Beliefs...Japanese Culture and People

Well, my first impression about Japanese people is that they are very friendly. Their hospitality, their politeness...make me so impressive. Even the kids, are taught and instilled with moral values since they are born. Disciplines and well-manners become part and parcel of their routine. It has amazed me ever since I watched Japanese cartoons. Well, my first exposure to Japanese cartoons is the 'Doraemon'. Frankly, it is still one of my favourite untill now. Sounded childish, didn't I? But, the characters in the cartoon have definitely taught me many things. That is where I was introduced to the custom of bowing in Japan. At first, I was quite curious: why are they bowing? Especially one of the characters, Nobita who kept repeating the gesture of bow whenever he had done something wrong or came across with someone he afraid of, Giant. As I come of age, I slowly realised that it is a gesture of repect. It is a way of introductions, greetings, expressing appreciation, and as well as apologizing for Japanese people.

It's incredible indeed to know that Japanese people also practising table manners. I still remembered vividly the words "itadakimasu" and "gochisousama deshita", introduced by our Japanese teacher, Myrika sensei in last semester. From there, I found that it is a polite way to say "itadakimasu" once before eating or drinking, while "gochisousama deshita" to your host or to the restaurant's staff after eating or when leaving the place. Besides, I also found that Japanese people usually brought up their bowls or plates to the mouth, rather than bending one's head towards it.These kind of manners have undoubtedly earned the respect of others towards Japanese people.