We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Course image
Arka Gupta

WHY do you need this course?

Imagine the below scenario for You- a Foreigner, who Lands/ Going to Land in Japan, BUT -

  • Dont know how to

  • Dont know what

  • Dont know what all things your should NEVER do with your

  • Dont know how to

  • Dont know how to

AND, there could be many more such incidents- If you

HENCE, If you want to avoid yourself from any such Embarrassing situation, then this course is for YOU.

Course Benefits: Ultimately, this course will help you, as a Foreigner to:

Read more

WHY do you need this course?

Imagine the below scenario for You- a Foreigner, who Lands/ Going to Land in Japan, BUT -

  • Dont know how to

  • Dont know what

  • Dont know what all things your should NEVER do with your

  • Dont know how to

  • Dont know how to

AND, there could be many more such incidents- If you

HENCE, If you want to avoid yourself from any such Embarrassing situation, then this course is for YOU.

Course Benefits: Ultimately, this course will help you, as a Foreigner to:

  • Make your stay - as smooth as possible in Japan.

  • Gain Respect from the Japanese people around - friends, customers, colleagues, local people in neighborhood, etc (by following the 'Rule of the Land').

  • Avoid those actions, that could either result in Complaints or get you in Trouble, or getting Looked down by others.

Course Objective:

  • Understand the basic Japanese culture (how people behave, what they avoid to do, what they expect from others- especially foreigners).

  • Understand different aspects of behaviors- that could be disrespectful and should be avoided (including reasons).

  • Understand the basic customs, guidelines (for Living purpose) that should be followed for a harmonious Day- to - Day living in a Japanese society ( residence, hostels, hotels, using pubic transport, eating at restaurants, etc).

  • Understand the critical business protocols (guidelines) to follow - while mixing with Japanese customers, colleagues.

Course Content:

  • Social etiquette: Cleanliness, Garbage segregation and disposal, Avoiding inconvenience to others, Maintaining Quiet policy (residence, public places), Using public transport, Using different shoes and slippers (at different places), Chopsticks guide, Pointing at others.

  • Business etiquette: Official Dress code, Exchanging business cards, Dining & Drinking guidelines to follow while socializing with Japanese customers and colleagues.

Course Structure:

  • Broken into smaller modules (each etiquette having a separate module).

  • You can finish each modules at one go.

  • Average module length is 4-5 minutes.

Teaching style: using a combination of below

  • Power point presentation.

  • Slides contain Theory, Examples, Graphic illustrations.

  • You can also see the Instructor giving Demonstrations (as and when needed).

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • You will learn basic etiquettes to follow for a smooth living in japan- both social, and business etiquettes.
  • You will learn what japanese people prefer to do as well as avoid to do - in both society living as well as business situations.
  • You will get a summary of do's and dont's to follow for a smooth living and working in japan- failing to which might result in complaints.
  • You will understand a high level overview of the background, behind these guidelines and etiquettes, that are followed in japan.
  • It will help you to mingle perfectly in a japanese environment, despite being a foreigner.
  • By respecting their etiquettes will help you to gain trust from your japanese friends, colleagues, customers, that will lead to a long lasting relationship.

Syllabus

Introducing your Coach
Welcome message from Coach and his background.
Course Overview
You will learn various Dos and Donts to follow : in your residential area, while using public transport, while going to Japanese restaurants, etc
Read more

You will learn how Japanese people keep their place clean. You will gain some simple tips- how to dispose your trash while you are outside (travelling, walking, shopping, etc). These tips will help you to follow same way how Japanese people keep their country clean.

You will learn what are the different categories of Garbage, trash followed in Japan and how they are disposed. You cannot dispose all garbage together. There are different places , different days to dispose each garbage category. This also includes - how can you dispose large furniture, electronic devices, etc.

You will learn about some of the basic actions, behaviors to avoid- that can cause different kinds of inconvenience to others, while you are out - travelling, shopping, using public transport, eating in office cafeteria/shokudo, etc.

You will learn about different Quiet Policies that are followed by Japanese people- whether you are party-ing with your guests in your residence or travelling in bus, train, etc. You will also learn about basic Mobile Phone etiquettes- when to keep it silent, how to speak while you are out , etc.

You will learn about- what should you do in front of Priority Seats in public transports- what to do and what not to do. You will also learn how Japanese people maintain discipline- even in a crowded train (get on, get off), how to stand in a queue, etc.

You will learn about various shoes and slippers etiquette- where to open your shoes, different kinds of indoor slippers and their usage, etc.

You will learn about the CORRECT ways of using chopsticks (different purpose, different situations)- eg: when you are sharing food with others.

You will also learn about the INCORRECT ways to hold chopsticks- actions which could be disrespectful or inappropriate as per the situation and you should AVOID.

You will learn what are the correct gestures to use, if you want to point at someone or something- eg; referring to someone, asking for directions, pointing at any object, etc.

You will also learn what are the incorrect gestures and better to avoid for pointing purpose.

You will learn what is APPROPRIATE dressing in a Japanese business world.

You will understand what kind of Dressing, and related accessories to AVOID, in this environment.

There is a section for WOMEN, stating what kind of jewelry, accessories, perfumes, etc to AVOID, in a Japanese business environment.

For MEN, there is a special section on SOCKS and FOOTWEAR.

You will learn the CORRECT way to exchange (give, receive) a business card.

You will learn WHAT should you DO, after receiving a business card.

You will learn WHERE should you keep (vs where not to keep) your business card.

You will also learn the INCORRECT ways, actions to exchange a business card.

You will understand WHY this course is IMPORTANT for you.

You will know WHO this course is for- anyone who is going to have even one meal with a Japanese person.

You will learn table manners, greetings, gestures to avoid while sharing food and other guidelines.

You will learn how to start a Nomikai/Drinking session.

You will learn the very important guideline for serving and receiving drink from others.

You will learn how to imply that you are done with drinking.

You will learn what all actions to avoid (including refusing a drink).

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Provides practical guidance on navigating social situations, such as using public transport and dining at restaurants, which is essential for daily life
Explains critical business protocols, including dress code and business card exchange, which are vital for building strong professional relationships
Offers insights into the cultural background behind Japanese etiquette, helping learners understand the reasons behind specific behaviors and customs
Highlights actions and behaviors that could be considered disrespectful, enabling learners to avoid causing offense and build positive relationships
Covers specific topics like garbage segregation and disposal, which are important for integrating into Japanese society and avoiding complaints
Details appropriate and inappropriate attire for the Japanese business world, including specific advice for men and women, which is useful for professional settings

Save this course

Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
Save

Reviews summary

Practical japanese etiquette for foreigners

According to learners, this course offers practical, essential guidance on Japanese social and business etiquette, particularly helpful for foreigners living or working in Japan. Many find the content very useful for navigating daily life and professional interactions, appreciating the clear instructor and the course's well-structured, bite-sized modules. However, some students note that certain topics are covered at a surface level and advise that specific rules, like garbage disposal, may vary by location and could be outdated. A few reviewers also mentioned inconsistent audio quality and basic presentation slides.
Instructor is clear, modules are bite-sized.
"The instructor is clear and knowledgeable."
"Really appreciated the bite-sized lessons. Made it easy to fit learning..."
"The instructor is great! Clear, concise, and provides good examples."
Good overview of key social and business rules.
"Useful overview of key social and business etiquette. Covers the essential Do's and Don'ts."
"It covers everything from garbage rules to using public transport and important business protocols."
"Covers a lot of ground. ... a perfect starting point for understanding Japanese customs."
Offers actionable tips for life in Japan.
"Excellent course, very practical information for living and working in Japan."
"The content is very relevant and practical for anyone interacting with Japanese people."
"Absolutely essential for any foreigner relocating or working in Japan."
Inconsistent or poor audio reported.
"Audio quality was very poor in several lessons, making it difficult to follow."
"Audio quality was inconsistent."
"I noticed some distracting background noise or low volume in certain lessons."
Some topics surface-level, check local specifics.
"Some sections felt a little basic, but it's a solid starting point."
"some information, like garbage separation, can vary significantly by municipality."
"For specific scenarios, you might need more detailed resources..."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Japanese Etiquettes (social, business)- for Living & Working with these activities:
Review Basic Japanese Phrases
Familiarize yourself with basic Japanese phrases to enhance your understanding of the cultural context and improve communication during your stay or interactions with Japanese individuals.
Browse courses on Japanese Language
Show steps
  • Find a list of common Japanese phrases.
  • Practice pronunciation using online resources.
  • Memorize key phrases for greetings and basic interactions.
Read 'A Geek in Japan'
Gain a broader understanding of Japanese culture to better appreciate and apply the etiquette rules covered in the course.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'A Geek in Japan'.
  • Read the book, focusing on sections related to social customs and daily life.
  • Take notes on key cultural differences and their impact on etiquette.
Practice Bowing Techniques
Master the art of bowing, a fundamental aspect of Japanese etiquette, to demonstrate respect and understanding in various social and business situations.
Show steps
  • Research the different types of bows in Japanese culture.
  • Practice each type of bow in front of a mirror.
  • Record yourself bowing and review for improvement.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Create a Cheat Sheet on Chopstick Etiquette
Reinforce your understanding of chopstick etiquette by creating a concise and informative cheat sheet for quick reference.
Show steps
  • Review the course material on chopstick etiquette.
  • Summarize the key dos and don'ts in a bulleted list.
  • Design a visually appealing cheat sheet for easy memorization.
Read 'Business Etiquette: Japan'
Deepen your understanding of Japanese business etiquette to ensure successful interactions with colleagues and clients.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'Business Etiquette: Japan'.
  • Read the book, focusing on sections relevant to your professional goals.
  • Identify key differences between Japanese and Western business practices.
Write a Blog Post on Japanese Gift-Giving
Solidify your knowledge of Japanese gift-giving customs by writing a blog post that explains the significance and etiquette involved.
Show steps
  • Research Japanese gift-giving customs.
  • Outline the key aspects of gift-giving etiquette.
  • Write a blog post that is informative and engaging.
  • Share your blog post on social media.
Role-Play Business Card Exchange
Practice the proper business card exchange technique with a peer to build confidence and refine your skills.
Show steps
  • Find a partner who is also studying Japanese etiquette.
  • Review the correct business card exchange procedure.
  • Take turns role-playing the exchange, providing feedback to each other.

Career center

Learners who complete Japanese Etiquettes (social, business)- for Living & Working will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Cultural Liaison
A Cultural Liaison bridges gaps between cultures, and this course helps build a foundation for that. Cultural Liaisons frequently work with international populations, providing guidance on local customs and practices. This role requires a deep understanding of social and business etiquettes, exactly what this course provides for Japan. One who wishes to work as a Cultural Liaison, especially in contexts involving Japan, should take this course to gain the necessary understanding of Japanese customs, business protocols, and social expectations.
Embassy Staff Member
Embassy staff members working in Japan need an in-depth understanding of Japanese culture and norms in order to effectively perform their jobs. This course is helpful for people looking for roles like this. This course covers both social rules and business etiquette. Taking this course will potentially allow for a more smooth transition into living and working in Japan. Those wanting to be an embassy staff member in Japan can benefit from this course that lays foundations in different aspects of daily living and professional life.
Restaurant Manager
A restaurant manager who plans to open or run a Japanese restaurant, especially one catering to a Japanese clientele, can gain insight from this course. This course may be very helpful for learning more about chopstick etiquette, dining guidelines, and social norms. The manager of a Japanese restaurant will be able to train new staff on the cultural sensitivity to provide great service. They can also manage how the restaurant is run in a way that appeals to those seeking an authentic Japanese dining experience.
Hospitality Manager
A Hospitality Manager must ensure their establishment provides excellent service that respects local customs, particularly in places that cater to international clientele. For a Hospitality Manager working in Japan or with Japanese customers, this course is incredibly useful. It offers insight into expectations regarding cleanliness, quietness, and general etiquette, which are important in the Japanese hospitality sector. Taking this course would help any Hospitality Manager to better cater to Japanese customers.
International Relocation Specialist
An International Relocation Specialist helps individuals and families adjust to living in a new country. Knowledge of local customs and etiquette is essential for this role. This course, by covering Japanese social etiquette, such as garbage disposal, public transport, and dining, provides practical knowledge to make a transition smoother. An aspiring International Relocation Specialist, particularly one who plans to help clients moving to Japan, will find this course highly relevant.
Interpreter
An Interpreter does more than translate words: they also often need a nuanced understanding of cultural contexts. This course provides an understanding of Japanese etiquettes, which would help an interpreter in various settings. This course helps an interpreter become more aware of social cues and business protocols, which can improve communication. Those who want to be interpreters, especially for Japanese, may benefit from this course.
International Business Consultant
An international business consultant advises companies on how to best engage a foreign market. A key aspect of their role is understanding cultural nuances, such as business etiquette. This course may be particularly useful as it focuses on the specifics of Japanese business culture. The content covered here, including business card exchanges, dress code expectations, and norms for socializing with customers, is directly relevant for an international business consultant working with Japanese partners or clients; therefore, those looking to specialize in Japan should consider this course.
Travel Guide
A Travel Guide provides insights into local culture for visitors. They often facilitate a deeper understanding of the culture for those unfamiliar with the location. This course on Japanese etiquettes is very helpful for a travel guide who plans to lead tours in Japan. It will help with understanding social norms, customs, and even business practices, enhancing the overall experience of the travelers. A guide who takes this course can help travelers navigate daily life as well as potentially make business connections.
International Sales Representative
An International Sales Representative often engages with clients from different cultural backgrounds. A key aspect of succeeding in this role is being aware of the local customs, particularly in business settings. This course provides essential information on Japanese business etiquette, such as exchanging business cards and dining guidelines for those who will be working in Japan. The practical insight provided by this course is valuable for an International Sales Representative looking to do deals with Japanese companies.
Human Resources Specialist
A Human Resources Specialist works to foster a harmonious and productive work environment. In a globalized workplace, this includes understanding cultural norms and differences, particularly in locations such as Japan. This course may be beneficial for HR professionals needing to address cross-cultural issues. This course provides information on etiquette, business protocols, and social expectations in the Japanese workplace, which would improve HR's ability to manage diverse groups.
Study Abroad Advisor
A Study Abroad Advisor assists students in preparing for academic experiences in foreign countries. A crucial part of their job is to provide advice and information about cultural customs and daily life practices. This course may be particularly useful for those working with students going to Japan. A prospective Study Abroad Advisor, especially for those who advise students traveling to Japan, may benefit from reviewing the course material.
Customer Service Representative
A Customer Service Representative must interact with a wide range of people, which may include those from different cultures. This course, therefore, provides a useful background for anyone whose work involves dealing with international clients. The course covers Japanese social and business etiquettes, which help one to avoid misunderstandings. A Customer Service Representative handling Japanese customers benefits from an understanding of their cultural background.
Foreign Language Instructor
A Foreign Language Instructor not only teaches the language, but also often incorporates aspects of culture into their lessons. This course may be useful for an instructor who plans to teach Japanese, as it offers crucial insights into the cultural context. Content such as social and business etiquettes, plus insights on daily life practices, helps provide context for learners of the language. Those who wish to teach the nuances of the Japanese language and culture could benefit from this course.
Corporate Trainer
A Corporate Trainer develops and delivers training programs to employees. For those working in global companies, this often will include intercultural awareness training. This course helps someone become a corporate trainer by providing the key information about Japanese customs and business protocols. This course, by going over guidelines for both social and business situations, may be very useful for a trainer who wishes to deliver training for employees who will be transferred to Japan or for those that do business with Japanese companies.
Project Manager
An international project manager often coordinates global teams and must navigate diverse cultural practices. This course may be helpful in guiding this work by offering insight into Japanese customs and expectations. The business etiquette guidelines covered here are particularly relevant for managing teams in Japan. This course may provide an advantage in the field of project management, for those who plan to work on projects involving Japan.

Reading list

We've selected one books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Japanese Etiquettes (social, business)- for Living & Working.
Provides a broad overview of Japanese culture, covering topics from manga and anime to technology and social customs. It offers valuable insights into the cultural nuances that underpin Japanese etiquette. It is particularly useful for understanding the 'why' behind certain behaviors and expectations. While not a strict etiquette guide, it provides essential context for foreigners.

Share

Help others find this course page by sharing it with your friends and followers:

Similar courses

Similar courses are unavailable at this time. Please try again later.
Our mission

OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.

Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.

Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.

Affiliate disclosure

We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.

Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.

Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.

© 2016 - 2025 OpenCourser