The importance of the greeting

It’s obvious: you can’t welcome a Japanese person without a greeting. It’s therefore important to avoid physical contact and to know the basic phrases for saying hello and thank you. Use expressions such as “Konnichiwa” (pronounced kon’nitchiwa) to say hello and “Arigatou gozaimasu” (pronounced Aligato gozaïmass ) to say thank you. You can force the issue and overuse politeness to put this attentive people at ease.

The caption on the business card?

You’ve probably read all about the famous business card exchange. It’s not a legend, and it’s still true today. Japanese people always carry a business card, ready to be given away. You need to be able to do the same. That’s your introduction. The rule to respect: it must be given with both hands, written facing the interlocutor. Don’t hesitate to bow as you give it. A must. The Japanese usually have double-sided business cards, with one side written in Japanese, the other in English. Ideally, if you can do the same…. It will be much appreciated.

Your Japanese guests’ relationship with food

Japanese culture is highly ritualized, so your guests will prefer a moment prepared just for them, rather than a “drink” between two doors.Don’t hesitate to set the scene to make a good impression.Unlike other civilizations, the Japanese have no problem at all with alcohol and white wine.Champagne is very fashionable. Watch out for the Japanese who’ve had too much to drink… codes fall away and they can let loose in surprising ways. And the next day they’ll have forgotten all about it. There’s no need to ask them about their food preferences, as they won’t dare tell you and will force themselves to eat and drink even what they don’t like.Instead, steer your choices towards “tapas” (what they do at home), explaining that it’s traditional.The Japanese like context.

Are the Japanese punctual?

Is it worth asking?Without being an inter-culturalist, it’s easy to know that the Japanese are renowned for their punctuality.So try to be a little early for the event.If you’re running late, be sure to let them know in advance and apologize.

Do you have to respect Japanese customs even in your own country?

If you receive a Japanese guest in France, it’s unlikely that you’ll find yourself in a place with tatami mats.So don’t hesitate to put him at ease about the fact that shoes are allowed in this space.They’re used to it.Only in traditional riokans or at home do they always take their shoes off.Japanese people may be curious about our culture, but language is a big barrier.Few Japanese speak enough English to have a conversation, so ideally you’ll need an interpreter… AND that’s probably the most important thing.

Can we talk about everything?The Japanese attach great importance to politeness and respect.So avoid controversial subjects or jokes that could be misinterpreted.Topics such as the Second World War, their very warlike past and their relations with their neighbors….Show that you appreciate their presence by being attentive and asking questions to get to know them better.

And in what language?

If your guest speaks neither French nor English, communicate with gestures or simple drawings.An interpreter is the most frequently used solution. If you can speak Japanese, it will certainly help to create an easier and more pleasant relationship.

What’s the Japanese connection with thanks?

Gratitude is part of Japanese culture. At the end of your event, thank your guest for his or her presence and time. Offer them a small gift, such as chocolates or souvenirs, to show your gratitude.