2023年9月 月別アーカイブ 13件

Points for choosing souvenirs for foreigners

Here are some pointers on selecting souvenirs when entertaining foreigners.

Please refer to this page for specific ideas on what points to keep in mind while making your selection.

Choose something that gives you a sense of Japanese culture.

If the recipient is a foreigner, it is important to choose an item that evokes a sense of Japanese culture.

Many foreigners are interested in Japanese culture, and there are so many aspects of Japanese aesthetics that are respected internationally, so beautiful and delicious Japanese foods are appreciated.

And sometimes, what we expect from a gift from a Japanese person is still “Japaneseness.

Choose from a selection of uniquely Japanese items such as traditional crafts that showcase the skills of master artisans, stylish Japanese-designed stationery, sake and confectionery.

Japan is a country with a souvenir culture by nature, so there is a wide variety of handmade souvenirs, and Japanese goods are so wonderful that even the politeness of the wrapping is a worldwide topic of conversation.

If you are considering a souvenir that will make a good impression, you will have a higher success rate if you meet their expectations.

Consider how much they know about Japan.

When giving something as a gift to a foreigner, consider how well he or she knows Japan.

It becomes difficult to give a gift of Japanese flavors that they have never tasted before to someone who is somewhat familiar with the country of Japan but does not know much about it.

Taste preferences are greatly influenced by customs and the environment in which one was raised, so it may be surprisingly difficult to find something that is too Japanese, so care should be taken.

Of course, there are cases where people are so impressed by their first taste that they fall in love with it, but if you want to choose something that will not fail, you will be pleased with something that is easy for the recipient to eat and has a slight Japanese flavor.

If you choose sweets, it is safer to choose easy-to-eat but Japanese-style sweets, such as green tea-flavored cookies, rather than high-end fresh sweets.

What would you give to a foreigner who knows Japan well?

On the other hand, for those who love Japan and have been to Japan many times, send a souvenir that is full of the wonders of Japan.

We recommend that you give a gift of traditional Japanese crafts, famous Japanese sweets, or other items that showcase Japanese craftsmanship.

Even if they love Japan, few people still have a deep understanding of the Japanese language, which makes it difficult for some to find their own specialties.

It is a gift filled with such Japanese skills that will impress foreigners who know Japan well. A gift filled with such Japanese craftsmanship will impress even the most Japan-minded foreigner.

Souvenirs can also be a great way to deepen personal exchanges, so please try to find a great gift for a foreigner who is interested in Japan.

Know the culture of the other country

What are some points to keep in mind when giving gifts to foreigners from Asian countries?

The culture of souvenirs for business entertainment tends to be unique to Asia.

Business manners and customs vary from country to country, and one should be aware of the common practices in each country.

In neighboring countries such as China, Korea, and Taiwan, the concept of offering a gift for business entertainment is very similar to the Japanese business etiquette.

Here is an article about business etiquette in different Asian countries.

• Mastering Chinese Guest Reception: Key Points and Essential Etiquette to Avoid Faux Pas!
• Korean Business Manners and Popular Entertainment Methods to Avoid Failure in Entertaining Koreans
• What is the point of Taiwanese hospitality? Understanding Culture and Manners
• Hosting Indian Guests: Key Business Etiquette and Cherished Japanese Cultural Experiences
• Indonesian Hospitality and Business Manners｜How to entertain successfully
• Hosting Singaporeans: Essential Business Etiquette and Cultural Norms to Know

What are some points to keep in mind when giving gifts to foreigners in Western countries?

On the other hand, in Western countries, gifts to people you have never met before basically do not exist as a matter of etiquette.

Be aware that in some countries, expensive gifts may be accepted as bribes.

Gifts with a personal touch tend to be appreciated, such as a gift to a person with whom you have become personally close or to celebrate the success of a project.

Basically, it is not very likely that a souvenir will affect your business, so don’t expect that to be the case.

Also, giving a souvenir as a reminder of your visit to Japan is often very much appreciated.

Culturally, giving a surprise gift as a Christmas gift is appreciated.

Souvenirs to Westerners should be considered as personal gifts, not as a matter of business etiquette.

The following links are to previous articles on business etiquette in different Western countries.

• What is the key to entertaining Americans? How to Understand Cultural Differences and Succeed
• No Hosting in Australia? Business Etiquette and Dining Manners to Watch Out For!
• Hosting the French: Mastering Business Etiquette and Customs for Successful Hospitality!

What are some points to keep in mind when giving gifts to foreigners in Arab countries?

The customs of Arab countries are very different from those of Japan, so it is important to take this into deep consideration when giving something as a gift.

Please note that in Arab countries, a gift from a person you have never met or a gift chosen out of obligation is very rude.

If you are going to give something, make sure it is something special and upscale.

We are pleased with the gift that we want you to receive because it is for you.

Also, food and alcohol should not be given to Muslims.

Some foods are contraindicated for religious reasons, so be careful. Alcohol is basically prohibited for Muslims, and only Halal food is allowed, so please take this into consideration when making your choice.

Here is an article about country-specific business etiquette in Arab countries.

• [Abu Dhabi & Dubai] How to Successfully Host VIP Guests from the UAE in Japan
• Hosting Saudi Guests | Essential Business Etiquette and Hospitality Tips for Valued Clients

As you can see, manners and common sense regarding souvenirs differ from country to country, so it is important to be careful about giving something in the general framework of a foreigner.

5 sweets that are good as souvenirs for foreign business entertainment

Sweets, which are a standard souvenir for business entertainment, are useful as a gift for business occasions because they disappear and can be shared by everyone.

Here we have selected items that are especially appreciated by foreigners.

We will also introduce Halal-certified sweets and vegan-friendly items for your reference.

Toraya “Small Yokan 14pieces

Image Image from: “https://www.toraya-group.co.jp/products/box-yokan-petite_boxof14”

Toraya is a high-end Japanese wagashi store with branches overseas.

After all, it is also a popular souvenir for foreigners.

Since yokan is made of only adzuki beans, sugar, and agar, it is a good gift for Muslims.

This is a perfect gift for people throughout Asia, especially those who eat sweet azuki on a daily basis.

Please deliver the elegant sweetness of Japan.

Although it is a fresh confectionery, it keeps well for a long time, making it an ideal souvenir. However, it is a little heavy, so care should be taken when giving it to customers who travel or carry a lot of luggage.

Product Information: Toraya “Small Yokan 14-pack

Official website: https://www.toraya-group.co.jp/products/box-yokan-petite_boxof14

Price (incl. tax): 4,320 yen

Product contents: 14 pieces, 857g

Item: Sweets

Allergenic ingredients: honey

Shelf life: Approx. 365 days

Coco Chou Chou “Shinshu Vegan Butter Sandwich – Grape

Image Image from: “https://cocochouchou-netshop.com/view/item/000000000175”

Shinshu Vegan Butter Sandwich – Grape” is a very special treat for vegans that can be served immediately upon delivery. It is a vegan and gluten-free butter sandwich, free of eggs, dairy products, wheat, and white sugar.

The grapes from the land of Shinshu are wrapped in a rich, butter-free cream made with coconut oil and cashew nut butter and sandwiched between crispy gluten-free cookies.

Although it does not last long, it is a product that can be enjoyed by our valued vegan customers with a polite taste of Japan.

Product Information: Coco Chou Chou “Shinshu Vegan Butter Sandwich – Grape

Official website: https://cocochouchou-netshop.com/view/item/000000000175

Price (incl. tax): 2,430 yen

Contents: 6 sandwiches (4cm x 4cm x 3cm high)

Item: Sweets

Allergenic items: wheat, eggs, dairy products, peanuts, nuts, soy products and manufactured in shared facilities.

Shelf life: 3 months frozen. After thawing, keep refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Ousando Honten “Tokyo Arare (chili pepper, dried laver, wasabi, powdered green tea)

Image Image from: “https://www.osama-do.co.jp/shopdetail/000000000045/ct19/page1/recommend/”

Certified Halal, Ousando Honten’s “Tokyo Arare” is a gift set filled with okaki crackers in a uniquely Japanese package.

This set includes chili pepper, classic seaweed, matcha green tea, and wasabi for a taste of Japan, making it a typical Japanese souvenir gift.

Product Information: Ousando Honsen “Tokyo Arare (Chili Pepper, Seaweed, Wasabi, Maccha Green Tea)

Official website: https://www.osama-do.co.jp/shopdetail/000000000045/ct19/page1/recommend/

Price (incl. tax): 1188 yen

Product contents: Seaweed, chili pepper and wasabi, 50g each

Item: Sweets

Allergenic items: rice, soybeans

Shelf life: 90 days from date of manufacture

Shiman Shu “Quattro Shrimp and Cheese

Image Image from: “https://www.quattro-ebicheese.com/shopping01.html”

Shimanshu’s Japanese macaroon “Quattro Shrimp Cheese” is a hot item from Shimanshu, a shrimp cracker specialty store in Ise-Shima.

The colorful and colorful shrimp crackers are a perfect snack for alcoholic beverages, and the rich cheese sauce melts in your mouth with its aromatic and light texture.

Pop and cute shrimp crackers will let you experience Japanese KAWAII culture.

Product Information: Shimanshu “Quattro Shrimp Cheese

Official website: https://www.quattro-ebicheese.com/shopping01.html

Price (incl. tax) 3,000 yen

Product Contents 24 bags (4 kinds)

Item: Shrimp crackers

Allergy items: shrimp, milk, soybeans

Shelf life: 10 months from date of manufacture

Uji no Hagoromo” by Kyuemon Ito

Image Image from: “https://www.itohkyuemon.co.jp/c/sweets/094426”

Tea specialty store Kyuemon Ito Kyuemon’s “Uji no Hagoromo” is a French baked pastry langue d’ocha made with an abundance of fragrant matcha green tea.

Foreigners will be impressed by the crunchy texture and the subtle taste of matcha green tea.

The matcha-flavored baked sweets, which are rare overseas, are easy to eat for foreigners who are not accustomed to Japanese sweets, so they are very much appreciated.

Product Information: Kyuemon Ito “Uji no Hagoromo

Official website: https://www.itohkyuemon.co.jp/c/sweets/094426

Shelf life: Approx. 30 days

Capacity: 10 sheets

Allergy items: wheat, milk, eggs, soybeans

Item: Sweets

Price: 1,370 yen

3 Traditional Crafts that Japan Connoisseurs Will Appreciate

Traditional Japanese crafts are appreciated as gifts for foreigners who are Japan connoisseurs.

By choosing a product with the finest Japanese craftsmanship, your sense of style will be well received, and you will love it as a precious item that you will really like and use.

It is also an ideal gift for those who have become close to you personally.

Kamawanu “Tenugui” hand towel eco-bag

Image Image from: “https://www.edocco.net/items/33549118”

Tenugui hand-dyed tenugui eco-bag” by Kamawanu, a brand that proposes hand-dyed tenugui in a modern style.

The eye-catching Japanese patterns will grab the hearts of foreigners.

This product can be used not only as an eco-bag for shopping, but also as a commuting sub-bag as it is large enough to hold A4 documents.

Eco-bags are ideal for souvenirs because no matter how many you have, they don’t get in the way.

Product Information: Kamawanu “Tenugui Hand Towel Eco Bag

Official website: https://www.edocco.net/items/33549118

Type：Eco-bag

Size: 37 x 31 x 9 (commuter bag (can hold A4 size))

Price: 3,800 yen

Maki-e ball-point pen “Senbazuru” (gold)

Image Image from: “https://www.thebecos.com/products/s0009-143”

This product is a ballpoint pen lavishly decorated with genuine gold leaf from Kanazawa.

Makie is a traditional technique representative of lacquerware in which lacquer is used to draw pictures and patterns on lacquerware, which is then sprinkled with gold and silver powder and further polished. Makie is applied to pens for everyday use, allowing you to incorporate the skills of Japanese craftsmen into your daily life.

It is especially appreciated by the wealthy in Asia and makes a great celebratory gift.

Prime Minister Abe sent this item to President Trump at the Japan-U.S. summit meeting held in February 2017, and this gem played an active role in the friendship between the U.S. and Japan.

Product information: Maki-e ball-point pen “Senbazuru (gold)” by Foilichi

Official website: https://www.thebecos.com/products/s0009-143

Size: 13.5* 1.2* 1.2 (core: 0.7mm)

Item: Ballpoint pen

Delivery time: 3 to 5 business days (+1 to 2 weeks if out of stock)

Price: 5,500 yen

J.Flavor * Suehirodo “Urushie Kumatori (with fan bag), Nagoya fan

Image Image from: “https://www.thebecos.com/products/s0149-005”

Suehirodo “Urushi-e Kumatori (with fan bag) Nagoya fan” is a fan made of Japanese paper and bamboo, painted with lacquer.

It has a simple and elegant luster that makes the wearer look classy.

A fan with a design that is not to your liking and is perfect for everyday use.

It is painted with kabuki shading popular among foreigners.

Even in foreign countries, it is very helpful to carry a fan in your bag during the hot summer.

Product Information: J.Flavor * Suehirodo “Urushie Kumatori (with fan bag), Nagoya fan

Official website: https://www.thebecos.com/products/s0149-005

Size: W41 x D2.5 x H22.5

Item: folding fan

Materials: Japanese paper, bamboo, bag polyester fabric

Delivery time: 3 to 5 business days (+1 to 2 weeks if out of stock)

Price: 4,600 yen

Two fashionable Japanese tea gifts that foreigners will love

The gift of tea is recommended when there are concerns about food ingredients.

When choosing a gift for a foreigner, one may need to be careful for health or religious reasons.

Japanese tea is of very high quality, making it a gift that will be appreciated, and because it is light, it is not a burden on luggage!

Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten “Tsukigase-cha” tea bag

Image Image from: “https://www.nakagawa-masashichi.jp/shop/g/g4547639467461/”

This gift can of tea grown in “Tsukigase” in Nara Prefecture, known since ancient times as a famous tea-producing region, is an assortment set of three types of tea: green tea in tea bags, Japanese black tea, and brown rice tea, which can be easily consumed.

The attention to detail and the luxurious and elegant design, made possible by the fact that Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten deals in fine Japanese goods, make this a gift that seems to lock in the splendor of Japan.

It’s a great gift for people who like a stylish atmosphere.

Product Information: Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten “Tsukigase-cha” Tea Bag

Official website: https://www.nakagawa-masashichi.jp/shop/g/g4547639467461/

Items: Green tea, Japanese black tea, brown rice tea

Price: 1,188 yen

Ippodo Tea Shop “Uji Shimizu Stick

Image Image from: “https://www.ippodo-tea.co.jp/products/matcha642512”

This product from Ippodo, a long-established tea company, is a green tea that makes it easy to enjoy matcha in cold water, individually packaged for each serving.

It has a simple taste with only clean sweet granulated sugar and matcha green tea.

Matcha is a popular Japanese flavor called “MACHA” that is gaining popularity overseas. It is a tea gift that is appreciated by foreigners because they can easily drink matcha with water.

Small and reasonably priced, it is a good choice for a small souvenir.

However, since it is a low-sugar product, foreigners with a complete sweet tooth should be wary.

Product Information: Ippodo Tea Store – Uji Shimizu – 12 sticks

Official website: https://www.ippodo-tea.co.jp/products/matcha642512

Item: Powdered Green Tea

Price: 1,188 yen

3 Sake Souvenirs for Foreigners

If you are a foreigner who likes to drink, sake is still the best choice.

There are quite a few people who like sake but do not know what to choose, so they are quite impressed when it comes to good sake recommended by a Japanese person.

Gifts of alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited for Muslims and should never be given at the last minute before departure, as they are not allowed in airplane luggage weight or carry-on!

Fuji Nishiki Shuzo “Fuji no Sake Hiryu Noriun

Image Image from: “https://ys-f-j.jp/”

Junmai Daiginjo and gold leaf sake, the highest grade and gorgeous sake in the ranks of Japanese sake.

Fuji standing in a bottle, the recipient will be unintentionally moved by the impact of the design.

Fuji, you can enjoy it as a light that changes light by placing the included LED light under Mt.

The special packaging, wrapped in an elegant paulownia wood box and wrapped in a luxurious red glossy cloth, is also very attractive.

The accompanying furoshiki can also be selected from eight different dignified patterns, making it a perfect souvenir for foreigners.

A service is also available to engrave a name or message in gold letters.

Product Information: Fuji Nishiki Shuzo “Fuji no Sake Hiryu Noriun

Official website: https://ys-f-j.jp/

Item: Sake Junmai Daiginjo with gold leaf

Price: 22,000-25,850 yen (varies depending on the type of furoshiki)

Imadaiji Sake Brewery “NISHIKIGOI

Image Image from: “https://imayotsukasa.co.jp/product/celebration/”

Nishikigoi-NISHIKIGOI” is a daiginjo with a bottle design reminiscent of Nishikigoi.

You can enjoy the internationally acclaimed design, which has won various design awards worldwide, including the Gut Design Award, and the deep sake flavor that is firmly rooted in the tradition of the Imadaiji Sake Brewery.

The glamour of the label makes it an ideal gift for congratulations, and its strong impact makes it a suitable souvenir for foreigners.

Product Information: Imadaiji Sake Brewery “Nishikigoi

Official website: https: //imayotsukasa.co.jp/product/celebration/

Item: Sake

Capacity: 720ml

Price: from 6160 yen

Masuichi-Ichimura Sake Brewery “Junmai Sake Yamahai Wooden Oke Brewing Shirogane

Suggested Citation: “https://www.masuichi.com/view/item/000000000021?category_page_id=all_items”

The Masuichi-Ichimura Sake Brewery’s famous sake “Shirogane” is produced in the old-fashioned, time-consuming way.

It is a very popular item, as it is the first time it has been reissued in 50 years.

The bottle, designed by Kenya Hara, a leading Japanese graphic designer who also serves as MUJI’s art director, is an impressive example of Japan’s design capabilities.

The refined taste and design of these items will please even VIP foreign guests who know all about good things.

Product Information: Masuichi-Ichimura Sake Brewery “Junmai Sake Yamahai Wooden Oke Brewing Shirogane

Official website: https: //www.masuichi.com/view/item/000000000021?category_page_id=all_items

Item: Sake

Capacity: 720ml

Price: 11,000 yen and up

Two products that allow you to enjoy stylish Japanese design in your daily life

Japanese-ness is not only traditional.

Stylish designs and functional Japanese products are the envy of the world.

Here you will find simple, functional products for everyday use.

UNIBALL ONE “Japanese taste color

Image Image from: “https://www.mpuni.co.jp/company/press/20230607-53109.html”

The high quality of Japanese stationery is recognized around the world.

The level of ballpoint pens in particular is one of the best in the world in terms of technology and design, and are high-end products that are three to five times more expensive when purchased overseas.

This product, Uniball One’s “Japanese Taste Color” is a high quality Japanese ballpoint pen set that offers a combination of colors that is uniquely Japanese.

It is also very comfortable to use.

If you want to give something practical as a souvenir, we recommend the gel ballpoint pen set.

Product information: uniball one “Japanese taste color 3 color set” 2 types

Official website: https://www.mpuni.co.jp/company/press/20230607-53109.html

Item: Gel ballpoint pen

Contents: 3 kinds x 2 sets (Hannamori-tsutsumi: cherry blossom monaka color, jade color, chestnut kinton color)

(Miyabi-zumizumi: Kikyo, Mame-Daifuku, and Biwa colors)

Price: 396 yen per set

Kosaikodo “Assortment of 17 kinds of Hyakuraku incense

Suggested Citation: “https://kousaido-ec.jp/products/hya-91”

This product, Kosaikodo “Hyakurakko Assorted 17 Kinds” is an assortment type incense set with a stylish design and 17 different scents to enjoy.

The set includes an elegant sandalwood fragrance and easy-to-use lavender and apple scents that are perfect for daily use, and will bring a moment of peace and tranquility to your recipient.

Japanese incense is popular overseas as well.

It is an ideal souvenir for people in Arab countries who especially like good smells, and for Europeans.

However, incense is considered unlucky to give to people in the Chinese-speaking world because it is associated with funerals.

Product Information: Kosaikodo “Hyakuraku incense assortment 17 kinds

Official website: https://kousaido-ec.jp/products/hya-91

Item: Incense

Contents: 17 kinds of incense (Magnolia, Lemon, Lemon, Kinmokusai, Huo incense, Apple, Peach, Cherry, Lotus, Lavender, Vanilla, Marigold, Green tea, Bamboo, Camphor, Sandalwood, Coffee, Incense) x 6 sticks, 1 long incense dish (celadon)

Price: 5,500 yen (tax included)

Three souvenirs of Japanese pop culture

Many foreigners like Japanese pop culture, such as anime and manga.

It may be a little nerve-wracking as a souvenir for business entertainment, but if the recipient is a “Japanese pop culture enthusiast,” then a souvenir that allows the recipient to enjoy pop culture will make a big impact. If the recipient is a “fan of Japanese pop culture,” then a souvenir that allows the recipient to enjoy pop culture will have a lasting impact.

Tokyo Banana “Pikachu I found it!

Image Image from: “https://www.tokyobanana.jp/products/banana_pokemon.html”

Pokémon’s popularity transcends national borders and is spreading throughout the world.

Tokyo Meika Tokyo Banana,” with its cute Pikachu package, features Pikachu not only on the package but also on the confectionery.

The flavor of the banana spread on the fluffy sponge cake is so delicious that even foreigners will be impressed.

Product information: Tokyo Banana “Pikachu: I Found It!

Official website: https://www.tokyobanana.jp/products/banana_pokemon.html

Type: Confectionery

Price: 1,296 yen (tax included) for 8 pieces

Shelf life: 7 days

Storage method: Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight, high temperature and high humidity

Allergy: wheat, egg, milk, soy, gelatin, banana Alcohol free

Kyoto’s famous fresh yatsuhashi sweets, “Oni-no-Burai Otabe: Highest-ranking Swordsman “Hashira” – Fresh yatsuhashi with sweet bean paste (Nikki and green tea flavors)”.

Image Image from: “https://www.otabe.kyoto.jp/kimetsunoyaiba/”

Kyoto Famous Sweets Nama Hachitsubashi sells a limited package of Otabe Demon’s Blade.

The popularity of Onimete has also spread around the world and is very popular, especially among the younger generation.

Both azuki bean paste and mochi are familiar sweets to people in Asia, so they make great souvenirs for the younger generation of anime lovers.

Please let the recipient know that the expiration date is 10 days.

Product information: Kyoto famous confectionery “Oni-no-Ba-edged Otabe – Supreme Swordsman “Hashira” – Nama-hattatsuhashi with tsubuan (sweet bean paste)”.

Official website: https://www.otabe.jp/view/item/000000000603?category_page_id=ct263

Type: Confectionery

Price: 713 yen for 10 pieces (tax included)

Shelf life: 10 days including manufacturing date

Storage method: Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight, high temperature and high humidity

Allergy: rice, azuki beans, green tea, soybean flour (contains soybeans)

Bunmeido “Doraemon Dorayaki

Image Image from: “https://www.bunmeido.co.jp/item/126”

Doraemon’s high visibility is still exceptional.

This product is “Doraemon Dorayaki” with cute Doraemon branding from Bunmeido.

Throughout Asia, Doraemon is popular among people of all ages, and it is known that Doraemon’s favorite food is dorayaki.

If you get such a Doraemon dorayaki from a Japanese person, you are sure to be impressed.

Product Information: Bunmeido “Doraemon Dorayaki

Official website: https://www.bunmeido.co.jp/item/126

Type: Confectionery

Price: 1,080 yen for 5 pieces (tax included)

Shelf life: 30 days including manufacturing date

Storage method: Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight, high temperature and high humidity

Allergy: wheat, eggs, milk, soybeans

Summary

When choosing a souvenir for a foreigner, select a gift based on what is uniquely Japanese, while taking into consideration the recipient’s tastes and how well he or she knows Japan.

The culture of souvenirs for business entertainment differs from country to country, but the one thing that they all have in common is the importance of having chosen them with the recipient in mind.

Please take a look at the products we have introduced in this article and try to prepare a souvenir for business entertainment that will be appreciated.

Entertaining important foreign guests. Sushi is always a great hit.

This article is an introduction to popular sushi restaurants that offer English-speaking, halal food, and even vegan options.

We have selected some of the best sushi restaurants in Tokyo that offer the services you need because your partner is a foreigner.

We will also provide information on custom-made sushi experiences that are perfect for more special entertainment projects, so please take a look at our planning tips.

Five English-speaking sushi restaurants recommended for entertaining foreigners

For entertaining foreigners, English-speaking restaurants are reassuring allies.

Here we introduce five sushi and sushi restaurants in Tokyo with English-language menus from restaurants where the staff is fluent in English.

Ginza Sushi Ichi Ginza Honten

Ginza Sushi Ichi is a top-notch sushi restaurant in Ginza that has been listed in Michelin.

Each dish is carefully prepared and tastes great, and the restaurant is very popular among foreign customers because the staff can speak English.

It is a popular restaurant in Ginza that frequents celebrities and will please even the most discerning customers.

Store Information：Ginza Sushi Ichi Ginza Main Store

Official website: http://ginza-sushiichi.jp/english/shop/ginza.html

Reservation number: 03-3567-0014

Business hours: 17:00-22:00 (last entry at 20:30)

Address: 1-6-7 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo

Closed: Sunday, Monday, national holidays (irregular)

Budget sense: 20,000 yen and up

Sushi Karaku

Karaku in Ginza offers authentic Edomae-zushi, a traditional style of sushi, carefully preserved to the present day.

Private rooms with kotatsu (a table placed over a sunken table with a counter) are available, making it ideal for entertaining guests. This internationally acclaimed restaurant has been featured in famous foreign media.

We have an English-language menu and recommend this restaurant when you want to enjoy sake and sushi, such as the wine and Edomae Sushi pairing course.

Restaurant Information: Sushi Karaku

Official website: https://ginza-karaku.com

Reservation phone number: 03-3571-2250

Address: Nishigobankan B1F, 5-6-16 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo

Reception hours: 12:00 – 18:00

Business hours: Monday-Friday: 11:30-14:00 / 17:00-22:00; Saturday and Sunday: 11:30-15:00 / 17:00-21:30

Closed: Holidays

Budget sense: 18,000 yen

Sushiya Shinkichi Shimbashi

Sushiya Shinkichi Shinbashi is the perfect place for entertaining in Shinbashi, where you can enjoy sushi, sashimi, and a la carte dishes made with seasonal fish directly from the Toyosu market and its production areas.

Private rooms are available for up to 12-13 people. An all-you-can-drink course is also available, so it is recommended for large group dinners.

In addition to English, Spanish is also available. There is also a Chinese menu, which is very reassuring for foreign guests.

Restaurant Information：Sushi Restaurant Shinkichi Shimbashi

Official website: https://www.shinkichisan.com/locations-shinbashi/

Reservation phone number: 050-5384-8415

Business hours: 17:00-23:00 (L.O.22:00) Last entry at 22:00

Address: 6F Eatus Shinbashi, 3-13-4 Shinbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo

Closed: No holidays

Budget sense: 6,000 yen and up

Sushi Katsu

Sushi Katsu has been in business since 1970 and is a renowned restaurant where you can enjoy the famous Edomae Sushi.

Recommended for those who want to take the time to enjoy authentic Edomae Sushi for their valued foreign guests.

English speaking staff is available, and English menus are also available.

Restaurant Information : Sushi Katsu

Official website: http://sushikatsu-tokyo.com/

Reservation phone number: 050-5447-9703

Business hours: [Monday-Friday] Lunch 11:30-14:00 (L.O.21:00) [Weekday, Saturday, Sunday] Dinner 16:30-21:30 (L.O.21:30)

Address: 9-20 Ichibancho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo

Closed: Open every day

Budget sense: 15,000 yen and up

Sushi Hasegawa Nishi-Azabu

Sushi Hasegawa Nishi-Azabu, with its comfortable warmth of wood, offers authentic sushi, kaiseki, and Japanese cuisine.

The small private room is a relaxing space, English and Korean are available, and an English menu is also available, making it ideal for foreign business dinners.

All dishes are made by ceramic artist Koichi Uchida, and the dishes are beautiful to the eye.

Store Information : Sushi Hasegawa Nishi-Azabu

Official website: http://www.sushi-hasegawa.com/nishiazabu/

Reservation number: 050-5340-7848

Business hours: [Weekdays, Saturdays, holidays, and before holidays] 17:00-23:00 (L.O.22:00) *Private rooms are available upon reservation.

Address: Kasumi Heights 2F, 1-7-11 Nishiazabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo

Closed: Sunday

Budget sense: from 15,000 yen

Two Halal food-compliant sushi restaurants for entertaining Muslim expats

Here are two restaurants in Tokyo where you can enjoy Halal sushi.

Entertainment with Muslims requires dining at a halal-certified restaurant.

Halal sushi requires consideration for Halal food, such as not using mirin with alcohol content in the rice as well as in the ingredients.

Asakusa Sushi Ken

Asakusa Sushiken is the first halal sushi restaurant in Tokyo. You can enjoy authentic Edo-style sushi made with fresh ingredients.

Obtained Halal certification from the Japan Halal Foundation, which is operated by the Okachimachi Mosque.

The restaurant has received rave reviews from Muslim expatriates around the world because of its halal food and authentic sushi.

Store Information : Asakusa Sushi Ken

Official website: https://www.asakusa-sushiken.com/

Reservation number: 03-5246-6547

Open: 12:00 – 15:00 (Food L.O. 14:30), 17:00 – 22:30 (Food L.O. 22:00)

Address: 2-11-4 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo

Closed: Wednesday

予算感：￥6,000～

SUSHI Gonpachi Shibuya

SUSHI Gonpachi Shibuya offers authentic sushi in a modern atmosphere with a night view of Shibuya.

Of these, we recommend the Halal Sushi Course, which allows you to enjoy Wagyu beef and sushi together, for dinner with Muslims.

A course meal with plenty of Halal ingredients, featuring seared meat sushi and a comparison of three parts of the fantastic “Ozaki Beef” wagyu. It is popular even among first-time sushi eaters.

Reservations are required, so please contact us at least 3 business days prior to your visit.

Store Information：SUSHI Gonpachi Shibuya

Official website: https://gonpachi.jp/sushi-shibuya/

Reservation phone number: 03-5784-3772

Hours of operation: 17:00 – 26:00

Address: 3-6 Maruyama-cho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo

Closed: January 1

Budget sense: ￥10,000～

Four stylish vegan sushi restaurants for entertaining foreigners.

Here are four popular vegan sushi restaurants in Tokyo.

Vegan sushi is vegetable-based sushi without any animal-derived ingredients.

We are sure that you will be delighted to show our vegan/vegetarian guests from overseas around your restaurant.

Asakusa Sushi Yu

Asakusa Sushi Yu is a top-quality Edomae Sushi restaurant in Asakusa. It is a famous restaurant where celebrities are said to frequent.

Edo-mae Sushi is made using only natural products and traditional techniques. Special guests are sure to be satisfied with the taste of sushi that is a must-try because of its location in Tokyo.

Vegetarian menus are also available, so please consult with us about reservations in advance.

Store Information： Asakusa Sushi Yu

Official website: https://gonpachi.jp/nishi-azabu/

Reservation number: 050-5571-2610 (reservation required)

Hours: 6:00 p.m. – L.O. 10:00 p.m., closing at 10:30 p.m.

Address: 3-16-8 Nishi Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo

Closed: Sun.

Budget sense: 20,000 yen and up

Gonpachi Nishiazabu

At Gonpachi, where former Prime Minister Koizumi and former President Bush held an izakaya summit, you can also enjoy vegan sushi.

Although it is an izakaya, many dishes are popular among foreigners, including the “Gonpachi Vegan Nigiri,” a set of 12 pieces of colorful vegetable sushi and three cuts of vegetable sushi rolls that are also pleasing to the eye.

The restaurant is also popular among American celebrities, as it is used for filming movies and visited by many Hollywood actors and other celebrities.

Store Information： Gonpachi Nishiazabu

Official website: https://gonpachi.jp/nishi-azabu/

Reservation number: 03-5771-0180

Business hours: 17:00-26:00 (L.O. 25:00)

Address: 3F, 1-13-11 Nishiazabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo

Closed: No holidays (open all year round)

Budget sense: 10,000 yen and up

Sushi Cho, Shirokanedai

Located in Shirokanedai, Sushi-cho is a restaurant where you can enjoy creative sushi.

Considered one of the leading vegan sushi restaurants in Tokyo, the restaurant attracts customers from all over the world for its sushi made with only carefully selected seasonal vegetables.

If you inform them in advance of any allergies or foodstuffs you have difficulty with, they will make sure to accommodate you, so we recommend this restaurant for entertaining people who have many likes and dislikes.

Store Information： 【Sushi Cho, Shirokanedai

Official website: http://www.shirokanedai-sushicho.com/

Address: Ad Shirokanedai B1, 5-15-1 Shirokanedai, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-0071

Phone: 03-5793-3555

Hours: Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. / Evening: 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Closed: Monday

Budget sense: 10,000 yen and up

Ein Sof Ginza

Ein Sof Ginza Honten, a vegan restaurant and patisserie located just a short walk from Higashi-Ginza Station, offers stylish and delicious vegan cuisine.

The restaurant also offers a large selection of organic wines and is perfect for dinners with foreigners who are particular about gluten-free dishes, five pungent roots and more.

The “Kotohagi” course, available only during dinner time, consists of 11 types of vegetable sushi. The colorful vegetables on Japanese nori seaweed and pesticide-free brown rice vinegared rice are a feast for the eyes.

Reservations are required for dinner courses only. Reservations required at least one day in advance for vegan Hana Chirashi Sushi orders.

Store information: [Ein Sof Ginza Main Store

Official website: http: //ain-soph.jp

Reservation number: 050-3134-4241

Business hours: Lunch 11:30 – 14:30 (LO 14:30) / Tea time 14:30 – 17:00 (LO 16:00) / Dinner Wed – Sat (Wed-Sat) 17:30 – 21:00

Address: 4-12-1 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0061

Closed: No regular holidays

Budget sense: 6,000~.

Entertaining with sushi as the keyword experience.

If you want to entertain guests with more special hospitality, we recommend a Japanese cultural experience with sushi as the keyword.

In recent years, experience-based tourism has become increasingly popular among foreigners.

Here are some specific ways to experience Japanese culture, with sushi as the key word, which is perfect for entertaining, and is Motenas Japan’s top choice.

Sushi workshop for entertainment

Fresh fish, glossy rice, made with your own hands.

In the sushi experience, participants will don a white kappo-gown and experience being a sushi chef.

Sushi is a coveted Japanese food overseas.

Even people who do not know much about Japanese culture are aware of sushi, so many foreigners are overwhelmingly impressed by the experience of making sushi by themselves.

Motenas Japan is happy to organize sushi workshops for business people to enjoy for entertainment or corporate training.

Of course, since you will be able to eat sushi that you made yourself, the satisfaction level will be quite high for this project.

It is also perfect for those times when the length of stay is short and you want to organize a variety of events for them, but time constraints make it difficult to do so.

It can be incorporated into lunch or dinner hours, so it is a great option when you don’t have much time.

Recommended related information: Motenas Japan “Premium Cooking Class

Business Trip Sushi in Private Space

For entertaining VIPs and wealthy clients, we recommend sushi onsite in a private room.

In a Japanese-style room overlooking a tranquil and serene Japanese garden, we have invited Tokyo’s top sushi chefs to create a unique experience for guests to enjoy freshly made sushi.

This project is very popular among celebrity guests because it keeps the playbait in place.

The relaxed and calm atmosphere is popular among customers, who are able to enjoy the food in a relaxed atmosphere and talk with each other.

And the high degree of freedom is part of its appeal.

You can combine the enjoyment of sushi with other Japanese cultural experiences, such as sake tasting and kabuki viewing, to plan a unique and special entertainment experience.

Recommended related article: Japanese cultural experiences popular among foreigners! Recommended 12 Experiential Sightseeing & VIP Entertainment

summary

In this issue, we have introduced sushi restaurants in Tokyo where you can receive the service you need because you are dining with foreigners.

For entertaining foreigners, you can still make a good impression if you challenge them to a dinner with authentic Japanese sushi.

It is a traveler’s pleasure to accurately find a good restaurant on the road, but it is exceptionally gratifying to be guided by someone who knows the local area well.

Please refer to this article and have a wonderful meal time.

Recommended Related Article:

Perfecting Hospitality in Japan : Tips for Successful Business Entertaining with International Guests

Hosting International Guests? Explore Tokyo’s Must-See Spots by Area!

Nagoya-meshi is a local food very popular among foreigners.

In this issue, the author, who is from Nagoya and lives overseas, recommends restaurants in Nagoya that are perfect for entertaining foreigners.

We will guide you to restaurants where you can enjoy the most popular Nagoya rice dishes, upscale and private restaurants suitable for dinner receptions, and izakaya (Japanese-style pubs) popular among foreigners.

Five Fine Japanese Restaurants in Nagoya for Entertaining Foreigners

Here are five high-end Japanese restaurants in Nagoya that are recommended for entertaining foreigners.

We have selected mainly Japanese restaurants with an upscale atmosphere suitable for entertaining special guests.

Ryotei Kikkito

RYOTEI KITOKITO offers fine Japanese cuisine with a view of a Japanese garden.

Enjoy the luxury of Japanese kaiseki cuisine in a relaxed Japanese atmosphere in a completely private room that exudes a sense of luxury and privacy.

We also have a large selection of sakes to match our dishes, making us the perfect restaurant for entertaining foreigners who love Japanese sake.

Store Information：Kitokito Ryotei

Official website: https://kitokitoturiya.owst.jp/

Address: 1-10-21 Yoshino, Higashi-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan

Reservation phone number: 050-3462-5350

Business hours: 12:00-15:00 (L.O.14:00),18:00-22:00 (L.O.21:00)

Closed: Wednesday

Budget sense: 11,000 yen and up

Uotetsu｜Japanese Cuisine, Kaiseki Cuisine

For entertaining special guests, we recommend the ryotei restaurant “Uotetsu”.

In the tranquility of the restaurant, you can enjoy Japanese cuisine prepared by master chefs and share the beauty of Japan with foreigners.

Enjoy a special time with your loved one as you savor the ever-changing Japanese seasons, with fresh vegetables and fresh fish connoisseurs by skilled procurers.

A shuttle bus may be available, so please check with us if you need one.

Store Information：Uo Tetsu

Official website: https://www.uotetsu.co.jp/

Address: 55 Shinmei-cho, Kita-ku, Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture

Reservation phone number: 050-5384-2202

Business hours: Lunch 11:30-14:30 (L.O.14:00), Dinner 17:00-22:00 (L.O.20:30)

Closed: Tuesday, 4th Wednesday

Budget sense: Lunch 1,500 yen, Dinner 6,000 yen and up

Sushi Mukozuki

Sushi Mukozuki, with its kotatsu and kotatsu (a table placed over a kotatsu or sunken table), is a perfect place for entertaining guests and for celebratory parties.

The fresh ingredients that can be served in a modern Japanese-style space are made possible by the fact that we are a fishmonger.

You can fully enjoy sushi with the skill of our craftsmen.

Recommended for those who wish to entertain guests in a relaxed atmosphere in a private room.

Store Information: Sushi Mukatsuki

Official website: http://sushi-kougetsu.com

Reservation phone number: 050-5871-1650

Business hours: Dinner 18:00 – 00:00 (L.O.23:00)

Address: 3-13-13 Nishiki, Naka-ku, Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture

Closed: Sunday

Budget sense: 10,000 yen and up

Otomi Asai

Otomi Asai, a Japanese restaurant in Shinsakae, offers authentic Japanese cuisine using seasonal ingredients.

From sashimi to 8-sun, steak to soba (buckwheat noodles), the dishes are made with carefully selected ingredients and full of thoughtful hospitality, providing a wonderful time for entertaining important people.

They can recommend the perfect sake or wine to go with your meal, making it a great choice for a dinner with foodies.

Store Information：Otsuji Asai

Official website: https://otsuaji-asai.com/

Business hours: Lunch 11:30 – (last entry 13:00 / reservation at least 2 days in advance), Dinner 18:00 – (last entry 22:30 / reservation at least 1 day in advance)

Reservation phone number: 050-5870-5136

Address: 2A Mate Worcester Building, 1-5-6 Shinsakae, Naka-ku, Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture

Closed: Sundays and national holidays

Budget sense: 8,000 yen and up

Nakono Mitsurin

We recommend Nakono Mitsubayashi, located a 10-minute walk from Kokusai Center Station, as a prestigious restaurant suitable for entertaining a special person for dinner.

You can enjoy authentic kaiseki cuisine in a samurai mansion-style restaurant located in a historic townscape.

The restaurant is popular among Nagoya’s food connoisseurs, and you can enjoy the heartwarming hospitality of the proprietor and proprietress in a space with seven counter seats and one private room.

Store Information：Nakono Mitsubayashi

Official website: http://nagono.jp/interview/file01/

Business hours: 12:00-13:30(Entry),17:30-20:30(Entry)

Reservation phone number: 052-533-5530

Address: 1F, 1-22-9 Nakono, Nishi-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan

Closed: Sunday, 3rd Monday

Budget sense: 9,000 yen and up

4 restaurants in Nagoya where you can enjoy Nagoyamanai that will please foreigners.

Since we are in Nagoya, how about a Nagoya meal?

Nagoya rice is often sweet and spicy, and is a Japanese food that is quite popular with foreigners.

Dining together with sweet miso, chicken dishes, and other tastes that can only be enjoyed in Nagoya will surely stimulate conversation.

Sekai no Yama-chan Fushimi｜Wings & Izakaya

Tebasaki (chicken wings) are a typical Nagoya delicacy. The most famous of these is probably “Sekai no Yamachan.

The Sekai no Yamanachan Fushimi Branch was created as “a higher grade of Sekai no Yamanachan.

It is well located, just a short walk from Fushimi Station and the Gozenza Theater, and has a large number of foreign-language staff, so it is well equipped to handle foreign residents.

Enjoy the taste of Nagoya in a relaxed atmosphere.

Store Information : Sekai no Yama-chan Fushimi Store

Official website: https://www.yamachan.co.jp/yama_fushimi/index.html

Business hours: 052-203-9955

Address: 2-1-22 Sakae, Naka-ku, Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture

Closed: Year-end and New Year holidays

Budget sense: 2,000 yen and up

Yabaton Yabacho Honten｜Miso Katsu

When you think of Nagoya, Misokatsu (pork cutlet) comes to mind! Many people may think of Nagoya as “Misokatsu”.

Among them, Yabaton is the most well-known.

The Yabacho main store is the most popular of them all and is always crowded with people.

Foreign visitors who love Japanese subcultures will be delighted if they stop by after sightseeing in Nagoya’s Akihabara or Osu shopping district, which is located nearby.

Store Information：Yabaton Yabacho Honten

Official website: http: //www.yabaton.com/

Reservation phone number: 052-252-8810

Address: 3-6-18 Osu, Naka-ku, Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture

Business hours: 11:00 – 21:00 (LO.20:30)

Closed: Open every day

Budget sense: 1,000 yen and up

Atsuta Houraiken｜Hitsumabushi

Atsuta Horaiken, located near Atsuta Jingu Shrine, is a well-known, long-established restaurant where hitsu-mabushi is originally served.

The eel is carefully grilled over binchotan charcoal with craftsmanship, and the secret sauce that has been used since the establishment of the restaurant.

Experience more than 140 years of history.

Kaiseki cuisine using seasonal ingredients is also available, and is recommended for special entertainment dinners.

The restaurant is full of Japanese atmosphere with a sense of history near the Atsuta Forest, where you can fully enjoy the Japanese atmosphere.

Store Information：Atsuta Horaiken Main Store (Horaijinya)

Official website: http://www.houraiken.com/

Reservation phone number: 052-671-8686

Business hours: 11:30 – 14:00 (L.O.), 16:30 – 20:30 (L.O.)

Address: 503 Kobe-cho, Atsuta-ku, Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture

Closed: Wednesdays and 2nd and 4th Thursdays

Budget sense: 11,000 yen and up

Yamamoto-ya Honten JR Nagoya Station｜Miso Nikomi Udon Noodle

Since its establishment in 1907, Yamamoto-ya has maintained a single-minded focus on miso nikomi udon.

You can enjoy the taste of carefully selected ingredients and special techniques that cannot be found anywhere else.

Miso-nikomi is a typical local dish of Nagoya.

The deep historical flavor will delight you if you try to recommend it to foreigners.

Nagoya Uimamonodori Hirokoji Exit, a restaurant district located inside JR Nagoya Station and Nagoya Station Hirokoji Exit, is easy to stop by before moving, and is recommended for pre-departure dining with foreign residents who are frequently on the move.

Store Information：Yamamoto-ya Honten JR Nagoya Station

Official website: https://yamamotoyahonten.co.jp/storeguidance/

Business hours: 11:00 – 22:00 (LO 21:30)

Address: Nagoya Umaimon-dori Hirokoji Exit, 1-1-4 Meieki, Nakamura-ku, Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture

Closed: irregular *follows the facility

Budget sense: Miso nikkomi udon, 1,210 yen and up

3 popular izakaya restaurants in Nagoya where you can entertain guests

Izakaya are very popular among foreigners who can order a variety of small dishes and drinks, and are suitable for entertaining foreigners.

Here are three izakaya restaurants in Nagoya recommended for business entertainment.

We have selected mainly adult izakaya (Japanese-style pubs) where you can enjoy a higher grade of atmosphere in a relaxing atmosphere.

Kukai Meieki Branch

We recommend Gukai Meieki, an izakaya with a completely private room, because of its convenient location just 1 minute from Nagoya Station.

Robatayaki,” which maximizes the flavor of the ingredients with just the right amount of heat, is the most popular menu item.

You can enjoy Nagoya Cochin and Wagyu beef as well as seafood.

Fully private rooms are available to accommodate groups of 4 to 120 people, making it possible to use the restaurant for a variety of occasions.

Store Information：Gukai Meieki Branch

Official website: https://kuukai-meieki.owst.jp/

Reservation phone number: 050-5384-9491

Business hours: [Weekdays, before national holidays] 17:00-00:00 [Sat, Sun, holidays] 12:00-00:00

Address: 2F Collect Mark, 3-14-16 Meieki, Nakamura-ku, Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture

Closed: Open every day

Budget sense: 4,000 yen and up

Fish Market Bar FUKU Hamakin Sakae Sumiyoshi｜Fugu Cuisine, Izakaya

FUKU Hamakin” is an izakaya-style restaurant where you can enjoy fugu dishes and sake to your heart’s content.

The famous thickly sliced tessa, a three-course platter of seared, hinoki-ita-yaki, and tataki, will impress you with its unparalleled plump texture.

The wide selection of both sake and shochu makes it popular among foreigners who want to try their hand at sake tasting.

We have completely private rooms where you can relax under a sunken kotatsu in a modern Japanese atmosphere, and we recommend this restaurant to those who are thinking of entertaining important people in a Japanese style.

Store Information： Fish Market Bar FUKU Hamakin Sakae Sumiyoshi

Official website: https://www.hotpepper.jp/strJ001227325/

Reservation phone number: 050-5870-1954

Business hours: Dinner 17:00-21:00

Address: GEMS Sakae 1F, 3-9-2 Sakae, Naka-ku, Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture

Closed: No regular holidays

Budget sense: 4,000 yen and up

Japanese Sake Restaurant Amano Nishiki-tei

Japanese Izakaya “Amano Nishiki-Tei” is a Japanese-style restaurant located a 5-minute walk from Sakae Station, and is a hideout for those in the know.

Enjoy premium Japanese sake selected by sake tasters and carefully prepared Japanese cuisine.

The most popular dishes are “Omakase Sashizari,” a seasonal delicacy purchased every morning at the Yanagibashi Market in Nagoya City, “Wagyu Tataki,” high-quality Japanese black beef purchased with particular attention to grade, and the reasonably priced but highly satisfying “Nishiki Kujuin.

The modern Japanese restaurant is recommended for both business entertainment and dining, with counter seats made of a single piece of luxurious wood and private rooms where you can relax.

Store information：Amano Nishikintei, Japanese Sake Brewery

Food log: https://tabelog.com/aichi/A2301/A230103/23076155/

Reservation phone number: 052-253-7879

Business hours: 17:00 – 24:00 (L.O.23:30)

Address: B1F Daisan Nishiki Building, 3-19-30 Nishiki, Naka-ku, Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture

Closed: Sundays, national holidays, 4th Monday of the month, year-end and New Year holidays, Bon vacation period

Budget sense: ￥6,000～

summary

In this issue, we have recommended 12 restaurants in Nagoya suitable for entertaining guests.

Nagoya, right in the middle of the city, is influenced by food culture from both the Kanto and Kansai regions, and has a wide variety of restaurants.

And nagoya rice, which is often sweet and spicy in flavor, is a Japanese local dish that is quite popular among foreigners.

Introducing authentic Nagoya rice, which can only be found in Nagoya, will allow you to better appreciate the breadth of Japan’s food culture.

8 Fine Japanese Restaurants in Osaka Ideal for Entertaining Foreigners

Here we introduce eight restaurants in Osaka where you can enjoy high-class Japanese cuisine that will please foreigners.

We have selected mainly restaurants with private rooms that offer privacy and comfort suitable for dinner entertainment and restaurants with a high reputation for Japanese cuisine that are popular among foreigners.

Please refer to it for your important dinner for business entertainment in Osaka.

Recommended Related Articles：Hospitality Tips for Successful Business Entertainment and Dining with Foreigners?

Wagyu Matsushita Uedori Restaurant｜Wagyu Cuisine

At Wagyu Matsushita, a sommelier will help you choose the perfect wine to go with the carefully selected A5-rank beef.

The interior of the restaurant is a calm, modern Japanese space with a white base and the warmth of wood, offering a taste of the high quality of Japanese restaurants.

The restaurant has counter seating with an open kitchen, comfortable table seating, and a calm private room, making it perfect for entertaining diners.

You can enjoy high-quality Japanese beef in yakiniku, yakishabu, and steak, and enjoy Japanese wagyu beef without any worries.

Store Information：Wagyu Matsushita Kamidori Branch

Official website: https://matusita.gorp.jp/

Reservation phone number: 050-5232-9478

Business hours: [Weekdays] 17:00 – 23:30 (23:00) [Saturdays] 17:00 – 22:30 (22:00)

Address: 2F Kitashinchi Koda Building, 1-3-30, Sonezakishinchi, Kita-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka

Closed: Sundays and national holidays

Budget: 8,000-9,999 yen for dinner

Tenmabashi Fujikawa｜Tempura

If you want to choose the best tempura in Osaka for your hospitality, “Tenmabashi Fujikawa” is the place to go.

The owner’s skillful artisanal tempura is served in a fine Japanese setting.

Each dish, which makes the most of seasonal ingredients, represents a gastronomic experience that can only be found in Japan.

The owner’s attention to detail is evident in everything from the tempura artistically fried in front of your eyes to the carefully selected serving utensils.

Tempura” is a food that can be found in other countries as well, but real Japanese tempura is something else.

I recommend it for the best entertainment.

Store Information：Tenmabashi Fujikawa

Official website: https://www.te-fujikawa.com/

Reservation phone number: 050-5325-4320

Business hours: Lunch 12:00 – 14:00 (13:00) *Reservations must be made by the day before due to availability of ingredients. Evening 18:00 – 22:00（20:30)

Address: Hiro Bldg. 1F, 2-2-21 Tenma, Kita-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka

Closed: No regular holidays

Budget: Lunch 8,000 – 9,999 yen / Dinner 15,000 – 19,999 yen

Sushi Takuma

If you are looking for a restaurant that serves English, I recommend Sushi Takuma.

Located in Honmachi, Osaka, this sushi restaurant has an English-speaking staff and menu.

The ingredients for the sushi are carefully selected for their freshness and are seasoned according to the ingredients, so they are served without soy sauce. It seems that the owner’s attention to detail is concentrated in every single piece of sushi.

In addition to the counter, there are also tables that are semi-private so you can spend a relaxing time.

Restaurant : Sushi Takuma

Official website: https://k201439.gorp.jp

Reservation phone number: 050-3145-1707

Business hours: Dinner 17:00-23:00 (Food L.O 22:00, Drink L.O 22:30)

Address: 1F Nikko Building, 3-2-11 Minamihonmachi, Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka

Closed: No regular holidays

Budget: Dinner 10,000 yen and up

Jisei｜Sushi

Because it is a dinner for foreign business guests, we recommend “Jinsei” when you want to guide them with authentic sushi.

Although it is a small restaurant with only six seats at the counter, it is highly rated by word of mouth as a place to enjoy authentic nigirizushi, and is popular both domestically and internationally.

You can simply enjoy authentic nigiri-zushi, and enjoy the charm of authentic Japanese sushi that can be savored only with careful work.

Be sure to make reservations in advance as it is a popular restaurant where reservations are essential.

Store Information : Jisei

Official website: https://www.te-fujikawa.com/

Reservation phone number: 06-6360-4799 (call after 4:00 p.m.)

Business hours: 17:00-23:00 (2-part system), 3-part system on Saturdays: 16:00/18:00/20:30* Open on holidays except Mondays

Address: 2-1-3 Shinsaibashi-suji, Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka

Closed: Sunday

Budget: Dinner: 2,000 yen and up

Kansai Sushi

Since I am in Osaka, I want to enjoy the delicious sushi of the Kansai region! In such a case, I recommend “sushi Kizuna”.

Located about an 8-minute walk from JR Kyobashi Station, you can enjoy Kansai-style sushi, which is slightly different from Edo sushi, in a relaxed white-wood-based restaurant.

While nigiri sushi is also available, you can enjoy the authentic and creative sushi that only this restaurant can offer, which is a cross between battera sushi and stick sushi unique to the Kansai region and ingredients from the Kansai region, such as Narazuke.

We recommend this restaurant for dinners with foreign guests who come to Japan frequently and have eaten all kinds of sushi and Japanese food.

sushi “kizuna”(sushi wrapped in seaweed and cooked in a kizuna)

Official website: https://kb6h500.gorp.jp/

Reservation phone number: 06-6922-5533 (by appointment only)

Hours: [Tue-Sat] 18:00-23:00, two rotations from 18:00 and 20:40.

[Sundays and holidays] 17:00-23:00, 2 rotations: from 17:00 and from 19:40.

Open on Sunday

Address: 1F Fujimi Heights, 2-4-9 Miyakojima-Minamidori, Miyakojima-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka

Closed: Monday and 3rd Tuesday

Budget: Dinner 20,000 yen and up

Honkogetsu｜Japanese Cuisine

The most extended kaiseki restaurant in Osaka is Honkogetsu.

The restaurant has won numerous awards and has been awarded two Michelin stars, making it a well-known restaurant among foreigners.

The menu is only omakase kaiseki, but in addition to the wonderful food, the attention to detail is top-notch, as the tableware changes with the seasons.

You can feel the change of the seasons through all five senses.

We recommend this restaurant to those who are looking for a place to invite wealthy and VIP guests, where Japanese craftsmanship shines through.

Honkogetsu

Official website: https://kb6h500.gorp.jp/

Reservation phone number: 06-6211-0201

Hours of operation: 17:00 – 21:00

Address: 1-7-11 Dotonbori, Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka

Closed: Sunday

Budget: Dinner 50,000 yen and up

Kaiseki Cuisine Masuda｜Japanese Cuisine

Kaiseki Cuisine Masuda offers a full taste of the changing seasons with seasonal ingredients.

In the food district of Shinsaibashi, you can enjoy traditional Japanese cuisine and creative and gorgeous kaiseki cuisine.

The restaurant is full of gentle care that is also pleasing to the eye, and offers a sincere taste of Japanese hospitality.

This restaurant is sure to please foreigners and is recommended for a special dinner.

Restaurant Information：Kaiseki Cuisine Masuda

Official website: https://kb6m400.gorp.jp/

Reservation phone number: 050-5325-8728

Hours: Evening 18:00 – 21:30 (19:30)

Address: 2F Tamamai Plaza, 1-3-12 Shinsaibashi-suji, Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka

Closed: Sunday

Budget: Dinner from 15,000 yen

A soup and two dishes at Ueno, Minoh

Recommended for a relaxing dinner away from the hustle and bustle of the city is the Michelin-starred “Ippiru Nisai Ueno Minoh Branch.

All dishes are prepared using authentic dashi broth as a base, with no chemical seasonings used. You can take your time and enjoy Japanese cuisine that makes the most of the flavors of the season’s ingredients.

Limited to one couple per day and night, by reservation only, in a quaint house with a Showa-era atmosphere.

Enjoy a relaxing meal with a view of the beautiful Japanese garden.

It is a suitable restaurant for those who want to taste the essence of Japanese cuisine.

Store Information：Ippiki Nisai Ueno Minoh

Official website: https://www.ichijunisai-ueno.net/minoh

Reservation phone number: 050-5325-0607

Hours: Lunch 12:00 – (14:00), Dinner 18:00 – (20:00)

Address: 2-5 Minoh Koen, Minoh City, Osaka, Japan

Closed: Tuesday *Open if Tuesday is a national holiday

Budget: Lunch: 12,100 – 24,200 yen / Dinner: 18,150 – 36,300 yen

Five famous Osaka restaurants that can please and entertain foreigners

Many foreigners who come to the gourmet city of Osaka want to enjoy a meal that is uniquely Osaka! Many foreigners also want to enjoy Osaka’s unique cuisine.

Here are five restaurants where you can enjoy Osaka’s specialties, ideal for entertaining.

Kushikatsu Manji

The heat of the batter is said to be within 1mm at Kushikatsu Mantoki.

The restaurant’s location, just 2 minutes from Tenmabashi Station, and its easy accessibility make it a suitable place for business entertainment.

The skewers are fried in the finest white strained oil, making them crispy and light. You can enjoy authentic kushikatsu.

The restaurant also offers a wide variety of sake, shochu, wine, and other alcoholic beverages, which will surely please foreigners who would like to enjoy Japanese sake.

Reservations are required since it is a popular restaurant, but even if online reservations are full, sometimes phone reservations are accepted, so please give it a try.

Store Information：Kushikatsu Manji

Official website: https://kushikatsu-manji.com/

Reservation phone number: 050-5596-5570

Business hours: Monday-Friday 17:30-23:00 (enter at 21:30)(L.O.22:30), open for lunch, Saturday, Sunday, and holidays 17:30-22:00 (enter at 21:00)(L.O.21:30)

Address: Tsuchiya Bldg. 1F, 1-2-2 Tsuriganecho, Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka

Closed: No holidays

Budget sense: 4,000 yen and up

Kani-Douraku Dotonbori Main Restaurant|Crab Cuisine

A symbol of Dotonbori since 1960.

I am sure that many foreigners are familiar with the large moving red crab sign. If you entertain guests in such a restaurant, there will be plenty to talk about.

You can enjoy crab dishes such as crab kaiseki and crab shabu-shabu to your heart’s content.

The large space with kotatsu (table placed over a sunken table) and tatami room seating makes it possible to relax in comfort.

There is a fish tank in the restaurant, and foreigners are said to be delighted by the Japanese garden-like atmosphere.

It is a highly entertaining yet upscale restaurant that is very popular with foreigners.

Store Information：Kani-Douraku Dotonbori Main Restaurant|Crab Cuisine

Official website: https://douraku.co.jp/kansai/honten/

Reservation phone number: 06-6211-8975 (reservation recommended)

Business hours: 11:00-22:00 (last entry at 21:00)

Address: 1-6-18 Dotonbori, Chuo-ku, Osaka City

Closed: Open every day

Budget sense: 10,000 yen and up

Takoyasu

Osaka’s consumption of fugu is the highest in Japan.

Sixty percent of Japan’s food is eaten in Osaka.

Takoyasu is a long-established fugu restaurant in Osaka, a fierce battleground for fugu cuisine, serving only wild caught fugu.

The course menu, which allows diners to fully enjoy the tradition and attention to detail of a long-established restaurant, is popular and suitable for special entertainment.

Fugu cuisine is not often eaten in other countries, so it is a rare treat for curious foreign guests.

Store Information：Takoyasu

Official website: https://c257900.gorp.jp/

Reservation phone number: 050-5325-0717

Business hours: Monday-Saturday 17:00-22:00 (20:00), Sunday and holidays 17:00-21:00 (19:00)

Address: 1-15-5 Yunagi, Minato-ku, Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture

Closed: *Wednesdays, Sundays, and national holidays in winter (October-May) *Wednesdays, Sundays, and national holidays in summer (June-September)

Budget: Lunch / Dinner 20,000 yen and up

Teppan Noki

Okonomiyaki Teppan Noki is a teppan restaurant that offers teppan cuisine and is a hideaway for adults.

Particularly popular are the black beef steaks, seafood, and even okonomiyaki, which is recommended for those who want to enjoy both wagyu beef and Osaka specialties.

In particular, the okonomiyaki has a reputation for being exquisite, and everything from the dough to the sauce is carefully selected to provide a fluffy texture.

The friendly atmosphere of the restaurant is also popular, and we would rather take you there for a meal during your stay than for a formal dinner.

Store Information: Okonomi Teppan Noki

Official website: https://kdpr900.gorp.jp/

Reservation phone number: 050-5869-5412

Business hours: Dinner 18:00 – LAST

Address: Dainichi Building 1F, 1-2-17 Dojima, Kita-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka

Closed: Saturday, Sunday and national holidays

Budget sense: 5,000 yen and up

Pre-registration and Chibo Sheraton Miyako Hotel Osaka

If you want to taste a gourmet meal of the common people in a prestigious atmosphere, “Puredenton Chibo Sheraton Miyako Hotel Osaka” is the place for you.

The chef’s excellent teppanyaki technique and carefully selected ingredients make this high-quality okonomiyaki very popular among celebrities.

In a relaxing and expansive interior, you can enjoy the finest teppanyaki made with carefully selected ingredients such as Wagyu beef and seafood.

I recommend it when you want to have okonomiyaki with wealthy customers.

Store Information：Prezidento Chibo Sheraton Miyako Hotel Osaka

Official website: http: //www.chibo.com/

Reservation phone number: 050-5590-0843

Business hours: [Tue-Fri] 11:30~15:00 (L.O 14:00), 17:00~22:00 (L.O 21:00), [Sat-Sun, holidays] 11:30~22:00 (L.O 21:00)

Address: Sheraton Miyako Hotel Osaka B1F, 6-1-55 Uehonmachi, Tennoji-ku, Osaka City, Osaka

Closed: Mondays (except national holidays)

Budget sense: 10,000 yen and up

4 Izakayas in Osaka for Entertaining Foreigners

Izakaya, which is very popular among foreigners, is a restaurant style only in Japan where you can enjoy a variety of food and drinks.

Here we introduce four izakaya with a relaxed atmosphere and private rooms suitable for entertaining.

Private Room Japanese Cuisine Hotaru Kitashinchi

Japanese-style hotaru Kitashinchi, a private izakaya located a 2-minute walk from Kitashinchi, has large and small private rooms for 4 to 60 people and can be used for banquets and business entertainment.

This Japanese-style izakaya offers authentic Japanese cuisine using seasonal ingredients at an affordable price.

The restaurant offers 90 kinds of luxurious courses and health-conscious dishes with plenty of seafood, and more than 200 kinds of alcoholic beverages imported from all over Japan.

You can enjoy Japanese izakaya culture to the fullest.

Store Information: Private Room Japanese Cuisine Hotaru Kitashinchi

Official website: https://wv06.gorp.jp/

Reservation phone number: 050-1864-3406

Business hours: 17:00 – 24:00 (L.O. food 23:00, drinks 23:30) Open Sundays

Address: Yoshitsugu Bldg. 4F, 1-5-23 Sonezakishinchi, Kita-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka

Closed: No holidays

Budget sense：￥5,000～

Store Information : Yakitori Bonzo Shinsaibashi

Yakitori is one of the most popular Japanese dishes among foreigners.

Yakitori Bonzo Shinsaibashi is a restaurant specializing in authentic yakitori cuisine, serving char-grilled and sashimi Jitokko chicken, which is said to be a phantom.

The yakitori is grilled slowly over binchotan charcoal and is exquisite.

The modern restaurant offers a relaxing dining experience with calm lighting and ample space between adjacent seats.

It is recommended when you want to taste yakitori at a slightly elegant restaurant.

Store Information : Yakitori Bonzo Shinsaibashi

Official website: https://akr4254441929.owst.jp/

Reservation phone number: 050-5600-6715

Opening hours: 18:00 – 26:00

Address: 1F Southern Diamond Building, 2-8-19 Higashi-Shinsaibashi, Chuo-ku, Osaka

Closed: Sunday

Budget sense: 4,000 yen and up

Sake Tomo Hanabi Umeda

Sake Tomo Hanabi Umeda offers upscale izakaya cuisine served in a modern Japanese-style restaurant, where you can enjoy fresh fish and meat dishes with more than 50 varieties of sake.

You can taste a wide variety of sake, and the sumptuous menu featuring sea urchin and salmon roe will stimulate both drinking and conversation.

With an elegant atmosphere, private rooms and banquet rooms available, it is a strong ally for business dinners.

It is also recommended for foreigners who would like to have dinner at an izakaya because of its classy interior.

Store Information：Shuyu Hanabi Umeda

Official website: https://hanabiumeda.owst.jp/

Reservation phone number: 050-5597-0599

Open: Weekdays 17:00 – 24:00 (L.O. 23:00), Weekends and holidays 16:00 – 24:00 (L.O. 23:00), Open Sunday

Address: D.DHOUSE B1F, 1-8-1 Shibata, Kita-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka

Closed: No regular holidays

Budget sense: 4,000 yen and up

Naniwa Kappo Izakaya Okada

The owner of “Naniwa Kappo Izakaya Okada” has been popular for 20 years. The owner’s wish has continued for 20 years, and “Naniwa Kappo Izakaya Okada” is still very popular today.

Kappo Izakaya is a kappo (Japanese-style restaurant) where you can enjoy the finest Japanese cuisine and a wide variety of alcoholic beverages that are second to none, even at high-end kappo restaurants.

As an izakaya, the restaurant offers a wide variety of Japanese dishes that go well with alcoholic beverages.

Recommended for those who want to experience Japan to the fullest in terms of both food and alcohol.

The artful boatsurimi, in particular, looks and tastes wonderful, and is a dish that will delight foreigners.

Store Information：Naniwa Kappo Izakaya Okada

Official website: https://okadaizakaya.com/

Reservation phone number: 050-5868-5925

Hours of operation: 18:00-23:00

Address: 2-2-35 Dojima, Kita-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka

Closed: Sunday and national holidays

Budget sense: 4,000 yen and up

summary

We have introduced a variety of restaurants recommended for business dinners in Osaka, from those where you can enjoy a private space and luxury suitable for a dinner party to those where you can enjoy Osaka’s specialties.

Osaka is a land of great variety in terms of food, where you can eat your way through the city.

If you are meeting with foreigners who are in Japan on business, we recommend a restaurant where you can enjoy the charms of Osaka and Japaneseness.

Please refer to the restaurants we have listed here to plan a wonderful foreigner’s entertainment.

Recommended Related Articles; 25 Restaurants for Entertaining Foreigners in Kyoto

Indulge in Tokyo: Elite Restaurants and Attractions for Hosting Your Guests

5 Restaurants in Kyoto with Kaiseki Cuisine for Entertaining Foreigners

The finest kaiseki cuisine in Kyoto.

We would like to invite our special international guests to experience the art of Japanese cuisine.

Here we introduce five authentic kaiseki restaurants in Kyoto.

Recommended Related Articles: [Characteristics of Japanese Food Culture] 15 Japanese Food Experiences Popular with Foreigners and 13 English Sentences to Use at Dinner

(1)Kikunoi Head Office

It was named “Kikunoi” after the ancestors who protected the “Kikusui well” used for tea ceremony by Kitamasato, the wife of Hideyoshi Toyotomi.

The well water is still used today.

Kaiseki cuisine based on broth made from water, freshly shaved bonito, and Rishiri kuraiwai kombu.

Ryotei is a restaurant. We want to be a restaurant where ordinary people can work in an ordinary way and enjoy a little luxury on a milestone day in their lives,” is the concept behind the luxurious Kyoto-style restaurant.

A special treat for a special occasion served in a traditional ryotei restaurant. This restaurant is suitable for special entertainment.

Store Information：Kikunoi Honten

Official website: https://kikunoi.jp/kikunoiweb/Honten/index

Reservation number: 075-561-0015

Hours: 12:00 – 14:00, 17:00 – 20:00, open Sundays

Address: 459 Shimogawara-machi, Shimogawara-dori, Yasaka-torii-mae-mae-giru, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto

Closed: irregular holidays, year-end and New Year holidays

Budget sense: ¥15,000～

(2) eight dishes

Located on the north side of Gion, Kyoto, Kaiseki Restaurant “Hassun” offers carefully selected seasonal ingredients in spring, summer, fall, and winter, prepared using traditional techniques and respecting tradition.

This is a restaurant that is sure to impress foreigners as they can enjoy the hearty Japanese hospitality while enjoying the essence of Japanese cuisine, both in terms of the dishes and the tableware.

You can enjoy authentic kaiseki cuisine at a leisurely pace with the owner’s omakase kaiseki dishes using carefully selected seasonal ingredients.

Store Information: Hassun

Official website: https://kcc1800.gorp.jp/

Reservation number: 050-5232-9456

Open: Lunch 12:00 Entry only, Evening 18:00 Entry only

Address: 95 Gion Sueyoshi-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto

Closed: Sunday, Lunch Monday

Budget sense: 20,000 yen

(3)Gion Matayoshi

The restaurant is located on Hanamikoji in Gion. When you open the lattice door at the entrance, stone pavement continues to the entrance, and when you pass through the noren (curtain), you will feel the fresh and clean atmosphere of a Japanese-style restaurant.

Gion Matayoshi is a Kyoto kaiseki restaurant where you can experience the space of Gion and enjoy the delicate craftsmanship of the chefs.

The owner’s exceptional skill expresses the spirit of hospitality in each dish, which is based on the spirit of chakaiseki.

We invite you to taste the artistic form of Japanese food with your valued guests from abroad.

Store Information：Gion Matayoshi

Official website: https://kcc1800.gorp.jp/

Reservation number: 050-5232-9131

Hours: Lunch 12:00 – 13:30 *by reservation only, Evening 18:00 – (19:30)

Address: 570-123, South side of Gion-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto

Closed: Sunday, Lunch Monday

Budget sense: 30,000 yen and up

(4) Tengi

Tenki, which was the first restaurant in Japan to offer “Tempura Kaiseki”, has been located in Nishijin, Kyoto since its establishment in 1933 and has been loved by many people.

Today, Terumune Ishikawa, the third generation of the restaurant’s owner, continues the tradition of kaiseki cuisine using carefully selected ingredients.

My husband is also available to foreign customers in English conversation, so he can answer detailed questions directly from foreigners.

The marriage of food and drink is also attractive, with the proprietress, a sommelier, selecting the perfect wine to go with the dishes.

Ten private rooms, both large and small, are furnished in a wabi-sabi style, allowing you to spend a relaxing time in the Japanese garden.

Store Information : Tenki

Official website: http://kyoto-tenki.com/

Reservation number: 03-3811-5421

Hours: 11:30 – 20:00, open Sundays

Address: 89 Kamizenji-cho, Senbon Imadegawa-agaru, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto

Closed: Regular holiday

Budget sense: 10,000 yen and up

(5)Kyoto Kitcho Arashiyama Honten

For dinners with special guests, we offer the finest Japanese cuisine at one of Japan’s most prestigious ryotei restaurants.

Japan’s best kaiseki restaurant with a view of beautiful Arashiyama.

Kyoto Kitcho Arashiyama Honten, a first-class ryotei restaurant respected by chefs around the world, continues to pursue the ideal of Japanese ryotei and Japanese cuisine to this day, following the creed of Teiichi Yugi, the founder of Kaiseki cuisine and a person of cultural merit, “The World Famous Japanese Cuisine.

The finest Japanese exclusivity in every detail will satisfy even the most demanding VIP clientele.

Store Information：Kyoto Kitcho Arashiyama Honten

Official website: https://kyoto-kitcho.com/restaurant/arashiyama/

Reservation number: 050-5325-9240

Hours: Lunch 11:30 – 15:00 (12:30), Evening 17:00 – 21:00 (18:30)

Address: 58, Sagano-baba-cho, Tenryuji, Saga, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto

Closed: Wednesdays, Year-end and New Year holidays

Budget sense: 100,000 yen and up

6 recommended Kyoto restaurants for entertaining foreigners in Kyoto

Here are five restaurants where you can enjoy Japanese and Kyoto cuisine.

We have selected mainly Japanese-style and elegant restaurants that we would like to take you to for dinner during your stay, not only as a dinner for business entertainment.

(1)Kappo Kichizen

Kappo Kichizen is located in a quiet area, a 3-minute walk from Kodaiji Temple of Yasaka Shrine, with a Kyoto-like atmosphere.

The restaurant is well known among those in the know for its “seasonal dishes” made with carefully selected seasonal ingredients, and is said to have regular customers throughout Japan who visit the restaurant every month.

This is a very special restaurant to visit with important customers to enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine.

Store Information：Kappou Kichizen

Official website: https://www.kappou-yoshizen.com/

Reservation number: 050-5232-2360

Hours: Lunch 12:00 – (13:30) (*Only complete reservations made up to 2 days in advance) Evening 17:00 – (20:30)

Address: 503-14 Washio-cho, Higashi-iru, Kita-monzen-dori Higashi-iru, Kodaiji Temple, Gion Shimogawara, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto

Closed: No regular holidays

Budget: 17,000 yen and up

(2) Robata Yutaka

Robata Yutaka is a restaurant where you can enjoy robatayaki in a modern Japanese atmosphere.

The counter seating with its realistic atmosphere is appreciated by foreigners, and the small kotatsu (sunken kotatsu) seating in the back of the restaurant is a relaxing place to spend time.

Not only the Japanese atmosphere, but also carefully selected ingredients such as herb- and spice-infused seafood, meat, and home-grown vegetables for robatayaki.

Vegetarians can enjoy the depth of flavor of fresh, pesticide-free vegetables grown on the company’s own farm.

Store Information: Robata Yutaka

Official website: https://www.instagram.com/robatayutaka/

Reservation number: 050-5457-9920

Business hours: 17:00-23:00(L.O.22:00)

Address: Treasure Mansion 1F South side, 129 Kanshuji Hirata-cho, Yamashina-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto

Closed: Wednesday

Budget: from 3,000 yen

(3)Skewered fried food toshico

The restaurant, located in a converted old private house on Shimogamo-Hondori in Kyoto, is a stylish, modern Japanese-style space.

Kushi-age toshico is a restaurant where you can enjoy freshly fried shish-kebabs using only carefully selected ingredients.

Counter seating with a view of the chef at work and private rooms with a relaxed atmosphere are available, and are recommended for entertaining or dining with important people.

We have a wide variety of carefully selected wines and sake that go well with our “shish-kebabs,” so you can enjoy a blissful time with our freshly fried shish-kebabs.

Store Information: Shish-kebabs toshico

Official website: Official Facebook page

Reservation number: 050-5571-9515

Hours of operation: 17:30-22:00

Address: 11-1 Shimogamo-Honcho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto

Closed: Thursday

Budget sense: 6,000 yen and up

(4) Nanzenji Junsho

A must-see for any tofu-loving foreigner is Nanzenji Junsho, a tofu specialty restaurant located near Nanzenji Temple.

The restaurant is famous for its hot tofu, but you will be very satisfied with the grilled fish, vegetables, and sashimi that come with the tofu dishes.

Making your own yuba is very entertaining and appreciated by foreigners.

Enjoy authentic tofu dishes served while overlooking a lovely Japanese garden, and your body and soul will be healed.

Store Information：Nanzenji Junsho

Official website: https://tousuiro.com/

Reservation phone number: 075-761-2311

Business hours: 11:00 – 21:30, LO20:00

Address: 60 Kusakawacho, Nanzenji, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto

Closed: No regular holidays

Budget sense: 5,000 yen and up

Five Famous Sushi Restaurants in Kyoto for Entertaining Foreigners

After all, foreign customers want to enjoy delicious sushi when they come to Japan.

Here are five great restaurants in Kyoto that will not disappoint your expectations.

(1)Kikyo Sushi

Kikyo Sushi is quite highly rated by foreigner reviewers on TripAdvisor for its authentic sushi and detailed explanations in English by the third generation young master, who has experience studying abroad.

It is popular among foreigners who want to enjoy authentic Japanese sushi, but it is also highly acclaimed for its taste and continues to be loved by locals.

We recommend this restaurant for entertaining foreigners who are interested in sushi, as the chef’s meticulous handiwork and techniques allow you to taste Japanese sushi, which appeals to foreigners, beyond the language barrier.

Store Information : Kikyo Sushi

Official website: https://kikyo-sushi-kyoto.com

Reservation phone number: 075-231-7361

Business hours: 11:30~13:15, 17:00~20:00

Address: 43 Daimonji-cho, Nishi-sagaru, Marutamachi-sagaru, Aburaokoji-dori, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto

Closed: Wednesday, irregular holidays on Tuesdays

Budget sense: 5,000 yen

(2)Gion Sushi Chuho

Gion Sushi Chuho offers Edo-mae sushi made with all-natural domestic ingredients.

You can enjoy the finest sushi while relaxing in a refined Japanese space.

Carefully selected ingredients purchased in Tsukiji are aged to further enhance their flavor.

There are two types of sushi rice to match the seafood, allowing you to enjoy the craftsman’s attention to detail in each dish.

The restaurant also offers a wide selection of sake that goes well with sushi, so if you take a foreigner who would like to enjoy Japanese sake, he or she will be very pleased.

Restaurant Information：Gion Sushi Chuho

Official website: https://kdj3600.gorp.jp/

Reservation number: 050-5325-4989

Hours: 12:00 – (14:00), 18:00 – 23:00 (19:30)

Address: 572-9, South side of Gion-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto

Closed: No regular holidays

Budget sense: 33,000 yen and up

(3) Sushi Toku

Sushi Toku, located a three-minute walk from Kyoto Station, offers course menus for both lunch and dinner.

The owner, who honed his skills at a famous restaurant in Ginza and a five-star hotel, has put his passion into every single piece of sushi, which can be enjoyed in a course, making it the perfect place for foreigners who want to taste delicious sushi in Japan.

The location makes it easy to fit into your partner’s schedule, and we recommend it for those who want to enjoy sushi to the fullest in a relaxed, modern Japanese-style restaurant.

Store Information : Sushi Toku

Official website: https://sushi-toku.2os.jp/

Reservation number: 075-354-1934

Business hours: Lunch 11:30 – 14:30, Dinner 18:00 – 23:00

Address: 179 Higashisakai-cho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto

Closed: Monday

Budget sense: 22,000 yen and up

(4) Sushi Obino

Sushi Obino is quietly located at the end of an alley in a good location, about a 5-minute walk from Shijo-Karasuma.

In a relaxed atmosphere without the bustle of the city, you can enjoy authentic Edomae Sushi prepared by a skilled chef using the day’s catch.

We have a large selection of special sake ordered by our sommelier, which will please customers who are particular about their food.

Enjoy the marriage of sushi and sake in a Japanese modern and atmospheric space for your important guests visiting Japan.

Restaurant Information: Sushi Obino

Official website: https://pound.2os.jp/premium-steak-gion/

Reservation number: 075-748-1029

Hours: 18:00 – 22:00 (20:00) in the evening

Address: 1F back of Wakaba Building, 585 Takamiya-cho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto

Closed: Sunday (if Sunday is a national holiday, the next day is closed)

Budget sense: 11,000 yen and up

6 Restaurants in Kyoto with Wagyu Beef for Entertaining Foreigners

In recent years, Japanese Wagyu beef has become very popular, especially among the wealthy.

Many foreigners want to enjoy their visit to Japan.

Here we introduce you to five of the finest restaurants in Kyoto where you can enjoy Wagyu beef for business entertainment.

(1)Premium 听 Gion

At Premium 听 Gion, you can enjoy high quality Japanese beef while watching the chef’s expert skills at the teppan in front of the counter.

Teppanyaki is a very popular Japanese dish among foreigners.

Its performativity and delicate culinary skills have made many foreigners want to try it for sure when they visit Japan.

This restaurant has a good sightseeing location near Yasaka Shrine in Gion, and offers mainly the finest Japanese beef from around Japan, including carefully selected Kobe beef.

We recommend this restaurant when you want to have a relaxing time in Kyoto and want to be guided to Teppanyaki in the elegant streets.

Store Information：Premium 听「听」Gion Store (Pound)

Official website: https://pound.2os.jp/premium-steak-gion/

Reservation number: 075-748-1029

Business hours: 11:00-14:30 (L.O 14:00) 17:00-22:30 (L.O 22:00)

Address: 570-15, South side of Gion-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto

Closed: Regularly closed on Mondays

Budget friendly; Course menus from 11,000 yen

(2)Kobe Steak Restaurant Mouriya Gion

Mouriya Gion is a Kobe steak restaurant in Kyoto with high reviews from foreigners on TripAdvisor.

The restaurant is highly rated in the Michelin Guide and is well known among foreigners.

When you come to Japan, you want to fully enjoy authentic Japanese beef, especially Kobe beef! Many people think that they would like to enjoy Kobe beef, so we recommend this restaurant for entertaining with gourmets.

The relaxed atmosphere of this modern Japanese restaurant is a place where you can enjoy Japanese quality, so there is no need to be rude to high-class customers.

We recommend it when you want to enjoy Wagyu beef.

Store Information: Kobe Steak Restaurant Mouriya Gion

Official website: https://www.mouriya.co.jp/gion

Reservation number: tel:075-532-4129

Business hours: 11:30-22:30 (last order at 21:00)

Address: 7-1 Yamato-cho, Shijo-sagaru, Yamatooji-dori, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto

Gion Mouriya Building

Closed: No regular holidays

Budgetary sense; 10,000 yen and up

(3)Meat House Sakurama

Located a two-minute walk from Karasuma-Oike Station, a convenient transportation hub, the restaurant offers the highest grade of Japanese beef kaiseki in a relaxed and elegant atmosphere.

Enjoy A5 and A4 grade meat dishes that only a restaurant under the direct management of meat wholesaler “Beef Master Kagura” can offer.

Highly rated by word of mouth for its wines that go perfectly with meat dishes, the restaurant is also highly rated for its assortment of wines that never get boring.

On the second floor, there is a private room and a bar counter with a dedicated bartender.

You can enjoy entertaining while enjoying a little bit of delicious food in an upscale restaurant, so you can spend a relaxing time with your gourmet friends.

Store Information：Nikuya Sakurajima

Official website: https://pound.2os.jp/premium-steak-gion/

Reservation number: 050-5590-6465

Business hours: 17:00-23:00(L.O.22:00)

Address: 309 Oike-no-cho, Muromachi-dori Oshikoji-sagaru, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto

Closed: Wednesday

Budget sense: 10,000 yen and up

(4)Teppan Cuisine Hanaroku

Teppan Cuisine Hanaroku offers teppan cuisine for both the eyes and the palate in a quality atmosphere with a Kyoto flavor, located near Higashi Honganji Temple along Karasuma Dori.

The “Kyoto Beef Teppan-yaki”, which is “Kyoto Beef” raised in the rich nature of Kyoto, is a gem that fills the mouth with the flavor of beef, and has garnered many word-of-mouth reviews.

Both a private room suitable for a dinner party and a counter seat where you can watch the chef at work are ideal for entertaining foreign guests.

You can also enjoy the marriage with Japanese sake made with high-quality water from Kyoto, so we recommend this restaurant to foreigners who want to enjoy Japanese beef with sake.

Store Information: Teppan Cuisine Hanaroku

Official website: https://www.instagram.com/hanaroku_kanra/

Reservation number: 075-344-3829

Business hours: 17:30 – 22:00 (LO20:30)

Address: 190 Kitamachi, Rokujo-sagaru, Karasuma-dori, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto

Closed: Open every day

Budgetary sense; from 15,000 yen

(5) Gion Shikaroku

The finest Japanese black beef yakiniku is served in a mansion that has been associated with the wealthy and powerful in the early Showa period.

The restaurant is a luxurious shoin-style building with 8 seats in a hall with a view of a tsuboniwa garden and 4 private rooms for a calm atmosphere, which will satisfy VIPs and wealthy customers to the fullest.

In addition to the main course of char-grilled wagyu beef, the menu is full of tempting dishes such as a variety of a la carte dishes and desserts.

Recommended for those who wish to have a relaxed dinner in a Japanese atmosphere near Kenninji Temple while fully enjoying grilled Kuroge Japanese beef.

Store Information：Gion Shikaroku

Official website: https://gionkarokuonline.com/

Reservation number: 050-5597-1485

Business hours: 11:30-14:00 (L.O 13:00) *Reservations required (by 22:00 the day before), 17:00-23:30 L.O 22:00

Address: 566-25 Komatsu-cho, Higashioji Nishiiru, Yasaka-dori, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto

Closed: Every Monday, Year-end and New Year holidays, other temporary closures

Budgetary sense; from 11,000 yen

(6)Jyunidanke Main Store

This restaurant specializes in shabu-shabu and sukiyaki of Japanese beef to be enjoyed near Yasaka Shrine in Gion.

Beef Mizutaki, invented by the second generation of the historic Jyunidan family, is the original of today’s “Shabu Shabu”.

You can enjoy dishes that only A4A5 rank Wagyu beef is carefully selected.

The store displays many rare and valuable works of art, including works by potters Kawai Kanjiro and Hamada Shoji, woodworker Kuroda Tatsuaki, and printmaker Munakata Shiko.

One of the attractions is that visitors can take their time to view the artworks up close, which is very much appreciated by those who are interested in art.

Store Information: Junidan-ya Main Store (Junidan-ya)

Official website: https://gionkarokuonline.com/

Reservation number: 075-561-0213

Business hours: 11:30 – 14:00(L.O), 17:00 – 20:30(L.O)

Address: 570-128, South side of Gion-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto

Closed: Thursday (open if Thursday is a national holiday)

Budgetary sense; from 15,000 yen

4 recommendations for upscale izakaya for entertaining foreigners in Kyoto

Popular among foreigners, izakaya is a form of Japanese restaurant where you can enjoy a variety of foods and drinks.

Here are four restaurants that can be used for slightly upscale entertainment.

(1)Sake Restaurant Sekkei

Sakeya Ishikei, where you can enjoy kappo cuisine based on Kyoto cuisine, is an izakaya for tasting seasonal delicacies in a relaxed atmosphere.

In a relaxed atmosphere, you can enjoy Kyoto’s unique taste of Kyoto vegetables, seasonal fresh fish, and the beauty of the four seasons.

The restaurant also offers a wide variety of sake, shochu, and wine to go with the food, making it perfect for those who want to enjoy Japanese food with sake.

Jazz music plays inside the restaurant and the indirect lighting creates a relaxed mood, making it a good choice for entertaining foreigners with good taste.

Store Information : Sake Restaurant Sekkei

Official website: http://www.sekkei-jazz.jp/

Reservation number: 075-842-0705

Business hours: Monday-Saturday 17:00-23:00 (last entry 21:00) Kaiseki orders must be placed by the previous day.

Address: 1-857-3, Omiya-dori Marutamachi Higashi-iru, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto

Closed: Sunday (and other irregular holidays)

Budget sense: 5,000 yen and up

(2)sumiyaki Lamp

Located on Teramachi-dori, a street full of Kyoto-style machiya houses, “sumiyaki Tou” is a hidden gem for those in the know.

The restaurant, which is housed in a renovated machiya (townhouse), offers a relaxed atmosphere, and the yakitori is exquisitely prepared one by one over binchotan (charcoal).

Chicken is also a good choice when guiding foreigners, as few people are religiously unable to eat chicken.

Not only bottles but also half-size bottles are available, making it easy to enjoy wine.

It is recommended for those who want to enjoy drinks and food in a relaxed atmosphere.

Store Information：sumiyaki Lamp

Official website: https://sumiyaki-akari.jp/

Reservation number: 075-255-1390

Business hours: 17:30~23:00 (LO.22:30)

Address: 2-1 Gyoganji-monzen-cho, Teramachi-dori Marutamachi-sagaru, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto

Closed: No regular holidays

Budget sense: 6,000 yen and up

(3)Skewer Hirao

Kushi Hirao, where you can enjoy delicious sake and freshly fried kushikatsu, offers only a 20-course meal including appetizers and desserts.

It is also a great place for women who can enjoy small portions and multiple dishes.

Each dish is so beautiful and pleasing to the eye that it is appreciated by foreigners.

The distance between chatting with the owner and enjoying a meal is also popular, and it is a modern Japanese restaurant where you can enjoy skewered dishes and sake rather than an izakaya (Japanese style bar).

It is recommended when you want to enjoy a leisurely meal and sake as well.

Store Information : Kushi Hirao

Official website: https://kushihirao.net/

Reservation number: 075-801-8950

Hours: [Monday-Saturday] 17:30-22:00

Address: 64-63 Mibugayogosho-cho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto

Closed: Every Sunday (open on national holidays and Sundays of three-day weekends)

Budget sense: 6,000 yen and up

(4)TEPPAN TAVERN TENAMONYA

TEPPAN TAVERN TENAMONYA is a teppanyaki restaurant where vegetarians, vegans, and gluten-free customers can also enjoy the teppanyaki.

The restaurant is quite popular among foreign customers, and they are accustomed to serving English-speaking customers and foreigners.

They also offer vegetarian and vegan options, so they are recommended for entertaining people from cultures with many food regulations or those with restrictions on food due to personal significance.

This is a restaurant that knows what makes foreigners happy, so you can enjoy dining with them while having fun.

Store Information : TEPPAN TAVERN TENAMONYA

Official website: https://www.tenamonyakyoto.com/

Reservation number: 075-532-4129 by appointment only

Business hours: 17:00-22:00 approx. (closes early when sold out)

Address: HIRO Bldg. B1F, 537-2 South side of Gion-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto

Closed: Regularly closed on Thursdays (with occasional holidays)

Budget sense: 6,000 yen and up

summary

Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan, is home to many fine restaurants.

In this issue, we have focused on the best restaurants in Kyoto that you should enjoy because of your stay in Japan.

We are sure you will be pleased if you take your guests to stores that can be visited only with Japanese people.

We hope you will have a wonderful dinner entertainment experience.

Click here for an article on Tokyo restaurants: 17 Tokyo Restaurants and Izakayas Recommended for Entertaining Foreigners

5 Tokyo Fine Dining Restaurants Recommended for Entertaining Foreigners

Here are five fine restaurants in Tokyo that will please foreign VIPs.

More restaurant recommendations: 17 Tokyo Restaurants and Izakayas Recommended for Entertaining Foreigners

Kaiseki Cuisine “Kitaoji Akasaka Saryo

With 28 rooms and 240 seats, all of which are completely private rooms, this restaurant is truly suitable for a dinner party.

All rooms are beautiful Japanese-style rooms, so foreigners can enjoy Kaiseki cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere.

Seasonal Japanese cuisine, prepared with expert skill, combines the beauty of Japanese tradition and modernity, and is available in a choice of five kaiseki courses.

Vegetarian kaiseki is available and recommended for vegetarian foreigners.

Vegetarian kaiseki is made without any animal products, down to the broth, so vegans can enjoy authentic kaiseki cuisine.

Basic store information:

Official website: https://kitaohji.co.jp/akasakasaryo/

Address: Akasaka Eight One Building B1F, 2-13-5 Nagatacho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-0014, Japan

Phone number: +81 3-5512-3737

Open: 11:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. 5:00 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.

Sushi “Sushi Tatsumi

For authentic Edomae sushi entertainment, we recommend Sushi Tatsumi in Roppongi.

The reason why this restaurant is recommended for entertaining and dining with foreigners is that in addition to enjoying authentic sushi in an elegant Japanese setting, the restaurant offers a large selection of sake and wine, which are the owner’s specialties.

This restaurant is perfect for those who also want to enjoy sake, and you can enjoy the seasonal flavors of Japan with the skill of a master chef.

Basic store information:

Official website: https://gf11425.gorp.jp/

Address: Marusho Kobayashi 6-chome Bldg. 5F, 6-1-4 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo

Reservation number: 050-5384-9926

Inquiry number: 03-6804-5327

Wagyu Kaiseki Japanese Beef Kaiseki in a private room & Shochu Dining “Ginza Take no An Honten”.

Recommended for foreigners who want to enjoy Wagyu beef is Ginza Take-no-an, which has the atmosphere of a hideout.

Recommended for small group entertainment.

The courses are suitable for important dinners, and since it is a shochu dining room, you can enjoy delicious shochu from all over Japan.

Especially recommended for foreigners is the “Luxury Kaiseki with A5 Japanese Black Beef Sirloin Charcoal Grill or Lobster Main Course”.

This is a luxurious course with a choice of A5-rank Japanese black beef sirloin or lobster.

The restaurant is registered as a smoking purpose store, so smokers will be happy to know that smoking is allowed in all rooms.

Smoking in the restaurant is not allowed in Europe, so smokers will appreciate it.

Basic Store Information

Official website: https://takenoan-gotyoume.com/

Address: Nishi-Gobangai Bldg. 4F, 5-6-13 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo

Reservation number: 050-5871-2757

Inquiry number: 03-5537-0388

Business hours: [Weekdays, Saturdays, holidays, and before holidays] 17:00 – 20:00 (L.O. 19:00) [Weekdays, Saturdays, holidays, and before holidays] Lunch 11:30 – 15:00 (L.O. 14:30) Monday – Saturday / L.O. 14:30

Yakitori Akasaka Zanmai

Akasaka Zanmai, a yakitori specialty restaurant where you can enjoy the taste of fresh ingredients such as the finest Akita Jidori chicken, fresh seafood directly delivered from Choshi Port, and organic vegetables, is also recommended for its upscale yakitori.

Kushiyaki skewers and chicken sukiyaki, both prepared over charcoal, and course meals that allow you to enjoy all the fresh ingredients are also attractive.

It is perfect for foreign customers who want to enjoy Japanese sake with more than 70 carefully selected varieties of sake, and the relaxed, modern Japanese space is very stylish and Tokyo-inspired.

Basic Store Information

Official website: https://tabelog.com/tokyo/A1308/A130801/13004955/

Address: Akasaka Alt Building 6F, 3-8-1 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo

Reservation number: 050-5232-8640

Business hours: [Monday-Friday] Lunch 11:30 – 14:00 (13:30), Dinner 17:30 – 23:00 (22:00), [Saturday] Dinner 17:30 – 21:00 (20:00)

Robatayaki Kappou Roppongi Inakaya Higashi Branch

Robatayaki Roppongi Inakaya was the choice of the late former Prime Minister Abe when he entertained former President Trump.

Performances in which food is served with giant rice scoops are popular among foreign celebrities.

The restaurant, where former President Trump, Tom Cruise, Beckham, and other foreign celebrities are often seen, has something that attracts people from overseas.

I recommend it to those who are looking for a lively place for a dinner, not a quiet one.

Store Facts:.

Official website: http://www.roppongiinakaya.jp/

Address: Arrow Building 1F, 3-14-7 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo

Reservation number: 03-3408-5040

Business hours: [Monday-Sunday, holidays]17:00-23:00 Open Sundays

Tokyo sightseeing experiences that will delight foreign business guests

Entertaining foreigners with pleasure is not only about food and drinks.

Most foreigners, even if they are visiting Japan on business, would like to do some sightseeing in Japan.

Here are some recommended sightseeing options.

Related articles：Tokyo Sightseeing for Entertaining Foreigners! Recommended Spots by Area

trying the food at various restaurants

Eating and tasting Japanese gourmet food while strolling around Tokyo is actually highly recommended for business entertainment, as the relaxed atmosphere will deepen communication.

You can talk about many things while walking and see a different side of the person than you normally see.

Tokyo is a great city for food sightseeing.

You can spend a very fulfilling time if you focus on the points you want to explore.

If you are planning an eating tour, it is advisable to preplan the course and the spots where you can eat in advance.

If I don’t know much about it myself and have to guide them, I will have a very difficult time on the day of the event.

Motenas Japan is happy to consult with you about eating courses, so please feel free to contact us.

5 Tokyo Art Museums Popular with Foreigners

Many of our overseas VIPs and wealthy clients are interested in culture.

Guiding them to museums and concerts is also recommended, as they will be very happy to visit museums.

If you are interested in art, you will enjoy Japanese art as well as contemporary Japanese art.

Tokyo is a great place for culture lovers, as there are many wonderful museums and you can also enjoy contemporary architecture unique to Japan.

Below is a list of museums in Tokyo that are popular among foreigners.

Mori Art Museum, Mori Arts Center Gallery

MORI ART MUSEUM and Mori Arts Center Gallery are located on the 52F and 53F of Roppongi Hills Mori Tower.

Although genres vary, contemporary art is the main focus of the program.

The museum is attracting attention from art collectors from home and abroad, so it will be a great pleasure to show it to those who are wealthy and have art collections.

Basic information about Mori Art Museum:

Official website of the Mori Art Museum: https://www.mori.art.museum/jp/

Hours: Monday, Wednesday – Sunday 10:00 – 22:00 (last admission 21:30), Tuesday 10:00 – 17:00 (last admission 16:30)

Admission: Varies on the day or online

Closed: Outside of exhibition periods

Access: Approximately 3 minutes on foot from Exit 1C of Roppongi Station on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line (directly connected by concourse); approximately 6 minutes on foot from Exit 3 of Roppongi Station on the Toei Subway Oedo Line; approximately 9 minutes on foot from Exit 7 of Azabu Juban Station; approximately 12 minutes on foot from Exit 4 of Azabu Juban Station on the Tokyo Metro Nanboku Line; approximately 10 minutes on foot from Exit 5 of Nogizaka Station on the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line “Nogizaka Station” Exit 5, approx. 10 min. on foot.

The National Art Center, Tokyo

The National Art Center, Tokyo, located in Nogizaka with its very beautiful modern architecture, is a spot where you can always enjoy special exhibitions.

The space of the museum is wonderful, and you can appreciate national and international art.

The location is also good for taking a break from strolling after a long day in the heat or cold.

The National Art Center, Tokyo Basic Information

The National Art Center, Tokyo Official website: https://www.nact.jp/exhibition_special/2023/cai/

Hours: 10:00 – 18:00 (admission until 30 minutes before closing) *Open until 20:00 every Friday and Saturday during the exhibition period

Admission: Varies with each exhibition.

Closed: Tuesdays *If Tuesday falls on a national holiday or substitute holiday, the museum will be open on Tuesday and closed on the following weekday.

Access: Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line “Nogizaka Station” Aoyama Reien direction ticket gate Exit 6 (directly connected to the museum), Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line “Roppongi Station” Exit 4a, 5 minutes walk, Toei Subway Oedo Line “Roppongi Station” Exit 7, 4 minutes walk

Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo

The Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo reopened in 2019.

With a focus on contemporary art, this museum is a must-visit destination for many art-loving visitors from abroad.

The permanent exhibition, consisting of 5,000 items from the collection, can be enjoyed in a spacious exhibition space, providing you with a peaceful time.

Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo basic information:

Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo official website: https://www.mot-art-museum.jp/exhibitions/

Hours: 10:00-18:00 (admission until 30 minutes before closing)

Admission: Varies for each exhibition/screening

Closed: Mondays, Year-end and New Year holidays

Access: 9-minute walk from Exit B2 of Kiyosumi-Shirakawa Station on the Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line, 13-minute walk from Exit A3 of Kiyosumi-Shirakawa Station on the Toei Subway Oedo Line

Nezu Museum

Located in Minami-Aoyama, the Nezu Museum is in a quiet location away from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, and is a great place to visit on a walking tour of Aoyama and Harajuku.

The museum has a collection of over 7,000 works of art, including national treasures and important cultural properties, and a lovely serene Japanese garden.

The collection of tea ceremony utensils is particularly impressive, and is recommended for foreigners interested in Japanese culture.

There are many Japanese paintings and Yamato-e projects, and the modern Japanese architecture will allow you to fully enjoy Japan, so if you are guiding a foreigner, this is the museum in Tokyo that we recommend.

Basic information about Nezu Museum:

Official website of the Nezu Museum: https://www.nezu-muse.or.jp/jp/exhibition/next.html

Hours: 10:00 – 17:00 (admission until 16:30)

Admission (Special Exhibition): [Online reservation by date and time: Adults 1,500 yen, Students 1,200 yen, Same-day ticket (sold at the counter): Adults 1,600 yen, Students 1,300 yen,

Admission (special exhibition): [Online reservation] 1,300 yen for adults, 1,000 yen for students, 1,400 yen for adults, 1,100 yen for students.

Closed: Mondays, exhibition change periods, year-end and New Year holidays, (if Monday is a national holiday, the following Tuesday)

Access: 8-minute walk from Omotesando Station (Subway Ginza Line, Hanzomon Line, Chiyoda Line), Exit A5 (stairs)

21_21 DESIGN SIGHT

21_21 DESIGN SIGHT is located in the Midtown Garden in Tokyo Midtown.

Among the best points cited by foreign countries as Japan’s attractions, Japanese design is also attracting attention.

Even those who feel that museums are a bit inaccessible can enjoy this spot, so if you are looking for a unique way to explore Tokyo, we are sure you will be pleased to show them around.

Basic information about 21_21 DESIGN SIGHT

Official website of 21_21 DESIGN SIGHT: https://www.2121designsight.jp

Opening hours: 10:00-19:00 (admission until 18:30)

Adults: 1,400 yen, college students: 800 yen, high school students: 500 yen, junior high school students and younger: free

Closed: Tuesdays, year-end and New Year holidays, exhibition change periods

Access: 5-minute walk from Roppongi Station on the Toei Oedo Line, 5-minute walk from Roppongi Station on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line, 5-minute walk from Nogizaka Station on the Chiyoda Line

4 Popular Tokyo Shrines and Temples for Foreigners

Touring shrines and temples is also popular among foreign visitors to Japan.

Here we introduce some shrines and temples in Tokyo that are especially popular among foreigners.

Shrines and temples across Japan are visited daily by foreign tourists as spots where they can experience the Japanese sense of thought.

Sensoji Temple

Asakusa is a town that retains a strong downtown atmosphere.

Senso-ji Temple, located in the center of the city, is the oldest temple in Tokyo, founded in 628.

Many festivals and events are held throughout the year, making it a great place to enjoy Edo culture.

Foreigners wearing kimonos and yukatas can also be seen.

The approach leading from the Kaminarimon is lined with restaurants and souvenir stores, making it a pleasant place to walk and admire.

Basic Information on Sensoji Temple

Address: 2-3-1 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo 111-0032

Access: Asakusa Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line / Toei Asakusa Line / Tobu Isesaki Line (Tobu Skytree Line) / Tsukuba Express) 5 min. walk

Phone: 03-3842-0181

Meiji Shrine

Meiji Jingu Shrine in Shibuya is dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Dowager Shoken.

Surrounded by nature so rich that it is hard to believe that it is in the middle of Tokyo, the 700,000-square-meter site is home to a forest of approximately 100,000 trees donated from all over Japan, allowing visitors to enjoy nature in all four seasons.

The number of visitors to the temple for Hatsumode is usually the largest in Japan, with more than 3 million people visiting the temple each year.

It is especially popular among Westerners.

Information on Meiji Jingu Shrine

Address: 1-1 Yoyogi-Kamizonocho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 151-8557

Closest Station: Sangubashi Station (Odakyu Odawara Line)

Phone: 03-3379-5511

Kanda Myojin

After enjoying a pop culture stroll in Akihabara, be sure to visit Kanda Myojin.

Kanda Myojin is an old shrine with a history of about 1,300 years, and is said to be beneficial for luck in victory and sports, since warlords prayed for victory and united Japan under one roof in ancient times.

The temple is also famous for the devotion of Konosuke Matsushita, the founder of Panasonic Corporation.

Kanda Myojin Information

Address: 2-16-2 Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101-0021

Nearest station: Suehirocho Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line), 5 min. walk

Phone: 03-3254-0753

Nezu Shrine

With a history of about 1,900 years, beginning with the establishment of the shrine in Sendagi by Nippon no Musunoto, Nezu Shrine is an important cultural asset that is mentioned in Japanese mythology.

The grounds of the temple are home to a 2,000 tsutsuji (azalea) garden, where 3,000 azaleas of about 100 varieties are at their best in the latter half of April.

During this period, amazake tea houses, tree fairs, and stalls are lined up, and you can really feel the Japanese atmosphere.

The Senbon-torii, a tunnel of bright red torii gates, is quite a sight for foreigners.

Nezu Shrine Information

Address: 1-28-9 Nezu, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0031

Nearest station: Nezu Station (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line), 5 min. walk

Phone: 03-3822-0753

Japanese Pop Culture Experience

What is popular among foreigners is not only traditional Japanese culture, but also pop culture.

We also recommend that you consciously guide your visitors to Japanese pop culture during your visit to Tokyo.

For example, it is exciting just to experience the hustle and bustle of the city as you stroll through Akihabara, where you can enjoy anime, idols, and other culture.

It is also nice to stroll around Harajuku to see the various fashion cultures.

If you walk to Aoyama, you will find many stores where you can take a quiet rest, which is popular among VIP customers.

Many people think it is difficult to go alone, so they will be glad if you go around with them.

Recommended Related Articles: [Foreign Reactions to Anime and Manga] 13 Works and 5 Cultural Experiences Popular with Foreigners

High-end custom-made Japanese cultural experience recommended for entertaining foreigners

By planning a custom-made cultural experience that will delight your foreign guests, you can add a special touch to an otherwise stale entertainment experience.

If you are going to stay in Japan, we would like you to have a deeper experience of Japan.

Here are five Japanese cultural experiences that are especially recommended when entertaining guests in Tokyo.

For more details, please read this article together with the following: Japanese Cultural Experiences Popular among Foreigners! 12 Recommended Experiential Sightseeing & VIP Entertainment

tea ceremony

If you want to fully enjoy the spirit of Japanese hospitality, we recommend the tea ceremony.

Tea ceremonies are also held to entertain and welcome state guests, and foreign guests are treated with courtesy and respect.

The tea ceremony experience will be held in a tearoom with a tea ceremony service.

Omote-mae” means to serve matcha (powdered green tea).

Although the etiquette may seem difficult, you can do it slowly while explaining it to foreigners.

Although it has a stiff image, a special Japanese time spent in a quiet space is a uniquely Japanese experience.

The private room allows you to relax and unwind, and is also recommended for entertaining those who cannot drink alcohol due to religious or health reasons.

Recommended related article: [Practice by expatriates] Omotenashi with Tea Ceremony and Kimono

Sumo Experience

The Sumo Experience is a Japanese cultural experience where you can learn about sumo while communicating with real sumo wrestlers.

The Sumo experience is especially recommended if you are entertaining foreigners in Tokyo.

After all, the sumo experience in Ryogoku, the home of sumo, is the most realistic experience in all of Japan.

Sumo, Japan’s national sport, attracts attention from abroad because of the fighting of large-bodied wrestlers.

The Sumo Experience includes a lecture by a sumo wrestler, a serious match, and a chance to challenge the sumo wrestler to a match.

It is facilitated in a congenial atmosphere, making it a very enjoyable experience.

The final course is still chanko-nabe.

Communication can be facilitated more and more as everyone gathers around a real hot pot prepared by wrestlers.

This is a Japanese cultural experience that is popular as a new type of Japanese sports entertainment.

Recommended related article: [For Wealthy Foreigners] Tailor-made Sumo Experience! How to entertain VIPs at the national sport

Kimono Experience

As the number of foreign visitors to Japan increases, foreign tourists can be seen strolling around Japanese sightseeing spots in rental kimonos.

As can be inferred from this, the appeal of the kimono to foreigners is very strong, and there are many people who would like to try it on.

In the Kimono Experience, the planning proceeds with the guests actually wearing the kimono, taking commemorative photos, strolling around, etc., while responding to their requests.

Custom-made is especially recommended for VIP clients because we can give them time limits and things they would like to do.

If you are looking for a more rare experience, we can prepare luxurious kimonos such as O-oku and Hanakai style! If you are interested in a more rare experience, we can prepare luxurious and gorgeous kimonos such as O-oku style or Hanairi style, or if you are a man, you can combine it with a sword fighting experience to feel like a samurai.

Recommended related article: Transform into the O-oku (the Inner Palace)! Kimono Experience to Entertain Wealthy Foreigners

History and Basic Knowledge of Kimono] How to Explain to Foreigners and Experience Traditional Japanese Culture by Kimono Wearing

Custom-made Kabuki viewing

Kabuki is a spectacular part of Japanese culture and is recommended for celebrations and other events.

You cannot see them abroad, and their unique makeup and kimonos attract attention from foreigners with their exotic atmosphere.

However, to appreciate kabuki, one must travel to a special theater such as the Gionza to watch it.

The language barrier, as well as screening time and time restraints, inevitably make it difficult for foreigners staying for a short period of time to get in.

We recommend a custom-made Kabuki viewing for entertaining important overseas guests.

The private room with a view of the Japanese garden allows guests to enjoy a Kabuki performance while dining in a relaxed atmosphere, which is very special and popular with our VIP guests.

Kabuki actors will explain directly to you, so you can deepen your understanding of Kabuki.

Related articles：Recommended for inbound visitors to Japan! What is popular traditional entertainment?

Geisha Experience

Geisha are professionals in entertainment.

After all, they are very reassuring for entertaining important customers.

Although the number of geisha experiences for foreign tourists is increasing, the traditional style of geisha entertainment in which geisha are invited to the tatami room is not readily available because of the Ichigen-san no-go system.

Motenas Japan offers special foreign guests the opportunity to enjoy private geisha entertainment in a private room.

Geisha are the inheritors of Japanese dance.

Japanese dance, Japanese instrumental music, and games that will make your drinking more lively will make for a very enjoyable time.

Above all, the visual impact of the beautiful geisha attracts the interest of foreigners.

We can also provide private dinners for birthday parties and celebrations, allowing for a variety of planning options.

Recommended related articles: [Geisha play experience for first-time visitors] 4 examples of custom-made entertainment for important foreign guests

summary

Restaurants that delight foreigners are those where they can experience a uniquely Japanese atmosphere and enjoy meals that can only be had in Japan.

It is also important to choose a restaurant that can take into consideration the religious and cultural beliefs of the people you are meeting, as some foods may not be allowed.

If you have time, rather than ending the reception with a dinner alone, we recommend that you offer a unique Japanese experience, such as sightseeing in Tokyo or a Japanese cultural experience.

If you have come all the way to Japan, we hope you will enjoy the unique pleasures of Japan!

What is VIP treatment?

When considering VIP treatment, it is important to first understand what kind of people VIPs are.

Here you will learn about VIP and the VIP treatment.

People in the position of VIPs.

VIP is an acronym for “Very Important Person.

The term is often used to describe “members of the royal family, royalty, heads of state, or important figures in national or local government,” but it can also include people who are “extremely important customers of the company.

Both are still very important people and must be treated politely and without rudeness.

Because of their position as VIPs, they must be treated well to deal with any problems they may have.

What is so special about the VIP treatment?

VIP clients, being important people, are often very busy and have tightly integrated schedules.

Time management and incorporation of schedules will be very important, requiring multiple confirmations, and providing a relaxing atmosphere is also important.

Try to help VIPs, who are always pressed for time and pressed to make important decisions, relax, even if only for a few moments.

The number of precautions required for the entire project, such as securing private rooms, safety, and adjusting flexible schedules, will increase, so it is necessary to prepare well in advance.

And because we are VIPs, we are expected to treat our guests in a manner that is not rude!

Difference between VIP and Celebrity

Although celebrity is often confused with VIP, such as in response to a celebrity, the meaning and target audience are completely different.

“celeb” “celebrity” is an abbreviation of “celebrity,” meaning a celebrity, especially a Hollywood star or supermodel whose every move and action is a cause for celebration.

Since they are famous, many of them are rich and wealthy, so they are often confused with VIPs there.

Dealing with celebrities requires that they be private because they are celebrities, and that they avoid trouble because they are celebrities.

When dealing with VIP and celebrity clients, it is important to manage their schedules and ensure their privacy.

Many considerations must be made for time outside of the event and work, from airplanes to lodging and dining venues.

Both customers are different from the general public and require more points of consideration, so deeper consideration and planning is needed for handling them.

Examples of VIP treatment

So, what are the actual flight companies, hotels, and government agencies that are always in need of VIP treatment?

Here are some specific examples.

VIP treatment at the hotel

Many customers are eligible for VIP treatment at hotels, such as upgrades and services for VIP customers who have stayed at the hotel many times.

Many hotels have pre-defined VIP-only privileges, and guests who fall into this category can benefit from them without exception.

For example, members who have stayed at the hotel many times are offered status upgrades, and the service changes with the number of nights they stay.

The contents will vary in terms of benefits, such as free breakfast for companions, free use of paid facilities, room size upgrades, etc.

VIP treatment at the airline

Aircraft operate daily to serve a variety of VIP passengers, from government officials to VIPs from various industries.

Apart from dealing with first class passengers and upgraded passengers with frequent boardings, we are always required to treat VIP and VVIP passengers as well.

Airlines also offer a variety of VIP treatment to executives of major corporations and ministerial-level politicians.

For example, as well as access to First Class, we always provide special VIP waiting rooms that are more than just suite lounges, priority boarding procedures with suit-wearing attendants, special transit routes and transfer transfers in luxury vehicles, and other VIP-specific treatment.

When it comes to VVIP royalty and heads of state, the use of government airliners will be the main focus, with more prestigious treatment by the heads of airline and airport companies, and farewells will be handled by politicians and embassy officials.

Then, SP assignments will ensure safety.

VIP treatment in government agencies

In addition to invitations to state guests, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has other criteria for entertaining various foreign dignitaries, which are called “invitation programs” for important foreigners.

The purpose of the program is to deepen the understanding of important figures and institutions from other countries in various areas of Japanese policy, culture, and society.

Through human networking between foreign countries and Japanese officials, we aim to promote smooth foreign policy and, in the mid- to long-term, to foster and raise the level of pro-Japanese and knowledgeable people in Japan.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ hospitality to foreign dignitaries is aimed at promoting negotiations between nations, strengthening security, and coordinating policies.

In addition to meetings and events, the invited foreign VIPs are invited to a social program, an event designed to provide a break from the conference and to welcome the host (host city).

This is also an important element of the VIP reception, which includes receptions, banquets (dinners), and excursions (small tours by conference participants).

Recommended related articles: What is the difference between a state guest, an official guest, and a dignitary? Invitation Program for Foreigners and 3 Examples of Hospitality

Accepting what VIP customers want.

For VIP clients, time management is very important.

It is important to note that consideration of not taking up their valuable time is also an important aspect of VIP treatment.

Strict adherence to schedule management

There are some precautions that need to be taken prior to the arrival of VIP guests from abroad.

For example, it is necessary not only to hold the scheduled arrival time of the airplane, but also to constantly check the customer’s schedule, such as confirming the actual arrival time and the confirmation of travel as needed.

This is essential for the proper treatment of VIP guests with up-to-the-minute schedules, so it is an important point to keep in mind when inviting VIP guests to an event or conference.

At this time, it is also important for the entire staff to understand the information.

We always inform the staff working on site of the arrival time of the VIP guests so that we can prepare a smooth response throughout the entire event.

If the staff directly on site who will be handling the situation are not informed, even the most seemingly perfect schedule operation will actually cause more inconvenience directly to the VIP customers.

If you are welcoming VIP guests, we recommend that you also make sure you know how to contact our staff in advance.

See also: Collaborative play essential for VIP hospitality [3 points necessary for collaboration].

Customer service that can respond to your requests

I only have 10 minutes left, but I want to do that shopping.”

I don’t have a lot of free time, but I want to experience something Japanese.”

Many of our VIP clients are short on time anyway.

Some of our VIP guests do not have any private time during their stay, so it is a great opportunity for us to show our skills in such situations.

For example, we could offer a social program with a Japanese cultural experience, so that VIP guests who have come from afar can relax and enjoy themselves,

Special treatment for VIP customers can be arranged through planning, such as pre-setting up a short shopping trip so that customers who cannot easily shop can purchase what they want in a short period of time.

This part is where the person in charge of handling the project shows his or her skills, so it is important to plan well.

Speedy response with no waiting

By sharing information and preparing well in advance, we can avoid taking up your valuable time.

What is important at this time is to instantly understand “the other party’s time frame.

Each person’s sense of time has its own errors.

The most comfortable response is to be completely in tune, but it is not easy, and is said to be difficult even for seasoned customer service professionals.

However, the Japanese are a people who are good at sensing the air.

Many people are able to move with what others think of them on a daily basis, which is why the high quality of Japanese hospitality is admired even from abroad.

Taking in the other person’s time frame, ask, “How much of a hurry are you in?” And, “Do you want to slow down now?” Can you make time to slow down?” The ability of the staff to manage their time is also dependent on their ability to manage their time.

Thus, time is a very important factor in the treatment of VIP customers because they are VIP customers.

Planning for VIP customers is a skill.

In welcoming VIP guests, if you are in charge, you need to plan without delay.

Here are some of the points and ideas that you should pay special attention to in planning the treatment of VIP guests.

Working with Hotels

When welcoming VIP guests from abroad, you will need a place to stay.

Not only in this case, but also in dealing with social VIP guests, it is possible to welcome them with no disrespect by discussing with the hotel in advance.

In addition to the sharing of information and smooth communication, it is also important to create a relationship in which both parties are comfortable consulting with each other.

This is because many VIP clients tend to be accustomed to the experience of having their requests answered.

Their usual customer service experience and success is their standard, and if it does not fall into that category, they will be disappointed.

Trouble arising from discrepancies between the response of the person in charge of the reception and the information provided at the hotel where you are staying is an element you definitely want to avoid.

Accommodations are a very important part of your stay abroad, so be sure to get coordinated treatment.

Optimal and relaxing meal preparation

Some of our foreign VIP guests have religious reasons for not being able to eat certain foods.

In addition, dietary considerations may be necessary for health reasons or ideological reasons, so it is important to find out in advance, for example, by asking those around you in advance if you are unable to visit them personally.

It is important to note that not only personal information, but especially culture and customs are different in each country, even within the same cultural sphere.

In some religions, alcohol is taboo, and conversely, in some countries it is considered rude not to have alcohol for entertainment, so it is important to familiarize yourself with the culture of the country you will be entertaining in advance.

Recommended Related Article:

Understanding Business Etiquette & Customs for Hosting Internationals: An 11-Country Hospitality Guide”

17 Tokyo Restaurants and Izakayas Recommended for Entertaining Foreigners

Entertaining in a memorable Japanese cultural experience

A program of events during the other side’s (VIP) visit that is not directly related to the agenda or content of the meeting is called a social program (social event).

The Social Program is designed to allow participants to interact with each other, take a break from the conference, and welcome the host (host city), and even the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ hospitality, if the program is held in Japan, will include a Japanese cultural experience.

Receptions, banquets (dinners), and excursions (small tours for conference participants) are held, and when a state guest arrives in Japan, the country’s hospitality program is the focus of much attention.

Welcoming corporate VIPs with Japanese culture is also a very welcome event, and is a popular choice for receptions and banquets.

In addition, actually experiencing a foreign culture for oneself is memorable and can leave a lasting impression as an enjoyable memory.

For overseas VIP entertainment planning, Motenas Japan can provide tailor-made VIP planning that is tailored to your needs from time to time.

Our staff specializing in the treatment of overseas VIPs is always available to help you.

Recommended reference article:

Japanese cultural experiences popular among foreigners! Recommended 12 Experiential Sightseeing & VIP Entertainment

A thorough introduction to 10 popular projects and well-received examples of hospitality events and Japanese-style parties!

summary

VIP customers are accustomed to special treatment, so quality service tends to be the standard.

In order to make our guests more comfortable, we need to understand their schedules and coordinate with the entire staff.

We also hope that you will experience peace of mind and enjoyment, even if only for a moment, in order to deliver a treatment that will remain in your heart.

Welcome them with the high-quality treatment that you would like them to enjoy because they are your VIP customers, and treat them with a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Manners and customs to be aware of, by country

Here is an introduction to the manners and customs of different countries.

There are religious and cultural differences between Asian, Western, Arab, and other countries, and even foreigners in general have completely different manners and customs in different countries.

It is also important to understand that even within the same culture, there are surprisingly different values and customs.

a fine thing to say (used as part of a sarcastic response to a rude remark)

Greetings are given in every country and culture in the world, but the gestures and manner of greeting differ from country to country.

In some countries, it is considered good manners to shake hands firmly and firmly, while in others it is considered good manners to shake hands slowly and gently.

However, what they all have in common is that they look you in the eye and greet you firmly.

First impressions are very important, so we want to make sure our greetings are clear.

Religion and Work

It is said that many Japanese are non-religious, but even today, national holidays such as New Year’s, Obon, and festivals are based on culture and history.

Similarly, it is important to know the culture of your business partner’s country, as many people spend their private time abroad during national holidays or consecutive holidays depending on the country.

Although Greater China is our neighbor, New Year’s Day is on the lunar calendar, and the consecutive holidays differ in timing from the Japanese New Year’s holiday, with a major holiday weekend beginning in February.

In the West, where there are many Christians, the Christmas season vacation is important, so do not impose the busyness of the Japanese Shijo season.

Also, in Arab and Southeast Asian countries with large Muslim populations, it is important to proceed with communication while respecting the other party’s religion because of the important Ramadan season.

Thus, it is important to know your partner’s religion, as the balance between religion and work is also very important.

Each national character

National character” may not be strictly inherited by all people, but there are certain characteristics that depend on the environment and culture in which one was brought up, depending on the country.

Rather than details, there are scenes in which the characteristics of each country are more pronounced, such as the sense of time and the way of expressing gratitude.

It is important to know the national character of a country, because even a vague knowledge of it can help prevent problems in advance and give you an idea of how to deal with others.

For example, Australians do not have a boss-subordinate relationship and call each other by first names, while Indonesians only report to their superiors with good news, making the position so important.

In Saudi Arabia, it is considered impolite to give a casual souvenir, but in Greater China, it is common practice to give souvenirs.

This is a minor detail, but it is important to know in advance because customs and national character differ from country to country.

Characteristics of Business Manners by Country

While differences in manners and customs are important, knowing business etiquette is very important when working with foreign companies.

Here are some of the unique business manners of each country and what you need to know about business etiquette by country.

exchange of business cards

In most countries, business cards are very important greeting items.

It is said that rules for exchanging business cards as detailed as those in Japan are rare, but other countries also have their own manners in exchanging business cards.

All countries have one thing in common: don’t put it away right away, but take your time to see it.

And they are seen to treat them with respect.

It is especially important to treat them politely, and we want to take care of them because it goes beyond national characteristics and shows our humanity.

Thus, business cards are an important business tool in every country.

sense of time

The sense of time is a prominent national characteristic.

In some countries, punctuality is the norm, while in others, a meeting is just a guide and it is considered rude to be on time.

However, it is important to note that some countries are well protected in the business world even if there are loose aspects in the national character.

It is important to check the response process even if it is quick, as it is said that speed tends to be more important than confirmation of mistakes in Singapore.

Many people in Indonesia have difficulty saying no, so it is important to repeatedly ask for confirmation if the response is questionable.

In some countries, delivery time is considered as a guideline for the time being, so confirmation of time is recommended to avoid problems.

attire

In international business situations, a suit is the proper business attire, but in some countries, a rough fashion may not be considered rude.

On the contrary, in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, national dress is the formal attire and is often worn by the other party.

Many Muslim women, in particular, work with their heads covered with cloth.

There is no particular way to dress for the other person, but it is important to dress appropriately for the job, and in many Asian countries, a clean first impression is important.

Country-specific hospitality notes

There are also differences in attitudes toward hospitality among countries.

Even when entertaining foreigners, it is important to know that the manner of eating and drinking differs considerably depending on the country of the recipient.

Business Entertainment and Business Etiquette

Some countries do not entertain themselves, while in others, entertainment is more important than anything else in building trust.

It is very important to know in advance what kind of business entertainment customs the other country has.

Religion and Diet

There are many different religions in the world with dietary restrictions.

Here we have made a list of what not to eat according to religion.

Buddhism

Meat and fish are prohibited for authentic Buddhists.

In addition, we do not use strong five pungent (five pungent roots) or five pungent (five pungent roots) ingredients.

Five garlic and five garlic and five garlic and five garlic and five garlic and five garlic and five garlic and five garlic and five garlic and five garlic and five garlic and five garlic and five garlic and five garlic and onions and onions and onions and leeks and chives and rakkyo are generally forbidden.

Hinduism

Eating cows is prohibited.

It is a religion with such strong food moderation that most people can be considered vegetarian.

Islam

Muslims are basically not allowed to eat anything other than halal food.

Pork is contraindicated, and only properly processed halal food may be eaten, including poultry and beef.

Christianity

It is safe to assume that there are no specific dietary restrictions, although some denominations (e.g., Mormon, Seventh-day Adventist Church) have restrictions.

Judaism

The meal is made of kosher food, which is a food that can be eaten by Jews.

It can only eat creatures that do not ruminate with their hoof split in two.

Pigs cannot be eaten.

Be careful with sushi items and rare steaks, as marine organisms without scales (octopus, shrimp, etc.) and blood are contraindicated.

Regarding Gifts

For Japanese people for whom it is customary to bring a gift, it is somewhat disconcerting not to have a gift for the first greeting.

However, in some countries, it is very rude to give excessive souvenirs or gifts of any kind at the first meeting.

If you really want to give them something, we recommend that you tell them that you have brought a souvenir, which is a custom in Japan, and that you have brought it in the Japanese way.

Also, in such cases, do not add words such as “It’s a trifle” or “It’s a small thing,” as the concept of modesty is not understood in most countries.

Why would they bother to give me something so boring? They seriously wonder….

alcohol

In many Asian countries, alcohol is very important for entertainment.

In China and Korea in particular, drinking and entertaining are inseparable, and so the manner of drinking is also an important entertainment skill.

On the contrary, alcohol is taboo in Muslim countries, so it is considered rude to prepare alcohol for entertainment.

It is important to know in advance the different manners of drinking and entertaining in each country.

Below is a summary of the characteristics of greetings by country.

China

Very important.

Try to accept alcoholic beverages, especially those recommended by superiors.

Korea

Drinking and entertaining are inseparable in Korea.

Also pace yourself so you don’t drink too much and get crushed.

Taiwan

Taiwan also values alcoholic beverages, but if there are circumstances that prevent you from drinking, let them know from the beginning so that they will not be rude.

America

France

The host is asked to have a good sense of coupling food and alcohol rather than just drinking alcohol.

If you are not confident, we recommend holding down a restaurant with a sommelier.

Australia

Since there is no such thing as business entertainment in this country, there is no need to plan a forced dinner reception, but rather to plan it as if you want to enjoy the drinks themselves together.

Coffee breaks are preferred over alcohol.

UAE

Since it is a Muslim country, alcohol is basically prohibited.

We refrain from preparing alcoholic beverages even for dinner entertainment.

Be sure to arrange soda water or apple juice for the toast.

Saudi Arabia

Guests from the Kingdom of Saudi Zarabia, a strictly Muslim country, should never be served alcohol.

It is very rude and discredited.

Be sure to have non-alcoholic beverages for the toast.

Singapore

With a large number of Malay Singaporeans and Muslim Singaporeans, Singapore is also a partner country where consideration for alcohol is very important.

There are also many restrictions on food, so care should be taken when dining together.

India

Since the majority of Indians are Hindu, for whom alcohol is one of the five deadly sins, drinking is legal.

On top of that, 20% are Muslim, so it is safe to assume that most Indians do not drink alcohol.

Indonesia

Indonesians are also a country with many Muslims.

Check your partner’s religion before deciding whether or not to have alcohol.

It is said that it is difficult for people to say NO, so we refrain from forcing them to drink too much.

Recommended Japanese cultural experiences by country

Here are our recommendations for Japanese cultural experiences in 11 different countries.

We have selected Japanese cultural experiences that will be appreciated by the national character of the country and people from countries where alcohol is not available.

Please also read the detailed related articles for each country.

Recommended Related Articles; Japanese cultural experiences popular among foreigners! Recommended 12 Experiential Sightseeing & VIP Entertainment

Japanese cultural experiences for entertaining Chinese guests

We recommend the following for a Japanese cultural experience appropriate for planning entertainment for Chinese people, for whom hierarchical relationships are strict and entertainment is very important.

geisha

Kabuki

Kimono Experience

Ninja

The Chinese value face very highly.

Since it is important to make a good face when entertaining, it is highly recommended to have a geisha, a professional in the art of entertaining, at your dinner.

They are not only skilled entertainers, but also performers of traditional Japanese dance, which makes the drinking atmosphere more relaxed.

There is something very luxurious and special about viewing Kabuki in a private space.

The glamour that Kabuki has to offer is also to the liking of the Chinese, so this will be a very pleasing project.

Popular among VIPs and wealthy Chinese women are more luxurious kimono experiences than ordinary kimonos, such as the Ooku style and oiran (courtesan).

Many people love photography, so this will be a recommended project as well.

A more detailed article on Chinese hospitality can be found here.

Mastering Chinese Guest Reception: Key Points and Essential Etiquette to Avoid Faux Pas!

Japanese cultural experiences for entertaining Koreans

One thing to keep in mind when entertaining Koreans is the history of Japan and Korea.

Although there have been many pro-Japanese Koreans in recent years, it is important to note that some older Koreans have an aversion to Japanese culture itself.

Calligraphy performance

Japanese Whiskey

Hot Springs

Tourist information

For entertaining Koreans, we recommend a Japanese cultural experience that allows you to experience together a common culture within each other’s country.

Calligraphy and hot springs are found in both Japan and Korea, so there is a sense of familiarity.

Calligraphy performances can be an appropriate Japanese cultural experience for celebrations, receptions, and other glamorous occasions.

It will be more exciting if you collaborate with Japanese musical instruments.

Japanese whiskey is relatively new to Japanese culture.

Therefore, it is perfect for entertaining Koreans, as older people can experience it without any discomfort.

Take your time and relax at the authentic bar.

Sightseeing in Tokyo is also becoming increasingly popular among Koreans.

It is also a good way to deepen friendship as you walk around and sympathize with the similarities and complete differences between Japan and Korea.

Here is an article about Korean hospitality.

Korean Business Manners and Popular Entertainment Methods to Avoid Failure in Entertaining Koreans

Please take a look at it for reference.

Japanese cultural experiences for entertaining Taiwanese

For Taiwanese, who are among the most pro-Japanese people in Asia, we still recommend the following Japanese cultural experiences that allow you to experience Japaneseness.

geisha

Ninja

Tea ceremony

Kabuki

match that determines if a rikishi will have more wins than losses

Sake Brewery Tour

For Taiwanese who take courtesy and manners very seriously, we recommend geisha, who are professionals in hospitality and Japanese cultural traditions.

Geishas are also popular in Taiwan, and in recent years, they have become the object of female admiration.

Taiwanese people are said to be very jovial, so a fun ninja experience is also recommended.

Ninjas can be entertaining, and we can offer interesting projects for you to experience ninjas in workshops.

Projects with sake as a keyword will be a lot of fun, and the sumo workshops will delight you with their friendly atmosphere.

Please refer to the detailed article about Taiwanese hospitality here.

What is the point of Taiwanese hospitality? Understanding Culture and Manners

Japanese cultural experiences for entertaining Americans

Entertainment is also provided in the U.S. In addition to dinners and lunches, sports entertainment and theater entertainment are popular.

Here is a list of entertainment that Americans will enjoy.

Zen Experience

Kabuki Entertainment

Martial Arts Entertainment

Sake and Japanese Whiskey

Yakatabune Dinner

Kado Team Building

Tea ceremony

Sushi Workshop

For entertaining Americans, who are becoming more diet-restricted and health-conscious, we recommend planning a wellness experience that is uniquely Japanese.

Zen experiences and nature-inspired houseboats are also popular.

Many people are also interested in team building through flower arrangement and tea ceremonies, so planning training and get-togethers is also popular.

Japanese sake, whiskey, and other Japanese alcoholic beverages will also be appreciated as a theme for your entertainment.

Here is a helpful article for American entertainment that you can read in detail here.

What is the key to entertaining Americans? Understanding Cultural Differences and How to Succeed6 Examples of Japanese Cultural Experiences Recommended for Entertaining Americans

Japanese cultural experiences for entertaining Australians

However, there are times when you have to entertain Australians who have come to Japan.

In such cases, we recommend the following Japanese cultural experiences.

Tokyo Travel Guide

Japanese Dance Experience

Sushi Workshop

Ninja Entertainment

Sake Brewery Experience

Team Building in Japanese Culture

In Australia, there are very few companies that provide entertainment because they don’t and it doesn’t fall under expenses.

Therefore, it is necessary to plan for the guests to enjoy being in Japan rather than preparing a reception dinner and drinks.

If you can take them sightseeing in Tokyo with you, and if they actually learn something or experience something, it is very natural because it is more about deepening friendship than entertainment.

Also, when companies are visiting Japan in large groups, celebrations and get-togethers are fine, but team building with the keyword “Japanese cultural experience” is also popular because of its special feel.

A more detailed article on Australian hospitality can be found here.

No Hosting in Australia? Business Etiquette and Dining Manners to Watch Out For!

Japanese cultural experiences for entertaining French guests

The following list of Japanese cultural experiences are recommended for entertaining French people who value tradition, history and culture.

Tea ceremony

Martial Arts

Calligraphy

Toshi Sake and Sushi

Kodo

Noh, Kyogen, Kabuki

For entertaining French people, many of whom are interested in Japanese culture, we highly recommend a Japanese cultural experience that allows you to experience Japanese traditions and culture.

Many people tend to have a strong respect for history and admiration for Japanese culture, so they will be very pleased if you guide them through a Japanese cultural experience when entertaining them.

For entertaining French people, we highly recommend planning a unique Japanese experience that you can take the time to enjoy.

A more detailed article on French hospitality can be found here.

Hosting the French: Mastering Business Etiquette and Customs for Successful Hospitality!

Japanese cultural experiences for entertaining UAE (Dubai and Abu Dhabi) nationals

It is difficult to prepare entertainment that tends to rely on alcohol and meals for those who have restrictions due to their religion.

The following Japanese cultural experiences are recommended, especially for guests from the UAE, where lavish entertainment is the norm.

Tea ceremony experience

Kabuki Experience

Incense Practice

Halal Food Kaiseki Cuisine

For guests from Arab countries, whose culture is to entertain guests with Arabic coffee brewed by the host, we still recommend the Japanese way of entertaining with tea.

If you entertain your guests with a “Japanese tea ceremony” experience in a tea room or at a Japanese confectionery workshop, you will be able to show your respect for them.

Also, since many people enjoy a good fragrance, an incense experience is recommended for those who enjoy fragrance.

The use of expensive fragrant wood is a very luxurious experience, and viewing Kabuki in a special private space is an extravagant treat.

The Japanese cultural experience of hospitality can provide you with a special experience and time, so that your business entertainment, which tends to rely on drinks and food, can be delivered as a more luxurious experience than that.

A more detailed article about the hospitality of UAE nationals can be found here.

Abu Dhabi, Dubai] How to successfully entertain important UAE clients in Japan

Japanese Cultural Experience for Entertaining Saudi Arabian Royalty

In the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, a strictly Muslim country, restrictions that have been relaxed little by little by Saudi Vision still remain strict.

The following four Japanese cultural experiences are recommended for Saudis.

Flower arrangement

Halal Food Kaiseki Cuisine

Calligraphy Experience

Tea ceremony

In a country where the four seasons are different from those of Japan, many people in Saudi Arabia are said to admire the rich nature of Japan.

The flower arrangement experience is a great way to experience Japanese culture while experiencing Japanese flowers.

Muslims also have a culture of beautiful calligraphy and tend to be interested in the Japanese calligraphy experience.

The culture of entertaining guests with Arabic coffee makes it easy to convey the spirit of the tea ceremony.

A detailed article on Saudi basics for entertaining Saudis can be found here.

Hosting Saudi Guests | Essential Business Etiquette and Hospitality Tips for Valued Clients

Japanese cultural experiences for entertaining Singaporeans

Entertaining Singaporeans, many of whom are Muslim Malays, requires consideration of alcoholic beverages and food.

So if you prepare a Japanese cultural experience for your entertainment, we can guide you to a fulfilling time.

geisha belonging to a call-office (usually a skilled geisha)

Kabuki

Martial Arts

Yakatabune

Tea ceremony

Traditional Japanese dance is very popular among Singaporeans.

While most people tend to be accustomed to being entertained by women, the entertainment provided by geisha is top-notch, making them popular with VIPs and wealthy customers.

Also popular are those that offer a special and luxurious experience, such as kabuki viewing in a private space or a dinner on a yakatabune (houseboat).

Also, for Singaporeans for whom sports entertainment is popular, a Japanese martial arts experience is recommended.

It is recommended for those who want to enjoy physical exercise and friendship rather than food and drinks.

A more detailed article on Singaporean hospitality can be found here.

Hosting Singaporeans: Essential Business Etiquette and Cultural Norms to Know

Japanese Cultural Experience for Indian Entertainment

In India, where there are many different religions, many people have dietary restrictions.

So, we need to be very careful because there is also the entertainment of dinners and the drinking of alcohol.

Since it is often difficult to obtain information on the food habits of the recipient in advance, we recommend planning a Japanese cultural experience for the reception.

Below is a list of Japanese cultural experiences that Indians will appreciate.

Kimono experience, tea ceremony, flower arrangement

Kabuki Experience

Wagashi Workshop

Ninja Experience

Geisha Experience

Many Indian women routinely wear their national dress, the sari, in a nice way.

Therefore, many people are interested in the ethnic costumes of other countries, and the kimono experience is very much appreciated.

For those who cannot eat alcohol or animal products, we also recommend a tea ceremony experience or a Japanese confectionery workshop.

Wagashi is popular among Indians, many of whom have a sweet tooth.

Here is an article with some useful recommendations for Indian hospitality.

Hosting Indian Guests: Key Business Etiquette and Cherished Japanese Cultural Experiences

Japanese cultural experiences for entertaining Indonesians

When entertaining Indonesians, who have a very strict hierarchical relationship, it is very important to set up the reception in a way that is not rude.

Here we introduce a Japanese cultural experience perfect for entertaining Indonesians.

geisha

Tea ceremony and Japanese sweets experience

Yakatabune

Cherry blossom viewing

Ninja

The geisha’s attention to detail and hospitality skills allow them to smoothly facilitate the reception of important guests from Indonesia, where hierarchical relationships are strictly regulated.

Among the Muslim customs is the hospitality of the host serving coffee directly to the guest.

It is a way of hospitality very similar to the tea ceremony, so it is very easy for Indonesians to understand the meaning of welcoming people at a tea ceremony.

For Indonesians who deepen their friendship through picnics, we also recommend outdoor entertainment unique to Japan, such as houseboats and hanami (cherry blossom viewing).

The article on business etiquette and Indonesian culture required for entertaining Indonesians can be found here.

Please take a look at it for reference.

Indonesian Hospitality and Business Manners｜How to entertain successfully

summary

Foreigners, in a word, have completely different cultures and manners from one country to another.

If you are only broadly categorized as a foreigner, you will not be able to welcome them with the kind of hospitality they deserve.

Just as different cultures and values may not see the same thing in the same way, it will be important to adapt the form of hospitality to the culture and customs of the recipient.

If you are going to entertain a foreigner, please do some research on the country you are going to visit in advance.

This way, you can plan a more pleasing and successful reception.

Basic Knowledge of Singapore

Singapore

Singapore is an independent country located in Southeast Asia, in the southern part of Malaysia.

With a total area of approximately 719 square kilometers, it is a very small country in terms of land area.

The population is approximately 6 million.

Singapore is a country of diverse cultural backgrounds and is home to Chinese, Malays, Indians, and other ethnic groups.

The official languages are English, Malay, Chinese, and Tamil, although English is the predominant language for business.

Singapore is a republic, a political system that combines a presidential and parliamentary system, and the leader of the country is the prime minister.

Singapore is also known for its political stability and policies that emphasize economic development.

And it is a world-renowned economic center, highly developed in the areas of finance, commerce, tourism, and logistics.

Its gross domestic product (GDP) is high, and many international companies and banks are located in the area.

Characteristics of Singaporean National Character

There are many different ethnic groups living within Singapore.

Accordingly, the national character is also diverse, and although it is difficult to generalize, there are several distinctive elements.

Singapore is home to diverse ethnic groups, and multiculturalism is an important factor.

Chinese, Malays, Indians, and others live together and build a common identity while respecting each other’s culture and traditions.

There is a high value placed on education, and hard work and diligence are important.

The educational system is rigorous and competitive, but it maintains a high standard of education.

Many citizens strive for self-improvement and are generally committed to the pursuit of success.

Singapore is a society that values order and discipline.

Compliance with the law and obedience to public rules is strongly required.

The city will also focus on maintaining a clean and well-maintained environment, and citizens will be mindful of their behavior and manners in public places.

And Singapore is a cosmopolitan city, rooted in a global orientation, actively accepting foreign investment and international companies, and thriving in international exchange and business.

The people tend to be open-minded about different cultures and have an international outlook.

With the development of the economy, there is a growing trend to emphasize material wealth and comfortable living conditions, while also paying attention to work-life balance and family time.

Who are the Malays?

The Malays are an ethnic group living mainly in Southeast Asia, including Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei, and Singapore.

They have deep Malay cultural, linguistic, and historical ties.

The Malays speak the Malay language and inherit elements of the Malay culture, which traces its origins back to historical kingdoms such as the ancient kingdom of Malaysia and the ancient kingdom of Sumatra.

There is a large Muslim population, and Islam is an important element of their culture and society.

The Malay traditions of marriage, festivals, food, and dress are closely related to their religious beliefs.

Muslims are prohibited from consuming alcohol, and for religious reasons, many Malays tend not to drink.

However, not all Malays are Muslim, and some Malay individuals consume alcohol.

Some Malays, especially in urban and westernized areas, may drink alcohol at social occasions and special events.

Business Manners in Singapore

Here we introduce Singaporean business etiquette.

From greetings, we have compiled a list of things to be aware of since the feeling is a little different from Japan.

a fine thing to say (used as part of a sarcastic response to a rude remark)

In Singapore, the first greeting with a business partner is basically a handshake, without bowing or special greeting gestures.

Shake hands while maintaining a distance so as not to get too close than necessary.

After shaking hands, Malays make a gesture of placing the palm of the hand on the chest.

It is a cultural greeting, not an obligation, so there is nothing in particular that is required of us, but we should understand that we are being greeted with a polite greeting.

And even in Singapore, exchanging business cards is an important business greeting.

In most cases, there is an exchange of business cards at the first meeting, and the business card is offered so that the other party can read it.

Receive the card carefully with both hands, as some people do not like to have their business cards put away immediately,

Place it on the table so that it is visible during the meeting.

Be careful not to treat business cards carelessly, as it is against manners, just as in Japan.

In addition, many people feel very dry in the business world, so when they meet someone for the first time, they make judgments about their career and educational background, how well they speak English and whether they can communicate smoothly. In addition, many people in the business world have a very dry sense of humor.

See also: Business Etiquette in Singapore (Meetings, Contracts, Assignment of Duties)

attire

Because Singapore is only one degree from the equator in the northern hemisphere, the average annual temperature ranges from 24°C to 31°C, making the climate always summer-like.

The local business style for men is generally not to wear jackets, but to wear subdued-toned trousers, brightly colored shirts and ties.

Some workplaces do not allow short sleeves in business attire, although it is hot.

Women tend to wear blouses and pants or skirts, with many sleeveless people in positions where sleeveless is permitted.

However, it is always important to treat underarm hair in the case of sleeveless garments.

In Singapore, as in Japan, underarm hair is considered quite an etiquette violation.

In Singapore, a woman wearing revealing clothing has a very negative image.

Keep jewelry as modest as possible, as many people consider flashy accessories inappropriate for a business setting.

For holiday work, it is acceptable to dress a little more casually than usual, but sandals and slippers are not allowed in most places.

Thus, “cleanliness” is the hallmark of business fashion in Singapore.

business sense

It is said that doing business with Singaporeans is benefit-oriented anyway.

Since Singapore is home to many international companies, the business style is often Western.

If a proposal is proposed that will greedily advance toward the target profit and create a benefit, the matter will be given top priority.

Tendency to put minor problems on the back burner and move toward larger solutions.

Therefore, it is important to note that this can create a lot of stress for mid-course changes and replacement of the proposed plan.

Therefore, while many people are said to be loose with time in general society, many people are also generous with their time in the business world.

And since few people work beyond their employment contracts, situations often arise where projects are passed around.

Therefore, when working with Singaporeans, it is important to understand their position and the type of work they are responsible for.

See also: Book “55 Iron Rules for Doing Business with Singapore” (published by ALC)

Singapore’s Hospitality Culture

Business entertainment is also a very important business skill in Singapore.

Here is an introduction to Singapore’s hospitality culture.

Business Entertainment

Entertainment is also an important scene in Singapore.

If they invite you, attend as much as possible.

If you received the invitation by letter, then respond in writing.

If you are unable to attend, have someone from within the company attend in your place who holds a similar position.

If the spouse is attending the meeting in the same room, the atmosphere is more personal and friendly than the business aspect of the meeting, so avoid talking too much about business.

When we invite others for entertainment, we need to make sure that we are considerate of food and alcohol for Malays and other Muslims.

Entertainment within Singapore often follows a dinner and then an after-party.

Move to a nightclub, karaoke or a restaurant with female hostesses.

The same process can be used for entertaining in Japan, and hospitality that allows guests to enjoy traditional Japanese entertainment is also appreciated.

And golf entertainment is also popular.

In recent years, as in the West, sports entertainment, gyms and running have become popular, so if your partner is a sports enthusiast, it is recommended to incorporate them.

coffee break

It is said that coffee breaks are more important to Singaporeans than entertainment and drinking.

In addition to break times, we may stop by a café or Starbucks for a meeting over a cup of coffee.

If you are a colleague or business partner, you can deepen your friendship over a cup of coffee, so I recommend that you try to attend as much as possible when Singaporeans invite you for coffee.

Manners for Eating and Drinking

There are many Malay Singaporeans and other Muslim and Buddhist Singaporeans who do not drink alcohol.

Therefore, be careful not to force alcohol on them or invite them to a drinking party, as this is considered rude.

In addition, halal food is required, so if you are preparing both a reception dinner and a lunch, you must make sure to confirm this.

Halal food also prohibits forbidden ingredients from coming into contact with the serving dish or chopsticks, so be sure to use separate dishes for serving.

When planning a meal or a drinking party, it is important to understand and prepare for Halal etiquette well in advance.

If you are invited to an event where food is served, it is considered good manners to arrive a few minutes late.

Of course, it is important to be on time, but arriving too early gives the impression of greed to the other party.

On the other hand, if you are the one who planned the event, be sure to arrive at the venue before the other party.

It is bad manners to keep your guests waiting, and we would be sorry if we made them feel uneasy about arriving early.

souvenir

In Singapore, when you are invited to an event hosted by a business partner, you give a gift as a token of your appreciation.

Basically, a bottle of wine or chocolates is the most common gift, and alcoholic beverages are discouraged for gifts to companies where many executives are of a denomination that does not drink alcohol.

On the other hand, there is no culture of giving a gift in return for receiving a souvenir, but it is appreciated to give a gift in return with a word of thanks.

5 Japanese cultural experiences that Singaporeans will enjoy

In Singapore, a multi-ethnic country where different cultures coexist, it is very important to have one’s own cultural background.

Therefore, welcoming them with Japanese culture will lead to the perception that they are a partner with pride in their own country, and will give them a sense of trust as a business partner.

Here are five recommended Japanese cultural experiences for Singaporeans.

Recommended Related Article;

Japanese cultural experiences popular among foreigners! Recommended 12 Experiential Sightseeing & VIP Entertainment

geisha

For entertaining Singaporeans, we recommend geisha, the professionals of Japanese hospitality.

Many people are culturally accustomed to being entertained by female hostesses, but Japanese geisha are exceptional.

They are popular among Singaporeans because of their skillful approach to entertaining and their presence in the Japanese atmosphere.

Geishas are also traditional Japanese dancers, so you can enjoy authentic Japanese traditional performing arts at your reception dinner.

They will incorporate teahouse games and create a very enjoyable atmosphere for the event.

If you are planning to include a Japanese cultural experience in your entertainment for Singaporeans, geisha are a very natural and welcome way to do so.

Recommended Related Article:

kabuki

We recommend the Kabuki experience for special guests from Singapore.

Kabuki is one of the most popular traditional Japanese stage performing arts.

It is a traditional art form that attracts a great number of foreigners who are interested in it because it has a uniquely Japanese aesthetic.

The Kabuki Experience, a custom-made project, can be planned to include a performance by a Kabuki actor at your dining venue.

You will be able to enjoy Kabuki, which cannot be seen unless you visit a Kabuki-za theater, while dining at a leisurely pace, and we can offer you a very luxurious time.

We can also plan the event according to the customer’s needs, as the method is flexible and can include explanations about Kabuki from Kabuki actors and Kabuki make-up.

This project is especially popular among the wealthy, and is recommended as a Japanese cultural experience that offers a sense of luxury.

Related articles：Recommended for inbound visitors to Japan! What is popular traditional entertainment?

martial arts

We recommend the martial arts experience of Sumo and Karate for entertaining Singaporeans, who are popular for sports entertainment, including golf entertainment.

There are many ways to plan a martial arts entertainment project.

From workshop-style projects with direct instruction from martial artists, to martial arts entertainment for large crowds, to training for employees, our programs are popular.

In the martial arts experience, students choose from a selection of Japanese martial arts such as karate, sumo, kendo, iaido, aikido, and kyudo, and actually learn from expert instructors.

It can accommodate both experienced and novice players, and can be enjoyed by people of all ages and both genders.

It can be enjoyed like a gym or yoga, so it is recommended for entertainment projects for sports-minded Singaporeans.

Recommended Related Article:

Sumo] Sumo experience is very popular even in foreign countries! Points of explanation based on basic knowledge of rules, history, etc. and how to watch the matches.

Karate]: [Why karate is popular among foreigners]: A team-building example of Japanese spirit

houseboat

This plan allows you to rent a yakatabune for a leisurely crossing of the Sumida River and enjoy a meal during the trip.

Custom-made plans are also available, so you can enjoy a performance of Japanese performing arts by geisha on a yakatabune, or a samurai sword fighting performance.

This plan is recommended for guests with limited time, as it allows them to enjoy a meal while sightseeing in Tokyo, and on top of that, experience traditional Japanese performing arts up close and personal.

You can also enjoy drinks on a night cruise in the evening, so there is no limit to the number of plans you can make to suit your needs.

tea ceremony

The tea ceremony is still popular among Singaporeans.

The tea ceremony is highly recognized in Singapore, and since Singaporeans are also people who enjoy tea on a daily basis, many people tend to be interested in the tea ceremony, a way of receiving tea that has its own style.

The secret of its popularity is that you can experience the tea ceremony and kimono at the same time, so you can enjoy the authentic Japanese style.

You can also plan a leisurely change of location after the dinner.

For example, visitors can enjoy chatting while relaxing over a cup of tea in the tearoom overlooking the Japanese garden.

You will experience business entertainment that is uniquely Japanese.

Recommended related article: [Practiced by expatriates] Omotenashi with Tea Ceremony and Kimono: https://www.motenas-japan.jp/news/sado.html

summary

Entertaining cosmopolitan Singaporeans will be important to respond to their global values.

That is why ethnic identity tends to be important, and it is important to deepen exchanges while respecting each other’s pride in one’s own culture.

This is the reason why Japanese cultural experiences are suitable for entertaining Singaporeans.

We encourage our special guests from Singapore to experience the wonders of Japanese culture and deepen the friendship of mutual cultural exchange!

About Indonesia

Capital and Population

Indonesia is located in Southeast Asia and shares borders with Malaysia, Singapore, and Papua New Guinea.

Indonesia is one of the largest countries in the world in terms of area and is a large country consisting of more than 17,000 islands.

Its total area is approximately 19 million square kilometers and its population exceeds 270 million.

The capital of Indonesia is Jakarta.

Jakarta is densely populated and known as a political, economic, and cultural center.

Indonesia is a member of ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) and a growing economy.

Major industries include agriculture, manufacturing, mining, and tourism.

The abundance of natural resources is also of economic importance.

Culture and Religion

Indonesia is a country composed of people from diverse cultural backgrounds.

Each region and island has its own culture and language, and although Indonesian is the official language, English is also widely spoken.

Indonesia is a religiously diverse country, with Islam being the largest religion.

Indonesia is one of the most populous Muslim countries, with about 87% of the population being Muslim.

Islam in Indonesia has a relatively moderate form, with many people being Sunni Muslims.

Islamic values and practices have had a significant impact on Indonesian society and culture.

Other faiths include Hinduism, Buddhism, and Christianity.

Important Customs and Events

Indonesia has many traditional events and festivals.

It is very important etiquette to take into consideration holidays and national holidays that are important to the people with whom you do business.

Here are some of the major festivals in Indonesia.

Ido Le Fitri (Lebaran)

Id-ul-Fitr is the most important festival of Islam, celebrating the end of the month of Ramadan (fasting month).

Family and friends gather to prepare a special dish and enjoy the meal together.

People wear new clothes, worship at mosques, visit each other and exchange blessings.

Nyepi

Nyapi is a Hindu New Year festival in Bali.

On Nyapi Day, 24 hours of silence and stillness are observed.

People stay home, turn off lights, and refrain from music, dancing, and other activities.

This day in particular is considered a time for self-reflection and purification.

Kartaha Nu’u (Kartini Day)

Kartaha Nuyu is a day of celebration for the emancipation of women in Indonesia and is celebrated on April 21.

It pays tribute to Radha Kartaha Nuyu, a Javanese women’s liberation activist.

The importance of women’s empowerment and education will be emphasized.

Galungan

Galang is a Hindu festival in Bali on which the gods are said to visit the earth.

During the festival, Balinese houses are decorated and altars are set up.

People pray and enjoy traditional dances and music.

Kediri

Kediri is an Islamic festival on the island of Java that celebrates the birth of the Prophet Muhammad.

On this day, prayers are held at the mosque and the entire community shares a meal.

Charitable and community service activities will also be offered.

Basic Business Knowledge You Need to Know

Solidarity is very important in business.

It is said that in Indonesia, people choose jobs based on connection rather than compensation.

Once a month, many companies have employees’ families get together for picnics, mountain climbing, and other social gatherings, deepening family friendships.

Deepening personal relationships and building trust are very important in Indonesian business.

We recommend that this point be emphasized in entertainment and social gatherings.

Plan to invite your family, or even a couple, if you can.

If you are visiting Japan with your family, entertaining them with something they can enjoy together will make a good impression, and if your business partner is visiting Japan, gifts for their family will be greatly appreciated.

Hierarchy in Indonesia

Hou, ren, sou” is an important keyword for Japanese businessmen.

However, this rule does not apply in Indonesia.

Indonesians are basically a people who tell only good reports to their superiors.

If there is a problem, they tend not to discuss it directly with their superiors, but to resolve it among themselves and others in the same position, and report back only after they have succeeded.

So, unless my boss calls on me to do something, I put off reporting to the top.

If you are a business partner, it is very important to know the temperament of Indonesians in advance.

See also: 15 Common Sense Manners in Indonesia You Must Know

Minimum Business Manners

Indonesians never say NO?

Indonesians are said to be as reluctant to say no as the Japanese.

Many people tend to repeat the word “no” in a very unclear response because they are too concerned that the word “no” might hurt the other person.

This tendency is also seen in the Japanese, which means that neither party can give a clear answer to the other for a long time….

Therefore, it is recommended that you repeatedly check if it is really safe to do so if you are concerned.

And it is said that Indonesians do not express their emotions, good or bad, in a very public way.

So body language tends to be very sensitive.

For example, the gesture of talking with one’s hands on one’s hips expresses anger, and should be avoided when talking with a person, even unconsciously.

There is a risk of giving the impression of something intimidating.

And most Indonesians, who are known for not scolding their children very often, are not used to being scolded by others.

Never emotionally blame Indonesians, even when they make mistakes at work.

See also: Jakarta Supper, ” Indonesian Manners and Taboos.”

Indonesian Manners of Entertaining

Attend as much as possible if invited.

Entertainment is very important to Indonesians.

If the other party has invited me, I will attend unless I have a good reason not to.

If you are unable to attend a meeting, politely decline so as not to hurt the other party’s reputation.

In addition, when planning entertainment, it is necessary to welcome the guests with sincere hospitality.

It is Indonesian manners to welcome visitors with the utmost hospitality, so it is necessary to plan entertainment carefully.

Halal meals are served.

Most Indonesians are Muslim, so prepare Halal meals.

In the case of buffets, touching pork is also contraindicated, so it is necessary to be careful not to mix Halal food and regular dishes, not to mention food.

When having a reception dinner for lunch or dinner, we will prepare a Halal meal at a Halal-compliant restaurant.

Muslim Indonesians are also not allowed to drink alcohol, so consideration should be given to this.

Thus, it is important to take the religious background into consideration when entertaining Indonesians.

Reference: Nihon Keizai Shimbun, ” Indonesia’s Looming Halal Mandate Urges Retail and Food Service Response ” (Japanese only)

There are certain colors to avoid on party invitations.

When making invitations to Chinese Indonesians, pay attention to the colors.

Avoid white, black, and blue paper.

This is because among Chinese Indonesians, this color is considered to represent sadness.

Conversely, red and pink are pleasing colors for invitations.

Red and pink are festive colors, and as in China, it is customary to wrap gifts in red and wrap them with a golden ribbon.

If you are inviting people to a glamorous get-together or celebration, it is especially important to pay attention to the color.

Souvenir Customs

Indonesia, like Japan, has a deep souvenir culture.

Souvenirs are important not only for relatives and friends and acquaintances, but also for business associates.

Souvenirs for greetings and gifts for people at work are customary as in Japan, so it is necessary to bring a souvenir for the first meeting.

For the entire workplace, small portions of sweets that are easy to share are popular, and for personal gifts, gifts that are uniquely Japanese are very much appreciated.

Also, don’t be surprised when your child innocently demands, “Give me a souvenir! and may innocently demand it, so do not be surprised.

This is very common in Indonesia, so if you are coming to Japan with your children, we recommend that you be sure to prepare souvenirs for them as well.

Entertainment is also respectful of superiors.

In Indonesia, hierarchical relationships are very strict, so respect for superiors is very important, even when entertaining.

Be sure to show exceptional respect, especially to the guest of honor.

It is also important to arrange for the guest of honor to be the first to eat at buffet-style receptions.

If the guest of honor is going to sit down and choose a meal, go with him or her to get the food and explain each dish.

Anyway, respect for superiors is even more important than in Japan, so be sure to treat them with the utmost courtesy at business entertainment and get-togethers.

Japanese cultural experiences for entertaining Indonesians

geisha

Geishas are experts in entertainment as well as Japanese cultural traditions.

Geishas are also special when it comes to the etiquette skills needed when considering entertaining superiors.

Therefore, geishas are recommended for entertaining Indonesians, who have a strict hierarchical relationship.

Geisha’s meticulous hospitality skills allow them to plan entertainment without rudeness and to take on the challenge of dealing with special guests.

Of course, we do not recommend alcohol when entertaining Muslims, and the geisha will make sure that you can fully enjoy yourself without alcohol.

Even if there is no alcohol, you will have a warm and memorable reception if you enjoy the beauty of Japan while appreciating Japanese dance and having a good time playing tea with geisha.

Tea ceremony, Japanese sweets experience

For entertaining Indonesians, many of whom are Muslim, with a Japanese cultural experience, we recommend the tea ceremony.

Even in the Islamic world, tea and coffee are important elements of hospitality for guests, so the meaning of hospitality in the tea ceremony is as common as it is in the Japanese.

Since many people are not able to prepare a table for drinking, it is important to create a space where important conversations can take place in the relaxed atmosphere of a tea ceremony.

Also, since many people in Japan have a sweet tooth, Japanese sweets will be appreciated.

Recommended related article: [Practice by expatriates] Omotenashi with Tea Ceremony and Kimono

Tea ceremony, calligraphy, flower arrangement

houseboat

How about renting a Yakatabune for Tokyo cruising?

This is one of Motenas Japan’s most popular special events that allow customers to experience the “fun” of the event.

We have prepared traditional Japanese entertainment such as geisha and swordsmiths on our yakatabune, so that you can enjoy Japanese culture while viewing Tokyo from the river in a stylish way.

You can also enjoy a special experience such as cruising on a houseboat with a tea ceremony experience while enjoying matcha green tea.

cherry blossom viewing

Indonesians love picnics.

If your partner is staying in Japan during the spring cherry blossom season, hanami (cherry blossom viewing) is still recommended.

We are sure that your visit to Tokyo will be a memorable one, as you will be able to enjoy the cherry blossoms to the fullest, including sightseeing in Tokyo while viewing cherry blossoms.

If you are entertaining a superior, it would be a good idea to offer him or her a Japanese cultural experience and a meal in a private room with beautiful cherry blossoms.

It is also recommended to prepare for entertainment under the cherry blossoms a custom-made performance of a popular traditional art such as Kabuki, Japanese dance, or Noh theater, for an emotional experience.

Recommended Related Articles: [History and Japanese Culture of Hanami] Cherry Blossoms and Popular Spots Loved by Foreigners with English Examples

Let’s take a thorough look at the appeal of Japanese bento that foreigners enjoy.

ninja (persons in feudal Japan who used ninja weapons, assassins, etc.)

How about welcoming Indonesians who are visiting Japan with their families with Ninja?

This is a project that has been welcomed by a certain royal family during their private visit to Japan, and visitors can enjoy Japan to the fullest with ninja as the keyword, with ninja suddenly appearing and learning how to throw shuriken directly from ninja.

And Ninja is also a great choice for large get-togethers and celebrations.

The entertainment by ninjas is so spectacular and dynamic that it is well worth seeing, and the exotic, yet gorgeous stage lighting and sound effects that are typical of Japan will make it a high-impact project.

Ninja can be enjoyed in a variety of ways and is still perfect for entertaining special people and for people of all ages.

Recommended Related Articles：What is the Japanese symbol of the Ninja?　Ninja Experience and Entertainment

summary

How was it? In this article, we introduced business manners and hospitality tips for entertaining Indonesian guests.

Indonesia is a predominantly Muslim country, but also has a large Chinese Indonesian population.

In both cases, it is important to understand the culture and customs, and to treat people with good manners and no rudeness.

Indonesian business etiquette is also characterized by respect for superiors and strict hierarchical relationships, so take this into consideration when welcoming them.

With these points in mind, you can plan a special hospitality experience while incorporating Japanese culture.

Motenas Japan is always available for consultation, so please contact us if you have any problems with Indonesian entertainment.

Business Etiquette in India

Here are some Indian business manners.

Knowing the national character of Indian people and the basic knowledge of Indian business manners that you should know will help you to respond to them without rudeness.

Indian Cultural Background and Religion

India’s population has finally surpassed China’s at 1,407.56 million.

The capital of India is New Delhi in northern India, where the official language is Hindi, and different regions have different cultures and religions.

People in northern India tend to be more aggressive and active, while the further south you go, the slower and more generous people tend to be.

Most Indians are Hindu, and this applies to 80% of the population.

Hindu reforms are also underway by the Modi administration.

Muslims make up 14% of the population, but there is a growing repression of Islam under the Modi government and cultural clashes.

Although the birthplace of Buddhism has a strong image among the Japanese, the number of Buddhists is surprisingly small, accounting for less than 1% of the population, which is said to be smaller than the number of Christians.

Other religions include many Jains and Sikhs, who have many food taboos, so be careful when entertaining.

See also, Diamond Online, ” What Serious Problems Are Happening in India, Where Hinduization Is Rapidly Taking Place? “

Ministry of External Affairs, ” Republic of India Basic Data.”

First impressions are very important

It is said that first impressions are very important when doing business with Indians.

Indians place great importance on cleanliness, so they respect cleanliness in clothing and hair.

Wrinkles and stains on suits and shirts are not acceptable, so when meeting an Indian for the first time, make sure you look presentable.

Women are also not to be trusted in clothing that is too flashy or emphasizes the body line.

Clean attire is recommended, especially for the first meeting.

It is important to be respected as a business partner, so both men and women should pay attention to their appearance.

Indian business sense

The differences in ethnicity between regions are so pronounced that it is said, “If you are setting up a company in India, you should find out in advance which region fits your company’s philosophy better.

The tendency is said to be that people in the north are more aggressive and the further south you go, the more generous people are.

And these days, many Indians are in the elite class with MBAs and less awareness of seniority.

Since many people hone their skills while changing jobs to advance their careers, the person in charge often changes suddenly.

The biggest difference between Japanese and Indian business sense is that in Japan, accuracy is strongly demanded, while in India, speed is most important.

It is said that many Indians feel that Japanese companies are slow in responding to their needs because the rhythm of business execution is so fast that many people are said to be able to handle multitasking.

On the contrary, however, Japanese people say that there are many mistakes, so be sure to check your work carefully.

Reference: Toyo Newspaper, ” There is no more nonsense than a seniority system in India.

Indian sense of time

Although Indians have an image of being very loose with time, this is not generally true in the business world.

In the Indian business scene, where speed is of the essence, it is wise to reply to e-mails and other messages as soon as possible, as Japanese companies seem to be slow to respond.

However, some say that the schedule should be considered only as a guide.

Since the confirmation process is not as thorough as in Japan, there are times when mistakes are made and deadlines are greatly delayed, so communication between the two parties is crucial.

On the other hand, they can be very impatient, and if the client is Indian, they may be asked to accommodate their convenience.

It is important to create good communication with them, as schedules and sense of time are only variable depending on the situation.

And in many cases when doing business with Indians, many parties and other get-togethers are planned.

It is always considered good manners to arrive 30 minutes late, and a slow atmosphere is preferred.

If you are already acquainted with the person, in that case, bring a small souvenir, but gifts that will be a memento tend to be more appreciated than the disappearing gifts that are common in Japan.

Many people place particular importance on communicating face to face with the other person, so if there is a chance, let’s set it up so that we can meet!

Indian way of business greetings

The traditional Indian greeting is ‘Namaste’ (Namaste) or ‘Namaskar’ (Namaska) with a slight bow, palms together.

Indian greetings are basically a handshake.

However, to greet a woman, the hands are clasped together in front of the chest in a “namaste” gesture, and the knees are gently bent.

Some internationally active women actively ask for a handshake, so shake hands when offered.

In this case, you should only respond to a woman’s request for a drink.

In India, people do not bow, so rather than bowing, look the person in the eye and greet them.

Business cards are also exchanged in India, but in a more casual manner than in Japan.

However, if you have interacted with a number of Japanese companies, they will be familiar with the Japanese style of exchanging business cards, so be respectful.

Reference: India Entry Blog/Tokyo Consulting Group ” Business Manners in India, Part 5

Business Entertainment in India

Indians consider it very important in doing business to know the other party in person, not by phone or e-mail.

Entertainment is still very important.

Here are some key points about business entertainment in India.

Indian Business Dinners – Points to Consider

Many Indians are vegetarian.

Therefore, prior confirmation is required for dinners.

Depending on the sect or religion, many people do not eat eggs or fish, so be sure to take precautions beforehand.

It is also important to confirm in advance where your partner is from and where his/her company is located, especially since many people from the South are vegetarians.

Since many non-vegetarians do not eat beef or are on a halal diet, poultry, lamb, and fish would be safe choices for the dinner table.

Halal food is required for many Muslim Indians.

Hindus do not eat cows, and Jains eat only plants and grains called lentis.

They don’t eat vegetables either, so you have to be very careful.

It is very important to note that in India, once you have a mouthful of food, it is considered “unclean,” so you do not share with others what you have already eaten.

Therefore, be aware that some people may not be comfortable with the sharing of a single dish in Japanese cuisine, such as nabe dishes.

People in northern India basically take their meals with a spoon, while those in the south tend to eat with their hands, so fewer Indians can use chopsticks than foreigners from other countries.

What kind of food do Indians enjoy?

In addition, Indian food is often very spicy, and some people do not like the taste of Japanese food at all, which is why many people find kaiseki cuisine difficult to enjoy.

Yakitori is recommended for Indian entertainment.

Many people like spicy food but also like sweet food, and yakitori sauce is reading popularity.

Many Indians also like oil dishes and often accommodate vegetarian menus, and tempura is also recommended.

Also, many people in India cannot eat sushi because fresh sashimi is rarely available in the country.

Of course, most international business people can use eating utensils, but it would be considerate to at least provide them with a fork or other eating utensil that is easy to eat when you are showing them Japanese food.

See also: LIVE IN NIHON, ” 5 Things You Need to Know Before Dining with Indians.”

Indians and the Manners of Drinking

In India, Hinduism is the majority religion.

In the Code of Manu, which is the norm for Hindus, drinking alcohol is one of the “five deadly sins”.

The following is a list of the most common problems with the

About 20% of the population is Muslim, and alcohol is also prohibited here.

So there is a very strict intolerance for alcohol consumption in India.

There is a belief that it is immodest for women to drink alcohol, and there are “prohibition states”.

Drinking age is 25 in Delhi and 21 or older in Mumbai, which are much stricter than in Japan.

Against this background, it can be a breach of etiquette to provide alcoholic beverages for entertainment.

October 2, Mahatma Gandhi’s birthday, is especially popular as a non-alcohol day.

Note that there are many other days when alcohol is not consumed.

However, with modernization, drinking is becoming more open in urban areas and among international businessmen, so it is not generally true that all Indians are abstaining from alcohol.

It is important to ask about beverages at the beginning of the dinner, while preparing non-alcoholic beverages such as juice just in case.

This is because many people refrain from drinking alcohol in front of their superiors, and some people decide whether or not to drink depending on TPO.

Respect their religious beliefs and plan as much non-alcoholic entertainment as possible.

Souvenirs for Indians

In India, it is not customary to give souvenirs at the first meeting.

On the contrary, it is considered rude to give any gift at the first meeting, so souvenirs should be given after the interaction has deepened.

Conversely, souvenirs given after getting to know each other are greatly appreciated, so it can be said that souvenirs are an important custom.

Sweets and Japanese goods that are typical of Japan are recommended as souvenirs that Indian people will appreciate.

First, as for sweets, high-end Japanese sweets, such as those sold in department stores, are very popular among Indians.

Indians love sweets very much, so sweets are appreciated by people of all ages.

But be careful when you give it.

This is because among Indians, many of whom are vegetarians, some eat eggs and some do not.

If your partner is a complete vegetarian, Japanese wagashi is a good choice.

Many wagashi will be vegetarian, although you should always check because some wagashi use eggs in the dough or bean paste.

Many Japanese wagashi sweets, such as yokan and mame daifuku, are made without any animal products.

Bean sweetbreads are also popular with Asian people, so you will be pleased with them.

In addition, there are many egg-free snacks available in Japan that take allergies into consideration.

It will be very rare in India and will be greatly appreciated.

And we also recommend fancy Japanese-style goods.

Of course, there is personal taste, but Indians are also a people who prefer flashy colors.

Therefore, bold sundries with Japanese patterns are very popular as souvenirs, rather than those expressing the wabi and sabi that is typical of Japan.

We recommend it as a token of your closeness and as a memento.

Japanese cultural experiences that will delight Indians

Here are some of the many Japanese cultural experiences that we especially recommend for Indian visitors.

Kimono Experience

Many Indian women wear traditional costumes and are very elegant.

For Indian women visiting Japan, we highly recommend the Kimono experience, a traditional Japanese costume.

The Japanese kimono is a symbol of Japanese culture.

You can enjoy Japan more by putting on the sleeves of a very shiny and beautiful kimono.

Because the wearing of ethnic costumes is a natural part of Indian people’s lives, they will appreciate the charm of the kimono even more.

Indian people are very interested in glamour, so for special guests, we recommend an Ooku-style kimono experience.

Expensive and rare kimonos are very luxurious and special, and are very much appreciated by women who want to be fashionable.

If you wear the costume and provide for a photo shoot, it will be a very fun keepsake.

In addition, there are many aspects of Japanese culture that can be experienced by wearing a kimono.

If you are planning an entertainment event with plenty of time to spare, we recommend that you plan to experience Japanese culture in addition to kimonos.

In this way, experiencing Japanese culture through kimono will be a project that allows visitors to enjoy Japan more.

Recommended related articles:.

Transform yourself into a lady of the inner palace! Kimono experience to entertain wealthy foreigners

This article introduces basic knowledge about kimono and recommended cultural experiences for foreigners to enjoy wearing kimono.

History and Basic Knowledge of Kimono] How to Explain to Foreigners and Experience Traditional Japanese Culture by Kimono Wearing

An expatriate explains the Japanese kimono that foreigners like and why it is so popular. 14 basic kimono knowledge and 6 examples of kimono experiences.

Kabuki Experience

Private Kabuki viewing is a hospitality appreciated by VIPs and wealthy Indians.

First of all, for VIPs and wealthy Indians, to enjoy a Japanese cultural experience in a special space is an experience of being a special guest.

Since we have a culture of treating our customers politely as if they were gods, it is very easy for our hearts to be conveyed to them.

And, as a traditional Japanese performing art, it is difficult to enjoy Kabuki to the fullest without some knowledge of the art.

When viewing kabuki in a private space, kabuki actors will give you a detailed lecture about kabuki in advance, so you can enjoy kabuki more deeply.

And you can see Kabuki without visiting the theater, and you can enjoy Kabuki while you dine, giving you a chance to relax and enjoy the show.

In this way, a private Kabuki experience allows you to take the time to enjoy the “special” experience.

Wagashi Workshop

Indians have an image of being fond of spicy food, but in fact, many of them tend to love sweet food as well.

In the wagashi workshop, you can actually learn how to make wagashi from a wagashi maker and make very cute wagashi.

At first glance, it may seem difficult, but it will be very exciting as you can make seasonal wagashi with your own hands, mainly using nerikiri.

There are so many Indians who yearn for the Japanese seasons, and one of the charms of the wagashi experience is that you can enjoy the Japanese sense of seasonality expressed in the wagashi.

You can take home your own wagashi or enjoy them in the tea room while experiencing the tea ceremony in a relaxed atmosphere.

At that time, incorporating the popular kimono experience will also be a lot of fun.

In this way, the wagashi experience allows visitors to enjoy a wide range of Japanese culture.

Ninja Experience

The entertainment by ninjas is so spectacular that Indians who like to show off will be delighted with this Japanese cultural experience.

Among Japanese cultural experiences for foreigners, the ninja experience is popular among people of all ages.

In addition, ninja entertainment is greatly enjoyed at large parties and celebrations, as it allows people to enjoy the glamour and Japaneseness of the event.

The entertainment features a spectacular production structure, including ninja vs. samurai vs. kunoichi, and the state-of-the-art light and shadow lighting effects provide a powerful atmosphere.

You cannot take your eyes off the acrobatic ninja movements.

Thus, the ninja experience is a popular cultural experience for individuals and groups, and for people of all ages.

While there are places throughout Japan where you can experience the ninja, we still recommend a private ninja experience for VIP foreigners.

At Motenas Japan, you can actually learn martial arts such as shuriken and blowgun from the descendants of these ninja from trained ninja.

Ninja are very popular among foreign children through anime and manga, so it is highly recommended for VIPs with children.

Below are some related articles we recommend about the ninja experience.

[Very popular even in foreign countries!　Ninja] How to explain to foreigners

Explaining the Ninja in English] 5 Recommended NINJA Experiences

Geisha Experience

The geisha experience is recommended for wealthy and VIP customers in India.

Geisha are the name of Japan.

In India, where the image of the “geisha” remains strong, geisha hospitality is still popular.

Geishas are professionals in hospitality and entertainment, and their excellent hospitality skills are the best in Japan.

Geishas have undergone rigorous training and have taken over the formal tradition of Japanese dance, a Japanese art form that is very much appreciated for entertaining Indians, many of whom are interested in traditional arts.

It has a special atmosphere and high potential suitable not only for entertaining, but also for private birthday parties and large celebrations.

Geisha usually remain in the system of refusing Ichigen-san.

However, many foreigners who would like to experience geisha are planning geisha experience tours, and Motenas Japan is ready to provide a tailor-made geisha experience.

Below is a detailed article on the custom-made geisha experience.

［Geisha Entertainment] Foreigners are very happy! Ozashiki games and performances as an event

How to plan a special birthday party for your loved one? Surprise them with a geisha! For wealthy foreign VIPs

If you are interested in the geisha experience, please read on.

summary

In this issue, we introduced business etiquette and hospitality tips for entertaining Indian people.

If you are inviting Indian visitors to Japan for entertainment, you want to make sure that the hospitality is top-notch.

In India, cleanliness and speed are important, and customers are treated very respectfully.

These values may be in line with the Japanese national character.

Cultural exchanges between countries that share a spirit of mutual hospitality are sure to create deeper bonds.

In addition, because of the many restrictions on food, entertaining guests with Japanese cultural experiences tends to be very much appreciated. So, if you are worried about how to entertain Indian guests, please contact us at Motenas Japan.

Our professionals in the field of entertaining wealthy VIPs are ready to help you plan the best Indian entertainment, and together we will create a very successful entertainment experience for you!

Basic Knowledge about the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Here is some basic knowledge about the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia that you should know when doing business with Saudis.

Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is located in the Middle East region and is the 13th largest country in the world with an area of roughly 2,149,690 square kilometers and a population of approximately 34 million.

It occupies 80% of the Arabian Peninsula and is bordered by the Persian Gulf in the east and the Red Sea in the west.

The capital is Riyadh, home to Mecca and Medina, the most important holy sites of Islam, and every year Muslims from all over the world visit Saudi Arabia for the Hajj (pilgrimage).

Economically, Saudi Arabia is known as an oil-rich country, and the oil industry is the country’s main source of income.

The oil industry has led to the development of many domestic and international companies, and Saudi Arabia has become one of the leading economic powers in the Middle East.

More recently, investments in non-oil industries and economic reforms have been undertaken to promote diversification both domestically and internationally.

Politically, Saudi Arabia is an absolute monarchy, with the king as the supreme authority.

The throne of Saudi Arabia is hereditary by the Abdullah family, and the King has full political, religious, and military authority and makes important domestic and international decisions

It is also a strict and strictly Islamic state, with very severe penalties for violating Islamic teachings and disturbing public morals.

Foreigners staying in the country should also be aware of this.

See also; wikipedia, ” Saudi Arabia.”

Saudi social class

In Saudi society, there are factions like university cliques.

Clan ties are strong; members of the same class know each other well, and many families are related by marriage.

Therefore, it is important to always be respectful to all ranks, as one acquaintance can quickly become a bridge to a family member or a connected person.

However, it is important to note that some families are rapidly successful, and in some cases the families are dog-eat-dog as in factional warfare, and at the same time, it is an economic class society like the United States.

Thus, Saudi family relations become very important.

What is Saudi Vision 2030?

In 2016, the Saudi Arabian government, led by Deputy Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salman, released Saudi Vision 2030, a set of goals to be achieved over the next 15 years through 2030 and a policy agenda to achieve them.

The business environment in Saudi Arabia has changed considerably and global communication is increasing.

Japan also agreed to the “Japan-Saudi Vision 2030. Many Japanese companies are still deepening their interaction with Saudi Arabia.

Today, Saudi Arabia is making greater strides in modernizing and moving away from dependence on oil through the “Saudi Vision 2030”.

See also: Saudi Arabia, ” Vision 2030.”

Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, ” Trends in the Middle East Economy and Outline of Japanese Companies’ Expansion into the Middle East “

Business Etiquette in Saudi Arabia

Here are some particularly important points about business etiquette in Saudi Arabia.

Greetings from Saudi Arabia

The Saudi greeting is “As-salamu alaykum” (al-salām ‘alaykum).

It is a greeting, meaning “May the peace of God be upon your head.”

To which the reply is “Wa alaikum as-salam” (may peace be upon you).

Shake hands in order of seniority, always with the right hand.

The left hand is an unclean hand and should not be offered by mistake.

Business cards should always be in Arabic as well.

It is recommended that brochures and presentation materials be prepared in Arabic.

If there are many people in the meeting, it is okay to shake hands only with the host and wave hello to the rest.

When sitting down, it is okay to cross your legs, but be careful how you cross them, as sitting with the soles of your feet showing is a gesture to the other person to “go over there.

Also, do not go up on the carpet with your feet on the ground during prayer time, as prayers are said even during the meeting.

Saudi sense of time

Saudis are generally known to be laid-back, but there are many situations where they are at extremes when it comes to business.

After many meetings and meetings, when it seems that no progress has been made, suddenly there is a sudden development, such as “I want it ready by the day after tomorrow.

It is said to be completely unreadable.

Therefore, negotiations tend to proceed cautiously until a decision is made, although they are decided in a matter of seconds.

And Saudi Arabia is not closed on Saturdays and Sundays, but on Fridays and Saturdays.

Weekends are different from those in Japan, so be careful when making plans.

See also: Global Biz ” Introducing manners, common sense, and culture for business, tourism, and studying in Saudi Arabia.”

Be careful with gifts to Saudis.

In Saudi Arabia, it is customary to give gifts only to those who are truly close to you.

It is important to note that receiving a gift from someone who does not know much about the subject is perceived as an embarrassment.

Gifts as vacation or souvenirs, or gifts to bosses or business partners are quite rude, so basically no gifts are given.

Also, be aware that flattery of a person’s possessions can be taken as a request for a gift of that very thing.

On the contrary, if you are to give a gift, make sure it is of the highest quality.

Gifts to Saudis must be given with great care.

What to watch out for when entertaining Saudis

Here are four important points to keep in mind when entertaining Saudi Arabian guests to ensure polite hospitality.

I don’t use my left hand.

During Saudi Arabian entertainment, the left hand should always be the hand that touches only impure objects, in accordance with the custom of the recipient.

In Islam, the left hand is considered the impure hand and should never be used for eating or greeting.

This is a very important habit, so left-handed people should pay special attention to it.

Always shake hands with the right hand and respect the other person.

When handing or receiving a business card, it is always received with the right hand, not both hands, although this does not feel right from a Japanese point of view.

Thus, it is important to have an attitude of respect for Islamic customs, even from the first impression.

Food and Beverage Considerations

Saudis are strict Muslims.

Therefore, Halal food is the basic diet, and an increasing number of restaurants are offering Kaiseki cuisine with Halal food, which is recommended for business dinners in Japan.

Of course, consideration should be given not only to dinner receptions but also to business lunches.

It is also important to set up the buffet so that people can freely choose from the Halal menu, and to make sure that the “Halal Meal” label is displayed to avoid any mistakes.

There will also be vegetarian and vegan Muslims, so it is important to prepare a vegetarian/vegan meal just in case.

Either way, if we can get confirmation in advance, we will accommodate your height, especially when it comes to food.

Alcoholic beverages are also strictly prohibited, so it is important to check with the restaurant to ensure that alcoholic beverages will not be served at a reception dinner.

Always look them in the eye and have a good conversation.

It is said that Saudi Arabian business is always about “people.

It is said that no project can proceed if only a phone call or e-mail is exchanged, so you must always meet the person and have an eye-to-eye conversation with that person before a business meeting is decided.

So, entertainment is a very important part of doing business with Saudis.

In Saudi Arabia, the common style of entertaining guests is to invite them to your home, but many people tend to accept a Western-style dinner at a restaurant.

Tendency to be cold to those they like and amiable to those they don’t like

Saudis have a habit of communicating more amiably and cheerfully with people they dislike or have difficulty with.

On the contrary, there is an unspoken understanding that it is acceptable to be cold to those with whom one has a favorable impression or with whom one has a good rapport, so it is common for people to say that their attitude suddenly becomes cold after a friendship.

So it is okay to be very cold in front of a large group of people even though you have become close to them.

Take it as evidence that they like you.

Religious and cultural considerations

Saudi Arabia is a strictly Islamic country, and it is important to have respect for their religion and culture when doing business.

In Saudi Arabia, where strict Islamic precepts are followed and practiced throughout the country, the entire population is what Buddhists call a monk, and respect for their faith and daily practice is very important.

Here are some points to consider when doing business with Muslims.

Consideration for the time of Ramadan

During the month of Ramadan (fasting month), you should respect the practice of fasting with respect and understand that your business schedule may be affected.

Ramadan, respected as a period of fasting, prayer, charity, and spiritual purification, is one of the most important religious months for Muslims.

The time of Ramadan is different every year.

The dates of Ramadan each year last for about 29 or 30 days in the ninth month of the Islamic calendar.

The main characteristic of Ramadan is that Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset, abstaining from food and drink.

Be considerate and respectful of the fact that Muslims observe fasting during Ramadan, and never plan a dinner reception during this time, even if you have a meeting.

During the period of fasting, it is a time when Muslims suppress their physical desires and focus on spiritual meditation and increased self-sacrifice.

In Ramadan, a special prayer, Taraweeh, is performed at night.

This is a special service where Muslims gather to recite the Qur’an (Koran) and pray.

And it is also a time of strong philanthropy and community cohesion.

Through fasting, Muslims provide aid and donations to the poor, orphans, and the lonely, emphasizing the spirit of sharing and caring for others.

And at the end of Ramadan, there is a holiday called Eid al-Fitr, a time of gatherings and festivities with family and friends, usually involving the exchange of special foods and gifts.

Thus, Ramadan is a very important element in the Muslim faith and affects the daily lives and business activities of Muslims.

Muslim dietary considerations

Muslims eat foods called Halal.

Halal refers to food that conforms to Islamic food regulations according to the Qur’an (Koran).

Halal diets must avoid pork, by-products derived from pigs, alcohol, and poultry that do not comply with Halal regulations.

For business lunches and dinners, it is advisable to choose a restaurant that serves Halal food or suggest a suitable meal option for the recipient.

Because Muslims avoid pork and alcohol, Halal and non-Halal foods must be strictly separated when preparing and serving food.

During business events and dinners, take care to ensure that the recipient chooses Halal meals and segregate foods.

Some Muslims also choose to eat vegetarian or vegan meals in addition to Halal meals.

When offering meal choices, be sure to consider these options and accommodate their dietary restrictions and preferences.

Alcohol is strictly prohibited

And alcoholic beverages are prohibited for Muslims.

Care should be taken when serving beverages in a business setting, and it is advisable to offer non-alcoholic and halal beverage options.

It is important to be respectful and considerate of Muslim dietary restrictions and preferences.

Respect the other person’s culture and beliefs, and show consideration when dining in a business setting.

With these points in mind, it is important to try to respect the needs and restrictions of others when dining with Muslims and, in some cases, to check directly with them.

Japanese cultural experiences for guests from Saudi Arabia

The goal of the “Saudi Vision 2030” is to create a “vibrant society – promoting cultural and recreational activities.”

Global cultural experiences, previously taboo, are now gradually becoming available within Saudi Arabia.

Here we introduce Japanese cultural experiences that will be appreciated by Saudis.

flower arrangement

Saudi Arabia is a desert country.

Therefore, it is not a seasonal change like in Japan.

Just as natural plants in Saudi Arabia cannot be seen in Japan, Japanese plants cannot be found in Saudi Arabia.

Ikebana flower arrangement is a great way to experience Japanese culture for Saudis.

In the flower arrangement experience, students learn from a flower arranger how to make the most of flowers.

Ikebana is a perfect Japanese cultural experience for business people.

It would be nice if we could prepare it especially with plants unique to Japan.

Ikebana has the element of cultivating decisiveness, finding the right person for the right job immediately, as warlords also enjoyed ikebana, and it is also recommended for team building.

Recommended related article: Why I recommend flower arrangement for foreign team building training

Halal Food Kaiseki Cuisine

If you are planning a dinner reception with guests from Saudi Arabia, we still recommend Halal food kaiseki cuisine.

For Muslims who can only eat Halal food, it is a very relaxing environment to take time to eat a meal with safe Halal food while staying in a foreign country.

And many people want to try kaiseki ryori in Japan because kaiseki ryori is a Japanese haute cuisine filled with Japanese culture.

Kaiseki cuisine is the envy of foreigners because each ingredient and presentation is thoroughly considered, and it is so beautiful to the eye.

For dinners with Saudis who do not drink alcohol, a kaiseki course that allows you to savor one dish at a time may be a good way to slowly deepen your friendship.

Recommended related article: [Now You Know] Entertaining Foreigners with Kaiseki Cuisine

Calligraphy Experience

The Quran, the holy book of Islam, is the Islamic scripture that contains the words of God to the prophet Muhammad.

In Arabic, “Koran (Qur’an)” means “that which is read.

In Saudi Arabia, a strictly Muslim country, “letters” are very sacred and important. In the Islamic world, there is a culture called “Arabic calligraphy,” which is very similar to Japanese calligraphy.

Arabic calligraphy developed through the process of copying sacred prayers to God in a more beautiful manner.

Japanese calligraphy is a “way” to master the art of expressing characters.

There is a commonality between Japanese culture and Arabic culture, both of which hold sacred feelings toward the written word.

Japanese culture experienced through calligraphy, which respects language and characters, is very acceptable to Muslims.

Recommended related article: Experience Japanese culture through calligraphy! Which kanji performance is popular among foreigners?

See also: Koichi Honda talks about ” Fascinated by Arabic Calligraphy: The Ultimate Art of Lettering Taught Me the Arabic Mind “.

tea ceremony

The hospitality of Middle Eastern countries and Saudi Arabia, where “guests are served Arabic coffee,” was inscribed on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List in 2015.

Arabs in the Middle East, who were nomads in the desert, have a traditional hospitality in which the host graciously serves guests Arabic coffee called kahwa, which is made by boiling deeply roasted Arabica beans with cardamom and other spices.

It is just like a Japanese tea ceremony.

With this background, the tea ceremony is a perfect way to entertain important guests from Saudi Arabia.

The hospitality in the tea ceremony is similar to their special hospitality, so that what is a polite welcome can be delivered to the recipient beyond words.

It could be said that these are people from countries that naturally receive the profound “hospitality” of the tea ceremony.

Recommended reference article: Tea Ceremony Experience! Reasons why it is popular among foreigners and performance in English

See also, ” Qahwa 101: How to Brew Arabic Coffee.”

summary

In this issue, we introduced some basic knowledge about Saudi Arabia that you should know when inviting important guests from the Middle Eastern country of Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Arabia is known as a strictly Islamic country, but with the Saudi Vision 2030 announced in 2016, various reforms are underway.

Many Japanese companies are also participating, so the interaction with the Saudis is much deeper than before.

There are many spirits in Saudi culture that can be found in Japan, such as calligraphy and tea ceremonies, and many people who experience Japanese culture are able to understand it more closely to its essence.

By understanding and respecting Islamic culture and customs, we can provide a more comfortable hospitality.

We hope you will be successful in entertaining your valued Saudi Arabian guests.

First, it is important to know about the UAE (United Arab Emirates)

UAE (United Arab Emirates) consisting of seven emirates (emirates)

UAE is an acronym for United Arab Emirates.

Located at the southeastern tip of the Arabian Peninsula in the Middle East, facing the outlet of the Arabian Gulf and partly the Gulf of Oman, it is a federal state consisting of seven emirates: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, Ajman, and Umm Al Khaywayn.

The president is elected through elections, but basically the Prime Minister of Abu Dhabi is the president of the UAE and the Prime Minister of Dubai is the vice president.

The capital is Abu Dhabi City, with Dubai City as the main financial and trade center in the Middle East, with Abu Dhabi as the oil business and Dubai as the international distribution center.

Reference: Ministry of Foreign Affairs official website ” United Arab Em irates

UAE & JAPAN ” United Arab Emirates

Culture and Religion in the UAE (United Arab Emirates)

The culture of the UAE strongly reflects elements of Arab culture, and traditional Arab customs and practices can be seen in various settings.

In the UAE, Islam is the official religion of the country and Muslim festivals and events play an important role.

The native-born people in the UAE are called Emiratis in English, and pure Emiratis are about 13% of the population.

The official language is Arabic, but English is also well understood in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

However, the UAE is a conservative society that demands respect, especially for religious customs and morals.

Visitors should respect local customs and regulations, especially since Islamic law (Sharia law) influences law-making and legal decisions.

Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is the capital of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the largest city in the country.

Abu Dhabi is the political center of the United Arab Emirates and a member of a federation of seven emirates (emirates).

It is also economically important and has abundant oil resources.

The oil industry is a major pillar of Abu Dhabi’s economy and is home to many national and international energy companies.

The Emirate of Abu Dhabi occupies more than 80% of the federal land area.

The capital city of Abu Dhabi is located on Abu Dhabi Island and is known as a beautiful city with modern architecture.

There are many islands, including the oil bases of Zirku, Das, Alzana, and Mubarraz, and in addition to the oil industry, the Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum, an annex to the Louvre Museum in France, opened in November 2017.

The Emirates Palace Hotel, an ultra-luxury hotel with a total cost of 400 billion yen, has been developed, and it is also loved as a luxury resort.

Dubai

Dubai is one of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), an emirate located between the emirates of Abu Dhabi and Sharjah on the Persian Gulf in the Middle East.

Dubai does not rely on oil as its primary source of economic income; instead, it has developed a diverse range of economic activities.

First, Dubai is known as an international financial center, offering a vibrant business environment in finance, trade, real estate, and tourism.

And with its skyscrapers, luxury resorts, desert safaris, man-made islands, and theme parks, it is also a world-class resort destination that attracts the world’s richest people.

Famous tourist attractions include Burj Al Arab, Burj Khalifa (the world’s tallest building), Dubai Mall (a huge shopping mall), and Palm Jumeirah (an artificial island), making Dubai a world-class tourist destination.

Although Dubai is a Muslim country, it is a cosmopolitan city where diverse cultures coexist.

Dubai offers international entertainment and events while respecting Islamic culture and traditions.

Dubai also has many mosques and cultural institutions that tourists can visit.

The rapid development and transformation of the city in recent years has made it a city of global prominence.

Its skyscrapers, advanced infrastructure, unique culture and economic activity attract many people.

Why are people in the UAE rich?

Average income in UAE

The average annual income in the UAE, especially Abu Dhabi and Dubai, is estimated to be around 26 million.

The average for the country as a whole is this amount, which is unbelievably high by global standards, but most high-income earners will be native-born UAE nationals, and the average income of UAE nationals will be higher than that.

The reason is that foreigners are prohibited from holding public service positions in the UAE.

Most high-income earners are government employees, and the average income of foreigners is around 7.5 million, while the average annual income of Southeast Asian and African immigrants is estimated to be around 820,000 yen.

See also: How much is the average annual income in Dubai? Explaining Why Dubai Has So Many Rich People

UAE is a rentier state

The UAE is also a rentier state.

Rentier States are countries that are rich in natural resources, primarily oil, natural gas, and mineral resources.

These states use revenues from the extraction and export of natural resources to finance domestic economic activities and government budgets.

Governments play a leading role in economic activity and public service delivery, and governments typically centralize natural resource revenues to invest in domestic development projects and social welfare.

Examples of rentier states are Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Qatar, Kuwait, and other countries whose main source of income is oil.

See also: Wikipedia, ” Rentier State.”

Why Dubai is wealthy

Since the 1990s, Dubai’s development and policies have been recommended under the slogan of becoming the world’s largest country in terms of “economy,” “finance,” and “tourism.

Corporate income tax will be effective from June 2023, Dubai is part of the UAE and is a “tax haven” area.

Dubai was not originally a place to get oil compared to Abu Dhabi or other federal countries, but by introducing a “tax haven” it has succeeded in attracting a base of foreign companies.

A “tax haven” provides attractive conditions for entrepreneurs and companies, including exemption from personal income tax, value-added tax (similar to Japan’s consumption tax), and taxes on dividends and interest earned on investments, as well as preferential tax treatment, business-friendly policies, and simplified regulations.

At the same time, Dubai has established itself as an international financial center in the Middle East region.

World-class banks and financial institutions have set up shop, serving multinational corporations and investors, and the development of the financial sector has led to more high-paying jobs and business opportunities and a growing presence of wealthy individuals.

Dubai’s rapidly growing real estate market has attracted global attention, with investors from all over the world creating a flurry of luxury residential, commercial, and high-rise real estate projects, providing opportunities for investors to build assets.

And although Dubai was originally a small country with only pearl farming and other industries, it is now known as a world-class tourist destination, and tourism is being developed as an important economic sector.

Prime Minister Mohammed’s project, “The World’s Best Capital,” has led to the construction of the world’s largest hub airport at the Burj Al Arab, a seven-star top-class hotel, as well as many luxurious tourist facilities such as shopping malls, resorts, and entertainment facilities to attract wealthy tourists. The city is attracting wealthy tourists.

These policies have helped Dubai develop into one of the wealthiest countries in the world.

See also: How tax havens in Dubai are formed and how to save on taxes.

No taxes, no education, no medical care.

There are many rumors on the Internet about the wealth of the Emiratis, and one of the main possible reasons is that the country’s affluence allows for free taxes, education, and health care.

As for tuition fees, the government even pays for study abroad, so young people can study what they want in the country of their choice and return to their home countries to become public servants.

Since only Emiratis can be civil servants, major parts of the country are run exclusively by Emiratis.

National as well as local officials can earn high annual salaries, and the entire Emiratis population is made up of wealthy families.

In addition, urban planning in Dubai is developing at a very fast pace and there is a lot of new real estate being created.

So many people invest in real estate to earn rental income, and on top of that, the government distributes oil dividends, so they always have money, so they basically don’t save much.

Thus, as spending only what one earns becomes the norm, what is considered a luxury in other countries tends to become the standard.

UAE (Abu Dhabi/Dubai) Business Etiquette

Knowing business etiquette in the UAE is an important step toward being respectful to others.

Here are some basic manners for business in the UAE.

First Meeting Greetings

In the UAE, handshakes are common when greeting people.

Between men, the handshake takes place, but between women and men, it is common for the woman to offer her hand first.

In Muslim countries, it is taboo for a man to touch a woman, so always yawn at the hand offered by the woman in business greetings.

It is also preferable to show respect by using the person’s title honorific when greeting them.

Many people say to me, “As-salām ‘alaykum,” which is a greeting to say hello.

It is a greeting, meaning “May the peace of God be upon your head.”

If someone says, “Assalamu alaykum! you are obliged to answer, “Wa alaikum”, so let’s answer it.

What to watch out for when doing business during Ramadan

During Ramadan, Muslims observe a fast in which they abstain from food and drink from sunrise to sunset.

When scheduling business meetings, lunches, etc., be considerate and show consideration for the possibility that the other person is fasting.

Ramadan changes every year, so it is always recommended to check with the Emiratis when doing business with them.

In some cases, it is advisable to schedule meetings and meals with Muslim business partners after sunset.

Ramadan is a special time for Muslims and we should respect its religious significance.

Since Muslims are making a self-sacrifice by observing the fast, we will accept them with respect and show them that we respect their faith.

During Ramadan, the energy of Muslim business partners may be easily diminished due to fasting.

Therefore, it is important to be flexible in terms of scheduling and time to conclude.

Ramadan is a religious period, focused on the beliefs of Muslims.

Therefore, it is important to respect this period, which is considered sacred in sales and promotional activities.

Be careful not to engage in too much excessive sales or promotional activities at this time of year, as they can be counterproductive.

At the end of Ramadan, there is a vacation called Eid al-Fitr, and it is common for people to take a few days off.

Business appointments and engagements should take this holiday into account and adjust the other party’s schedule accordingly.

Ramadan is an important time to show respect and consideration when doing business with Muslims.

Respecting the culture and beliefs of others and being flexible can help build good business relationships.

Candura and Abaya

UAE men wear a white “kandoora” and women wear a black “abaya” as their formal attire.

The men wear a white maxi-length dress-like “kandoora,” with a white cloth called “kutra” and a black cord called “akhar” tied around their heads like a loop.

It is worn at school like a school uniform for Japanese students and is formal attire for the workplace like a suit.

Muslim women are not allowed to show their skin in public, so they wear black “abaya,” clothing from the head.

At first glance, abayas look the same, but there is a wide variety with detailed and detailed designs.

Since the abaya is removed inside the house, many women enjoy wearing casual clothes under the abaya, such as long, brightly colored dresses or jeans for the younger generation.

Even foreigners should always wear an abaya when touring mosques.

See: Tabikofure, ” What do UAE locals wear? Kandoora for men and abaya for women. You might want to buy one as a souvenir…”

What to wear when doing business in the UAE

Dubai is an international city.

Thus, it becomes very difficult to determine where the standard of “normal” refers to.

Many people besides native UAE nationals work in Dubai, and many countries from Southeast Asia and Africa, including India, Singapore, and the Philippines, as well as Arab countries, Europe, and the United States, use Dubai as a corporate base.

Rather than considering a standard dress and framework for foreigners working in the UAE, people from any company in any country are expected to dress appropriately for business based on the culture and customs of that country.

When inviting a genuine UAE national to Japan, it is advisable to dress in a suit and not too casual.

Especially for women, excessive exposure or clothing that emphasizes the body shape is frowned upon in Muslim countries, no matter what nationality you are.

And business people in the UAE, both men and women, tend to wear high brands to match their social status.

However, as in Japan, only bags and wallets are high-brand items. “If your whole body is dressed in a high-brand outfit, you carry a high-brand item, but you don’t ride the subway.

The possession of high-brand products is a natural consequence of their status, as in the following example.

UAE men wear a white “kandoora” and women wear a black “abaya,” which is a full-body covering.

The men wear a white maxi-length dress-like “kandoora,” with a white cloth called “kutra” and a black cord called “akhar” tied around their heads like a loop.

Since this is formal attire, people wearing this attire are the norm for important meetings, and the people receiving the meeting are encouraged to wear suits, which are appropriate formal attire.

As a side note, I heard that Kandura’s high-end products are popularly made in Japan.

See also: ” Why does Dubai, the land of the rich, only accept high-end Japanese-made XXX products for daily wear! I tried to find out the surprising reason! “

What to keep in mind when entertaining guests from the UAE in Japan

Here are three points that you should pay special attention to in order to greet guests from the Muslim country of UAE without rudeness.

UAE Business Culture and Courtesy

The UAE business culture is very formal and showing respect is important.

As in any country, criticizing others and revealing one’s feelings should be especially avoided.

They are also expected to have a respectful and polite attitude toward business topics.

Business meetings are usually conducted in formal Kandura and Abaya attire.

Therefore, please wear a business suit that will not be rude from the Japanese side.

Flexible scheduling is required in the UAE, as it is common for people to arrive later than scheduled.

The tendency is to spend more time on small talk and general topics at the beginning of the meeting, and the meetings tend to be relatively long, so try to schedule more time.

About Souvenirs and Business Gifts

In the UAE, business gifts are a common practice and may be given as part of a business transaction or relationship building.

Gifts do not have to be exclusively luxury or extravagant, but it is a good idea to choose high quality items or local products from your country.

We recommend that you choose your gift carefully, as something that is uniquely Japanese or has a traditional beauty is preferred.

Also, since many people have a sweet tooth, Japanese sweets made with Halal-compliant ingredients are also recommended.

Basically, it is important to show humility and gratitude when receiving a gift, as it is similar to the Japanese souvenir culture in some aspects.

Prepare Halal meals.

Muslims eat foods called Halal.

Halal is food that conforms to Islamic food regulations according to the Koran.

Halal diets must avoid pork, by-products derived from pigs, alcohol, and poultry that do not comply with Halal regulations.

For business lunches and dinners, choose a restaurant that serves Halal meals or prepare a meal option that is appropriate for the recipient.

During business events and dinners, food segregation is necessary to ensure that the recipient chooses Halal meals.

Also, some Muslims choose to eat vegetarian or vegan meals in addition to Halal meals, so be sure to check in advance.

Alcoholic beverages are prohibited for Muslims, so care must be taken to keep them out of the venue.

Reference: Japan Halal Association

Sincerity and hospitality

It is a very high level to entertain guests from the UAE, where everyday life is already luxurious.

For them, who usually live in an order of magnitude of luxury, the thought of responding only in terms of money and luxury does not resonate with them at all.

Luxury and high quality are the prerequisites, but it is also necessary to prepare hospitality that will impress even the most discerning guests.

It is a mind that treats others with care, consideration, and sincerity.

And since their wishes are often on an extraordinary scale, don’t be afraid to listen carefully and be ready to respond.

They are very accustomed to being served.

Therefore, it is important to take pride in being a professional in hospitality and customer service, as you have an eye for the quality of service you are receiving and the nature of the person you are dealing with.

Recommended Japanese cultural experiences for guests from the UAE

We recommend a Japanese cultural experience for entertainment planning to satisfy guests from the UAE who have some restrictions on food and alcohol.

The Japanese cultural experience of hospitality can provide you with a special experience and time, so that your business entertainment, which tends to rely on drinks and food, can be delivered as a more luxurious experience than that.

Here we introduce four Japanese cultural options that will delight guests from the UAE.

Recommended related article: Japanese cultural experiences popular among foreigners! Recommended 12 Experiential Sightseeing & VIP Entertainment

Tea ceremony experience in the tea room

If you are entertaining Muslims in the UAE, where alcohol is forbidden, the Japanese tea ceremony is a great way to do so.

In Dubai, there is a culture of treating guests with “Arabic coffee”.

Arabic coffee is made by the patriarch, not the servants, to the guests.

The guest also follows the etiquette of drinking coffee.

This is very similar to the tea ceremony, and there are many similarities in spirit, so if you want to entertain important guests first, let’s welcome them with a tea ceremony.

Respect for beauty in the midst of neatness is another aesthetic that can be seen between Arab and Japanese.

Since we can understand each other’s culture through a cup of drink, the tea ceremony experience is a Japanese cultural experience that we recommend to our valued guests in the UAE.

Recommended reference article: [Practice by expatriates] Omotenashi with Tea Ceremony and Kimono

Reference: Senke’s official website, ” Arab ‘Omotenashi’ and the Tea Ceremony “.

Experiencing the art of Kodo, the art of fragrance

In Arab countries, there is a culture of enjoying fragrance.

Many people enjoy dressing up in fragrance because they wear simple kadoun or abaya.

It appears that men also enjoy perfume and wear it to fashion their fragrance.

The middle generation of Islamic culture boasted a high level of distillation of rose oil for the enjoyment of royalty.

At this time, alcohol was discovered in the fermented product by a distillation apparatus, and it is said that the beginning of perfume was the mixing of fragrance with this alcohol.

Thus, perfumes have a long history in Arab countries and have been enjoyed by royalty and the upper classes since ancient times.

Japanese Kodo is a Japanese cultural experience that will satisfy guests from Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

An instructor of Kodo will be invited to participate in the experience, and an interpreter will be provided to explain in detail about the art of Kodo.

Of course, we will prepare a full-fledged meal in a Japanese-style room or a tea ceremony room with a view of a classy Japanese garden.

Enjoy a moment of elegance by preparing rare fragrant woods!

See also: The “Scent” Situation in Dubai Behind the Scenes: The Relationship between Scent and Islamic Culture.

Japanese Sweets Making Workshop

People in Arab countries love sweets.

If you are looking for a hands-on experience in making something, how about a Japanese confectionery workshop?

Wagashi is a traditional Japanese sweet that does not contain animal products.

It is popular overseas as a vegan meal, and can also be made Halal, although you need to confirm the ingredients used in advance to be sure.

Wagashi is a Japanese sweet that can be enjoyed with the eyes as well.

This is a Japanese cultural experience that allows visitors to fully experience Japan’s uniqueness, as they can enjoy the seasons of spring, summer, fall, and winter with their own eyes.

After making delicious sweets, it is nice to have matcha (powdered green tea) in the tea room.

Both can be prepared as a high-class hospitality if organized in a Japanese-style room with a lovely view of a Japanese garden or a Japanese garden with a tea ceremony room.

kabuki appreciation

In 2016, a Kabuki performance by Kabuki actor Ebizo Ichikawa, “Grand Japan Theater,” was held in Fujairah, one of the emirates of the UAE.

This makes Kabuki viewing very attractive to the people of the UAE and a meaningful cultural exchange event.

To view kabuki in everyday life, you would have to go to a Kabuki-za theater, but if you are preparing for a special guest, invite a kabuki actor to give a lecture in a private space and have him plan the event.

We can plan a lecture while enjoying a meal, which is perfect for guests from the UAE, which has a large population of wealthy people.

In addition, Kabuki actors will give explanations about Kabuki before their lectures, so foreigners can enjoy Kabuki, which is considered to be difficult to understand, in an authentic way.

Related articles：Recommended for inbound visitors to Japan! What is popular traditional entertainment?

See also: Dubai Keizai Shimbun, ” Ebizo Ichikawa’s Kabuki Performance in UAE: Renjishimai on a Starry Sky Stage “.

summary

In this issue, we introduced the reception of guests from the UAE and the United Arab Emirates.

When entertaining guests from the UAE, one of the wealthiest countries in the world, it is often difficult to know what to do.

However, by learning about and respecting the culture and customs of the other party, you will naturally find ways to provide hospitality.

Let us welcome our valued guests from the UAE with a great hospitality to satisfy their needs!