Hiroshima

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Cultural Context and Politeness

Sections

1. Cultural Context in Hiroshima

Hiroshima is globally recognized for its historical significance as the first city targeted by an atomic bomb during World War II. Today, it is a vibrant city that symbolizes peace and resilience. The people of Hiroshima are known for their warmth, hospitality, and pride in their cityโ€™s recovery and contributions to global peace.

Key Cultural Values:

  • Harmony (Wa): Maintaining harmony in social interactions is a cornerstone of Japanese culture. Avoid confrontations or overly direct communication.
  • Respect for History: Hiroshimaโ€™s Peace Memorial Park and Museum are central to the cityโ€™s identity. Visitors are expected to approach these sites with solemnity and respect.
  • Community Spirit: Hiroshima residents value their local community and traditions, such as festivals and regional cuisine.

2. Politeness Norms in Hiroshima

Politeness is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture, and Hiroshima is no exception. Here are the key aspects of politeness to keep in mind:

Language Use

  • Basic Japanese Phrases: While many locals may not speak fluent English, they appreciate efforts to communicate in Japanese. Here are some essential phrases:
    • Hello: ใ“ใ‚“ใซใกใฏ (Konnichiwa)
    • Thank you: ใ‚ใ‚ŠใŒใจใ†ใ”ใ–ใ„ใพใ™ (Arigatou gozaimasu)
    • Excuse me/Sorry: ใ™ใฟใพใ›ใ‚“ (Sumimasen)
    • Please: ใŠ้ก˜ใ„ใ—ใพใ™ (Onegaishimasu)
    • Goodbye: ใ•ใ‚ˆใ†ใชใ‚‰ (Sayounara)
  • Honorifics: Use honorifics like "-san" after someoneโ€™s name (e.g., Tanaka-san) to show respect.
  • Polite Speech: Use formal language (keigo) when speaking to strangers, elders, or in professional settings. For example, instead of saying "Arigatou," say "Arigatou gozaimasu."

Forms of Politeness

  • Bowing: Bowing is a common way to greet, thank, or apologize. The depth of the bow depends on the situation (e.g., a slight nod for casual greetings, a deeper bow for formal occasions).
  • Gift-Giving: Small gifts (omiyage) are customary when visiting someoneโ€™s home or as a token of appreciation. Regional specialties like Hiroshimaโ€™s famous momiji manju (maple-leaf-shaped sweets) make excellent gifts.
  • Queueing: Always stand in line when waiting for public transport, at stores, or at attractions. Pushing or cutting in line is considered very rude.

Customs and Etiquette

  • Shoes Off Indoors: Remove your shoes when entering homes, traditional accommodations (ryokan), and some restaurants. Slippers are often provided.
  • Quietness in Public: Avoid loud conversations on public transport or in public spaces. Hiroshima residents value a calm and peaceful environment.
  • Tipping: Tipping is not customary in Japan and may even be considered rude. Instead, express gratitude verbally.

Body Language

  • Avoid Physical Contact: Handshakes are becoming more common, but bowing is still the standard greeting. Avoid hugging or touching unless you know the person well.
  • Pointing: Do not point with your finger. Instead, gesture with an open hand.
  • Eye Contact: Prolonged eye contact can be seen as confrontational. A soft gaze is more appropriate.

3. Specific Considerations for Visitors and Immigrants

Understanding cultural norms is particularly important in certain situations and locations in Hiroshima:

Key Sites and Cultural Interactions

  1. Peace Memorial Park and Museum:

    • Behavior: Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor. Photography is allowed in some areas but avoid taking selfies in solemn spaces.
    • Costs: Entry to the museum is affordable (around 200 yen for adults). Donations to peace-related causes are appreciated.
    • Procedural Norms: Follow signs and instructions, and avoid touching exhibits.

  2. Itsukushima Shrine (Miyajima Island):

    • Behavior: This is a sacred site, so dress modestly and behave respectfully. Avoid eating or drinking in shrine areas.
    • Costs: There is a small entry fee for the shrine (around 300 yen for adults).
    • Customs: Purify your hands and mouth at the water pavilion (temizuya) before entering the shrine.

  3. Local Restaurants and Okonomiyaki Shops:

    • Hiroshima is famous for its style of okonomiyaki (savory pancakes). Many restaurants have communal seating, so be mindful of others.
    • Ordering: Pointing to menu items or using simple Japanese phrases is acceptable. Many restaurants have English menus.
    • Payment: Pay at the register, not at the table. Use both hands when giving or receiving money.

  4. Public Transport:

    • Behavior: Public transport in Hiroshima, including trams and buses, is quiet and orderly. Offer your seat to elderly passengers or those with disabilities.
    • Costs: Have small change or an IC card (like Suica or ICOCA) ready for payment. Exact change is often required on buses.

Festivals and Events

  • Hiroshima hosts several festivals, such as the Hiroshima Flower Festival in May and the Toro Nagashi (Lantern Floating Ceremony) on August 6th. These events are opportunities to experience local culture but require respectful behavior, especially during ceremonies commemorating the atomic bombing.

4. Practical Tips for Visitors and Immigrants

  • Navigating Costs:

    • Hiroshima is relatively affordable compared to cities like Tokyo or Osaka. Budget for transportation (trams and ferries), entry fees to attractions, and dining out.
    • Credit cards are accepted in many places, but cash is still widely used. ATMs at convenience stores like 7-Eleven accept international cards.

  • Procedural Norms:

    • Residency: Immigrants should register their address at the local city office within 14 days of moving. Bring your residence card (zairyu card) and passport.
    • Healthcare: Hiroshima has excellent healthcare facilities. Enroll in the National Health Insurance (NHI) system for affordable medical care.

  • Adapting to Daily Life:

    • Learn basic Japanese phrases and consider taking language classes to improve communication.
    • Join local community events or volunteer activities to build connections and integrate into the community.

5. Final Thoughts

Hiroshima is a city that values peace, respect, and community. By understanding and practicing the cultural norms and politeness standards outlined above, you can navigate the city with ease and build meaningful relationships with locals. Whether youโ€™re visiting iconic sites like the Peace Memorial Park or enjoying Hiroshimaโ€™s famous cuisine, your efforts to adapt to the local culture will be greatly appreciated.