Characteristics of Japanese people

What are the common characteristics of Japanese people? We all have stereotypes about other people and culture depending on their inhabitants, food they eat etc etc..I found this thread on Madame Riri asking for the “perfect words to describe Japanese people”. It is good that everybody has good things to say about us!!

1) Polite

Yes Japanese people are very polite in general. Not everybody but they are very polite because the culture values respect for seniors and people in higher ranks..also just be polite to others in general.

2) Punctual

Oh yes, they are on time. Actually we were trained to arrive in an appointment at least five minutes early. LOL I actually had this training as a kid..

3) Kind

But this we have to be careful because Japanese people aren’t overly helpful like some people in South East Asian countries. And there are many components of “tatemae” (facade) which should not be mixed with genuine kindness.

4)Hard-working

Their work ethics especially among salarymen (men and women (now) who work for Japanese companies) are well documented.

5)Respectful

6)Shy

People in Japan are very shy and they are not used to public speaking and asserting their individual opinions and views.

7)Intelligent

This is related to the stereotype associated with Eastern Asian people in general. They are good with science and math–>stereotypes..because I am not good at that!! LOL and all these superb cars (Honda and Toyota) and electronics (Panasonics, Toshiba etc)

8)Grouping

Japanese culture is based on collectivism as opposed to individualism which is more valued in American/western societies.

9)Formal

Japanese people tend to be very formal and it has something to do with their politeness.

10)Clean

They take baths at least once a day and they take a long bath at the end of the day and Japanese people tend to be very conscious about odors..and smells..