Social-norms in Japan?

[HouseChurchill]

Dear all,

I am going to move to Japan next summer. I am worried and excited about it. As the Chinese from Hong Kong, we do not have much social norms. E.g. we used to speak and lauge quite loudly in restaurants (except in some formal ones), we talk on mobile phones on public transportation, We eat on the street ... etc. I know these things may deem as impolite if I do them in Japan, right? Since I am going to live there, I have to seriously think about if I can live with other social-norms there. Can anyone kindly let me know anymore important social-norms that I should be aware of before I make a fool of myself?

Also, I am now an English teacher teaching in a local primary school here in H.K. I don't know if I will be an opportunity for me to find a similar job in Tokyo? I want to work but I am not the native English speaking person although I have teaching cert and MA in TESOL. Is it really impossible to find a tutor job?

Thank you very much if you can reply this message!

Jessica

 

[nice gaijin]

It sounds like you already know a few examples of the differences between Japanese culture and the culture you grew up in. It's practically impossible to predict and prevent any potentially embarrassing situation.

Being a foreigner will probably excuse you for some of these cases, but as I understand, it is tougher for Asian-looking foreigners, because they are harder to discern from native Japanese at the first glance. Because of this, you might have a tougher time than more obvious foreigners, at least until your gaijin status becomes known.

 

[Keiichi]

I think if you're already aware of some of those things, then you're alright. I think the best way is to just live through it and see what's polite or not by observing others.

 

[MajideSaiaku]

You seem aware of most of the main social differences, and looknig around the website and forum should give you more of an insight, also feel free to ask questions as you have them in the Japan practical forum or where-ever, dont be afraid to ask if you have a really big concern, thats what those of us who live in Japan are for, to bestow their knowledge onto others, hehe.

 

[HouseChurchill]

Thank you

Thank you for all your kind replies. In fact, it was my first time to post a message here this afternoon and I am glad to receive your replies, thank you again!