Language

The national language of Japan is Japanese. The Japanese language is said to be ambiguous, meaning that there can be multiple ways to say a specific word or phrase. Most Japanese people tend to be indirect and high context in their communication; their language is not too explicit and more nonverbal cues are used than verbal cues (Kohl, et al., 1993). This is common in collectivist cultures.

Verbal & Non-Verbal Cues

The Japanese value privacy. Because of that, making eye contact with strangers is discouraged since it indicates invasion of privacy. When greeting others, bowing is a sign of respect. It is also respectful to address someone with the suffix “-san” to their last name (for example, Mr. Yamamoto would be Yamamoto-san). Before entering someone’s house, it is very important to take your shoes off before entering; it stands for cleanliness and respect. It is impolite to talk while eating as savoring the food is the main idea, but slurping your noodles is a sign that you enjoy it.