Cultural differences of japan and australia
You will find Japanese students don’t speak up, so you don’t know what they are thinking. They are not used to speaking English and will speak very little or maintain silence. You will need to constantly initiate conversation and ask questions. They are basically shy in nature, not good at approaching or speaking with others which is attributed to the fact that Japan is composed of one race, one language and that people understand without having to explain.
Understanding
The Japanese student constantly worries that they are not understood, have spoken wrong English and that people will laugh. They are a very proud inside and can become introverted if laughed at.
Invitations
A casual “come over” invitation is seen by the Japanese as a form of greeting and should be disregarded as an open invitation. Unless a formal invitation, with day and time given then you are not expected to ‘turn up’ without notice or to invite yourself.
Showing consideration
Don’t be offended if the Japanese student does not expect you to open the present in front of them, this is usual. Always show consideration of their feelings even if the gift isn’t wonderful.
Saying Yes
When saying ‘yes’ it is not always meant as an acceptance – it usually indicates that the other party has understood what you have said (possibly) – again the fear of saying ‘No’ as not to offend can be the reason behind this.
Individuality
Japanese culture places great emphasis on group harmony, he who acts as an individual is ignored. They do not act independently of others and unlike Australians, where we promote and praise individuality; Japanese depend upon each other to provide reassurance.
