Japan recently launched Digital Nomad Visa This allows foreigners from 49 countries to reside in the country for six months.
But before packing their bags, they might want to read Japan’sLife and work guide”, aimed at helping foreigners integrate.
Published by the Japan Immigration Agency, this guide provides advice on immigration, medical care and housing. But about “daily rules and customs” is where foreigners can find specific guidance on the “rules of life” that explain how to live in Japan Emphasis on collectivism and respect.
Here are some rules.
1. Make noise
According to the guidelines, “Japanese people tend to believe that loud sounds and noises disturb others.”
The guidelines state that not only parties and music levels should be kept to a minimum, but also “sound” and “television” levels.
Foreigners are also advised to avoid making noise when using “washing machines, vacuum cleaners, or taking showers early in the morning or late at night.”
Guidelines for foreigners in Japan advise against making noise when using a washing machine early in the morning or late at night.
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Listening to music through headphones on buses and trains may not be enough.
“Please make sure your music is not too loud and cannot be heard outside of your headphones,” the guidance states.
2. Cough etiquette
Section 2.2 of the rulebook only deals with “cough etiquette”.
There are even separate rules for “sudden” coughs and persistent coughs.
“If you cough or sneeze suddenly, cough or sneeze into your elbow or into your jacket sleeve,” it states. “Do not use your hands.”
It states that others should wear masks.
Wearing a mask is a Necessary items for Japanese daily life According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, even before the Covid-19 pandemic, due to the country’s Personal Hygiene and Cleanliness.
“Japan is the birthplace of the culture of consideration for others,” the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in an article about mask culture. “These distinct characteristics of the Japanese enhance their awareness to avoid causing trouble to other people around them, which May make it easier for masks to become widely used.”
According to the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, the use of masks by Japanese people has been increasing year by year since the outbreak of the Spanish Flu in 1918. Now, they are considered “stylish fashion items,” it added.
3. Cell phones are not allowed on bicycles
Many countries ban the use of mobile phones while driving. In Japan, this rule also applies to bicycles.
Biking is a popular way for locals and tourists to get around the country, with bike rentals available at many tourist destinations. According to Japanese guide.
Cyclists in Tokyo cannot hold objects, talk or text while riding. The use of headphones is also prohibited by law.
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4. How to operate when taking public transportation
In Japan, talking on the phone on buses and trains is not allowed.
The guide stresses that this gesture is considered extremely impolite as it “disturbing other people”.
In Japan, you may be offended if you speak too loudly to your seatmate.
The guidance for passengers on buses and trains states that “speaking loudly is considered a breach of etiquette”.
A guide for foreigners published by the Japanese government states that “in Japan, it is considered impolite to talk on the phone on a bus or train.”
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Most Japanese passengers reportedly stand or sit silently while riding public trains Japan Rail Passa Japan train travel website.
Foreigners should abide by such rules, the statement said, reminding foreigners to speak to train drivers only in “emergency situations.”
Anyone who’s ever been hit in the head by the wrong backpack might appreciate the government’s final tip on public transport: “When the bus or train is crowded, be careful so you don’t disturb other people with your backpack.”
Why are Japan’s recommendations so detailed?
Henri Vlahović, dean of the Meiji Gakuin School of Japanese Language and Culture, said Japan is an ethnically homogeneous country with lower immigration rates than other countries.
Therefore, it focuses on preserving foreigners’ culture by encouraging them to comply, he said.
“Immigration is often seen as a more sensitive matter,” Vlahovich said. “The government is very concerned about reducing or avoiding any type of trouble that might be caused by foreigners not following certain rules.”
Vlahovich explained that these rules determine how Japanese society operates and are what foreigners living in and visiting Japan expect.
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