Are you traveling to Japan for a business meeting or conference? If it is your first time visiting the country, here are basic things you can expect, so you will feel prepared and comfortable during your trip.
Professionalism and Punctuality
Note that Japanese events are highly organized, and they always start on time. Sometimes, they even start to the minute. Attendees are supposed to dress formally, even if the event is semi-casual elsewhere. So, business suits are standard attire here.
Politeness and Etiquette
Another common practice in Japan is bowing as a form of greeting, which is usually followed by a handshake. But you have to wait for the other person to initiate the gesture. Additionally, you must accept the exchange of business cards. You also have to offer and receive cards with both hands. That said, you have to take a moment to look at the card and never shove it directly into your pocket.
Food and Drink
You also have to expect beautifully presented bento boxes, sushi, or traditional Japanese dishes when meals are provided. In fact, they often do it with care for dietary preferences. Typically, tea or water will be offered. Coffee may also be offered occasionally, but sometimes during breaks only.
Outside the Conference
When you are out of the conference venue, you will find Japan easy to navigate. You can trust that trains are fast and reliable. Moreover, signs in major cities are bilingual, while people are generally helpful if you get lost. Note that cash is still widely used here, so you have to carry some yen, if possible.
Japanese Dining Etiquette and Downtime Ideas
- Meal Etiquette Tips
You have to wait before eating if there is somebody else with you. This means that you only have to start when everyone is served and someone says itadakimasu, which means they humbly receive. You also have to avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice because it resembles funeral offerings. Likewise, food should not be passed chopstick-to-chopstick.
Japanese etiquette also requires you to use the oshibori or wet towel to clean your hands, and not your face. There is also no tipping policy in Japan because it is considered rude. Only good service is expected when you are in Japan.
- Downtime Ideas
When you are in Tokyo, you can go to Shibuya Crossing for its famous scramble and shopping. The Meiji Shrine is also a calm, forested escape near Harajuku where you can visit while out of the conference venue. Kyoto is also an ideal place to visit different attractions. You can go to the Fushimi Inari for its iconic torii gates, while the Gion District is where you can find traditional tea houses and geisha culture.
If you are yet to book a conference venue during your visit to Japan, you can opt for the Swissotel Nankai Osaka. We are committed to provide unparalleled flexibility tailored to your specific needs when looking for meeting rooms in Namba. Give us a call today if you want us to host your event in this vibrant city.
