Assimilation

One of the hardest things of trying to assimilate into another culture is learning the new social and behavioral norms. I think that many foreigners don't even think about this and instead choose to take a "I am who I am" attitude and feel they don't need to adhere to any cultural norms. Of course this is understandable ,but I just revel in the irony of those who would complaign about foreigners lack of assimilation into their own culture yet they have a complete disregard for abiding by the rules while abroad. Oh, it's just hilarious. But anyways, this is supposed to be more about some of the norms that I have noticed and try to obey. Keep in mind. I've never lived in a metropolis, but I do take the liberty of assuming that many of these behaviors are unique to Tokyo and Japan.

Certain things you'll have to learn off the bat. For instance, the driving on the opposite side of the road thing also extends to sidewalk etiquite. Be prepared for many a run in when attempting to pass an oncoming pedestrian on the right. Perhaps the best policy is to do what most Japanese seem to do, walk in a straight line and let other people move out of YOUR way.

The silent train rides are something that many people may take awhile getting used to, but this is also one of the first things many people will encounter when in Japan. No talking, no cellphone use, try not to eat or drink, eyes forward or on a book. Break the rules and you might be dealt a harsh lashing in the Nihongo from another passenger. I've seen it happen. And when you exit the train and head up the escalator, please remember: stand on the left and pass on the right.

Service is something in Japan that I find is incomparable to anywhere else in the world. Be prepared for verbal assualts of "Irashaimasen!" (Welcome) and "Domo arigato gozaimasu!". And be prepared for them coming at you at you from all fronts; we're talking Hello's and Thank You's from every employee, sometimes at once, sometimes not. Don't even bother trying to be polite back though. It will only elicit a robotish response of usually the same thanks and besides, nobody else is too kind to the service workers. Of course they are cordial at times, but mostly they finish transations without a word unless it is necessary. Take for example the countless restaruants that feature a coin operated ticket machine rather than a waiter. But hey, if you need the bus boy for anything, he will bend over backwards for your happiness.