Japanese House Manners

★Cat Merch! crowdmade.com/...
What's normal and polite in a Japanese home. Some things that aren't mentioned include:
-Folding the end of the toilet paper roll into a triangle shape. It's not necessary, but it's a nice gesture. Although who really wants you to touch the roll again before washing your hands? Hmmm...
-Toilet room slippers. Many homes have them, but who uses them?! Not very many people, actually. It's okay if you don't.
-Sliding doors! Most rooms will have doors in between them. For communal areas they will usually be sliding doors. If they are already shut, make sure to shut them behind you when you pass through. The reason is that many people heat or cool only the room that they're currently using.
Table manners in the next video!
★ Patreon! / rachelandjun
Want to help subtitle our videos?
rachelandjun.bl....
【You can also find us:】
×Gaming channel: / racheland. .
×Extra videos: / racheland. .
×Jun's Kitchen: / junskitchen
×Twitch: / pro. .
×Facebook: / rachelandjun
×Twitter: / rachelandjun
×Instagram: / rachelandjun
×Our blog: rachelandjun.bl...

[@RachelandJun]

Silence is a lot more acceptable in Japan than in the US. Reading and/or listening to music is fine. :) I would make an effort to talk sometimes, especially if you're eating a meal together or something like that, but you don't have to be talking all the time. There isn't a negative stigma attached to introversion in Japan so no need to worry! People who are introverted and worry about making a good impression are often viewed as well-mannered and they're generally very well-liked. :) -Rachel

[@sadroses2]

I wonder, is it frowned upon or acceptable to read during mealtime?

[@alexacastro8733]

Hi

[@kittkozy2677]

looks like I'd be better off in Japan .

[@okperson9771]

@@kittkozy2677 me too

[@janesmith699]

Wow it'd be great if my quiet introversion was accepted. It's what i've always longed for. I wish i had been born Japanese. Cleanliness, introversion, politeness and kindness. That's what i glean from ur videos. I make mistakes so much i'm afraid to even dream of living in Japan as i am. But being born there would be great.

[@levoGAMES]

I guess the first thing I'll do is learning to say: "I'm so sorry" "This is so embarrassing" "Please forgive me, I'm so impolite"

[@pinkrocker61401]

Gomenasai (probably spelt it wrong) haha i hear it all in animes

[@riemichosakuma3693]

I think these words might be helpful: すみません　（sumimasen= means 'excuse me', or 'Im sorry, my bad', but if you are really sorry and feel bad about what you just did you say "hontou ni sumimasen' or if you did something really bad 'gomenasai' or 'hontou ni gomenasai') 失礼します　（shitsureishimasu= 'please excuse me from being rude~', especially going in someones's room but you can also say 'ojamashimasu') 知りませんでした、本当にすみません。(shirimasen deshita, hontou ni sumimasen) 知らなかったので、本当にごめなさい。(shiranakatta no de, hontou ni gomenasai) if you wanna say 'because i had no idea. i am not aware or i didnt know about this, i apologise'

[@markoneill3719]

my life in three sentences...

[@dolphinboi-playmonsterranc9668]

mark oneill 2nd one is the summary of my life

[@nth6648]

, a.

[@RachelandJun]

When I said "going out" I meant literally leaving the house--not specifically going somewhere fancy like a performance or a restaurant. By sweats I was referring to sweatshirts/hoodies. I included jeans in my original comment about not dressing up, too, because jeans and a t-shirt is generally too dressed down in Japan. On the other hand, in America it's always jeans, yoga pants, sweatshirts and t-shirts. Correct me if I'm wrong but I don't think I mentioned sleepwear anywhere.

[@elisekuby3576]

Just a little addition to your explanations for the people who are grossed out by sharing the same bathwater: the shower is outside of the tub and the bather sits on a little stool and shampoos and soaps the heck out of the body, then showers all the stuff off which goes down the floordrain. It is only after all of that when you step into the bath to soak, not to clean.

[@chevaliedelareverie]

Yeah! It's like sharing a little hot tub ^ ° ^ (honestly, pools and hot tubs in the US are way more unsanitary than sharing a Japanese bath).

[@bw8669]

Also what about those who have their period?

[@mari_marinarasauce]

Beberri Blue yeah

[@RachelandJun]

There are English subtitles. :) Just click "CC" -Rachel

[@Tuumeke]

I know this is a really old video, but I am finding all of your videos really helpful. My son who is 12 years old, will be travelling to Japan on a short school exchange later this year. The culture is so very different to what he knows, but I just wanted to say thank you for the helpful tips, we are all learning from them :-)

[@RachelandJun]

Thank you! No, it's naturally red, but the "vibrance" changes depending on the lighting. It ranges from brown-ish to blazing orange. -Rachel

[@bubbleonfire6488]

I enjoy your videos very much. My friend, Brinley, is Japanese and it's nice to be able to make her mother feel a little more at home. (Her mother never let go of the Japanese manners and mindset when she moved to Norway). It's nice to have tea with her. She loves hearing about Norwegian traditions in many aspects. Though I think wedding traditions are her favourite, admittedly, I share this love for old wedding traditions.

[@RachelandJun]

★Subtitles!★ *English* *Spanish (Mexico)* thanks to: Eduardo Lugo (GagaBabymetal) *French* thanks to: Ambre G. *Russian* thanks to: Anton Zuykov *German* *Dutch* thanks to: Iris Z *Arabic*

[@irisz5539]

+Rachel & Jun Dutch ones have been added :3

[@rawahdagash2521]

Arabic subs also 😊😊 by yours truly

[@רקאןאלקהתני]

Rachel and Jun thanks for arabic subtitles 😍😗😗😗

[@falathalatta600]

Portuguese would be awesome too

[@no.ronnie]

Japanese families all take showers before sharing the tub of water (so they're clean before they use it). In case anyone was confused. (This is from what I know from what my professor told me when I was studying Japanese)

[@DanielDTUBWeinberger]

makes sense if true.... probably very quick shower so you dont waste water

[@sang01me]

That's what I know/was told too.

[@ImagineMeNotStupid]

Yo! Can y'all do a video elaborating on modern vs old traditions on bowing? Things to make certain you do and things to avoid when you do bow to someone? And so forth. Also, some hand gestures or phrases to be careful of that can be done or said wrong and have a possibly offensive or rude impression. I love your videos so keep up the great work! It's easy to help learn and teach my husband and son Japanese culture- which is something I strongly wish to learn and orient my family around. I admire the culture and traditions but want to be assured we follow it correctly and for my husband more modernly acceptable.

[@RachelandJun]

For a friend's house--only if it's a one-time type deal, like if you're visiting Japan and stop by. If you visit their house every other week after school or something you don't need to bring anything. For gf/bf house, if it's your first time visiting then yes. If you visit often or you have an important relationship with the family, after the first time you should bring them a small souvenir when you travel somewhere (food is customary), even if you just travel to another city in Japan. -Rachel

[@13attman]

This is really interesting! You should make a "Western House Manners" video next! To showcase all the different rules we have over here. We might even realize this our-self's but, we have a lot of house rules and manners to follow (albeit not as strict or looked-down upon if we get them wrong)

[@terukiato]

and to do it in Japanese for japanese watchers :)

[@RachelandJun]

This is correct. :) The "bathroom" is literally a full room for bathing and nothing else. Think of it as a giant shower with a bathtub inside the shower. There is a bathtub and then a shower head outside of the bathtub, and the floor has a drain in it. Most families have a stool you can sit on to clean yourself outside of the bathtub. You wash yourself there and then move to the bathtub after that so you can relax.

[@RachelandJun]

Nope, they're in separate rooms! Yes, you have to open one, sometimes several doors to get to a sink to wash your hands. Most home toilets have a mini sink above them that turns on when you flush, and Japanese people will sometimes rinse their hands there, but you can't use soap there. -Rachel

[@janesmith699]

I have OCD. Isn't unclean to go from one room to another using a handle before u can wash ur hands? It's why i prefer shower, toilet, sink together. All in one room. Then u can wash ur hands before touching the door handle. Did u find this weird?

[@mhkuntug]

@@janesmith699 it's not weird of course!

[@tiger_x0x418]

i probably won't visit japan for another 20 years (?) but i find these videos extremely informative and entertaining and are even helping me with my animation project!! needed to know certain things, very good! ;w;

[@RachelandJun]

Correct, there is no tipping in Japan! -Rachel

[@jillmariestadelbacher4179]

You both are lovely and a sweet couple as well. Thank you for educating us 'gaijin'. I was able to visit Japan when I was 14 and I fell in love with Japan but I could have benefited from your information 33 years ago. My Mom took me to celebrate the opening of Tokyo Disney as we had a friend from the states working there but I was transformed by this beautiful country and the people and the culture.

[@evakirszenstein3438]

So many rules! I wouldn't survive in Japan 😂

[@arsenicandvanilla3103]

They don't actually have more rules then america, your just so used to the American rules you don't even realize they are there.

[@aayersh0_091]

I k r

[@sorame248]

You lazy gaijin why can't you handle deez eazy rules

[@RachelandJun]

Depends on the layout of the house. I've seen both a sink right outside the toilet and sinks a room away. Usually Japanese toilets have a little "faucet" on the back where you can rinse your hands before leaving the room if necessary, and there will be a towel to dry your hands. That faucet feeds directly into the toilet bowl, though, so they don't really put soap there (but fun fact: they do put deodorizers under that faucet sometimes so the toilet bowl doesn't smell super bad).

[@autumnpaigemcclaflin1623]

I am only 14 now but when I am about 5 years older and finish learning the language I would like to live in Japan and your videos are great for trying to get a hold of the Japanese culture and things like that. Thank you so much!

[@PrincessofKeys]

I want to live in Japan too

[@haelotny6523]

It's been 5 years. Have you finish learning Japanese, friend? 😊

[@RachelandJun]

4. Male/female roles are similar to the US in the 1950s. They're underrepresented in the workforce, don't get as high positions, and are frequently expected to marry and then stay home as a housewife. But it's changing and some men don't expect women to take those roles at all. Jun, for example, is (or was, when we were living together) my househusband since I'm the one with the job. :) Some men expect women to be subservient, but you can find men who believe in equality, too. -Rachel

[@RachelandJun]

We have been married a year! :) -Jun

[@RachelandJun]

Everyone completely showers and cleans outside of the tub first before getting in the tub. The tub is only for relaxing. Guests are always offered the tub first, but you can just shower if you want. After that I'm sure it depends on the family but from what I've seen, you start from the youngest family member and move upward, switching order around on any given day if need be.

[@alestane2]

In a tatami room, it's best to avoid walking on the border (the ones covered with fabric). I was told that the fabric could get damaged faster, but in any case, it's not good. Actually, it seems it's not good to step on borders in general. When going though one of the big doors of some temples, it4s not good to climb on the wooden part that goes from the ground to the door when the door is closed. You should step over instead. Same in traditionnal Kyoto houses.

[@RachelandJun]

I'm not sure about the UK, but in America people hardly never dress up when they go out--sweats, jeans, things like that. But in Japan almost everyone dresses to the nines every day. Women will even wear heels to go hiking or ride a bike. They wear a TON of makeup, too, so if that's your thing you're good! Hair depends on the age and region. Japanese people have to keep their hair black in high school and at jobs so they only really go crazy in college. Most people dye their hair brown.

[@RachelandJun]

Learning something is never sad. :) -Rachel

[@RachelandJun]

There are quite a few Japanese people who shower in the morning AND do the shower/bath at night. And no, sometimes if they were too busy or tired they don't shower at night so that's fine. The bathroom as one room is mostly an American thing. In Europe they split the toilet off into a separate room fairly often, too. When you flush the toilet poop particles fly everywhere so it's for sanitary reasons. Plus this way you don't have to wait to use the bathroom if someone's on the toilet.

[@coffeecoffee6352]

i really want to go to japan and stuff but i'm so worried about screwing up :c i'm seriously one of the most awkward humans and generally ALWAYS make a mistake like each day i'll do something wrong :c i don't want others to have a bad view of me :c

[@MultiAwesomegirl14]

+Majestic Unicorn just act natural and keep calm, be polite. U won't have a bad impression, if yr polite Japanese people will be ok with u. c:

[@coffeecoffee6352]

i'm polite, just awkward >

[@tntfresh4303]

+Majestic Unicorn OMG SAAAME 😲😬🙀

[@arielhilltm6588]

same i want to teach english there

[@sarahsanchez2839]

+TNT Fresh *Clint Eastwood voice* It is a curse among our people.

[@RachelandJun]

Chopsticks to chopsticks passing is no good! That's what they do in funeral ceremonies. :) But you can set something on a plate for another person to pick up with their chopsticks, or most often people just pass their plate if they want someone else to eat something from it.

[@RachelandJun]

They will have a pair of guest slippers for you. :) -Rachel

[@RachelandJun]

You absolutely don't have to sit on your knees! That's called seiza, and a lot of Japanese people find it difficult or painful, so if you start sitting like that they'll often tell you that you don't need to do it and you should sit more comfortably. If you visit a temple or go to another formal event, or if you're paying respects to ancestors in a house you visit then yes you should, but other than that there's no need. :) -Rachel

[@lewiszim]

"We all have our embarrassing moments in Japan." This is very true!

[@RachelandJun]

Since that's an unusual circumstance I'm sure many people would be willing to make some sort of accommodation. Perhaps look for some large slippers that could fit over your shoes and take those with you if you know you'll be going over someone's house. No matter what just let the host know beforehand--they would work something out with you. -Rachel

[@leonardodasilva46]

We were discussing about this video in class, and we came up with a few questions/doubts based on your video: - In relation to the house chores, do you have different recommendations for men and women? - You said that people share the same bathing water. Is this cultural or a means of saving water (or being environmental-friendly)? - Is there some routine or custom to be followed before and during meals? At last, we would like to know if you would like to visit Brazil. Looking forward to your responses! =D

[@RachelandJun]

1. Everything depends on the individual person! There are still plenty of older, traditional people who expect men and women to fit into certain roles, but that's not necessarily the case with younger people. My husband is A-OK doing any chores. :) 2. I think it's both! "Bathing" water is a bit of a misnomer because you're supposed to fully shower (or sit on a stool and use a bucket) with soap and shampoo and everything before getting in the tub, and then you only enter the tub to relax. Kind of like a hot tub. Again that's not a necessity in every household. My husband and I don't share the same water unless we're taking a bath together. 3. Just saying "itadakimasu" (while holding your hands together in a praying motion) before eating, and "gochisousama deshita" after. Itadakimasu is thanks to the cook and any animals that gave their lives for the meal. Gochisou is also thanks. There are a lot of specific rules when it comes to chopsticks usage and such, but there are tons of websites that list all those out if you're interested. :)

[@RachelandJun]

Yes, some people fold the last visible square of toilet paper into a triangle shape, and then tuck it up under the toilet paper holder so it stays that way and looks nice. This is polite, but most people don't do it. I agree, I think washing your hands first would be nice! But I think you'll find that a lot of Japanese people either don't wash their hands after using the bathroom, or they'll just quickly rinse with water. I've been in public restrooms where they don't even offer soap. -Rachel

[@mikih4966]

I really like your videos. You have done a great job in many of them. That said, I want to make a minor correction as a Japanese. If you want to be polite, you need to wear a pair of socks inside of Japanese homes particularly when you visit someone's home. It is considered to be rude or somewhat unsophisticated/uneducated to be on bare foot as guests. Japanese people think bare feet is dirty, conceptually. (you know what I mean?) Why pollute a clean house with 'dirty' feet? Ask about this to Japanese person who either wear kimono or who perform tea ceremonies. They'll attest to it.

[@DeathValleyDebbie]

So do you keep the socks on you wore with stinky shoes or carry a special pair to put on?

[@CandleAshes]

Keep same socks on. Or get slippers from your host.

[@bananabuttersomethin]

Socks in summer though?

[@lastofthestarmakers]

I absolutely LOVE your videos, Rachel! They're always so easy to understand and extremely informative! Thank you for making these types of videos!

[@sufferinsilence5817]

so seeing how you went over all those proper greetings for every time of the day, do you think maybe you could go over some of these suffix things Japanese people use? like, when do you call them "san" and when are they a "chan" and are there more variations? 'cause I'd love to know! ^-^

[@razzleberrycat]

Someone please correct me if I'm wrong -- it's been years since I studied Japanese and I've never actually *been* to Japan. "-San" is a general term of respect, what I think of as the default suffix for addressing someone. "-Chan" is for children and pets, mainly. For example, you might call your little sister a "-chan", or your cat "neko-chan". "-Sama" is a term of extra formal respect, acknowledging someone to be more than your peer. For example, you might call your boss "-sama", your elder family members (depending on how formal your family is), etc. "-Sensei" is used for addressing your teachers. For example, the lady I learned Japanese from, I called "Junko-sensei". "-Kun" is kind of like "bud". It's an informal way of addressing a boy. It shouldn't properly be used for a girl, but I understand, like with "boku", that occasionally it is anyway.

[@wolfandsoda]

Razzleberrycat is right, and those suffixes (called honorifics, by the way) can also be used as follows: "-san" is like a fail-safe. It shows an amount of respect, so you can use it if you don't know what else to call someone, "-chan" is mostly used as a term of recognition for girls, and sometimes really young boys, "-kun" is the term of recognition for boys, but it is sometimes used as a term of recognition for girls, especially if the speaker is an older man There's also "-senpai" which is an upperclassman, and "-kohai" Which is a underclassman There are also some stray honorifics that are rarely used, such as "-dono" which is a term of even greater respect than "-sama" and is usually used with someone you admire for their talent, ability, etc. I know it's a lot to take in at first, but once you get it down, it'll be easy :)

[@sufferinsilence5817]

oh wow xD I'm gonna have to study on this:P

[@sufferinsilence5817]

***** ...is it that bad? xD what is it then?

[@sufferinsilence5817]

***** ow wow xD thanks for that bit of knowledge :3

[@RachelandJun]

If I have to pick I'd say the end of September because it's really humid and uncomfortable during the summer in Japan. From February to March is also nice too. Exchange students at my university arrive either in the spring or autumn :) - Jun

[@chapachuu]

Is it ok to take showers in the morning in Japan? I like to go for a morning jog and rinse off when I get home and would like to keep this routine while in Japan. Would my home-stay family think it odd or an inconvenience?

[@Iamhellsfire4545]

Judging solely by what she said in the video, probably not as long as you don't assume that the bathtub will be filled and warm too. I don't think a quick shower is as much of an inconvenience as filling up the whole bathtub and wasting it on one person when not everyone is ready for a bath.

[@c8Lorraine1]

Thank you. A most informative video. I lived in Japan for a while and I still learned things from your video. Guess it helps if you have a home stay or a Japanese husband .

[@johnmercado8602]

I know you might not get this, but I will try anyways, Can you make a video explaining learning Japanese. Like how long it will take, how much I should study if I am also learning Chinese in school. I really want to learn Japanese. Also, what website is best or books. I really want to live in Japan. But what do they think of other Asians. I am a little bit of something else.

[@soupbowl1]

She has a video explaining how to learn Japanese.

[@jdlaw001]

I read some where they tend to look down, have a superior attitude towards their "brown" Asians.

[@RachelandJun]

If you're only going for a week or two then I wouldn't really worry about anything--just enjoy yourself! I'm not sure about homestaying, and to be honest I'm not sure where one would go about looking for a short term homestay like that! I know there are also websites that coordinate couch surfing, which might be better suited to your short period of time. -Rachel

[@i1bike]

what about socks smell ?, how do u deal with that ?

[@sarahnorment]

If your feet/socks smell, you can make simple changes to correct the problem. It shouldn't be the norm to have smelly feet. I am American, and I take off my shoes whenever I enter my home or anyone else's home (without even being expected to). Wearing shoes in the home tracks so much dirt and germs into the home. When I was in high school, I used to have smelly feet and was so embarrassed, but I changed up my routine, and it literally has never been a problem since. If you or someone you live with has smelly feet, you shouldn't live with it.

[@i1bike]

Sarah Norment hahahahaha

[@Helvetica09]

Don't americans take off their shoes before entering the "living area" ???? At least ask the host if you have to take off your shoes....

[@markplott4820]

Jure Macola Japanese wash their feet often, even schools have feet washing stations outside. I recommend washing your feet often, useing wet naps, and feet deodorant pads - available in japan, peel and stick on your feet then put socks over it. also consider bringing a pair of slipper socks, better traction .

[@once4lyfe492]

Helvetica09 I never take off my shoes until it's time to take a shower.

[@RachelandJun]

I would only recommend trying to fit in to people who are working in Japan or maybe people who are marrying into a Japanese family, since social status becomes really important then. If you're just going to school then have fun! Maybe they will feel the way Americans would feel if they saw a Japanese person in America who was gothic. Some people would think they are weird/ignore/stay away from them, but people who like that style might try to be friends. But I don't think people will get upset.

[@essennagerry]

Wait... people use the same water when bathing? ... Well when I think about it it's rather practical, but do they shower before that? Otherwise it's kind of gross and, well, it doesn't get you clean. I could never take a bath without taking a shower beforehand, because I feel so dirty when I'm in the water.

[@alchemistOtaku10311]

The bathroom has a drain in floor and that's the part that you shower in/clean yourself. You only get in the bath water after you're clean and it's about relaxing. Also, if a girl is on her period she goes last so the water is still clean.

[@teneleven2818]

+Mofu sounds more like a hot tub

[@vickyskye8492]

yahh the bathing in same water unless its like after ur own child is pretty different than the west unless they also have chlorine tabs lol :)

[@riemichosakuma3693]

Yeh she forgot to mention about taking a shower and making sure you are clean before going in the bath.

[@waylonlewin3322]

in america we use hot and warm water cause it feels relaxing and we using the toilet everytime we go potty everytime we have a full bladder or need to take a dump now always use toilet paper now when your in japan you don't need to worry about it later if your in japan bring your own soap and towel if you forget buy them in japan now if they tell you not to use too much water or too much relaxation cause someone needs to use it now i am sure you can help them pay for their house bill pay for the relaxation and pay for the meal what you did in the house now or free cause you went in someone house and treat you as a new member of the family now

[@RachelandJun]

If you want to wear them I think Tokyo is the best place! I think some people will really like you or call you cute because you're wearing them, but at the same time you will probably prevent a lot of "average" or "normal" Japanese people from wanting to get to know you. I don't think anyone would be upset or offended. But in a lot of places it's socially unacceptable--it depends on where you go, and if it's like a lot of people meeting, or a competition, etc. You will be very noticeable. :)

[@Gothic0ctopus]

Is there a video on how to make a Japanese foreign exchange student comfortable in your home (with their host family)?

[@ixie122]

I live in Canada and usually you have to take your shoes off unless someone tells you otherwise. I was very confused while visiting the US because people kept asking me why I take off my shoes.

[@Xstreambreeze1X]

Directions not clear enough, ended up staying the night in the trash bin.

[@RachelandJun]

If you're worried about it then I would ask your host family first, since it can vary by family. Jun says that 20-30 minutes is usually acceptable, but sometimes people will spend an hour relaxing in the bath. It all depends on the family, so your family should set those rules with you before you take a bath. :) -Rachel

[@Dixxi91]

You flush your tampons down the toilet in America? O_O WHYYYY?! There's a garbage can in every bathroom right? Throw it in there >.< if it doesn't have a lid you wrap it in some toilet paper so it doesn't look gross to others. This is not rocket science xD Does America have a lot of plumbing issues? :P I can picture a lot of clogged toilets....

[@Corkoth55]

+Dixxi91 i'm pretty sure they are flushable... not the applicators tho. i'm male so i'm just taking a guess lol

[@Teencat]

+Corkoth55 No love, they are not flushable ^^; they are like diapers, in a sense that they are absorbent. They end up expanding and clogging the sewage.

[@Corkoth55]

Teencat ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

[@ashtree8868]

In most public bathrooms there is a small container in the stall where you put it inside. But some people don't care and flush it anyways

[@pinkrocker61401]

+Ashley J thats for pads and applicators. The actual tampon can be flushed. Many people flush because they rater not have a bloody tampon dripping as you're reaching for toilet paper. Some tampons are even made with flushable applicators. Tampons are probably more flushable than baby wipes tbh baby wipes dont break down at all

[@onyxrose9301]

This video was very helpful when I'm out of high school I want to live in Japan so I'm trying to learn as much as I can be be I move there

[@TheStrangemo]

Oh my word that's a lot to remember o.o

[@seannabataclan8351]

I watched this video before I went to Japan for my homestay in Nara for two nights and three days. This helped me so much, thank you!

[@autumnpaigemcclaflin1623]

Is it a big problem in Japan if you can speak/understand Japanese but can't read or write kanji? O.O I have tried to learn kanji before but my brain is too full of other stuff.

[@snowfoxxie]

I think communication such as speaking and understanding is definitely the most important thing while living in Japan. You will probably use it most, and being able to ask for help is important. Being able to recognize and read Kanji is also very useful at times, such as when buying food from a grocery store, reading menus, sending and receiving emails or using the train. These two things are survival tools in my opinion. Learning how to write kanji is a slightly different story. The only kanji I really ever needed to remember to write on the spot while living in Japan was my address while filling out paper work for numerous things. hope this helps :)

[@autumnpaigemcclaflin1623]

It does.Thank you ^u^

[@AlweeNBoo]

It's refreshing to learn about life in other countries and to understand how overwhelming it must be to travel to such a different society. My friend is hosting a foreign exchange student and maybe this will help to find some common ground and make her feel more welcomed and appreciated. Thanks!!!

[@rosesvvloweer]

if they share water, how does it stays warm?? 'cos i don't think that they take a long cold bath :l

[@VeroVarela-nr5xq]

their bathtub has a remote control from which you can reheat the water temperature if need be, although water overuse and electricity can be expensive in Japan compared to how it is in the US

[@lg6581]

They also have bath covers witch prevents it from getting cold. When you want ti take a bath you can fold it open, and when you finish you just fold it down, and it keeps the water pretty warm still

[@RachelandJun]

True to mutt style I don't even know. :D The biggest chunk is probably German. I've heard there's some French and Scottish in there somewhere. And then half is completely unknown because my dad doesn't know much about his family. Judging by his last name it seems there's either some Welsh or Korean in there. Judging by my face and hair color, it's probably not Korean. :D -Rachel

[@hakerkata007]

What to do if the people i am living with have children. Should i play with them or not? I f am tired or just don'ty want to eat with the family members is it rude to eat by my self in ather part in the house?

[@TheCheckeredcrow]

Hi i understand this is quite an old video so not sure if you'll see this but i just wanted to say thank you for making these videos! i've been catching up and your bright personalities and warm camera presence makes watching your content so great. Thank you and please keep making more!

[@lesleyanimeking5467]

Japan keeps on becoming more awesome;)

[@RachelandJun]

The tub isn't used for bathing. You shower outside of the tub and clean yourself first, and then enter the tub for relaxing. Think of it as a hot tub.

[@azn2739]

Wait sharing the same water in the tub wtf wait I'll just replay the whole video

[@kaoruancafe]

Äиzυ Nαмσι They normaly take a shower before bathing so it's ok for sharing the same water in the tub ;)

[@Round-Circle]

+Äиzυ Nαмσι You clean yourself before you get into the tub. The tub is just for relaxing in after you fully clean yourself and it's very impolite to clean yourself in the tub or stepping into the tub without cleaning yourself.

[@azn2739]

Oh ok

[@Emily-gr2st]

Well usually blood doesn't come out if you have water on your body and you clean our self before getting in the tub so you should be fine

[@lisamaynard9304]

Yes and after all the bathing is done, a lot of times the water is pumped out of the tub and into the washing machine to wash the days clothes!

[@RachelandJun]

Thank you! No, that's not a Japanese style. In fact they always try to change my bangs because they don't like how straight I cut them. There's really not much you can do to look "more Japanese" (and I'm not sure why you'd want to do that in the first place). Unless you're already Asian they'll always be able to tell you're a foreigner, and they tend to prefer Western looks over their own, anyway. Plus Japanese hair is completely different, so white people can't really use the same styles.

[@MagicalX3000]

Arigato gozaimasu rachel san anata wa saiko no nihongo bunka no sensei desu.

[@Ryanrocksthebass]

+mustafa bashar Japanese language culture teacher?

[@MagicalX3000]

RyanAvx Allen yes it's only Japanese culture teacher not for language I was just learning culture and customs from her.

[@Ryanrocksthebass]

+mustafa bashar That'd just be nihon no bunka, nihongo means japanese language.

[@opieanimations]

wow thanks me and my friend became very interested about japan recently. she told me about your videos and they are so helpful and interesting. im just learning simple phrases now but i hope to get better. arigato.

[@superma415]

Fuck, it, I'm staying in America. I'd make such an ass out of myself. And there isn't any hiding when you are the only 6 foot blonde white guy. :(

[@superma415]

***** Huh? Which part? The fear of traveling abroad, or being white and tall?

[@superma415]

How was I disrespectful? I admitted that I didn't think I could keep up, which if anything was disrespectful towards myself, not the Japanese. I have nothing but respect for their manners, but I don't think I could keep up with them if I were there. I'm an awkward introverted person who struggles with the manners that I have lived around for years. Going to Japan would spell doom to me.

[@superma415]

The way that I expressed myself within the comment that didn't make any remarks on Japanese culture, was disrespectful towards Japanese culture? Is your problem that I said "fuck" and "ass"? That's the only thing I could see someone being offended by. Regardless, I'm sorry that you took my comment in a negative way. I did not intend for that to happen.

[@RachelandJun]

I don't think most homes will have stools, and a lot of floor tables are too low for that. But it's okay to shift around. You definitely don't have to sit seiza or anything like that. They'll be sympathetic to you since you're not used to sitting that way. -Rachel

[@WilbertLek]

That was some fast-paced info. Too bad you couldn't make an actual walk-through.

[@widedben5360]

I watched almost all your videos and I'm not even going to Japan ! They are very entertaining and I love your culture!

[@CJ.9]

Could you speak a bit slower? My english is not that good. Thank you.

[@thestaralchemistanimelover2164]

+Atenanike69 Sorry, there are some extremely rude people on the Internet. And I agree and I'm American. By the way can you tell me what some slang\lingo words are in Japan? I plan to move there someday and I'm very ignorant to this subject.

[@CJ.9]

Yeah, I know. Sorry dear, I can't say... I am Latin American and I am learning a bit too. Sorry about that. Thank you!

[@freeyerspirit]

Very informative video. I don't think you were preachy at all. I love all of your videos they are so helpful. I'm going to be in Japan for 16 months starting in October so your videos are really helping with my nerves haha.

[@jessk1920]

This video is very informative, but my gosh can you speak a little slower!!!

[@meribor]

I suppose the 「おじゃまします」 (ojamashimasu) is a bit like, "Sorry for bothering you," but it seems to be on a whole 'nother level. Like, it seems the whole, unified social contract is so omnipresent in Japan, that you could cut it with a knife.

[@Susa080680]

sorry but you speak much toooooo fast in this video o.O it´s like you don´t even inhale

[@elissammi5696]

Hahaha i knw right !

[@Penelope642]

You provide an invaluable amount of information! I learned some things from my roommates here in Hawaii and enjoy the greetings you mentioned the most. Very community building!

[@TheCrazypandagirl]

How do you bath when you are on your period and don't use tampons 😳😳😳

[@jaywhypapi8690]

The blood doesn't flow in water so you should be fine having a bath like normal but be careful when drying so you don't get blood on the towel

[@TheCrazypandagirl]

Uuum... I think I won't risk that

[@thestaralchemistanimelover2164]

I promise you that you won't get blood in the water nor stain the tub.

[@Silentgrace11]

There's a slight change in gravitational flow when you're in the water. I can't explain it very well, but essentially it "plugs" up that area, so to speak, to where the natural flow of blood is stopped, or slowed to the point that it isn't released into the water. Unless you're in there for hours on end, it shouldn't cause any problems. Of course, if you're really concerned, perhaps you can take a shower only during those weeks. Like she said there usually isn't much of a problem, although they may question why you don't want to take a bath .u."

[@sarahnorment]

It may be a good idea, just to ask your host mother what to do. She will appreciate that you asked beforehand, instead of just assuming.

[@gm2256]

Thanks so much for all your videos. I have a wonderful opportunity to travel to Japan with my friend and I'm doing a bunch of last minute research. Because of your videos, I have learned a lot! Leaving in 1 week :D

[@RachelandJun]

No, that's a common misconception. It used to be that women just had a lower place in society so they sort of had to act that way in relationships. Nowadays they are much stronger, and especially if they're dating a foreign guy they're probably not going to follow that traditional Japanese path so much. The other thing is that Japanese people often think of others before themselves, so they frequently will do chores and nice things without you asking--but they expect you to do the same. -Rachel

[@Sephymuffins]

Thank you for making this and THANK YOU for being direct and straight to the point. You and Jun are awesome!!

[@SpartanofAmerica]

Thank you, this is helping me prepare for the near future. In 3 years or more I will be moving to japan.

[@enjoyingquietly]

Even though I don't live in Japan, I hope to do so in the future, and kowing all this is amazng! I love your videos guys, as much as I love Japan and their culture!

[@AdvancePlays]

Hell, even lots of families here in the UK will ask you to take off your shoes when entering their home. I mean, nobody wants you dragging all the dirt and muck from outside all over their floors and carpets, eh? It's common sense.

[@Hoodiethegoat]

Well, I live in North America, so hopefully I can inform you some :) In my home, We have a small porch in front of our house where there is a little mat that says "Welcome" on it. People would wipe their shoes on it in case of having dirt or sand caked up in their shoes. It really depends on if they have carpet or not though when you should take your shoes off. In my home we have wooden floors, so if I DID get dirt anywhere, I could simply sweep it up. If you see you made a mess you clean it.

[@meigs666]

i love your videos ,im greatly interested in the japanese way of living in general because of my martial art background (20 yrs) and i enjoy the fact that i woudnt be that lost with my manners ,of course a gaijin my size would disturb them a bit but i would really feel comfortable if i ever go visit japan ,keep it up these are really helpfull

[@RachelandJun]

You didn't make any mistakes! Rachel asked me to reply to you since she can't use the internet currently. You've been talking to Rachel :) Sorry for confusing you. - Jun

[@binniliz]

Many have probably commented this but i feel the need to call it out.... The person that's talking in the video is SUPER adorable !!

[@RachelandJun]

Yep! The shower is for cleaning yourself and the bath is for relaxing. Usually the family all uses the same bath water so it'd be kinda gross if they didn't shower first.

[@sheracad]

Well done. I run a private school and we have international students every year. Many Japanese, Thai, German kids don't know what is expected in the US. Your video is an asset to our kids who travel to Asia.

[@RachelandJun]

1. A self-introduction (name, age, etc) starting with "Hajimemashite" and ending with "yoroshiku onegaishimasu" 2. I don't think anyone would be offended. They might just not be interested, same as anyone anywhere in the world. If they ARE interested then you only need to introduce yourself and they should be happy to talk to you. 3. I would at least learn hiragana and katakana so you can write Japanese that way. Typically English letters are used for translated English words or for some brands.

[@9aspengold5]

You have an excellent series of instructions. Easy to follow and understand. Thank you

[@RachelandJun]

They'll be understanding! If you explain your condition I'm sure they'll probably do what they can to make you as comfortable as possible. It depends on the family, of course, but that would be the normal reaction. :p

[@RachelandJun]

A literal translation is "I will bother you" although a more appropriate translation would be some like, "Excuse me for the intrusion!" so it's more along the lines of your first suggestion. But in Japanese it's just a phrase at this point. You say it out of tradition and manners, like "Bless you" in America when someone sneezes, even if you're not religious. It would be really rude for a Japanese family to tell you that you're bothering them so I can't really see that happening.

[@janesmith699]

I always say bless u. ☺️

[@RachelandJun]

If you feel uncomfortable you can try to reschedule, but some women will still go when they're menstruating and just use a tampon or cup. Some people think it's gross but there are still a lot of Japanese women who do it anyway, so you don't have to let it hold you back if that'll be your only chance to go to an onsen. :) -Rachel

[@DanielDugovic]

Thanks! We look forward to seeing an updated manners video with your new home!

[@hbanana7]

the manner of your speech is very easy to understand, right to the point!

[@RachelandJun]

It's definitely not rude to NOT slurp--it's just not rude if you do slurp. Japanese people feel that it's important to eat hot noodles moderately quickly before they soak too long and become soggy, so I personally find it a little difficult to avoid slurping.

[@RachelandJun]

They shower and clean themselves first, before the bath. The bath is only for relaxing once you're already clean. -Rachel