The Rules of Living in Japan

by 学習研究社, 下山 布妃都 (翻訳)

Paperback

First published November 1, 2008

Reviews

[Joaquín Reyna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Me ayudó a entender mejor como es la sociedad de Japón y ya se que hacer y que no cuando salgo a sus calles :D

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This guide we picked up in Japan Town is just delightful. It's essentially a manners guide written in Japan for foreigners in both Japanese and English (I guess so if you're a host mom in Japan you can point the necessary section?). I love that it's bilingual, so I can pick up some of the phrases without getting overwhelmed by all the kanji. The book is also highly illustrated (or maybe I should describe it as a series of annotated illustrations?). Most of the illustrations are in comic-book style and the dialog is not translated (but the explanations are)... so time for Japanese practice!

In addition to being adorable, the information is good! It kind of gives a different view on foreigner etiquette (from a Japanese standpoint... very rule-oriented!). I think "don't talk too loudly" was repeated about three times. Some of the advice was rather generic (how to make up after an argument) or ridiculously detailed (how to fold the crepe paper for the money envelope for a monetary gift for a wedding). There is also hilarious advice like "chew pickles with the back teeth in order not to make too much noise" (109). It might not be the best primer but it covers things that other etiquette/culture books might gloss over. More importantly, it settles the hand-or-chopsticks debate about sushi: either is fine, but eating sushi with your hands is more casual.

Anyway, if you're ever over and want to see the book let me know! I kind of doubt the Provo library has it.