1. Do not make the mistake of stereotyping the Japanese as being a totally homogeneous people. They are proud of their regional differences and personal individuality, and your understanding of this will be appreciated.
To link to points within the Supporting Articles, click on the following links.
2. As you are getting to know your Japanese counterparts, especially during informal business socializing, be sensitive to the fact that the Japanese are more conservative in terms of family and gender roles than most Westerners.
3. The Japanese are justifiably proud of their rich and highly refined traditional arts. Your Japanese colleagues will be pleased if you show an understanding of some of the fundamental aspects of traditional Japanese aesthetics, such as the keen sensitivity to the natural world and the changing seasons.
4. When you are not in meetings or socializing in restaurants with your Japanese counterparts, take time to notice the many aspects of Japanese culture around you. This could be as simple as noticing the beautiful ikebana (flower arrangement) in the lobby of your hotel, attending a kabuki theater, or scheduling a climb up the side of Mt. Fuji.
5. Although the Japanese take business matters seriously, it is erroneous to think that they don't relish having a good laugh. Comedy and humor play an important role in everyday life and in the arts, so don't be surprised to find that good-natured humor is also a welcomed part of informal business socializing.
6. The Japanese are justifiably proud of their rich and highly refined traditional arts. Your Japanese colleagues will be pleased if you show an understanding of some of the fundamental aspects of traditional Japanese aesthetics, such as the keen sensitivity to the natural world and the changing seasons.
7. A basic knowledge of Japanese history and the social roots of the Japanese people will enhance your understanding of contemporary Japan and its ways of doing business. For example, communal rice growing helped shape the Japanese group work ethic, and the Confucian emphasis on social ranking influenced the hierarchical structure of the workplace.
8. It is sometimes difficult for Westerners unfamiliar with Japanese art to appreciate its simplicity and beauty. Thus, it is advisable to show proper respect for objects you may find in Japanese offices and homes. A simple ceramic dish may be a priceless work of art, and an informal looking flower arrangement may have taken hours to design.