World Country Guide

World Country Guide

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JAPAN

Japan is separated from the Asian continent by 160 km. sea. Approximately 70% of the size of the country is covered by hills, mountains and dormant volcanoes. A series of mountain ranges traverse the country from north to south, the most important is that of the Japanese Alps. The highest mountain is Mount Fuji (3,776 m).

Constitutional monarchy. Head of State: Emperor Akihito (since 1989). Head of Government: Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda since 2007.

Shinto and Buddhism (most Japanese practice both religions). There are a Catholic minority. In Okinawa, many people believe in Niraikanai, the kingdom of the dead in the deep sea.

Japanese customs are very different from the Western world. There is a very strict code of conduct and courtesy that is respected by almost all Japanese. However, they tend to be very lenient with foreign visitors while the latter are expected to behave in a very correct. A negative response is not directly part of the label in Japan. An 'if' is not very strong does not mean a positive response. Invite people home is not as common as in the West. The Japanese never fail to take an invitation to the book light and a very special treat for visitors. People are very likely if they think that the guest does not feel comfortable. The guests should sit on the floor as determined by tradition. The slope is the usual greeting, but the handshake is very common when it comes to doing business. Suffix san should be used to address both men and women. For example, should be called Mr Yamada Yamada-san. When you enter a house to a restaurant or even your shoes should be removed. The behavior at the table is very important. But the Japanese are very tolerant towards visitors but appreciate that they make efforts to familiarize themselves with basic rules such as using chopsticks to eat. Typically, guests must bring a small gift. The exchange of gifts is also very common among businessmen, especially the gifts will be souvenirs of the country. Smoking is prohibited only where expressly indicated.