Annual leave in Japan is one of the areas where opinions often clash. After finally getting that working visa, most of us look forward to exploring the country on our days off. But is......
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Complete Guide to Nomikai
From super strict rules to bosses going crazy, many rumors surround nomikai, Japanese drinking parties. Nomikai are a place where the formal working culture is relaxed and people get drunk and talk straight with...
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The Simple Art of Exchanging Business Cards in Japan
Japanese Business cards – an essential factor of the identity of any shakaijin (社会人, working member of society) in Japan. Thus business card exchange can quickly turn into a ritualistic minefield. If you never...
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Bit Valley – Japan’s Silicon Valley
Silicon Valley – the place where industry giants develop the newest tech, and most of all an ecosystem in which startups can thrive and innovation happens. Does Japan have anything that can compare? What...
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Elevator Etiquette in Japan
Riding an elevator can be tricky in Japan. Did you ever notice the person that is pushing the ‘open’ button the entire time? Or how the person closest to the panel always seems to...
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3 Business Manga to Get Ready for Work-Life in Japan
Manga are not only fun, then can also be informative. Despite their often fictional settings, they can give much insight into live in Japan. Why not learn about Japanese work culture and manners by...
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Knocking like a salaryman
Knocking on the door, how hard can it be? Did you know that some people in Japan failed their job interviews before they even entered the room? Why? They did not know how to...
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Hourensou: The Japanese Approach to Business Communication
Japanese business culture places high importance on teamwork. And for effective teamwork, communication is essential. Hourensou is the Japanese recipe for ensuring fluent communication between team members. It’s also the key to gain trust...
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When to Say Thank You at the Japanese Office
That Japanese people are polite is common knowledge. What some may not be aware of is that while most Japanese will forgive a few slurs in your keigo, not being conscious of what is...
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4 Japanese Business Greetings you need to know
What should you say to greet Japanese colleagues at the office? Let’s take a look at the proper Japanese business greetings and the right time to use them. I pretty much grew up watching...
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Company Hierarchy in Japan
Taking your first steps in the Japanese business world and feeling overwhelmed by the corporate hierarchy? When starting my first job in Japan I tried looking them up, but they all seemed to vaguely...
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