Going to Japan for the first time

[MyTwoCents]

So, there's a slight possibility of me traveling to Japan around March next year to study in some high school. I'll be staying with a family I've never met and I'm staying in a country I've never been to before.
I was wondering if anyone could give me any pointers on how to behave and act towards the host-family and the general population.
Just some basic stuff so I'm able to survive untill I manage to adapt

[visualkeichic]

Well one thing I would suggest, is arrive with gifts from the country you reside in. It's a gesture of kindness, as in they are sharing their home and hospitality with you, so you, by giving gifts of your home country, are in a sense sharing your home and hospitality with them as well. Make sure when your take your shoes off, take the extra few seconds to make sure that they are turned around so that the toe faces the door. Use Japanese as much as you possibly can, even if it only small phrases here and there, it can go a long way to showing appreciation. Let them know often, of your liking for things. Even if it is just a "This is lovely, thank you." It can go a long way to showing respect. I would also research proper bowing etiquette, and eating and drinking etiquette, as well as chopstick etiquette. I would also start now, even if it is not yet 100% concrete that you are going to go, to write letters to the family, it's a respectable way of familiarizing them with you more.

[MyTwoCents]

Thanks alot, this was really helpful
I'll start right away.

[visualkeichic]

You're very welcome.

[myswtcape]

oh my roommate is from japan... i wanan go someday

[Taiah]

You're soooooo lucky! I wanted to go to Japan the same way as you, but I was to old for that >_>

[Jaylan]

i want to go to japan.. to see there traditions and those sort of things
maybe some day..

[zenowhy]

MyTwoCents Wrote:Thanks alot, this was really helpful
I'll start right away.

i wanan go to japan too

[FahlynD]

To start with, always address yourself to the head of the house if they are present. Remove your shoes upon entering their home. Offer your help with the common task as they appreciate such things. You are a guest, but you are living in their country and home so it is up to you to adapt. The Japanese people carry themselves well and are very giving of their hospitality. Show the same courtesy and don't be afraid to ask. You are very lucky to go and you will be amazed at their wonderful culture. Have a great time...I know you will!

[bluebell861]

I wanna go to Japan too. But too expensive. I think we need a lot of money if we want to go to Japan. If not, we will b'come a hungry fellow right there. haha...
^^