#37 Kebiasaan unik orang Jepang / 日本人の変な習慣(Podcast bahasa Jepang / 日本語ポッドキャスト)

Summary

This video explores unique aspects of Japanese culture, focusing on work ethics, customer service, dining etiquette, and izakaya customs. It highlights how older generations in Japan often work through illness due to a strong sense of responsibility, while younger generations prioritize rest. The exceptional service in ryokan (traditional inns) is also discussed, showcasing Japan’s commitment to hospitality. Additionally, dining manners like proper chopstick use and the automatic serving of small dishes in izakayas provide intriguing insights into Japanese customs that may surprise foreigners.

Takeaways

• 😀 Japanese people tend to work even when they are sick, showing strong work ethics and a sense of responsibility, though younger generations are more likely to take time off when sick.
• 😀 In the past, older generations rarely took sick leave, often pushing themselves until they couldn't work anymore, as they didn't want to burden others.
• 😀 The concept of 'Omotenashi' in Japan refers to the high level of hospitality in establishments like ryokan (Japanese inns), where guests are greeted warmly and provided with excellent service.
• 😀 Japanese inns (ryokan) offer both affordable and expensive accommodations, but the emphasis is always on good service, relaxation, and delicious food.
• 😀 Proper chopstick etiquette is highly valued in Japan; improper use, such as holding them incorrectly or stabbing food with them, can lead to social embarrassment.
• 😀 'Mayoi-bashi' (迷い橋) refers to the inappropriate act of poking and prodding food with chopsticks while trying to decide what to eat, which is considered poor manners.
• 😀 The practice of placing a hand under a bowl (known as 'te-zara') to prevent food from falling is common in Japan, though it’s not widely practiced in other countries like Indonesia.
• 😀 There are many eating rules in Japan, making dining behavior sometimes feel complicated even for Japanese people themselves.
• 😀 In izakayas (Japanese pubs), food is often served immediately when you sit down, even without placing an order. This is a custom, though not free of charge, and may surprise foreigners.
• 😀 The cost of food at an izakaya is relatively affordable, with small dishes costing around 300 yen, which can add up over time.

Q & A

Why do older generations of Japanese people rarely take sick leave?

Older generations in Japan have a strong sense of responsibility and often believe that taking time off work is burdensome to others. They tend to push through sickness and only take leave when absolutely necessary, such as when a close family member passes away.

How do younger Japanese people view taking sick leave compared to older generations?

Younger generations in Japan are more likely to take sick leave when they catch a cold or feel unwell. This is considered normal by international standards, though it contrasts with the older generation's strong work ethic.

What is 'omotenashi' in Japanese culture?

'Omotenashi' refers to the Japanese philosophy of hospitality, where hosts go above and beyond to provide thoughtful and considerate service to guests. This is a core aspect of the experience in traditional ryokan inns.

What role does hospitality play in the experience at a ryokan?

At a ryokan, hospitality is central to the experience. Guests are treated with exceptional care, and the focus on providing comfort and relaxation extends to both the accommodations and the meals, often making the stay worth the price.

Why is the proper use of chopsticks so important in Japan?

Chopstick etiquette is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture. Using chopsticks incorrectly, such as stabbing food with them or holding food in the hand, is seen as impolite. Parents often teach children how to use chopsticks properly, and failing to do so can result in scolding.

What is 'mayoi-bashi' and why is it considered impolite?

'Mayoi-bashi' refers to the act of stabbing food with chopsticks, a practice that is frowned upon in Japan. It goes against proper dining etiquette, which emphasizes using chopsticks with grace and respect for the food.

What is the significance of 'te-zara' in Japanese dining etiquette?

'Te-zara' refers to the practice of holding a plate with the left hand to prevent food from falling. However, it is considered improper in Japan to eat this way. In fact, the proper way to handle food is by keeping the plate steady on the table.

What is typically served at Japanese izakayas before a customer orders anything?

At izakayas, it’s common for small side dishes to be brought to the table as soon as the customer sits down, even before they place their order. These dishes are not free, but customers are expected to accept them.

How do foreigners typically react to the custom of receiving side dishes at izakayas?

Foreigners are often surprised when they are served side dishes at izakayas before ordering. Since the dishes are not free, this practice can be confusing for those not familiar with Japanese dining customs.

What does the phrase 'soraria de nashi' mean in the context of izakayas?

The phrase 'soraria de nashi' likely refers to a comparison between Japanese izakayas and other establishments, such as Australian pubs, where customers may find the ordering and pricing system more straightforward.