Japan - Culture Smart!: The Essential Guide to Customs & Culture

4.6 4.6 out of 5 stars | 354 ratings

Price: 14

Last update: 12-23-2024


About this item

The Japanese people have always seen themselves as a nation uniquely apart. Their exquisite art forms and elegant culture, military prowess and technological precision, have long been the envy of friend and foe alike.

Today, even as Japan adapts to a rapidly changing world, its traditional culture and consensus-based philosophy have proved remarkably resilient. Culture Smart! Japan will broaden your perception and understanding of this complex, rich, and dynamic society.

It will guide you through modern Japan’s shifting social and cultural maze and equip you with the tools to avoid the pitfalls of cultural misunderstanding. It provides practical tips and invaluable insights into people’s attitudes and behavior to help make your visit a more meaningful and successful experience.


Top reviews from the United States

  • Fits Perfect
    5.0 out of 5 stars Good mix of information
    Reviewed in the United States on November 9, 2024
    I got this for my older brother since I've heard that he wants to move to Japan. I think this will be a great beginning book and a rang of information. There's food, history, word and phrases, plus dos and don'ts of Japanese socialization
    Customer image
    Fits Perfect
    5.0 out of 5 stars Good mix of information
    Reviewed in the United States on November 9, 2024
    I got this for my older brother since I've heard that he wants to move to Japan. I think this will be a great beginning book and a rang of information. There's food, history, word and phrases, plus dos and don'ts of Japanese socialization
    Images in this review
    Customer image Customer image Customer image Customer image Customer image Customer image
  • Kirk Z
    5.0 out of 5 stars Well written and fairly comprehensive.
    Reviewed in the United States on October 7, 2024
    The book could have benefited from a chapter on religion, given the extent to which it imbues it Japanese culture. Otherwise well written and very engaging.
  • Bcapp
    5.0 out of 5 stars Gave as a gift
    Reviewed in the United States on July 14, 2024
    The traveler I gave this to seemed to like it.
  • Kindle Customer
    5.0 out of 5 stars So interesting!
    Reviewed in the United States on May 19, 2024
    Incredibly useful book!
  • Amazon Customer
    5.0 out of 5 stars Enjoyable, interesting and really practical
    Reviewed in the United States on August 24, 2022
    This guide provided me with a great deal of insight into Japanese culture and society. The book covers a lot of ground, including key history and current affairs (including how Covid has affected society), important values and common attitudes (really critical info for visitors to Japan – knowing this information will improve the quality of your trip!). There are also chapters on festivals and traditions, socializing, home life, useful phrases, and more. My favorite chapter was probably the one on food culture and cuisine – there’s so much to discover and enjoy!

    Overall, loved the book and consider it very good value for money.
  • Anthony84
    5.0 out of 5 stars Great book about history, customs, and etiquette of Japan
    Reviewed in the United States on June 23, 2022
    Book was 200 pages so I read it in less than a week. Good insight into the culture of Japan. I also recommend A Geek in Japan which is also great.
  • Karen A Rousseau
    5.0 out of 5 stars Gift
    Reviewed in the United States on January 5, 2023
    Given as gift
  • S LeCren
    3.0 out of 5 stars Arrived ripped
    Reviewed in the United States on November 28, 2023
    This is exactly what my daughter will want for Christmas. Just upset that it arrived with a big rip on the cover. That is why I only gave 3 stars.
    Customer image
    S LeCren
    3.0 out of 5 stars Arrived ripped
    Reviewed in the United States on November 28, 2023
    This is exactly what my daughter will want for Christmas. Just upset that it arrived with a big rip on the cover. That is why I only gave 3 stars.
    Images in this review
    Customer image

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