The South-East Asian Culture, of which includes Japan is a rapidly growing market for the tourism industry in Australia, not only as Tour Groups but also Free Independent Travellers (FIT’s)

The Japanese Culture is full of stark contradictions as has one of the deepest of traditions dating back thousands of years. However it is a culture of continuous change with continually shifting fads.

About The Japanese CultureIt is customary to take off your shoes in the reception area when entering a Japanese house, some restaurants and hotels will also require you to do this - there is normally clearly a place to put your shoes.

When meeting people you can bow, although shaking hands is quite common these days. You may well be given a business card, these meishi are used by businessmen and high school students alike.

When you address someone you should use the suffix "-san", so Mr. Suzuki becomes Suzuki-san. Never use "-san" to speak about yourself however.

Before eating it is customary to put your hands together and say 'ita-daki-masu' (I will partake) and afterwards 'gochi-so-sama-deshita' (that was delicious).

Never pass food from chopstick to chopstick

The Japanese, expect politeness, which would include:

Body LanguageDue to the lack of universal meanings, body language can have different connotations. Therefore when interacting with Japanese peoples, remember;

Avoid prolonged eye contact as it may be give offence

Be aware of personal space, with the exception of a handshake, it is not appropriate to touch.

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Exhibit a high standard of grooming; it represents professionalism and respect

It is not appropriate to imitate the bow, as a means of greeting or sign of respect and appreciation, a handshake is acceptable

Smile appropriately and genuinelyDo not point as it is not polite

Products and Serviceso Whilst in Australia the Japanese guests may require a

translator, as it is not common for many Japanese to speak English.

o Also during their stay, the Japanese would require extra brochures, pamphlets and activities of which would require bookings. However many Japanese tourists pre-book not only their accommodation before they arrive but also create itinerates and plan activities to participate in during their stay.

o Also whilst travelling there is a need to have many photo opportunities as it is part of their culture and is a sign of both their wealth and status

o As well as time to visit gift shops as it is also important to their culture.

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o Also many Japanese are not accustomed to sleeping in double beds, though prefer to sleep in single beds separated.

o It is also necessary to ensure they are provided with a bath within their accommodation, as it is their preference to bathe in a bathtub.

o The Japenese expect that slippers are provided at their accommodation.

o If booking their accommodation in advance, avoid the number four (4) as it is considered bad luck in their culture.

Accommodation

Products and Services

• Don’t sit until told where to sit. Usually there is a seating arrangement based on professional status.

• Take notes during the meeting, in blue or black pen.

• Once the meeting is finished, do not stand until the person with the highest professional status stands.

• Bring a souvenir from your own culture• If you yourself receive a gift, show lots of

gratitude, ask questions about the gift to show your interest.

When Dealing Business

Top 10 Destinations For Japanese Outbound Tourists

Ranking (2006) Country Arrival (Thousands)

1 China 3,746

2 Korea 2,339

3 Hawaii 1,374

4 U.S mainland 1,344

5 Hong Kong 1,311

6 Thailand 1,294

7 Taiwan 1,164

8 Guam 953

9 Australia 653

10 France 647

Travel Reservation Methods (2006)

internet; 38%

travel agent; 31%

mail order, telephone; 17%

airlines ; 5% other ; 5%

Last year, in 2009, there were 355,400 Japanese Visitors coming to Australia.

However, this was a decrease by 22%, compared to 2008.

This was due to the Swine Flu Epidemic

Thankyou

By Megan Elliott