen a sign for this inside a bus in Norway. Still, in Norway, many people break rules. Here, rules are very flexible. They started with quiet wagon on the train and this is mostly respected. But sometimes, a family will board and children will talk and it ends with everyone talking anyway. I personally love quiet journeys, but it would drive me insane if I was not able to cross a short street when no traffic at 2 am ... ;)
It’s said that you shouldn’t let your Pokémon out of their Pokéballs in crowded areas but a lot of Trainers do it anyway, because Pokémon are an integral part of culture. But I do agree that they should only have battles in the designated areas.
The whole idea of the katana and roads is perfect and makes a lot of sense! I feel people in Japan have a lot more respect for etiquette than in other countries based off of this and that is wonderful.
I think culture and etiquette needs to make a return. Everyone is so focused on deconstructing social norms, but a lot of them are good, or at least started as good things, and we can always make new ones to replace the old bad ones.
The right side of the road in the US has a similar-ish origin. In the wagon train days the person who rode to the right of the driver carried a shot gun to defend against attacks. So when cars were invented, it was the natural transition. Today we still call out "shot gun" if we want the front passenger seat.
Aki we are so lucky to have you to teach us proper Japanese etiquette! Please share with us more things we should and should not do while visiting Japan! You know the old saying....when in Rome, do as the Romans do? Well, how do the Japanese do? 😊 Thank you Aki! ❤
It's definitely a rule in Australia, there are signs on the buses and trains.....but people seem to have lost the art of being quiet nowadays. Remember the song wheels on the bus? The only noise was the babies crying, but they're babies and can't control it.
“Let’s do our best,” with a nod. I love the tips, thanks! Where I live, hot springs are where people show off their tattoos! Also, if you don’t jaywalk, the person behind you might walk into you. It’s a part of being aware of traffic to know when to walk and when to stay. I love your story about how driving in the left came to be!
Lol i always used to step on them cause I thought superstitious people were silly, now I like to tell people my favorite number is 13 and open umbrellas inside and walk under ladders (safely of course) to mess with people XD
My grandson visited Japan last year. He told of us of some of these things, especially no talking on trains. He said all the food tasted so much better than in the states. He also remarked on how clean it was everywhere he went. No litter.
Food in America and Central and Western Europe tastes like cardboard because how it’s produced. It’s full of GMO! If you go to Russia, for example, food will taste better too, even as simple as fruit and veggies. Because it’s truly organic and grown on a farm by people, not science, chemicals and machinery.
Japan recently started to allow immigration from other cultures. The Japanese were actually shocked to see trash on the streets where these immigrants are. These immigrants don’t respect their host countries and this is the result, all over the world.
The food in Scotland tastes better than US food too lol, it's cause a lot of other countries use far less additives in their food. Did you know the UK LEGALLY considers subways bread as cake because of the sugar content?
Thank you so much! My husband and I are planning a trip in the spring of 2025 so I’ve been trying to research videos like this just because I want to make sure that I’m traveling respectfully and not offending anyone. Of course not intentionally but it’s always great to, know the culture no matter where you go before you are traveling
About not wasting food. When I was growing up my parents did not serve us food, we were told to take what we would eat from serving dishes. There was always plenty. We were allowed more if we wanted to eat it. I was frowned on if we took food and left it on our plate, but it would show up the next day, guaranteed. Left overs were reheated, but if there were literally scraps even then, we had dogs, so someone would no doubt eat it. There was always soup too. I learned very early how to make soup from leftovers. When going to restaurants I try to order reasonably, but will generally ask to take left overs. I'm not going to say I have never discarded food, but it's not done without trying to find a use.
YEAH! Another Samurai Matcha video! I do so love them. This was so interesting. I'm not ever likely to be fortunate enough to wear a kimono, but from now on I'm going to close my housecoat (dressing gown) the kimono way! Thanks for another great video, Aki.
What a great video!! Thank you!! I didn’t know how important it is to put a Yukata on the right way, and I didn’t know about stepping on the edges of tatami mats!
55 seconds, new record to click on your video! Guys, comment as much as possible to help him to grow more since the algorithm loves interaction in the first couple of hours after a video uploaded. Edit: it's here in Germany an unspoken rule too not to eat something like "Döner" or fries in the train or bus.
Con la 5 ALUCINÉ profundamente!!!!!! Las otras ya las conocía con algunas variaciones también. Y estoy TOTALMENTE de acuerdo en NO desperdiciar los alimentos. GRACIAS por tu trabajo.
Something about traffic or walking on the left hand side. In Japan it is also customary to keep to the left hand side of the stairs, except in Osaka where everybody keeps to the right...
Hello Aki! Another video, another lesson (or lessons)! Thank you so much! I'll try to remember when I go to Japan (I wish to go...). Have a nice sunday and see you in the next video!
I am really enjoying your videos. Relevant and helpful to people like me who strives to be a 'good' tourist. 😇 The Tatami mat edges - I didn't know but pretty sure I have breached this one. Leaving food on a plate is a no no for many homes around the world but in poorer countries can look wasteful and lacking basic social awareness I do feel. Please keep up your positive and enlightening work. I do enjoy your humour too.
Always enjoyed your videos, Aki San. Kudos! #7 I think apply to other countries as well. Can be so annoying hearing others talk loudly esp to their handphone on the commuter train.
There’s a restaurant here in my region called Hokkaido, where if leave food on plate you’re going to pay extra. However being buffet style I only take a little bit to try and go for more if I like it. Another place is called Asian House, big portions and I always have to get takeout container halfway through the meal. They don’t charge extra though. So I understand the rule of not leaving food behind on plate.
I like the dead in the kimono rule. In italy you differentiate male clothes from female clothes by the direction of the closing. The way you close the kimono is for men, while the dead verse is the one we use for the women. 🤔🤗 Interesting
I don't think I've ever been this early to a video, wow! I'm always so excited to see a new Samurai Matcha video! I love how you both educate us and share experiences you've been through in your life. Thank you for making such lovely videos for us! I hope you always prosper and have a good life ^~^
I'm leaving for Japan tomorrow! It will be my first visit. Two weeks of studying kobudo, iai, and some sight seeing! I've been watching lots of Samurai Matcha videos in preparation! 🙇🙏🍻
Some of those should be common all over the world, like being quiet on public transportation, or finishing your food. And jay walking should be up there too.
The Jay walking is debatable, but I agree with several. Their culture is very worried about how they appear to others. I appreciate having consideration for those around you, like I can't stand when someone is talking loudly on the phone. Then you have things like not being able to have tattoos because it might scare people. Nevertheless, if going to another country you should definitely have respect for their culture and customs.
I came back from Japan recently after a wonderful holiday. I loved Japan and the people. I learned so much about Japanese culture. We could learn a lot about Japanese culture, I felt as though I could live there happily. Thank you for your videos.
referring to number 4, it also depends on what kind of train service you are using. if you are using local commuter trains with seats that line the sides of the car, then eating food is considered rude. However if you are on a train with seats facing forward and there are tray tables available, it is common for people to eat on the trains
with the rice side soy dip, you can tell sometimes the structral integrity of the rice and that a quick dip won't matter especially conveyor belt places. If you are at a decent place, the rice will fall apart even with a little splash of soy sauce. This is why he said sometime Japanese break the rule, they can tell that the rice can handle it and might even be a little on the dry side. Japanese are less strict in my experience with crossing on a red light if it is obvious no cars are around/late at night. In Germany you will get yelled at at 3 am for crossing on red even if there is not a car moving anywhere in sight.
Japan always seemed to me like the most unique and interesting place to visit. Thank you for this video, always lovely to know more about the traditions of Japan! ❤
Can you one day please make a complet guide to chopsticks? how to hold correctly and all the rules both what to do and what to avoid, with the history behind why 😊🌸
At least for some the reason is, as I've understood, that certain moves are done at a funeral. Like passing pieces from one pair of chopsticks to another, or sticking the chopsticks vertically in a bowl. You don't want to use such moves whilst eating. But yes, it would be cool to know more of these rules :)
I did stay in a Ryokan and did wear the Yukata the wrong side first 😱😱 the lady there, who was so sweet, told me to change it as soon as she saw it but I couldn’t understand why. I thought it was men/ women way of wearing it. Now it makes sense! Can’t wait to go back one day ❤
Also, if you are right-handed, you get the benefit of a pocket 👍🏻 I often store my travel card or my phone in the collar opening, between the layers of kimono/yukata. (And yes, this is acceptable and one of the most convenient "pockets" on a kimono.)
I found this very interesting, and look forward to seeing more. The way to wrap a kimono: for clothes in UK, left over right is supposed to be for men, and right over left for women. This dates from days when rich women would have a servant to dress them, and buttons are easier to fasten one way than the other. But modern women have to do it the awkward way!
Out of curiosity, are leftovers unusual to take in Japan? I understand clearing your plate, but if there is some leftover would a doggie bag be an option? (I know it's apparently more common here in the US than Europe, I wonder if it is at all done in Japan/elsewhere...)
Very useful video, thank you! Even though it isn't directly related to minimalism, I really liked this information. But, I have a question about finishing food. I have heard that if you finish the rice, the host will usually provide more and you should never finish all of the rice, because the host will feel pressure to always provide more. To finish the rice is to suggest that the host has not been able to provide sufficient nourishment to their guests, which of course is rude. So one should always leave some rice behind as a sign that the host has been very generous with the food. Is this not correct?
Love your post Aki! Would you have recommendations for japanese novels that reflect Japanese culture? Translated to English (or Dutch/ German) please. Keep making your lovely videos please!
I didn't know about leaving food on your plate. Japanese people tend to be thinner than Americans, so it surprised me. I have heard that Japanese people try to eat only until they are 80% full. How do you handle it if you get to 80% but still have 50% of your food left? Are they more careful to take smaller portions in the first place?
When I look at the traditional(!) Japanese way of eating, at first glance it seems that there is a lot of food on the table. But if you look more closely - no, the total portion is not so big, because there is a little bit of everything, a few tablespoons. Small bowls, small plates, the Japanese eat slowly, which is also facilitated by the use of chopsticks.
Και στην Ελλάδα αν καλέσεις κάποιους για φαγητό και δε φάνε καλά στεναχωριέται η νοικοκυρά οτι δε μαγείρεψε καλά.άσε που το το χώνουμε και στο στώμα θέλει δε θέλει...σημάδι φιλοξενίας....και οταν φεύγουν τους βάζουμε φαγειτό να πάρουν και στο σπίτι τους...😂
What interesting and useful information. Thank you for sharing it. I particularly appreciate the part about not leaving food behind in a restaurant. Question: if you're full, is it acceptable to take it to go?
While I doubt I'll ever get to visit Japan, I at least found this interesting and informative. As someone who had to use public transportation when I went to college, I wish the rule of keeping quiet had stuck here in the US. So many times people carried on private conversations so loudly that I wished English wasn't my native language.
I would love to visit Japan once. Many interesting stuff such as Wabi Sabi, Fukuoka- one straw revolution, Ghibi studio. Right now just start reading "Kintsugi for beginner". 🙏🏼
Thank you! It is so interesting. My english is not on high level but I understand every word. I will defenetly subscribe. Hope I will be able to visit Japan in future.
Your English is perfectly clear! It's an extremely difficult language. The purpose of language is to make oneself understood and you have done that beautifully.
Please, we want a special video for students approaching the last stage of secondary school and how to deal with their feelings and control their personal lives better
6. when you walk on the right side you can draw your sword and kill with the draw. Walking in the left side lets you block the drawing hand. So make it saver on the road.
I bet the edges of the mats stay intact longer if you don't step on them wearing out the fabric. I would love to visit Japan, but probably won't for health reasons unless I can take a boat there. No flying for me. I think I would get along and like it there. Very sensible rules.
I went to Osaka in 2008. Before I went, I obtained a book on Japanese Customs and Norms which was very helpful. I, also, spoke with a friend who'd taught English, in Japan, in the late 90s. Concerning traffic rules, he told me his friend (I can't remember if said person was an ExPat or Japanese) got a parking ticket and became very worried, because, in Japan, you're either a law-bidding citizen or not. For myself, although I'm a serious Jay-Walker (honestly, in North America, I look at people who don't Jay-Walk as people who, still, require their parents' approval to do anything), while there, I didn't do it a single time. In fact, though, typically, I only follow rules I think make sense, I did appreciate their rational for their 'rules' and readily accepted them.
We had a good laugh together with another lady when I told her that the way she tried to close her gi before the training is for the dead people. :) Most of the time people do not look up basic etiquette or how to tie a belt before coming the first time, but the other people are eager to help.
Thank you this was very informative. I learned a few new things, even though I grew up with a large Asian population. Also, with regard to leaving food on your plate, portions are small. You should be able to judge how much you will eat, when in fact you should be eating slowly in the first place.🌺
Excellent done the video! I am "prof" and I do not have even any advice how to make it better. - I love Japan and I am really enjoying the spirit you put into.
These are so interesting. I have always been fascinated by Japanese culture and life. I wills love to visit some day. Two things about crossing streets against the lights, in the US we don’t cross in the middle too much but we aren’t very good at it. I’ve lived in Greece and Italy where it is common to cross in the middle. But the drivers are not expected to stop for pedestrians outside of crosswalks. The pedestrians time their crossing to not stop traffic and not get hit by cars. Did you know the law about Jay Walking was created in the South during Jim Crow as an excuse to arrest African Americans, any excuse to harass them. 😡 Thank you 🙏🏼
Hi, I am Japanese and thank you for making a great tutorial video. Let me add a few exceptions. You can leave soup of ramen, soba, or any other kind of noodles. If you think you cannot eat much, ask for "Sukuname/少なめ (smaller portion)" when ordering. In Tokyo's Shitamachi area, several traditional public baths allow tattoos because it was a symbol of firefighters there (Look for "sento rules" before you go). You can eat ekiben in box seats (seats not facing the aisles) on a Shinkansen or any long-distance train. But I recommend not to eat from Omiya to Shin-Yokohama, or from Maibara to Shin-Kobe, because it may be crowded.
Interestingly the West all used to drive too, all the way back to horse riding/driving. And of the same reason: Safety when/when not fighting. Because most people are right-handed.
Memory rule for kimono wrap direction is: "Left-over rice" as in roughly "left over right". Another is that for a right-handed person it should be easy to reach into the collar. If you wrap left over right it is easier to reach in from the right. The collar opening can be used as a pocket (also the sleeves and sometimes it's even possible to store little, flat things in the belt).
The same is true in the west. A man's shirt, or coat buttons left over right because men wore their swords on the left hip, and the pommel could easily get caught if right folded over left.
Thank you.. I was wearing my warm house cardigan and dressing gown , the wrong way(!) Shini Shizuoku 😮 I will never forget to wrap right first then left. 🙏
Regarding speaking loudly… Too much loud conversations in public places. Either people talking on their cell phones or to other people. I remember growing up (before cell phone invention) that you could ride a bus or eat in a restaurant or go to a doctor’s office, etc. and people were quiet and respectful. They kept their voices at a minimum. Today, people just don’t care and want to be seen and heard! They also talk over and interrupt other people while they are talking. So much inconsideration these days. Where are people’s manners these days?
I didn't know about the food part, I have OCD so now I will make sure to always finish it all. I love the culture, it's a very thoughtful culture and I have always been an extremely thoughtful person so to me I wish everyone here in America had a similar culture. Instead most of us Americans are so ride, spoiled and very self serving. Also if someone gives me such a big serving of food since I don't eat much at a time, I will ask someone else to share it with me. My bf who is a big man loves to give me him size portions and I can't deal. I am full so quickly! Thank you for this info!
There are 80 chopstick rules!! Ochikeron posted a cartoon picture of some children having school lunch in Japan and asked her community to find the errors - one was the miso soup was on the wrong side. It's so interesting to see some people making etiquette mistakes.
It's interesting that travel on foot ultimately determined which side of the street cars would drive on. I've noticed that on sidewalks and in the train station, etc everyone walks on the left (as if they were driving). I used to live in a more rural part of Japan and I never noticed this then, but in Tokyo it's very noticeable.
Greetings, I am a Russian student who wants to come to Japan to study. I’m also learning English now and I have slight problems with listening comprehension. Your videos help me in every way. And English lessons and useful information about Japan first-hand, so to speak. Thank you very much for your work.
Samurai Matcha-san, here in Texas on university campuses, pedestrians have the right of way in a crosswalk. You have to stop for them when students are crossing the street on Texan campuses. 🇺🇸🤝🇯🇵
If there are no traffic lights at the intersection and there is a pedestrian crossing(crosswalk?), then if I'm not mistaken, this rule exists everywhere - the driver must stop and let pedestrians pass. If there is a traffic light, the lights are regulated by who has to go/drive.
I love the tradition, especially keeping quiet on public transport
I have recently seen a sign for this inside a bus in Norway. Still, in Norway, many people break rules. Here, rules are very flexible. They started with quiet wagon on the train and this is mostly respected. But sometimes, a family will board and children will talk and it ends with everyone talking anyway. I personally love quiet journeys, but it would drive me insane if I was not able to cross a short street when no traffic at 2 am ... ;)
It’s said that you shouldn’t let your Pokémon out of their Pokéballs in crowded areas but a lot of Trainers do it anyway, because Pokémon are an integral part of culture. But I do agree that they should only have battles in the designated areas.
I broke this rule once
100!
The whole idea of the katana and roads is perfect and makes a lot of sense!
I feel people in Japan have a lot more respect for etiquette than in other countries based off of this and that is wonderful.
I think culture and etiquette needs to make a return. Everyone is so focused on deconstructing social norms, but a lot of them are good, or at least started as good things, and we can always make new ones to replace the old bad ones.
The right side of the road in the US has a similar-ish origin. In the wagon train days the person who rode to the right of the driver carried a shot gun to defend against attacks. So when cars were invented, it was the natural transition. Today we still call out "shot gun" if we want the front passenger seat.
Aki we are so lucky to have you to teach us proper Japanese etiquette! Please share with us more things we should and should not do while visiting Japan!
You know the old saying....when in Rome, do as the Romans do? Well, how do the Japanese do? 😊
Thank you Aki! ❤
I second this request.
Thank you Aki 💚
The best one was the quietness on public transport, if only England had the same rule.
And U.S.!
It's definitely a rule in Australia, there are signs on the buses and trains.....but people seem to have lost the art of being quiet nowadays.
Remember the song wheels on the bus? The only noise was the babies crying, but they're babies and can't control it.
If only we had public transportation that wasn't terrible in the US.
The bus and train used to be MUCH more quiet and NOBODY put their feet on the seats!
To sample the food and appreciate the culture was always on my bucket list. Japan continues to impress me to this very day.
Just remember, as many good and positive traditions that can be found in Japan, like any place it has its negatives, too.
@@jovetj It doesn't have a; Chicago, San Francisco, St. Louis, Washington D.C. or Portland. I'm good.
“Let’s do our best,” with a nod. I love the tips, thanks! Where I live, hot springs are where people show off their tattoos! Also, if you don’t jaywalk, the person behind you might walk into you. It’s a part of being aware of traffic to know when to walk and when to stay. I love your story about how driving in the left came to be!
When I was a kid in USA, we always were careful walking on sidewalks. There's a saying, "step on a crack, break your mother's back "
That's what I thought of when he was talking about not stepping on that crack.
When I was really mad at my mom I would do it deliberately and then be even madder when it didn't work.
@@mq5276 😂
lol We said that as kids in Canada too.
Lol i always used to step on them cause I thought superstitious people were silly, now I like to tell people my favorite number is 13 and open umbrellas inside and walk under ladders (safely of course) to mess with people XD
I love learning about Japanese culture like this! I look forward to the next 10 things! 😀
My grandson visited Japan last year. He told of us of some of these things, especially no talking on trains. He said all the food tasted so much better than in the states. He also remarked on how clean it was everywhere he went. No litter.
Food in America and Central and Western Europe tastes like cardboard because how it’s produced. It’s full of GMO!
If you go to Russia, for example, food will taste better too, even as simple as fruit and veggies. Because it’s truly organic and grown on a farm by people, not science, chemicals and machinery.
Possibly to make the world a better place to go to hell from.
Why no talking on trains? Are the Monks sensitive to noise as well as being OCD?
Japan recently started to allow immigration from other cultures. The Japanese were actually shocked to see trash on the streets where these immigrants are. These immigrants don’t respect their host countries and this is the result, all over the world.
The food in Scotland tastes better than US food too lol, it's cause a lot of other countries use far less additives in their food. Did you know the UK LEGALLY considers subways bread as cake because of the sugar content?
Thank you so much! My husband and I are planning a trip in the spring of 2025 so I’ve been trying to research videos like this just because I want to make sure that I’m traveling respectfully and not offending anyone. Of course not intentionally but it’s always great to, know the culture no matter where you go before you are traveling
Lucky you, a good book about Japan is Abroad I Japan by Chris broad
I love the rule about being quiet on public transportation. People are getting too rowdy these days.
About not wasting food. When I was growing up my parents did not serve us food, we were told to take what we would eat from serving dishes. There was always plenty. We were allowed more if we wanted to eat it. I was frowned on if we took food and left it on our plate, but it would show up the next day, guaranteed. Left overs were reheated, but if there were literally scraps even then, we had dogs, so someone would no doubt eat it. There was always soup too. I learned very early how to make soup from leftovers. When going to restaurants I try to order reasonably, but will generally ask to take left overs. I'm not going to say I have never discarded food, but it's not done without trying to find a use.
YEAH! Another Samurai Matcha video! I do so love them. This was so interesting. I'm not ever likely to be fortunate enough to wear a kimono, but from now on I'm going to close my housecoat (dressing gown) the kimono way! Thanks for another great video, Aki.
We may be going to Japan at the end of 2024, so this video is very helpful! Thank you, Aki! Oh, I do want to request one thing, though: More, please!😄
What a great video!! Thank you!! I didn’t know how important it is to put a Yukata on the right way, and I didn’t know about stepping on the edges of tatami mats!
What a beautiful made video with a lot of informations. Thank you so matcha!
I’ve begun picking up trash when I walk. Great exercise...good for the spirit! 🐎🌞🧗🏽♂️🌻
🤗Thanks for the etiquette update!
Good to see you, I haven’t seen you for a long time even though I am subscribed.🧡🙏🌴
55 seconds, new record to click on your video! Guys, comment as much as possible to help him to grow more since the algorithm loves interaction in the first couple of hours after a video uploaded.
Edit: it's here in Germany an unspoken rule too not to eat something like "Döner" or fries in the train or bus.
You're the best!
Con la 5 ALUCINÉ profundamente!!!!!!
Las otras ya las conocía con algunas variaciones también.
Y estoy TOTALMENTE de acuerdo en NO desperdiciar los alimentos.
GRACIAS por tu trabajo.
Something about traffic or walking on the left hand side. In Japan it is also customary to keep to the left hand side of the stairs, except in Osaka where everybody keeps to the right...
Do you know why the tradition differs in Osaka?
Hello Aki! Another video, another lesson (or lessons)! Thank you so much! I'll try to remember when I go to Japan (I wish to go...). Have a nice sunday and see you in the next video!
Thank you so much! :) Going to Japan soon so this is helpful.
I am really enjoying your videos.
Relevant and helpful to people like me who strives to be a 'good' tourist. 😇
The Tatami mat edges - I didn't know but pretty sure I have breached this one.
Leaving food on a plate is a no no for many homes around the world but in poorer countries can look wasteful and lacking basic social awareness I do feel.
Please keep up your positive and enlightening work.
I do enjoy your humour too.
Always enjoyed your videos, Aki San. Kudos! #7 I think apply to other countries as well. Can be so annoying hearing others talk loudly esp to their handphone on the commuter train.
For people driving, my rule of thumb in japan. If the middle line is not on your right side you are on the wrong side.
This is fantastic. I am off to watch another video you made...
There’s a restaurant here in my region called Hokkaido, where if leave food on plate you’re going to pay extra. However being buffet style I only take a little bit to try and go for more if I like it. Another place is called Asian House, big portions and I always have to get takeout container halfway through the meal. They don’t charge extra though. So I understand the rule of not leaving food behind on plate.
I like the dead in the kimono rule. In italy you differentiate male clothes from female clothes by the direction of the closing. The way you close the kimono is for men, while the dead verse is the one we use for the women. 🤔🤗 Interesting
I was stationed in Japan for two years in the 80s, and I LOVED it.
I don't think I've ever been this early to a video, wow!
I'm always so excited to see a new Samurai Matcha video! I love how you both educate us and share experiences you've been through in your life. Thank you for making such lovely videos for us! I hope you always prosper and have a good life ^~^
I’ve known a few of these rules! But not all of them! Japanese culture never ceases to amaze me! Amazing people in general!
I'm leaving for Japan tomorrow! It will be my first visit. Two weeks of studying kobudo, iai, and some sight seeing! I've been watching lots of Samurai Matcha videos in preparation! 🙇🙏🍻
Thank you for all the advice. Looking forward to visit Japan one day.
Good tips. The last one does not apply to parties where it is common to leave food and full glasses/bottles of beer. This one threw me off.
Some of those should be common all over the world, like being quiet on public transportation, or finishing your food. And jay walking should be up there too.
The Jay walking is debatable, but I agree with several. Their culture is very worried about how they appear to others. I appreciate having consideration for those around you, like I can't stand when someone is talking loudly on the phone. Then you have things like not being able to have tattoos because it might scare people. Nevertheless, if going to another country you should definitely have respect for their culture and customs.
I came back from Japan recently after a wonderful holiday. I loved Japan and the people. I learned so much about Japanese culture. We could learn a lot about Japanese culture, I felt as though I could live there happily. Thank you for your videos.
referring to number 4, it also depends on what kind of train service you are using. if you are using local commuter trains with seats that line the sides of the car, then eating food is considered rude. However if you are on a train with seats facing forward and there are tray tables available, it is common for people to eat on the trains
Yes, a few new ones for me. I love your “Aki-isms shared with grace and diplomacy. Let’s see more about different areas of Japan to visit!
Wow!
The video appeared in the feed in three minutes. I'm gled to see it so early!
with the rice side soy dip, you can tell sometimes the structral integrity of the rice and that a quick dip won't matter especially conveyor belt places. If you are at a decent place, the rice will fall apart even with a little splash of soy sauce. This is why he said sometime Japanese break the rule, they can tell that the rice can handle it and might even be a little on the dry side.
Japanese are less strict in my experience with crossing on a red light if it is obvious no cars are around/late at night. In Germany you will get yelled at at 3 am for crossing on red even if there is not a car moving anywhere in sight.
In New Zealand we drive on the left hand side of the road too.
Nothing to do with Samari swords either 😅
Really enjoy your videos. Thank you.
Japan always seemed to me like the most unique and interesting place to visit. Thank you for this video, always lovely to know more about the traditions of Japan! ❤
Can you one day please make a complet guide to chopsticks? how to hold correctly and all the rules both what to do and what to avoid, with the history behind why 😊🌸
At least for some the reason is, as I've understood, that certain moves are done at a funeral. Like passing pieces from one pair of chopsticks to another, or sticking the chopsticks vertically in a bowl. You don't want to use such moves whilst eating.
But yes, it would be cool to know more of these rules :)
I did stay in a Ryokan and did wear the Yukata the wrong side first 😱😱 the lady there, who was so sweet, told me to change it as soon as she saw it but I couldn’t understand why. I thought it was men/ women way of wearing it. Now it makes sense! Can’t wait to go back one day ❤
Also, if you are right-handed, you get the benefit of a pocket 👍🏻 I often store my travel card or my phone in the collar opening, between the layers of kimono/yukata. (And yes, this is acceptable and one of the most convenient "pockets" on a kimono.)
I found this very interesting, and look forward to seeing more.
The way to wrap a kimono: for clothes in UK, left over right is supposed to be for men, and right over left for women. This dates from days when rich women would have a servant to dress them, and buttons are easier to fasten one way than the other. But modern women have to do it the awkward way!
Great video. Thanks, Aki.
Out of curiosity, are leftovers unusual to take in Japan? I understand clearing your plate, but if there is some leftover would a doggie bag be an option? (I know it's apparently more common here in the US than Europe, I wonder if it is at all done in Japan/elsewhere...)
If you can't eat the sushi in one bite, you can politely ask for smaller portions to be made for you.
Very useful video, thank you! Even though it isn't directly related to minimalism, I really liked this information.
But, I have a question about finishing food. I have heard that if you finish the rice, the host will usually provide more and you should never finish all of the rice, because the host will feel pressure to always provide more. To finish the rice is to suggest that the host has not been able to provide sufficient nourishment to their guests, which of course is rude. So one should always leave some rice behind as a sign that the host has been very generous with the food. Is this not correct?
Thanks for your reply, Aki. That makes sense.
Thank you for the video, it’s good to know these things.
Love your post Aki! Would you have recommendations for japanese novels that reflect Japanese culture? Translated to English (or Dutch/ German) please. Keep making your lovely videos please!
I didn't know about leaving food on your plate. Japanese people tend to be thinner than Americans, so it surprised me. I have heard that Japanese people try to eat only until they are 80% full. How do you handle it if you get to 80% but still have 50% of your food left? Are they more careful to take smaller portions in the first place?
When I look at the traditional(!) Japanese way of eating, at first glance it seems that there is a lot of food on the table. But if you look more closely - no, the total portion is not so big, because there is a little bit of everything, a few tablespoons. Small bowls, small plates, the Japanese eat slowly, which is also facilitated by the use of chopsticks.
中国の友人宅を訪問した時に、
友人の家族がテーブルに沢山の料理を用意してくれました。
私は全部食べきれず、申し訳ない気持ち😢で、謝罪しましたが、
中国人の友人から、「大丈夫ですよ！中国ではお客さんが食べきれない量の大量の料理を出すのが礼儀だから、逆に残しても問題ない」と教えてもらい、日本と真逆の考えで面白いなと思いました。
Και στην Ελλάδα αν καλέσεις κάποιους για φαγητό και δε φάνε καλά στεναχωριέται η νοικοκυρά οτι δε μαγείρεψε καλά.άσε που το το χώνουμε και στο στώμα θέλει δε θέλει...σημάδι φιλοξενίας....και οταν φεύγουν τους βάζουμε φαγειτό να πάρουν και στο σπίτι τους...😂
It was very useful and funny too. Thx.😊
Mahalo nui loa from Hawai’i, Aki. I knew most of these, but not some! Helpful, as we might be moving to Japan for a few years soon. 🙏🏼
Take small portions of food and finish them. If still hungry just take another plate from the buffet. Never left any food unless it didn’t taste good.
What interesting and useful information. Thank you for sharing it. I particularly appreciate the part about not leaving food behind in a restaurant. Question: if you're full, is it acceptable to take it to go?
Would Hara Hachi Bu go against the last rule?
I just arrived here. Very helpful video. Thank you.
Thank you 🙏 Aki San. I’ll be there in 16 days! I’m very excited.
While I doubt I'll ever get to visit Japan, I at least found this interesting and informative. As someone who had to use public transportation when I went to college, I wish the rule of keeping quiet had stuck here in the US. So many times people carried on private conversations so loudly that I wished English wasn't my native language.
I would love to visit Japan once. Many interesting stuff such as Wabi Sabi, Fukuoka- one straw revolution, Ghibi studio. Right now just start reading "Kintsugi for beginner". 🙏🏼
The rule regarding the yukata was the most surprising for me 😃
❤😊 Gracias por tus consejos, Aki-san Y gracias por tus entusiastas y expresivas interpretaciones 👏👏
Thank you! It is so interesting. My english is not on high level but I understand every word. I will defenetly subscribe. Hope I will be able to visit Japan in future.
Your English is perfectly clear! It's an extremely difficult language. The purpose of language is to make oneself understood and you have done that beautifully.
Please, we want a special video for students approaching the last stage of secondary school and how to deal with their feelings and control their personal lives better
I really like those kind of videos. Keep it up! ✌😊
I didn't know about a tatami mats😗 Thank you for this😘
So interesting! Thank you
6. when you walk on the right side you can draw your sword and kill with the draw. Walking in the left side lets you block the drawing hand. So make it saver on the road.
I did not know about the tatami edges. Very cool!
I bet the edges of the mats stay intact longer if you don't step on them wearing out the fabric. I would love to visit Japan, but probably won't for health reasons unless I can take a boat there. No flying for me. I think I would get along and like it there. Very sensible rules.
I went to Osaka in 2008. Before I went, I obtained a book on Japanese Customs and Norms which was very helpful. I, also, spoke with a friend who'd taught English, in Japan, in the late 90s. Concerning traffic rules, he told me his friend (I can't remember if said person was an ExPat or Japanese) got a parking ticket and became very worried, because, in Japan, you're either a law-bidding citizen or not. For myself, although I'm a serious Jay-Walker (honestly, in North America, I look at people who don't Jay-Walk as people who, still, require their parents' approval to do anything), while there, I didn't do it a single time. In fact, though, typically, I only follow rules I think make sense, I did appreciate their rational for their 'rules' and readily accepted them.
We had a good laugh together with another lady when I told her that the way she tried to close her gi before the training is for the dead people. :) Most of the time people do not look up basic etiquette or how to tie a belt before coming the first time, but the other people are eager to help.
As a goth, I might just do that on purpose.
Thank you this was very informative. I learned a few new things, even though I grew up with a large Asian population. Also, with regard to leaving food on your plate, portions are small. You should be able to judge how much you will eat, when in fact you should be eating slowly in the first place.🌺
Excellent done the video! I am "prof" and I do not have even any advice how to make it better. - I love Japan and I am really enjoying the spirit you put into.
I knew some of those rules already but f.e. no.3 and 4 are new to me.
So I learned a lot! Thank you 😊
Glad it was helpful:)
These are so interesting. I have always been fascinated by Japanese culture and life. I wills love to visit some day.
Two things about crossing streets against the lights, in the US we don’t cross in the middle too much but we aren’t very good at it.
I’ve lived in Greece and Italy where it is common to cross in the middle. But the drivers are not expected to stop for pedestrians outside of crosswalks. The pedestrians time their crossing to not stop traffic and not get hit by cars.
Did you know the law about Jay Walking was created in the South during Jim Crow as an excuse to arrest African Americans, any excuse to harass them. 😡
Thank you 🙏🏼
Love this thanks! Also I like you’re energy and humor in this video. I’m subscribing
Thank you for this info! I’m a person who take rules seriously!
Hi, I am Japanese and thank you for making a great tutorial video. Let me add a few exceptions.
You can leave soup of ramen, soba, or any other kind of noodles.
If you think you cannot eat much, ask for "Sukuname/少なめ (smaller portion)" when ordering.
In Tokyo's Shitamachi area, several traditional public baths allow tattoos because it was a symbol of firefighters there (Look for "sento rules" before you go).
You can eat ekiben in box seats (seats not facing the aisles) on a Shinkansen or any long-distance train. But I recommend not to eat from Omiya to Shin-Yokohama, or from Maibara to Shin-Kobe, because it may be crowded.
Great! Thank you for the etiquette update!
Interestingly the West all used to drive too, all the way back to horse riding/driving. And of the same reason: Safety when/when not fighting. Because most people are right-handed.
I didn’t know about the KIMONO WRAP DIRECTION & the TATAMI MAT EDGE rules, so interesting! 😃
I didn't either.
Memory rule for kimono wrap direction is: "Left-over rice" as in roughly "left over right". Another is that for a right-handed person it should be easy to reach into the collar. If you wrap left over right it is easier to reach in from the right. The collar opening can be used as a pocket (also the sleeves and sometimes it's even possible to store little, flat things in the belt).
The same is true in the west. A man's shirt, or coat buttons left over right because men wore their swords on the left hip, and the pommel could easily get caught if right folded over left.
Thank you.. I was wearing my warm house cardigan and dressing gown , the wrong way(!) Shini Shizuoku 😮
I will never forget to wrap right first then left. 🙏
Good to know. Thank you. 😊
Regarding speaking loudly… Too much loud conversations in public places. Either people talking on their cell phones or to other people. I remember growing up (before cell phone invention) that you could ride a bus or eat in a restaurant or go to a doctor’s office, etc. and people were quiet and respectful. They kept their voices at a minimum. Today, people just don’t care and want to be seen and heard! They also talk over and interrupt other people while they are talking. So much inconsideration these days. Where are people’s manners these days?
In LA people have no respect for privacy in public fyi...
I am curious if you can't finish the food is it ok to ask for a to go box?
This was fun to know. Thank you!
Enjoyed it a lot😍🫶🏻Thank you Aki🙏🏻🌸
I didn't know about the food part, I have OCD so now I will make sure to always finish it all. I love the culture, it's a very thoughtful culture and I have always been an extremely thoughtful person so to me I wish everyone here in America had a similar culture. Instead most of us Americans are so ride, spoiled and very self serving. Also if someone gives me such a big serving of food since I don't eat much at a time, I will ask someone else to share it with me. My bf who is a big man loves to give me him size portions and I can't deal. I am full so quickly! Thank you for this info!
Very intresting rules.Thanks
There are 80 chopstick rules!! Ochikeron posted a cartoon picture of some children having school lunch in Japan and asked her community to find the errors - one was the miso soup was on the wrong side. It's so interesting to see some people making etiquette mistakes.
It's interesting that travel on foot ultimately determined which side of the street cars would drive on. I've noticed that on sidewalks and in the train station, etc everyone walks on the left (as if they were driving). I used to live in a more rural part of Japan and I never noticed this then, but in Tokyo it's very noticeable.
Greetings, I am a Russian student who wants to come to Japan to study. I’m also learning English now and I have slight problems with listening comprehension. Your videos help me in every way. And English lessons and useful information about Japan first-hand, so to speak. Thank you very much for your work.
Samurai Matcha-san, here in Texas on university campuses, pedestrians have the right of way in a crosswalk. You have to stop for them when students are crossing the street on Texan campuses. 🇺🇸🤝🇯🇵
If there are no traffic lights at the intersection and there is a pedestrian crossing(crosswalk?), then if I'm not mistaken, this rule exists everywhere - the driver must stop and let pedestrians pass. If there is a traffic light, the lights are regulated by who has to go/drive.
We need a video about all 80 rules of chopsticks. Now im curious