Business Etiquette in Japan

Japanese lifestyle is much more different from our lifestyle the same like culture and traditions. So there is different rules and ways in their everyday living, eating, gift giving and business.
Everyday living:
• When a guest leaves it is considered proper to walk them to the door.
• NEVER be late for anything.
• “Ladies first” is not used in Japan.
• Japanese women wear their kimono with the left side over the right. Don’t wear it the other way, it is only for the deceased person at a funeral.
• Japanese women cover their mouth when they laugh.
• Blowing your nose in front of someone is rude, leave the room or at least turn around. Use a tissue, not a handkerchief.

Eating:
• In Japan if you leave your plate empty it means you want more food. If you’re finished then leave some food on your plate.
• There is no American way like “help yourself.” Do not eat until the host offers food.
• Eating and drinking while walking down the street is considered impolite to others.
• When leaving a restaurant or somewhere do not steal or take some napkins or little souvenirs. It is considered very rude.
• Do not pick up food on the same end that you used to eat your with. Try to use the ends of the chopsticks for picking up, and the front (smaller end) to eat with.
• It is normal to make slurping noises when drinking or eating noodles. It shows that you enjoy the food and keeps it from burning your mouth.
• Before you start eating you say “Itadakimasu” and “Gochisosama deshita” when finished. “Kampai” means cheers and is used for drinking.
• Don’t pour your own drink, if the glass is empty usually the host will pour it.

Body Language:
• Japanese people prefer not to stand close to others.
…