Japan has a combination of ancient culture with incredible modernity that attracts many visitors. However, there are always misconceptions about this country. Let's debunk 5 most common misconceptions.
1. It’s hard to move around if you do not speak Japanese
Most people who travel to Japan don’t speak a single word of Japanese, and they are able to enjoy Japan without hassle. This myth is caused because there is a common misperception that Japanese people don’t speak English. However, they study at the school and have an English level relatively high. In addition, Japan is surprisingly easy to go around due high levels of safety, genuinely kind and helpful locals, efficient and reliable transport systems.
2. Japanese people eat sushi all day every day
When thinking in Japan, sushi comes to their mind automatically. But the truth is that Japanese don’t eat sushi frequently due that its cuisine is amazingly varied and tasty. So, on your trip make sure to try it. You can eat Ramen, a wheat noodle soup that you can find it in every corner; or Okonomiyaki, a pancake filled commonly with cabbage, it is so delicious!
3. You can use Wi-Fi & credit cards everywhere
As Japan is a developed country and looks very modern and futuristic, many travelers assume Free Wi-Fi will be anywhere, and that credit and debit cards will be accepted almost everywhere. However, finding Wi-Fi in Japan, even in major cities likes Tokyo and Kyoto, is much more difficult than people expect. On the other hand, Japan is primarily a cash-based society and credit cards are not always accepted. The good thing is that you can prepare before your trip by renting a pocket Wi-Fi and carrying more cash than usual.
Discover here how to stay connected to the Internet in Japan with a pocket Wi-Fi.
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4. You’ll offend everyone if you do not learn Japanese etiquette
Japanese people give a high value to politeness and etiquette. Their etiquette rules are complex that they do not expect foreign visitors know it. Then, if you are culturally sensitive, they will appreciate you are making an effort. Therefore, so even if you don’t learn all the rules, you can be respectful by observing and listening to your surroundings, always being polite, and apologizing you accidentally make an etiquette mistake.
5. Japanese people don’t like to be touched
There is a myth about Japanese people are afraid of someone to touch them or are seen a kind of a prude. This is most certainly not true with daily commutes and train rides. Japan is crowded. People need to get places. You’re going to get bumped into, crammed, and squeezed. It happens. If all Japanese people were so weird about personal space, stuff like this wouldn’t happen.
