Table of Contents

1. Welcome to The Japanese Business Handbook from Japan Jumpstart

2. Negotiations and Meetings
3. The Japanese Decision Process
4. Japanese Authority System
5. Speaking Japanese
6. Communication
7. Getting to Your Meetings in Tokyo
8. Did You Know?
9. Locations for Offsite Meetings in Tokyo

The Japanese Business Handbook from The Tokyo Times

This book is brought to you for free compliments of Kaori-san, a virtual
assistant service for people living or doing business in Japan.
The material in this book was developed by me for Japan Jump Start a
service from The Tokyo Times dedicated to giving you valuable and exclusive
information on how to start and grow a business in Japan. This handy guide
contains tips, cultural information, and language materials aimed at helping
you get a head start in the world of Japanese business.
If you are considering doing business in Japan or already doing
business in Japan, look at Kaori-san. Kaori-sans bilingual virtual
assistants are perfect for helping bridge the culture and language
gap.
I hope you benefit from the knowledge in this e-book.
Ejovi Nuwere ejovi@ejovi.net

Negotiations and Meetings in Japan

One thing to remember when approaching negotiations with
Japanese business people is this: Japanese people do not generally like
negotiations. Any kind of confrontation is unpleasant, and the Japanese try
to avoid it as much as possible. Traditionally, the Japanese feel that
agreements should be made subtly and behind-the-scenes, through a slow
process of gaining mutual support and consensus.
In fact, the Japanese are just as mystified by the Western practice of
persuasive speech and debate as Westerners are by the seemingly inefficient
way the Japanese come to a decision. The Japanese value group
consensus and harmony, believing this has a positive effect in the
long-term. Ideally, decisions somehow happen rather than be forced to a
head in a battle of opinions.
Becoming familiar with the following characteristics of Japanese
negotiations, you will prepare yourself for dealing in Japanese business and
ensure your success. A negotiation in Japan works in three parts that
are deeply rooted in the Japanese psyche:

The background story leading up to current events

The hardship, challenge, or pain one may experience

The benefit of helping or agreeing to your request to alleviate your

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afflictions
In other words, there is an element of melodrama in Japanese
negotiations. The hardship and challenge (or pain and suffering as the
Japanese see it) one goes through in order to present their work is a
strategy to elicit interest and compassion.
In Japan, decisions are more trust based than logic based.
Making a logical argument about why you are the most qualified doesnt
always work. You must gain the trust of Japanese business people before
agreements are met.
Observing some basic cultural DOs and DONTs will help you fit into
the Japanese business world.

DO arrive 5 minutes early. In Japan, being right on time is often

considered late.

DO wait to be seated. There is often a protocol as to where people

should sit. Usually, the highest ranking person at the meeting will be
seated at the end of the table, furthest from the door.

DO wear professional business attire. Casual dress is rarely

appropriate in Japanese business settings.

DONT ever say No for an answer. A straightforward refusal is

considered rude.

DO convey your refusals gently. Use language such as, It would

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be difficult... or I have concerns.... Using nonverbal forms of

communication such as facial expressions can also get the message
across.

DO be highly observant of non-verbal communication from the

Japanese. They find it hard to say no. Laughter, slight frowning,
sharp intake of breath...all of these gestures can be deliberate
attempts to convey a discomfort or disagreement with your request.

DO exchange business cards (meishi). Be sure to hand them over

and receive them with a bow using both hands. Carefully study what is
written on the card before placing it in front of you on the table. Put it
away in your wallet or card holder once the meeting is over.

DONT bring food or drink into the meeting.

DONT be uncomfortable with silence. The Japanese can often

remain silent for what may seem, by Western standards, a long period
of time. Be patient and try to discern if what youve said has been
understood.

DO insist on paying at a lunch or dinner meeting where you are the

host. The Japanese will try to refuse, but continue to insist.

DO bring a small gift to present to the most senior member at

the end of the meeting. The gift, carefully wrapped, should be
presented with both hands, and with words that express something to
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the effect of This is a small thing...

DONT surprise your host with the gift. At the beginning of the
meeting, make sure you mention that you have a small gift to present
afterward.

DONT expect that any gifts you give will be opened in your presence.

DONT expect Japanese presentations to be concise or

entertaining. Perhaps due to the public educational system, the
Japanese are used to lengthy, dry, lecture-style presentations that go
into a lot of history, detail, and context.

DO use as many visuals as possible in your presentations.

Visuals (graphs, charts, etc.) help illustrate ideas where there may be
communication barriers. Generally, visuals are more easily understood
than a long stream of words. Japanese people often use intricately
detailed visuals in their presentations.

DO emphasize your credentials. Japan highly values credentials.

You will establish more trust by mentioning partnerships with wellknown companies, long histories, licenses, education, and even
relationships with mutual acquaintances.

DONT expect your Japanese clients or colleagues to make any

decisions right away. One important element of the Japanese
decision-making process is Nemawashi, or an informal gathering of
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feedback, support, and consensus before any formalized, official steps

are taken. In other words, a consensus needs to be reached in
unofficial, often one-on-one meetings, before that consensus is
discussed and realized in an official meeting. The Japanese insist on
making a consensus comprehensive and unanimous, alleviating any
one person from responsibility for mistakes in decision-making.

DONT go into lengthy explanations of why something went

wrong, why you were late, or any other issue. Explanations,
though appreciated in Western cultures, are often seen as iiwake or
literally, excuses to the Japanese. To demonstrate and receive
respect, it is better to apologize sincerely and profusely and show
remorse.

DONT be too flashy in your negotiations. Come up with a

reasonable first offer rather than expect a negotiations battle. The
Japanese people will be looking to see if you are a trustworthy partner
in the long term. Any tricks or tactics may arouse suspicion.

DONT expect a negotiation to ever be finished and settled.

Japanese people see negotiations as a start of a relationship, not an
end. Any agreements will probably be further amended and discussed.

DO be consistent and predictable in your dealings with

Japanese clients and colleagues as Japanese business people find
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these qualities trustworthy. Any anxiety they may have over dealing
with a foreign company will be gradually alleviated if they know what
to expect with each encounter.
Japanese business people do business in many different ways
than most Westerners. Knowing some of those basic differences, you
will know what to expect and what is expected of you. Remember, the
Japanese dont like aggressive negotiations and they make big decisions
based on a company consensus so be patient and respectful of this cultural
requirement. Earning the trust of your Japanese counterparts by following
the above DOs and DONTs will be extremely beneficial to the future success
of your business in Japan.

The Japanese Decision-Making Process

If you want to do business in Japan, you must prepare yourself the Japanese decision process can take time. In comparison to Western
cultures, it is much slower and involves many routine steps that are
sometimes frustrating to Westerners.
Nemawashi, or an informal gathering of feedback, support, and
consensus before any formalized, official steps are taken, is one important
element of the Japanese decision-making process. The Japanese insist on a
unanimous agreement ensuring satisfaction of all involved.

Elements of the Process to Consider

Its important to be aware that the Japanese process of decision making
is very different than in Western business. Knowing some key points of the
process will help you understand what is going on when the Japanese come
to a decision.

Even though a CEO has great authority, he/she will require that all key
management be involved in the negotiations. This is because he/she
still needs to gain a consensus from the group.

Multiple meetings may seem like a waste of time, but in each meeting,
you need convince or reassure all the players that your proposal is
valid.

Often, if there is an objection to your proposal, a lower level employee

will speak for the supervisor who has identified an issue. When you
respond to an objection, address the entire group.

Once a consensus-based decision is made, execution is swift and

efficient because the entire company is behind the idea.
Patience is a strong virtue when doing business in Japan. Its

important to be aware that the Japanese rely heavily on group agreement

before making any decisions that will affect the company. Expect that the
Japanese decision making process will take more time than in Western
business. You may be asked for more information, meetings, or credentials.
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Appreciate that this is their way of protecting the company and being sure
the right decisions and agreements are made.

Japanese Authority System

In general, the Japanese have a strong sense of social expectations in
relation to age and experience. These expectations are apparent in business
relationships. Within a company, employees are ranked by position, age,
experience, and length of time at the company. Being aware of the
hierarchical positions and expectations within the company in which you are
dealing, will help you develop a working relationship with the members and
leaders of the company. You may or may not be held to these expectations,
but either way, it is important to be aware and respectful of them.

The Senpai-Kohai Relationship

In Japan, knowing your place is a social expectation and a
necessity learned at a young age. One essential example of this is the
Senpai-Kouhai relationship. Senpai is best described as a mentor, senior or
more experienced person. Kouhai, as an apprentice, junior or less
experienced person.
This relationship is usually age-based, but can also be based on
an individuals seniority in an organization or company. For example,
if a younger person entered a company before a slightly older person,
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he/she would be the Senpai. However, if the new hire was significantly older,
his/her age would demand a certain amount of status and respect.
In schools, the Senpai-Kouhai relationship is particularly evident in
sports teams and clubs. The younger, Kouhai students are expected to do all
menial tasks, serve and cater to the needs of their Senpai, and use honorific
language at all times.
What makes the Senpai-Kouhai relationship unique is that these
relationships extend beyond places of business and remain a part of how
people relate to each other in other aspects of their lives. A Kouhai respects
and obeys his/her Senpai, not only in a business setting, but also in the
social arena as well.
Even if the original context in which the Senpai and Kohai meet is no
longer relevant, the respect remains for as long as the two individuals know
each other. Years later, for example, a Kouhai continues to call the senior
members of his high school baseball team Senpai and remains deferential
in their presence regardless of the fact that they have long since
graduated and are no longer members of the same team.
Sensitivity to the Senpai-Kouhai relationship is very important in
Japanese society. Although there is not as high an expectation for
foreigners to understand and abide by the rules of the Senpai-Kouhai
relationship, it is important, and beneficial, to have an awareness of the
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age and status of your Japanese business partners and clients. No

matter how close you become to someone in Japanese society, these
hierarchies are ever-present in the foundation of your relationships.

Important Positions in a Japanese Company

In Japan, as in Western business, the company is divided into several
important positions and departments. Knowing who is who and appreciating
their position will help you to be more effective in your relationship with
Japanese businesses.
Bucho Head of Department or Division/Department Manager
In Western terms, the bucho is similar to a vice-president. A highly
important position, it is essential that individuals doing business with
Japanese companies know the key buchos in the departments they are
dealing with. Japanese etiquette requires courtesy calls every few months to
the important buchos of the companies one is doing business with just to
check in and say hello.
Kaicho Section Manager
Japanese company departments are often divided into several ka, or
sections. A kacho oversees the administrative duties of a company, and
makes sure that necessary accomplishments are met. If you want something
to get done, it is vital to develop a relationship with the kachos concerned
with your interest in the company. Traditionally, it is good form to invite the
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kacho and a few of their staff out for a night of dinner and drinks.
Chukaisha The Middle Man/Woman
Not an official title, but an important role, nonetheless. The Chukaisha
is chosen because of their knowledge, position of trust, and impartiality to
both parties in a negotiation. A mediator and a diplomat of sorts, the
chukaisha helps establish and develop a relationship between two companies
or groups. They often play a major role in situations of sensitivity and
conflict as well.

Diverting the Blame of Rejection of Proposal

Japanese business people will often tell you that someone else has
forced them to make a tough decision, even if that someone else is in the
room. When they say they would like to budge, but that someone above
them would object, they are politely saying no.
The first time you do business with a company in Japan,
remember you are making an impression that will last a lifetime. You
are working to gain the trust and respect of every person in the company.
You are a newcomer to the company and must respect the Senpai-Kouhai
relationship as best you can by valuing and appreciating those who have
seniority and experience in the company. Meeting and remembering the key
players of the business will also help future relations go smoothly. Paying
courtesy calls to the key buchos and getting to know the kaichos and their
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employees is an investment in the business you do in Japan.

Speaking Japanese
Naturally, Japanese language ability is a huge benefit when doing
business in Japan. That said, English is becoming more prominent among
the Japanese. A lack of total fluency in Japanese is not always an obstacle to
doing business. I sat down with two successful entrepreneurs in Japan. Brian
Tannura, CEO of Market Pioneer Japan and Terrie Lloyd, CEO of LINC Media
revealed.
Brian Tannura explains that a knack for being able to creatively explain
a point with visual aids is more important than being able to speak
Japanese. He says that one must approach doing business in Japan by being
open and available.
For people who are decision makers, who you obviously want to be
dealing with, a lack of language is not going to be the deciding point.
You cant be an idiot and go in with pictures and not be able to explain,
but you have to think creatively of a way to explain what you want to
sell and have the numbers.
You can explain it in a way that makes sense, even without a lot of
language. A decision maker is not going to let that stop them from
understanding and deciding.

15

Its more the demeanor. If you are actually open and can say, Hello or
something in your demeanor that expresses an actual openness and
interest, that will get you over that hurdle. I found that thats not
different in Japan.
The other aspect with language is that pictures go across languages. I
was always sure to have at least a simple, not a high gloss or fancy
catalog, but at least a visual picture saying this is what I want to do
with you. The combination of that, a bit of sincerity, and a bit of
language would get you in the door.
Brian Tannura, CEO of Market Pioneer Japan

In addition, Terry Lloyd comments that starting a company in Japan is

not very difficult even if you dont speak any Japanese.
It turns out that anyone can start a company in Japan, so long as they
have residency rights, like foreign registration or alien registration. As
long as you have that you can start a company here...Keep in mind,
that I couldnt speak a word of Japanese.
Terrie Lloyd, CEO of LINC Media

Although fluency in Japanese is not required to do business in Japan, it

is important to be prepared to face language barriers. Visual aids, pictures,
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graphs, videos, handouts and other tools of explanation will be greatly

appreciated by Japanese business people. It is important to be as clear as
possible to help move your business in Japan forward.

Easy Japanese Phrases to Remember

Even though fluency in Japanese is not required, learning a few basic
Japanese words and phrases will show your Japanese counterparts that you
are committed to doing business in Japan and interested in the culture.

Ohayo gozaimasu - Good morning

Konnichiwa - Good afternoon

Konbanwa - Good evening

Oyasumi nasai - Good night

Mata ato de - See you later

Mata ashita - See you tomorrow

Ogenki desuka? - How are you?

Genki desu - Im fine

Hajimemashite - Nice to meet you. Or literally, For the first time...

spoken after introducing yourself to someone for the first time.

Yoroshiku onegaishimasu - Literally translated, this means, Please

take care of me, or Please be good to me. However, more
17

accurately, this phrase implies gratitude in advance for whatever

develops or is required in the relationship. Variations of this phrase are
used liberally in Japanese business language.

Osewa ni narimasu - I thank you, in advance, for all your help. This
is also another routine phrase that implies gratitude. It is different to
Yoroshiku onegaishimasu in that it subtly implies a more casual
business relationship and might be used in the case where gratitude
for a business relationship exists, but there is no specific business
objective at the time.

Challenges in Communication
No one likes to be misunderstood. In business situations, being
misunderstood can make the difference between the success or failure of
your projects. The way Asian and Western cultures communicate is
vastly different and sometimes conflicting. Thus, there is a higher risk
of misunderstanding and being misunderstood when dealing with Japanese
business people. The more prepared you are for these differences, the more
smoothly and positively your relationship with your Japanese clients and
colleagues will develop.

Differences in Communication Between Asian and Western Cultures

Sadahiko Hirose, former CEO of Columbia Music Entertainment and IBM
18

Japan executive explained to me the different ways Western and Asian

cultures communicate and ways to find success in communication across the
cultures.
In the United States...they like direct talk. But we like indirect talk.
For example, we like to use analogy, an analogical way of expression.
Its sort of indirect, which means its polite. To make a success here in
Japan, number one is to have an exclusivity, which it doesnt have here
in Japan. Number two; find the potential market through hearing the
market voice. Number three, communicate yourself in the Japanese
style, which is sort of indirect.
Sadahiko Hirose, former CEO of Columbia Music
Entertainment

The Japanese language and culture is very concerned with being

polite. They see indirect talk as a way of maintaining integrity and not
insulting their counterparts. The Western way is often to directly say what is
meant and use explanations. The Japanese, as Sadahiko Hirose mentions,
like discussion to be less direct. They feel that Western business leaders can
be more successful if they listen to the market more and talk less.

Eye Contact
In Western cultures, eye contact is a very important way of establishing
19

a connection with someone, or expressing interest in what they are saying.

In Japanese culture, eye contact can be seen as a rude way of
expressing scrutiny or intimidation towards the speaker. Japanese
people may refrain from looking at you in meetings and presentations and
they may even close their eyes, appearing to Westerners as if they are
sleeping, while in fact, they are listening intently and openly conveying so.

Finding Common Ground

In Japan, finding a common interest makes both clients and colleagues
feel more comfortable. Usually, finding a common ground is the beginning of
a reliable business relationship.
The American way is the conclusion first and then the reason for it. But
the European way is the reason first and then the conclusion. They are
some of the differences. But both are direct speakers. Here in Japan,
they do the openings first. Opening is starting or something different
from business; your hobby, what you did last night. Thats the kind of
entry. Just as a way of finding a common field, common subject
between you and me. Once we can find a something in common, then
the customer feels better.
Sadahiko Hirose
While Western business people like to get straight to the point, the
Japanese like to feel they have a friendly relationship before they do
20

business. In Japan, instead of delving right into a presentation or

explanation, it is appropriate to engage is what seems like a social activity:
talking about what you did the night before, or your hobbies. However, this
communication builds the trust and interest needed by Japanese business
people to accept and continue doing business with you.

The Value of Apology

In Western cultures, people are often raised to defend themselves and
their opinions. When something goes wrong, they offer explanations as to
why, especially if they feel they are not to blame. The Japanese, however,
see this as inappropriate and disagreeable. They equate explanations with
excuses.
Japanese people feel it is better to be quick in apologizing. In
fact, apologies are a constant part of Japanese conversation. They
will frequently preface favors or requests with apologetic phrases such as:
Sumimasen, or, Moshiwake gozaimasen. A cashier will apologize to you
before asking for your money. Wait staff in restaurants will often apologize
for making you wait for your dinner or drinks, even if they are brought out
immediately.

21

Most apologies in Japanese culture, are not an admittance of

fault, but rather an expression of modesty. They are simply a preface to
getting to the main topic of conversation so dont feel the need to explain
yourself if you have made a small mistake. Simply apologize.

The Importance of Listening

Another difference between Western and Asian business communication
is that Westerners like to talk and explain their plans in detail, but in
Japanese businesses relations it is more appropriate to listen to the client
express their needs.
Through hearing the customers voice and the customers message,
we can identify a demand. That would be very key. I guess thats a
common formula for creation both in the western countries and in
Japan, or even in China. Thats the Golden Rule. That golden rule
is very effective also in Japan.
If somebody wants to come to Japan and start a business, the
number one thing is that of course, the business should have some
exclusivity, but the key is hearing the voice of the Japanese
market. Thats the key. Western people have a tendency to try to
talk. They like to talk a lot. But hearing the sales talk is sometimes
boring. Instead, the customer likes to be heard from somebody.
The customer likes to talk. So, thats common in the United States
22

and also in Japan; especially in Japan. Sales talk by foreign people,

western people is too much. Less talk, much hearing; thats a way
to get into the market.
Sadahiko Hirose, former CEO of Columbia Music
Entertainment

In Japan, the best way to get into a market and be successful is

by listening to the demands of the customer. Sometimes, Westerners
have the tendency to talk more than is necessary. Recognize the value of
giving your client the opportunity to voice their concerns. In Japan, this is
the best way to further your business.

The Japanese Way of Saying No

The Japanese find it difficult to say no. A flat out refusal is considered
rude. Here are some clues as to whether your proposal is being rejected:

Muzukashii, which literally means difficult, is a way of declining

your offer. This is also a business code-word to say that what you are
asking for is impossible and is not going to happen.

Look for visual clues in body language such as a furrowing of the

eyebrows, a slow intake of breath through the teeth, or a strained
expression. Any of these expressions accompanying the word,
23

Muzukashii, means that you are being politely refused.

Zenshou shimasu, a phrase similar to I will do my best,

conveys no actual commitment to do so. Western people may take
this literally and feel that things are moving in a positive direction.
Japanese business people, however, understand that they are being
politely refused and no action will be taken.

Maybe, most likely means no. Again, look for non-verbal cues
that accompany the words they say.
When doing business in Japan, the ability to be perceptive is a

strong attribute. The Japanese frequently use body language and indirect
talk so paying close attention is one of the only ways to tell if your offer is
being rejected. Watch their faces, body posture, and breathing to tell if they
are dissatisfied. If you are uncertain as to what they are trying to say,
politely ask them is what you have offered is unacceptable. If you are fairly
certain they are politely saying no, consider a new offer.

Day-to-day Communication Tips for a Stay in Japan

Every culture has their differences in communication. When doing
business in Japan you will benefit by being aware of their unique social
etiquette.

Japanese people bow to greet each other. As a general rule, the

higher the rank of the person you are greeting, the deeper you should
24

bow. The deepest bow, however, does not exceed 45 degrees.

Always exchange business cards with new clients or

colleagues. After an initial introduction, pull out your business cards
and hand one over using both hands and a bow. Receive your clients
card the same way, and carefully study what is written on the card
before slipping it in your card case or wallet (never your pocket). If
you are in a meeting, place the card in front of you on the table. Put it
away in your wallet or card case once the meeting is over.

Never pour your drink by yourself. Allow someone to pour it for

you. Kampai is the word for toasting a drink, similar to Cheers!

Before partaking of food or drink that is offered to you, say,

Itadakimasu, which literally means, I will receive... This ritual
word is spoken before drinking and eating to express gratitude.

After finishing a meal, say Gochi so sama deshita, which is

another ritual word meaning, It was a delicious/excellent meal, and
expressing gratitude.

Never point or gesture with your chopsticks. Never pierce food

with your chopsticks, or pass food from one pair of chopsticks to
another.

It is considered rude to talk on your cell phone in public places

such as trains, buses, and restaurants. Make sure you set your cell
25

phone to silent/manner mode and if you need to make a phone call,

excuse yourself to a private place away from others.

Public eating or drinking is frowned upon in Japan. People

usually do not eat on public transportation, or while walking around on
the street. Meetings, as well, should be thought of as formal affairs
and you should not bring food or drink, although sometimes it might
be provided. Look to your Japanese clients to see what they are doing
to gauge a sense of what is appropriate.

Japanese people tend to use less dramatic gestures and

vocalization than Westerners. This isnt to say they are not
expressive, but that in general they can be more subtle. It is important
not to interpret what may seem like a subdued reaction as disinterest
or indifference.

When given a compliment, Japanese people tend to deny or

brush it off, sometimes even accusing you of flattery or exaggerating.
This is to appear humble and modest and does not mean that the
compliment is not appreciated.

Upon entering a Japanese persons home, it is polite to say,

Ojama shimasu. Literally translated, this means, I am about to
trouble you... This ritual phrase of expressing gratitude and humility
shows appreciation in having the opportunity to enter a persons
26

home.
To avoid giving the wrong impression in social situations in Japan it is
important to be aware of the etiquette and how you are behaving. The
Japanese culture is rather formal and polite. Be sure you know how to
greet another person, conduct yourself during formal and informal meetings,
and behave in social situations such as meals and visits to anothers home.
These etiquette points will help you be more respected and respectful in
Japanese culture.

Getting to Your Meetings in Tokyo

Tokyo is a city of over 12 million people and it can be difficult to
navigate the complicated public transportation system. One of Tokyos
major train stations, Shinjuku, has an average of 3.6 million people coursing
through it daily, making it the busiest train station in the world. With 12
train lines and 200 exits (including one underground arcade), it can feel like
a colossal maze of shops, tunnels, and platforms.
Tokyo public transportation is famously punctual and rarely offschedule, so being late to a meeting is rarely excusable, but if you know
where youre going and how to get there, you stand a better chance of
arriving to your meeting on time.
Avoid being late by following these tips for navigating Tokyos public
transportation system:
27

Being on time in Japan means being 5 minutes early.

Dont rely on one train line or company (for example JR East) to

get to your destination. The quickest way to your destination could
be using a combination of trains and subways, or busses.

Factor walking time into train transfers and avoid transfers at

large train stations if its possible to transfer at a smaller station.
Some train lines in Tokyo Station, for example, can take you 20
minutes to walk between!

Use an on-line guide to figure your train routes, transfers, and

times ahead of time. One good English-Language guide can be found
at here or here Subway only.

Depending on your destination, you may be able to save time

by taking an express. If you are going to a larger station, the
express trains will more than likely stop there. There are a few train
categories: Local Trains (kakueki-teisha) stop at every station. Rapid
Trains (kaisoku) skip a few stations. Express Trains (kyuukou) stop at
fewer stations than the Rapid trains. Limited Express Trains (tokkyuu)
only stop at the major stations. These trains are best for destinations
that are quite a ways out of the city.

Purchase a Pasmo or Suica card. These pre-paid, magnetized

railway passes will save you tremendous amounts of time in train
28

travel. Suica or Pasmo cards are available to purchase for 500yen. You
can add money to the card at ticket-purchasing machines in the
stations. Simply tap the card onto the Suica icon as you pass through
the gate and the train fare will automatically be deducted. The cards
can be used for all trains, subways, most buses, and recently for
station lockers and convenient stores.

Rush hour is generally from 7:30am to 9am in the mornings

and 5pm - 7pm in the evenings. Morning rush hours are the most
crowded. Although trains come more frequently, be prepared to
navigate through thick crowds, especially at the major stations.

To enter an already packed train car: Hold any bags, purses,

briefcases in front of you. Back into the train dont be afraid to push.
Brace your hands against the upper rim of the door as you push
backwards.

To exit a packed train car: Begin preparing to exit before the train
comes to a full stop. Once it stops, start pushing towards the exit
saying, Sumimasen. Orimasu! (Excuse me! I need to get off!)

When traveling by train, know ahead of time the exit number or name
of the station to which you are traveling. The major stations are
enormous, and going out the wrong exit can lead you far away from
your destination.
29

Taxis are everywhere and easily hailed on busy roads. If a taxi

light on the hood of the car is lit, it is available. The rear passenger
door automatically opens and closes, so wait for the driver to do this
for you. It is more difficult and expensive to call and reserve a taxi
than to simply hail one on the street.

Most taxi drivers do not speak English. Know and write down
(preferably in Japanese) the address of your destination. If you have a
written address the driver can simply enter the address into his/her
navigation system.

Trains do not run all night. Shuuden, or last train, is around

11:30pm to 1:00am depending on the train line. Be aware of the time
of your last train. Once it has departed, your only options are taxi or
staying the night in a hotel.
In all major cities across the world, transportation is a challenge,

especially to newcomers. In Japan, the best way to ensure that you arrive
on time to the right location is to give yourself an excess of time and know
where you are going and how to get there. Use interactive maps and
transportation websites before attempting to use public transportation.
When all else fails, have cab fair and the address of your destination written
down in Japanese.

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Did You Know?

Japan, the Land of the Rising Sun, is a very interesting country full of
history, culture, and innovation. Enjoy some fun facts about this splendid
country.

Japan is the second largest economy in the world, after the United
States.

Only 1.5% of Japans population are foreign nationals; the other

98.5% are Japanese.

Ninety-nine percent of the population speaks Japanese and the literacy

rate is 99%.

Japan has one of the lowest homicide crime rates in the world,
despite being one of the most densely populated countries. According
to the most recent statistics, Japan had 0.50 homicides per 100,000
people compared to 5.7 per 100,000 people in the United States.

Japan is comprised of over 3,000 islands! However, the four

largest islands (Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu) make up
97% of the land area.

Japan has the highest number of vending machines per capita

with about one machine per 23 people. Vending machines sell
everything from drinks, snacks, fried food, alcohol, soup, ice cream,
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and cigarettes.

Japan is one of the leading countries in the development of

environmentally friendly technologies. It is ranked 30th best in the
world according to the Environmental Sustainability Index.

Japan is very strict about garbage disposal. Garbage is separated

into combustible, non-combustible, and recyclable items. The
definitions of these items can differ from city to city. It might be hard
to find public garbage cans on the streets, but usually, they are
located in front of convenience stores.

The Japanese economy is distinguished by a special

cooperative relationship called keiretsu which is a close-knit
collaboration of manufacturers, suppliers, distributors and banks.
Japanese business has many relationship-based rather than
productivity-based arrangements, an example being guaranteed
lifelong employment in big corporations.

The Japanese language reflects the hierarchical nature of

Japanese society. Particular vocabulary and forms of verbs not only
indicate the status of the speaker, but also vary between men and
women.

Karaoke is the most widely practiced cultural entertainment

activity. The Japanese do not care about how well a person sings.
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Very few people are embarrassed to sing in front of others.

Public bathing is still a popular way to relax and enjoy time

with family and friends. Onsen is the word for a natural hot spring
bath. Sento is the word for a public bath with regular tap water.

You dont have to tip in Japan. However, be aware that certain bars
and restaurants, may bill you a table charge or what is sometimes
also called otoushi.

Baseball is the most popular spectator sport in Japan.

Sumo is also a popular spectator sport, with an increasing number

of foreigners participating! In 2006, 59 wrestlers were registered as
foreigners, and 19 of those were in the top two divisions.

In Japan, not only do you remove your shoes before entering a

house, you may need to change slippers several times as well. Often,
Japanese people have slippers for the inside of the house, slippers for
the bathroom, and even a pair of slippers for the veranda.

The Japanese are very conscious of age. In Japan, it is not

considered rude to ask how old someone is.

In Japan, being punctual is always important. From business

meetings, to dinners, to parties, one is expected to be on time. There
is no such thing as being fashionably late.

Japan is a country with frequent earthquakes. It is not unusual to

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feel slight tremors several times throughout the year.

Dont be surprised to see some people wearing white surgical

masks in the winter. When Japanese people catch a cold, they
believe it is polite to wear a mask to keep from passing it on to others.

Japanese people love food and the food in Japan is delicious

and inexpensive. Most Japanese people can identify different cities
and prefectures with certain foods they specialize in. For example,
Kagawa Prefecture is famous for their udon noodles, while Okinawa is
famous for their soba noodles.

Japanese ATMs are not open 24 hours. Bank ATMs often close
around 7pm - 9pm on weekdays, sometimes as early as 5pm on
weekends. Convenience store ATMs sometimes dispense cash at all
hours, but often depends on the card.

The Japanese take holidays at the same time, notably Oshougatsu

(New Years holiday, around the first week of January), Golden Week
(end of April beginning of May) and Obon (around the second week
of August). Travel becomes highly congested and twice as expensive
during these holidays.

Japan is largely a cash culture. It is not uncommon for people to

carry $300 to $500 (roughly 30,000 to 50,000yen) cash in their
wallets. Card use is becoming more common at larger stores and
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metropolitan areas.
Even though visiting a new country and starting a business can be
intimidating, it is important to remember that Japan is open to foreign
business. They are accepting of Westerners, especially those who know a
little about the country, the culture, and its business practices.

Offsite Meetings in Tokyo

In Japan, office space is usually limited. For example, where American
offices are roomy with aisles and cubicles to separate employees, the
Japanese often sit side-by-side, with all their desks together in a row.
Meeting space can also be limited. In some situations, a nice option is to
arrange for your business meeting to take place at an offsite location such as
the following:

Academy Hills, 49F Roppongi Hills

A members-only (with one-time passes available) library-like space with
panoramic views and an atrium cafe area suitable for casual business
meetings. Food and drinks available, unrestricted WIFI. English Website

Seattles Best Coffee, Shinjuku

Seattles Best Coffee is the only coffee chain operating in Tokyo that
offers free, unrestricted WIFI. The Shinjuku branch, located in the southern
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part of Shinjuku-ward, is a quiet getaway from the bustle of downtown.

Outlet Locations

Good Luck!
Japan is an interesting and innovative country. While the practices of
negotiation and decision making may be very different than Western
business standards, it is important to remember that Japanese business
people are like any other business person: they just want what is right for
their company. By being aware of the cultural communication style and
etiquette you will be able to approach doing business in Japan with more
knowledge as to what is acceptable and appreciated. Remember its not
essential to be fluent in Japanese, but be prepared to explain your point
creatively and when travelling to your destination in Tokyo, give yourself
plenty of time. Lastly, enjoy the experience of doing business in Japan.
Think of it as an adventure!
Whether you are already doing business in Japan, or considering
starting a business in Japan, check out Kaori-san. Remember, while the
practices of business are different all over the world, the Japanese are open
to starting a business relationship with you.

Ejovi Nuwere

http://www.meetkaori.com/

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