Decorum Help

[Drakkon]

I grew up in in a redneck type family and never really got too much culture outside of that. So I was invited to a friendly dinner party tonight by a Japanese friend to her house and realized I have not much of a clue what the proper decorum is. I know these friends of mine are kinda traditional and will ask to remove my shoes but beyond that I'm not sure what to expect.

So any hints for a country boy? The last time i came over to their house i came over in boots and felt awkward taking them off and realizing my socks weren't the cleanest. Luckily that was just to help them move but I'd like to avoid looking like too much of a yokel among their friends.

 

[dighn]

I think a ninja outfit should please them greatly.

 

[leadpaint]

Well, I suppose it wouldn't hurt to show up nicely groomed and just ask what their customs are.

 

[spidey07]

I'd say basic manners should suffice. don't eat until the host sits down and eats, etc. Offer to help with dishes/cleanup.

Oh - and if there's soup pick up the bowl and drink the soup from it by cupping it in your hand. You can shovel any goodies into your mouth with a utensil.

 

[dbk]

http://www.futenma.usmc.mil/new%20joins/customs.htm

read that

 

[spidey07]

Originally posted by: dbk
http://www.futenma.usmc.mil/new%20joins/customs.htm

read that

"It is surprising to newcomers just how much alcohol the Japanese consume."

Ain't that the truth. When I go on business dinners with them they're blitzed before the food even arrives. I mean 4 long island ice teas blitzed, it's like they're in a race!

 

[Perknose]

Originally posted by: spidey07
I'd say basic manners should suffice. don't eat until the host sits down and eats, etc. Offer to help with dishes/cleanup.

OP, the answer is simple, ask your friend.

Please don't rely on OT. You'd be surprised how different cultures react to what you would consider being helpful. In some cultures a guest, especially a male guest, offering to help with the dishes/cleanup would not only be considered highly inappropriate, but an INSULT.

So, ask your friend these questions.

 

[spidey07]

Originally posted by: Perknose

Originally posted by: spidey07
I'd say basic manners should suffice. don't eat until the host sits down and eats, etc. Offer to help with dishes/cleanup.

OP, the answer is simple, ask your friend.

Please don't rely on OT. You'd be surprised how different cultures react to what you would consider being helpful. In some cultures a guest, especially a male guest, offering to help with the dishes/cleanup would not only be considered highly inappropriate, but an INSULT.

So, ask your friend these questions.

That is very true regarding the offer to help depending on custom. Forgot about that.

 

[Drakkon]

Originally posted by: dbk
http://www.futenma.usmc.mil/new%20joins/customs.htm

read that

Interesting read. Thanks!

I just wanted to show my friend respect without having to ask too many questions. I figured if i could just figure a few things before arriving it would help.

 

[theflyingpig]

If you do anything embarrassing, you must immediately commit suicide. If you do not, you will shame your friend for life. Remember this, and you will be fine.

 

[leadpaint]

Just a thought: your Japanese friends may demonstrate what is considered to be horrible table manners. I'm Chinese, and I don't know how similar Japanese culture is, but enjoying the food and company is valued much higher than eating gracefully in Chinese culture.

 

[spidey07]

Originally posted by: theflyingpig
If you do anything embarrassing, you must immediately commit suicide. If you do not, you will shame your friend for life. Remember this, and you will be fine.

I can has seppuku?

 

[I Saw OJ]

Show up in one of these.