Japan is a country that is often praised for its polite and respectful culture. Japanese people are known for their etiquette and manners, such as bowing, using honorifics, taking off shoes, and being considerate of others. However, some people also criticize Japanese people for having bad personalities, such as being hypocritical, passive-aggressive, or cold-hearted. Why are Japanese people said to have the best manners and the worst character in the world? In this blog post, we will explore some possible reasons behind this perception and how to understand and appreciate Japanese culture better.
The gap between tatemae and honne
One of the reasons why Japanese people are said to have good manners but bad personalities is the gap between tatemae and honne. Tatemae means the public face or the facade that one shows to others, while honne means the true feelings or the reality that one hides from others. Japanese people tend to use tatemae to maintain social harmony and avoid conflict, but this can also create a sense of dishonesty or insincerity. For example, a Japanese person may smile and nod politely to someone they dislike, or say yes when they mean no, or agree with something they disagree with. This can make them seem friendly and cooperative on the surface, but actually resentful and hostile underneath.
The lack of confidence in English
Another reason why Japanese people are said to have good manners but bad personalities is the lack of confidence in English. English is not widely spoken or taught in Japan, and many Japanese people feel nervous or embarrassed when they have to communicate with foreigners in English. This can make them seem shy, reserved, or aloof, even though they may be interested or curious. For example, a Japanese person may avoid eye contact, speak in a low voice, or keep a distance from a foreigner, or simply remain silent or run away, even though they may want to talk or make friends. This can make them seem rude or unfriendly, even though they may be polite or respectful.
The difference in cultural values
The third reason why Japanese people are said to have good manners but bad personalities is the difference in cultural values. Japan is a collectivistic and high-context culture, where people value group harmony, social norms, and implicit communication. On the other hand, many Western countries are individualistic and low-context cultures, where people value personal freedom, self-expression, and explicit communication. These cultural differences can lead to misunderstandings or conflicts, especially when it comes to personal space, body language, or humor. For example, a Japanese person may stand close to someone, bow deeply, or laugh softly, while a Westerner may prefer more distance, shake hands, or laugh loudly. This can make them seem either too intrusive or too distant, depending on the perspective.
Conclusion【How to understand and appreciate Japanese manners and personalities】
In conclusion, Japanese people are said to have good manners but bad personalities because of the gap between tatemae and honne, the lack of confidence in English, and the difference in cultural values. However, these are not necessarily true or fair judgments, but rather subjective impressions based on stereotypes or biases. To understand and appreciate Japanese manners and personalities, it is important to learn more about their culture and history, to communicate with them in a respectful and open-minded way, and to avoid making hasty or sweeping generalizations. Japanese people are not all the same, and they have their own individual traits and preferences, just like anyone else. By getting to know them better, you may discover that they are not only polite and respectful, but also warm and sincere.
- Japanese politeness is a myth: One person’s tale strikes a chord with people around the country - Japan Today
- Understanding and Mastering Japanese Manners and Etiquette | Guide | Travel Japan - Japan National Tourism Organization (Official Site)
- Japanese Customs and Manners | LIVE JAPAN travel guide