ESL21B 1761

Essay 1.2

Topic#2

Intercultural Misunderstandings

There are various cultures, values and communication styles in the world. There is nothing wrong. However it often invites misunderstandings in a foreign country. Japanese culture and manners are especially unique. Therefore, you should know them if you go to Japan. It's the way to avoid intercultural conflicts and misconceptions.

First of all, Japanese people don't greet to a stranger for the first time. By contrast, American people say 'Hi!' with a light heart and therefore they might think that Japanese people are unfriendly. It's because they are shy. One of my American friends went to Tokyo last year. He got lost in the downtown area. Then he spoke to a Japanese old man in English, but he said nothing with ingratiating smile. My friend felt that Japanese people were very cold. I think it's one of intercultural misunderstandings. Most Japanese people are shy and, moreover, they don't speak English very well. I think that learning a foreign language is important when you go abroad. A Japanese student was killed in the United States about fifteen years agobecause of language misconception. It was a Halloween night. He was supposed to go to his friend's party, but he visited a stranger's house by mistake, and tried to get in. The owner of the house found him and shouted 'Freeze!' Unfortunately, the Japanese student thought 'Please.' and kept trying to get in. Finally, he was shot and died. If you go to a foreign country, you should learn basic conversation at least. Then it makes your travel more satisfactory.

Next, Japanese people are very exact about time because they are hotheaded. For example, when I order something on the internet, it arrives in 5-8 days in the U.S. On the contrary, it arrives next day in Japan even though it's standard shipping. It means that Japanese people have a meticulous nature.

You have to pay attention to manners in Japan. Here is a good example. Palis Hilton visited Japan last year. She was very popular as a fashion leader especially among young girls. However she suddenly cancelled some events and was always late for all appointments during her stay. Needless to say, she became the focus of criticism. Some foreign actors and actresses who visit Japan are very polite and know well about the manners. As a result, they are set a high valuation because Japanese people value politeness above everything else.

Culture differences can invite misunderstandings. However as long as a foreign visitor knows well Japan, he will be able to enjoy its own culture and style. Moreover if you speak the Japanese language, it will help you a lot. It is very important to avoid intercultural conflicts.