General Cultural Information

Before we can understand anyone in Japan, we have to have some idea of what their daily lives are like. This includes knowing their traditions, their beliefs, and their worldview.  

There are many books and articles written and documentaries made on the subject of Japanese culture. It seems that Japanese culture has been fascinating to thousands of scholars and scientists all around the world.

It is said that the Japanese culture is very unique and consists of exclusive elements found nowhere else. I personally doubt this fact. I believe that the elements that seem very unique to Japan can be found in other cultures. For example, there are many similarities between some elements of Japanese culture and Iranian culture. For instance, the concept of aimai, means ‘ambiguity,’ ‘indirectness’ and ‘not giving direct answers.’ Avoiding saying ‘no’ is considered very Japanese. Japanese people tend to be indirect; this is a way of showing respect and politeness. If someone asks another person for coffee or tea, the answer will be ‘Both of them are fine’ or ‘Either this or that’ or ‘It will not matter.’ In this site I will be discussing some aspects of the culture, but I suggest you to read in my book for more details on this subjects.