AboutJewel Expertise I can answer basic Japanese culture questions. I specialize in answering questions relating to geisha.
Experience I have read up on a lot of the Japanese culture today. Most of my reading is in geisha, as I have quite a collection of books and art. I also continue to talk with a previous Japanese exchange student, who I speak with about her country often.
Education/Credentials Degree in nutrition science and high school education.
Question QUESTION: Hi,
I often go to a very nice japanese restaurant. I went to many other restaurants before, but I must say this one is the most ''traditional'' one so far.
You sit on the floor in private rooms; japanese women serve you in yukatas, etc. The waitress barelly speak english, even less french (I'm in a french speaking province)
So, my question is: when I go there, is it considered proper or rude to use my limited japanese to talk to them? I don't want to insult them in a any ways, they are the nicest waitresses ever, but sometimes they do have a hard time getting what I'm saying in english...
Thank you very much
ANSWER: No, it is ok for you to try and use your limited Japanese. They will be understanding if you mess up and be glad you are willing to try their language. However, be sure to apologize at least a few times as you continue to try. Be modest! If a Japanese person praises you on your speaking, DO NOT simply accepted it and say, "thank you," always be modest! I would reply by saying things like, "Oh, no, I'm still a beginner," or "I really need to practice more." Otherwise you're likely to be viewed as arrogant.
Good luck and have fun!
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QUESTION: Thank you very much, now I want to go back soon to try!
And what to answer when they tell me, or actually tell my grand-father, that I'm beautiful (Because they do...like 5 times everytime I go...I'm not used to so much attention)? Is ''oh no, I'm not'' appropriate?
Answer Yes, be very modest and don't accept the compliment right away. If they keep insisting, you may eventually accept the compliment, but do so also very modestly ("oh, if you think so, thank you" or something like that). The biggest problem the Japanese see in Americans is that they are rude and arrogant. There's really no way in changing the outlook they have of Americans, just realize there are some things you cannot change. Ask them questions and be very polite and curious about the culture and they will appreciate it. :)
