| If you plan to enter Japan for anything other than | | | | Japan's culture is very unique. |
| sightseeing, like foreign-language teaching, or a | | | | I suggest you get ready for your time in Japan by |
| long-term assignment to a Japanese company, you | | | | getting to know a little bit about the Japanese |
| need a specified work visa. | | | | etiquette. Knowing some background about Japan |
| To apply for a Japan work Visa you must contact a | | | | culture really will make you feel less confused when |
| Japanese embassy or a consulate in your home | | | | being in the company of Japanese people. |
| country. | | | | Avoid the most common, funny and embarrassing |
| The following documents must be submitted | | | | mistakes westerners do in Japan: |
| regardless of the purpose of your visit: | | | | *Always address Japanese people by attaching 'san' |
| * A Valid passport | | | | to their last name. |
| *Two recent passport photos (from the last 6 | | | | * Even though bowing is a very important part of |
| months) | | | | Japan culture, you are not expected to bow. The |
| *The application forms, available at the Japanese | | | | reason is that bowing is a very complex system |
| embassy or consulate. | | | | which takes into account social status and age of the |
| *Documents certifying the purpose of the visit. | | | | person you bow to. If you bow with an inappropriate |
| You will probably need a Japanese cell phone in Japan. | | | | inclination you might be insulting your fellow Japanese |
| The reason is that the cellular network in Japan is | | | | unintentionally. |
| different than in other countries. So the cell phone | | | | *Never turn your back to someone in higher position |
| from your home country won't work in Japan. You | | | | than you. |
| should check with your local supplier before landing in | | | | *Never Stare into another person's eyes. The |
| Japan, because some 3G cell phones will be | | | | Japanese avoid eye contact to give others some |
| compatible with the Japanese system. But in most | | | | privacy. |
| cases you'll find that it's necessary to Rent a | | | | *Before entering a Japanese house and certain |
| Japanese cell phone. This can be done very easily | | | | restaurants, you must remove your shoes. Slippers |
| through the internet - they will send the phone to | | | | are the footwear for inside the house. |
| you, or at Narita Tokyo airport booths. | | | | |