Welcome to You Who Love Japan
Welcome to MIMI-ZABI JAPAN.
This is a space where my beloved student, MIMI, and I, ZABI-sensei, will guide you through Japanese manners and culture as a team. We are here to help make your journey and life in Japan richer and warmer.
Why We Started This Journey
In recent years, the number of tourists visiting Japan has soared. Many have been touched by the culture and kindness of its people. However, cultural differences and customs can sometimes lead to confusion.
Rules like “staying quiet on the train,” “sorting garbage into many categories,” and “not giving tips” might seem like difficult rules or mysterious habits to those unfamiliar with Japan. I felt a sense of frustration seeing people who love Japan stumble over these small cultural barriers.
But are they truly so difficult? I believe Japanese manners are not difficult at all.
What We Truly Want to Convey
What we truly want to convey on this blog is not just a list of “rules.” It’s the core essence that lies beneath them: the kindness and respect of considering others.
Most Japanese manners come from “omoi-yari,” or caring for others. It is not about logic or knowledge but about the natural kindness that comes from within us. We will teach you this essence in an easy, polite, and fun way.
My student and partner, MIMI, is always by my side to support me. Through this blog, we hope to grow together with all of our readers.
The True Meaning of “Omotenashi”
When Japan made its bid for the Tokyo Olympics, the government heavily promoted the concept of “omotenashi” (Japanese hospitality), which may have led to it being misunderstood overseas. It seems many foreigners mistakenly believe that Japanese people, by nature, enjoy serving others and will forgive any behavior.
We do not believe that “omotenashi” is an inherent trait of all Japanese people. Most Japanese have simply developed a habit of “omoi-yari,” or mutual consideration for one another. Naturally, they feel offended by rude behavior, a lack of manners, or being disrespected. Japanese people will not forgive anything just because they have a spirit of hospitality.
Please think of “omotenashi” as a business strategy used within the hospitality industry, such as hotels, inns, and restaurants. However, both “omotenashi” and “omoi-yari” share a fundamental element: they are built on mutual respect between the service provider and the customer.
Building a Future with a Love for Japan
Through this blog, we want to show that Japanese manners are not just rules, but a form of communication that makes connections deeper and warmer.
Your kindness and desire to learn will be a great force for protecting Japan’s beautiful landscapes and culture for future generations.
We sincerely hope this place becomes a reliable guide and a source of heartwarming encounters for everyone who loves Japan.
So, let’s begin your exciting journey in Japan with us.