🏷️ Culture Shock
A collection of articles related to "Culture Shock"—covering helpful tips and insights for living in Japan as a foreign resident.
The History and Unique Development of Christmas in Japan
How Christmas evolved in Japan from its 16th-century arrival to a secular, commercial event. From Christian prohibition to the Taisho Emperor Memorial Day, learn how Japan created its own Christmas culture.
The Dark Side of Japanese Christmas Culture: Relationship Pressure and "Kuribocchi"
Christmas in Japan is strongly associated with couples, creating pressure and loneliness for those spending it alone. Learn about the "kuribocchi" phenomenon and changing attitudes.
Practical Communication Strategies for Foreigners in Japan
Actionable techniques for effective communication in Japan, from getting clear answers to declining invitations politely and building deeper relationships.
The Cultural Roots of Japanese Communication
Understand the historical, geographical, and philosophical foundations that shaped Japan's unique communication styles and why these patterns persist in modern society.
Essential Phrases for Navigating Japanese Communication
Master these key Japanese phrases to navigate social situations effectively, build better relationships, and avoid misunderstandings in your daily interactions in Japan.
High-Context vs. Low-Context: The Foundation of Japanese Communication
Understand the fundamental difference between Japanese high-context communication and Western direct styles, and learn how this affects interactions in Japan.
Japanese Communication FAQ: Common Questions Answered
Get answers to frequently asked questions about Japanese communication styles, from understanding indirect responses to building relationships and navigating social customs.
Key Concepts in Japanese Communication
Master essential Japanese communication concepts like honne/tatemae, reading the air, sasshi, and enryo to navigate social interactions more effectively in Japan.
Non-Verbal Communication in Japan: What's Not Being Said
Learn to interpret Japanese body language, facial expressions, and the meaning of silence to better understand what's not being explicitly stated in Japanese conversations.
Verbal Patterns in Japanese Communication: Decoding Language Cues
Understand the subtle verbal patterns and linguistic cues in Japanese communication that reveal deeper meanings and help navigate social interactions more effectively.
Why Japanese Phones Are Different: Cultural Features and Unique Functions
Discover the fascinating cultural reasons behind Japan's unique smartphone features - from unmutable camera sounds to QR code obsession, mobile payments, and bath-friendly designs.
Apartment Viewing Checklist: What to Look for When House Hunting in Japan
Essential checklist for apartment viewings in Japan, covering hidden issues, cultural considerations, and red flags to avoid costly mistakes.
Cultural Differences in Japanese Housing: What Foreigners Need to Know
Navigate cultural expectations and unwritten rules in Japanese housing, from shoe removal to noise considerations and neighbor relationships.
Understanding Rental Property Types in Japan
Decode Japanese rental terminology and property types from 1K to mansion apartments, helping you find the right housing option.
Understanding Rental Costs in Japan
Comprehensive breakdown of Japanese rental costs including key money, deposits, agent fees, and hidden expenses for foreign tenants.
Japanese Workplace Etiquette Guide: Essential Rules for Foreign Workers
Navigate Japanese business culture with essential workplace etiquette covering meetings, communication, hierarchy, and professional relationships for foreign employees.