Understanding the Japanese Way of Life
The Land
The nation of Japan consists of five major islands - Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku, Kyushu, and Okinawa. There are also many smaller islands, some located almost as far north as the coast of Russia and others, in the South China Sea, which lie as far south as Taiwan. The total land area consists of 145,870 square miles, which is about the size of California. Japan is a land of volcanoes, the most famous and picturesque being Mt. Fuji. With an elevation of 12,388 feet, it is the tallest mountain in Japan. Due to the presence of volcanoes, many hot springs can be found throughout Japan and the Japanese enjoy a refreshing vacation at these resort areas. Along with the blessings that come from volcanoes, Japan faces the difficult challenge of earthquakes. Don't be surprised if you experience a small quake while you are here.
Population
The population figures of Japan reveal much about the country. At present the population is approaching 127 million. There is an average of about 800 people per square mile. This means that Japan is one of the most densely populated countries in the world. Currently, almost 70 percent of the Japanese people live in cities. Of this urban population, 58 percent is crowded into the "Big three" metropolitan areas - Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya. The average family size in Japan is 2.9 members, making it among the smallest in the world. Still, the family is very important in Japanese society with extended or multigenerational family often living together. This practice is declining, however, due to smaller houses and apartments in the urban setting.
The Culture
Japan is a complex and fascinating country where an intriguing mixture of the old and new co-exist. It is still a strange and sometimes confusing place for a foreigner to visit since the ways of the Japanese are unique to them. Japan is certainly at the forefront of progress at the beginning of the 21st century. Living standards are high; public services are good; crime rate is low; and education is of a very high standard. However, with its oriental culture and traditions going back thousands of years, Japan is different from advanced countries in the west. The people of Japan regard the Japanese way of doing things to be just as good as, or better than, the way people do things in other parts of the world. Their economic and cultural progress encourages them in this view. Most Japanese dress in "Western" styles. However, while things may look the same, the underlying values, meanings and motivations may be very different. Many of these originate in the Shinto and Buddhist background of the people. Many arise out of the fact that Japan is a crowded island nation where people have learned to live and get along with others in close quarters. Therefore it is important to pay close attention to the more subtle details of life, especially customs.