How to learn Japanese culture

Of course, one of the best ways to get to know and experience Japanese culture is by taking a trip to Japan and spending a few months living among its people and its forms. However, since times or finances do not always allow for excursions, there are still effective ways for you to learn about Japanese culture, without having to travel far from your home.

Steps to follow:

one

Visit your library. Borrow books dedicated to Japanese culture, customs and language. Most libraries also allow people to borrow informative DVDs. Look for popular Japanese productions, or pull out educational films about Japanese culture. You can also ask the library if there are self-learning tutorial videos, in which you are almost interested in learning the Japanese language.

two

Take a university course. Enroll in one or two courses that teach the Japanese language, in addition to its culture and history . Many institutions also offer cultural clubs. Ask a teacher from the language department of any Japanese cultural club. This will allow you to make friends with other students of Japanese culture, and will provide you with a more personalized way of learning about culture.

3

Communicate with a pen pal. If you can not take a college course and prefer a more private way of learning about Japanese culture, consider having a pen pal. A pen pal will allow you to write to a student or another person from Japan. By having a pen pal, you can learn about the culture of someone who knows you well. Ask questions about the types of foods they eat, religion, what a typical day is, their education system, and family traditions.

4

Cook the popular foods of Japan. Rice plays an important role in the Japanese diet, especially around the fall season, when the rice is ripe and offers a sweet and delicate flavor. Mushrooms, fruits, fish and vegetables are also basic elements in the Japanese diet. To add to the cultural experience, enjoy your meal listening to popular Japanese music, and eat your food with chopsticks. If you have friends in Japan, ask them to show you how to make authentic dishes.

Tips
  • The Japanese are very traditional, if one day you travel to Japan follow their customs or it can be a very negative gesture on your part.