Discovering Japan: A Journey into the Heart of Politeness and Culture

Japan, a land of captivating contrasts and a rich tapestry of traditions, is a destination that promises a unique and unforgettable experience. Having recently embarked on a journey in Tokyo, I was struck by the stark differences in culture when compared to the Western world.
One aspect that stood out above all was the extraordinary level of civility, respect, and politeness exhibited by the Japanese people. In this blog post, I aim to share my observations and experiences, offering a glimpse into what makes Japan a cultural marvel like no other.

Bowing: A Universal Gesture of Respect
As soon as I stepped off the plane and into the streets of Tokyo, I was greeted with an abundance of polite gestures. The most conspicuous of these was bowing, a traditional Japanese custom signifying respect and politeness. People bow in various situations, from greetings to expressing gratitude. It is not uncommon to witness workers in the service industry, like cashiers and waitstaff, bowing deeply to customers. This simple yet meaningful gesture left a lasting impression on me.

Punctuality: An Essential Virtue
Japanese culture places immense value on punctuality. Arriving late, even by a few minutes, is considered a sign of disrespect. Trains and buses in Japan are renowned for their punctuality, and schedules are strictly adhered to. During my all stay in Tokyo, never have I noticed a train being late.

Gift-Giving Rituals
The Japanese are known for their elaborate gift-giving rituals. These gifts, known as “omiyage,” are often offered as a sign of appreciation or to mark a special occasion. The meticulous thought put into choosing and presenting these gifts highlights the Japanese people’s commitment to fostering relationships and expressing gratitude.

Silence Speaks Volumes
In Japan, silence is not uncomfortable; it is a form of communication in itself. People tend to speak softly and avoid unnecessary chatter, allowing for a sense of tranquility even in the midst of crowded urban areas. This silence is a testament to the Japanese people’s commitment to respecting personal space and maintaining a peaceful coexistence. While on a train, it is very rare to hear someone speak.
That caught me off guard, especially the first day in Tokyo, as I was the only one Face Timing and talking on the train.

Respect for Nature and the Environment
The Japanese culture deeply respects the environment and nature. You will find meticulously maintained public spaces, pristine parks, and an overall commitment to cleanliness. Littering is virtually non-existent, and people are conscious of their impact on the environment.
One of the most intriguing aspects of my visit to Tokyo was the absence of trash cans in public spaces, with the exception of convenience stores and train stations. Instead, I observed a fascinating practice where people carried dedicated bags for disposing of their litter, intending to take them home at the end of the day.

The Art of Queuing
Queuing in Japan is an orderly and respectful affair. People stand in line patiently, waiting their turn without any form of jostling or impatience. This behavior extends from public transportation to popular restaurants and attractions. It is an embodiment of the Japanese people’s adherence to etiquette and order.

A Culinary Experience
Indeed, when we think of Japanese cuisine, our minds often gravitate toward the iconic and globally beloved dish, sushi. However, what I discovered during my trip to Tokyo was that Japanese cuisine is a vast and diverse universe that extends far beyond this renowned delicacy. While sushi is undoubtedly a prominent and celebrated aspect of Japanese gastronomy, it’s just the tip of the culinary iceberg.

Yakitori: As I strolled through the bustling streets of Tokyo, I couldn’t resist the mouthwatering aroma of skewered chicken, a delicacy known as “Yakitori.” Yakitori is meticulously prepared and offers a blend of flavors, often accompanied by a range of delectable sauces.

Onigiri: For a quick, on-the-go snack, “Onigiri” proved to be a popular choice. These rice balls, typically encased in seaweed and filled with a variety of ingredients like pickled plum or fish, provide a convenient and delicious option for a light meal or snack.

Teppanyaki: My culinary exploration led me to the captivating world of “Teppanyaki,” a style of cooking where skilled chefs prepare meals on an iron griddle right before your eyes. The sizzling, interactive experience and the exquisite blend of flavors made Teppanyaki dining a memorable highlight of my trip.

Unagi: Japan’s affinity for seafood became evident when I indulged in “Unagi,” a delectable dish featuring grilled freshwater eel, usually served over a bed of rice and seasoned with a rich, savory sauce. The perfect balance of flavors and textures made this dish a true gastronomic delight.
A “real” Unagi, should be cocked one hour in advance.

Omakase: My dining adventure also took me to the concept of “Omakase,” where I placed my trust entirely in the capable hands of the chef. In this style of dining, the chef curates a personalized, multi-course menu, offering an assortment of the finest seasonal ingredients. Each dish was a revelation, showcasing the chef’s skill and creativity.

Yakiniku: My journey into Japanese cuisine would have been incomplete without savoring “Yakiniku,” a unique and interactive dining experience. Yakiniku involves grilling bite-sized pieces of meat and vegetables at your table, allowing you to customize your meal as you go, creating an engaging and flavorful dining experience.

In Tokyo, the food culture isn’t merely about sustenance; it’s an art form. Each of these culinary styles embodies a commitment to quality, precision, and the harmonious blend of flavors, making dining in Japan an unforgettable experience. Whether I was savoring traditional Yakitori on the street or indulging in a meticulously prepared Omakase menu, every meal was a celebration of Japanese culture and culinary mastery

Conclusion:

My trip to Japan was not only a visual and culinary delight but also a profound lesson in civility, respect, and politeness. The cultural differences between Japan and the Western world are stark, yet the level of politeness and consideration demonstrated by the Japanese is an inspiring reminder of the importance of these values in any society. As a traveler, I left Japan with not only wonderful memories of its beautiful landscapes and delicious cuisine but also a deep appreciation for the kindness and respect displayed by its people. Japan truly is a land of contrasts, and its commitment to courtesy and respect is a cultural treasure worth cherishing.

My journey in Japan was made unforgettable by four exceptional friends: Kimiko, Takanori, Hide and Etsuko. Together, they enriched the trip with knowledge, discovery, and warmth, creating a truly delightful experience.
This article is dedicated to you.

Go Beyond 
Umberto