I recently had the chance to visit Japan for the first time, and I was amazed by the beauty of the country. But the strongest impression was offered by the Japanese culture and its citizens.
The people in cities like Tokyo or Kyoto, with a high pace of life, still have time to show respect, politeness and empathy. It was a humbling experience for me, as I work in the fast-paced city of Milan, where people show little mercy for each other, and personal interest is always on top of the list.
The fact that Japan is an island nation, which remained largely isolated from the rest of the world for a significant period, has undeniably shaped its culture, rendering it remarkably homogenous. This cultural uniformity is particularly evident in the pervasive politeness and humility that define Japanese society.
At the heart of this distinct social etiquette lies the influence of Confucianism, which was introduced to Japan from China in the sixth century. This philosophy instilled the principle that the community (the country where one lives) and the group (the family unit) take precedence over the individual. This collective mindset prioritizes the prosperity and happiness of the group over personal ambitions, emphasizing the importance of being part of a whole.
Confucian ideals have seamlessly blended with the principles of Shintoism, Japan's native religion, which teaches that every entity is imbued with a divine spirit and, therefore, every form of life deserves respect, regardless of whether it is human or otherwise. These beliefs are passed down from generation to generation, instilling in children a sense of responsibility towards the common good and encouraging them to consider the well-being of others before their own. This mindset continues into adulthood, fostering a strong sense of duty towards one's workplace and a near-total submission to authority figures.
This cultural philosophy also reflects in the Japanese language, where different levels of formality exist, each tailored to the status of the interlocutor. For instance, something as simple as saying "good morning" can vary based on the hierarchy (superior or subordinate), age (with elders being held in high regard), gender (certain phrases are exclusively used by men or women), and even the time of day. This complexity is a testament to the nuanced social dynamics at play in Japan.
When it comes to refusing a request, a direct "no" is rarely uttered. Instead, responses are often couched in indirect language, such as "I’m not sure if I can fulfill your request." This approach is not meant to deceive or confuse but rather to maintain politeness, avoid embarrassment, and soften the impact of rejection. Non-verbal cues also play a significant role, as they align with the cultural values of humility and accommodation.
The emphasis on minimizing friction is particularly crucial, given the densely populated nature of certain parts of Japan, where space is limited. Consequently, the Japanese tend to avoid unnecessary arguments and often refrain from expressing opinions that might conflict with those of others. By doing so, they ensure that the other person remains comfortable and that time is not wasted on futile disagreements.
In interactions with strangers, the concept of "tatemae" prevails—an attitude of self-effacement and adaptation to others' expectations. In contrast, within one's intimate circle, "honne," or the expression of one's true feelings and thoughts, takes precedence. This dichotomy can be perplexing for foreigners, who may perceive it as a lack of sincerity. However, it is essential to understand that these behaviors do not stem from ill intentions, but rather from a desire to maintain harmony and peace.
This cultural ethos is reflected in everyday life, leading to crowded yet quiet public transportation and impeccably clean streets, despite being thronged with people. If individuals prioritized personal convenience over the common good, public spaces would quickly become chaotic, particularly in densely populated urban areas.
To ensure that these attitudes are ingrained naturally, education begins at a very young age. Parents and schools instill the rules of proper conduct daily, encouraging children to obey without questioning authority figures. From kindergarten onwards, students are given responsibilities, such as cleaning their classrooms, and group activities are prioritized, such as the well-known school clubs, which almost every student joins.
In Japan, there is a preference for maintaining a humble attitude, often downplaying one’s abilities while showing a readiness to learn from others. For instance, if a Japanese person compliments you on your language skills, instead of responding with a simple "thank you," it is customary to say something like "I’m still learning." This tendency to minimize one's own abilities while valuing those of others is a hallmark of Japanese culture.
The intricate tapestry of Japanese culture, woven with threads of Confucianism and Shintoism, presents a unique blend of homogeneity, politeness, and humility. These cultural values, deeply rooted in history and tradition, have fostered a society that prioritizes the collective over the individual, creating a harmonious social fabric. Despite the challenges (for a foreigner) of navigating this complex cultural landscape, the emphasis on community, respect, and continuous learning offers a valuable lesson in humility and coexistence. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the Japanese approach to life serves as a reminder of the beauty and strength found in unity and mutual respect.
