2023年11月 月別アーカイブ 128件
10 recommended suites in Japan for wealthy foreigners
2023年11月07日We want to make sure there is no disrespect in inviting wealthy foreigners.”
What kind of hotel would be relaxing?”
There are so many things to think about in order to invite wealthy foreign visitors.
This article describes suites where wealthy foreigners can stay and be satisfied.
Hotel rooms that can be recommended for wealthy foreigners are definitely suites.
A former hotelier explains why and describes specific hotels with suites.
Please use this as a reference when deciding on a hotel.
Suite Criteria
Before looking for a suite for a foreigner, it is good to know about the criteria for suites.
The standard for a suite is a room with a separate bedroom and living room. In other words, the standard is to have two or more rooms.
There is a bedroom and living room, a parlor and, in some hotels, a suite with a kitchen.
In English, it is written “suite,” meaning “a continuation” or “a set.
It is sometimes mistakenly read as “sweet,” but this is incorrect. It means “sweet,” and a suite room is sometimes said to be a room for honeymooners, but this is a misunderstanding peculiar to Japan, where Japanese English is often used.
Why suites for wealthy foreigners?
I highly recommend the use of suites for wealthy foreigners.
Comfortable and spacious
Quality service
Security
Suitable for long-term stay
For these reasons, we believe that suites are good for wealthy foreigners. We will explain them one by one.
Comfortable spaciousness
First, suites are equipped with comfortable space. As stated in the criteria for suites, a suite is a room with at least two rooms. This means that you have that much space.
Foreign guests often stay for long periods of time, and most come with large suitcases. The hotel where they stay requires a certain amount of space. If you stay in a suite, you can rest assured that the space is guaranteed.
Quality service
When you stay in a suite, you will receive quality service. In most hotels, suites are often located on the upper floors of the hotel, often with complimentary access to the Club Floor, which is staffed with selective good service staff.
One hotel also offers a chauffeur-driven car rental service exclusively for guests staying in suites. This service is useful for shopping and sightseeing during busy periods.
Staying in a suite is a more satisfying experience with quality service.
Security for peace of mind
Suites often have enhanced security. This is because suites, which are often located on upper floors, often belong to floors that cannot be entered without a special key.
Since VIPs are often accommodated on suite-only or club floors, hotels are also strengthening security. Nowadays, most hotels do not allow ordinary guests to even enter the accommodation floor, for example, the elevator does not work without a card key.
Suitable for long-term stays.
The suites are designed for foreigners who are staying for a long period of time.
For example, a large wardrobe would not be possible without the spaciousness of the suite. In addition, the kitchen allows you to easily cook your own meals, and the separate bathroom will help you relax after a long stay.
Being exposed to a culture from a different country than one’s usual is a stimulating and meaningful experience, but it can also be physically exhausting.
Suites are by far the best choice for wealthy foreigners who stay for long periods of time and for a variety of experiences.
10 suites for wealthy foreigners
We have explained why suites are recommended for wealthy foreigners. However, many people may not know specifically which hotel suites are the best.
Here are the suites recommended for wealthy foreigners, in order from north to south. Please take a look at them as reference for your hotel selection.
The Westin Sendai
As the name “Imperial Suite” suggests, the suites at the Westin Sendai are the most luxurious rooms in the hotel.
The view of Sendai city and the mountains beyond can only be seen from the 36th floor, where you can enjoy a Bose home theater and the Westin Heavenly Bed, made with the Westin’s unique manufacturing process, which will soothe your tired body. Access to the Executive Club Lounge on the hotel’s 26th floor and a complimentary breakfast buffet will make your stay in Sendai a satisfying one.
Official hotel website: https://www.the-westin-sendai.com/
Hotel address: 1-9-1 Ichibancho, Aoba-ku, Sendai-shi, Miyagi 980-0811
Reservation phone number: 022-722-1234
Palace Hotel Tokyo
The Palace Hotel Tokyo’s suites are divided into seven different types of rooms, each with its own unique characteristics. The variety of room types, from the 75-square-meter Executive Suite to the 250-square-meter Palace Suite, is rare among Japanese hotels. Some of the rooms have a 40-square-meter terrace, allowing guests to choose the room they prefer.
In addition to a separate living room and walk-in closet, the marble bathroom and vanity are also attractive. This is a globally recognized suite that often accommodates foreign dignitaries and others.
Official hotel website: https://www.palacehoteltokyo.com/
Hotel address: 1-1-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-0005, Japan
Reservation phone number: 03-3211-5211
Peninsula Hotel Tokyo
Peninsula Hotels, founded in 1928, is a well-established hotel chain with hotels all over the world.
Such suites at the Peninsula Tokyo are located in the corner of the hotel and are called “The Peninsula Suites. In addition to the glamour of the rooms, the marble view baths offer a panoramic view of the Imperial Palace Outer Gardens and Hibiya Park, a view that is hard to believe in the middle of the city.
Also included is the MINI Concierge Service, which allows guests to rent a chauffeur-driven MINI for up to three hours. Only a first-class hotel can offer such a service that can be utilized for shopping and sightseeing in Tokyo.
Official hotel website: https://www.peninsula.com/ja/tokyo/5-star-luxury-hotel-ginza
Hotel address: 1-8-1 Yurakucho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-0006, Japan
Reservation phone number: 03-6270-2888
Bulgari Hotel Tokyo
Bulgari Hotel Tokyo is the first Bulgari Hotel in Japan, located on the 40th to 45th floors of the skyscraper “Tokyo Midtown Yaesu”.
The hotel features a high ratio of suites, with 23 of the 98 guest rooms being suites. Among them, the “Bulgari Suite” is one of the largest in Japan at over 400 square meters, complete with living room, kitchen, and gym.
The beautiful rooms, which blend Italian flair with the Japanese circle, offer spectacular views of Tokyo, and the first-class hotel suites will definitely satisfy the most affluent foreigners.
Official hotel website: https://www.bulgarihotels.com/ja_JP/tokyo
Hotel address: 2-2-1 Yaesu, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0028
Reservation phone number: 03-6262-3333
Nagoya Marriott Associa Hotel
The Nagoya Marriott Associa Hotel, located 200 meters above Nagoya Station, is part of the Marriott International brand.
With 774 guest rooms in JR Central Towers, it is one of the finest hotels in the Chukyo area.
Among them, the Marriott Suite is the largest and most spacious suite in the hotel bearing the “Marriott” name. Based on the concept of European Classic, the rooms are decorated with colorful colors and extended elegance, making your hotel stay a fulfilling experience.
You will be able to use the exclusive lounge on the 15th floor, which will make your hotel stay a grade higher.
Official hotel website: https://www.associa.com/nma/
Hotel address: 1-1-4 Meieki, Nakamura-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 450-6002, Japan
Reservation phone number: 052-584-1111
The Westin Miyako Hotel Kyoto
The design concept of the hotel is “Queen of Elegance,” and it was created to satisfy the luxury class visiting Kyoto.
The guest rooms are designed to resemble the natural beauty of Higashiyama and feature an open and soft design. The Westin Miyako Hotel Kyoto even offers a 50-square-meter junior suite and a 100-square-meter Japanese-style annex.
For foreigners who have trouble sleeping in Japanese-style rooms, it is nice to know that beds are also available in the Japanese-style rooms in the annex. Another feature of the hotel is its proximity to nature, with a rooftop garden where you can experience the changing seasons and a walking trail in the hills behind the hotel.
Official hotel website: https://www.miyakohotels.ne.jp/westinkyoto/
Hotel address: 1, Awataguchi Katei-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto 605-0052 (Sanjo Keage)
Reservation phone number: TEL: 075-771-7111
The Ritz-Carlton, Osaka
The Ritz-Carlton, Osaka is said to be a “hotel within a hotel,” with suite rooms offering the personalized hospitality of a dedicated concierge to ensure a memorable stay.
There are a total of 52 suites and they are located on the Club floor on the upper floors. The Club Lounge offers food presentations five floors a day, so even the busiest guests will be able to spend time without leaving the hotel.
The Ritz-Carlton, Osaka is definitely the best place to book a suite in Osaka to satisfy your needs.
Official hotel website: https://www.ritzcarlton.com/ja/hotels/osarz-the-ritz-carlton-osaka/overview/
Hotel address: 2-5-25 Umeda, Kita-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka 530-0001
Reservation phone number: 06-6343-7000
Intercontinental Hotel Osaka
The InterContinental Hotel Osaka is a luxury hotel located in the Grand Front Osaka North Building, just a short walk from Osaka Station. Suites are over 57 square meters in size and consist of a serene living room and separate bedroom.
The amenities in the rooms are BYREDO, offering a memorable scent, Bluetooth speakers and other amenities, as well as a dedicated lounge where you can enjoy breakfast and afternoon tea. This hotel also has residences, which are ideal for a “live-in” stay. The residences have large refrigerators and kitchens, making them a good option for foreigners staying for longer periods of time.
Official hotel website: https://icosaka.com/
Hotel address: 3-60 Ohfuka-cho, Kita-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka 530-0011, Japan
Reservation phone number: 06-6374-5700
Imperial Hotel Osaka
When one thinks of luxury hotels in Japan, the Imperial Hotel is probably the first that comes to mind. The Imperial Hotel Osaka has suites of over 100 square meters on its Imperial floor. The east-facing windows offer a view of the Ikoma Mountains and the majestic flow of the Okawa River below, allowing you to experience nature.
The separate bedrooms will allow those staying to sleep peacefully. A reception room is also available for business stays. It can also be used for family visits to Japan.
Suite guests may also enjoy drinks and plated service at the Imperial Floor Lounge.
Official hotel website: https://www.imperialhotel.co.jp/j/osaka/index.html
Hotel address: 1-8-50 Tenmabashi, Kita-ku, Osaka 530-0042
Reservation phone number: 06-6881-1111
The Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka
The Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka was established in 2023 in Fukuoka, a bustling city at the center of Kyushu and a popular destination for its abundant nature and food.
All rooms are generously sized at 50 square meters or more, with the largest suite boasting 188 square meters of space. Among them, the Presidential Suite and The Ritz-Carlton Suite have open windows overlooking Hakata Bay.
Of course, you also have access to the Club Lounge and can enjoy food presentations five times a day. For a suite in Fukuoka or Kyushu, The Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka is a good choice.
Official hotel website: https://www.ritzcarlton.com/ja/hotels/fukrz-the-ritz-carlton-fukuoka/overview/
Hotel address: 2-6-50 Daimyo, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka Prefecture, 810-0041
Reservation phone number: 092-401-8888
Summary
This article has explained why suites are recommended for wealthy foreigners and the specific area suites.
When wealthy foreigners visit Japan, they often spend a significant amount of time experiencing Japanese culture, and suites are a great way to relieve their fatigue. The suite room is sure to satisfy them with its ample space and high quality service.
Why suites for wealthy foreigners?
Comfortable and spacious
Quality service
Security
Suitable for long-term stay
If you are looking for a place to stay for wealthy foreigners, please take a look.

日本独自のおもてなし文化を世界中の人へ広めるために日夜努力しています。外国人の方の接待やおもてなしのご相談はお気軽にご連絡ください。お問い合わせはこちら
What is a 5-star hotel? Why they are ideal for foreign VIPs and 5-star hotels in Japan explained
2023年10月26日

I want to invite a foreign VIP to Japan, but what kind of hotel should he/she stay in?
Are you worried about this? You don’t want to be rude in inviting foreign VIPs and you want them to return home satisfied.
This article describes 5-star hotels where foreign VIPs can stay and be satisfied.
It also explains hotel ratings and why 5-star hotels are the best choice for foreign VIPs.
A former hotelier who worked for a hotel and had connections with a major travel agency will explain in detail.
We do not use complicated terms, so please relax your shoulders and watch to the end.
Two famous hotel ratings
There is no “global standard” for hotel ratings. This is because ratings vary depending on the culture and values of the country.
The government, private companies, and industry associations examine and assign grades based on their own criteria.
One of the most famous such rating agencies in the world is,
Forbes Travel Guide
Michelin Guide
These are two.
Most hotels that claim to be 5-star hotels refer to these two rating agencies.
Remember, there are many rating agencies, but these two are well known.
Forbes Travel Guide
Forbes Travel Guide was founded in 1958 in the United States and was the first travel guide in the world to introduce a five-star rating system.
Its distinctive feature is that it is evaluated based on strict criteria by professional surveyors who are well versed in quality service. The detailed criteria are, of course, not disclosed, but more than 70% of the criteria are based on service, with an emphasis on the emotional connection between the hotel staff and the guest.
In addition, since it is basically an undercover survey, a transparent evaluation can be expected and its screening process is reliable.
Michelin Guide
The Michelin Guide, published by the French tire manufacturer, is a travel guide that rates restaurants and hotels around the world. first published in 1900 for people traveling by car, the guidebook has been rated according to strict criteria to this day.
The Michelin Guide also provides ratings through undercover surveys conducted by professional investigators. By receiving service as an ordinary customer, an objective evaluation is possible.
Ultimately, the number of stars is determined by taking into account the opinions of the Michelin Guide’s readers. Each year the ratings are reviewed and the number of stars updated.
Why a 5-star hotel is the best place to invite foreign VIPs
A hotel awarded 5 stars by two prestigious institutions is proof of recognition from VIPs and wealthy people around the world.
Why is a 5-star hotel the best place to invite foreign VIPs? We will explain why.
Room Comfort
Rooms in 5-star hotels are designed in various ways to make guests feel comfortable.
First of all, the most important thing in a hotel is the bed, and 5-star hotels use the highest quality beds to ensure a comfortable sleep.
The quality of the linens is also very good, inviting you to a good night’s sleep.
Aside from the beds, the rooms are very quiet and often have automatic curtains and high-quality sound systems. There is also a minibar and a full range of amenities, and as only a VIP who takes care of his or her appearance can, an iron and pant press are always available.
Laundry service is also high quality and carefully done!
For the comfort of the rooms, staying at a 5-star hotel will definitely be a comfortable and satisfying stay.
Convenience of facilities
Most five-star hotels have their own spas, restaurants, and beauty salons. Some hotels have swimming pools and fitness facilities, and a spa is a great way to work up a sweat.
The restaurants are also of a different caliber, with Michelin Guide starred restaurants where you can enjoy the chef’s signature dishes from a high floor with a great view.
Some hotels have club lounges where you can enjoy cocktail hour or afternoon tea at any time of the day.
The Club Lounge is segregated from the general floors and is available only to guests staying on those floors, making it even more exclusive.
Service Differences
The service at a five-star hotel is sophisticated and different from that of a four-star hotel as well. Next to the front desk, there is a resident concierge who can assist with various requests, such as arranging restaurants and cabs, and providing information on tourist attractions.
It is said that Japanese people are not good at asking for favors, but when you stay at a five-star hotel, there is no reason not to ask the concierge for help. They will understand your intentions and make the best suggestions.
The five-star hotel will also provide turndown service. They will do a simple room cleaning, replenish your toiletries, and make up your bed to make it easier for you to sleep.
Returning to a cleaned room after an outing is restful, and there you can feel the difference of 5-star service.
Selection Criteria for 5-Star Hotels
What are the criteria for selecting a 5-star hotel? Although no detailed criteria or standards are published, the Forbes Travel Guide uses 900 items to score hotels, including quality of service and comfort of facilities.
The Michelin Guide also has a 1-5 standard, with 1 being “moderate comfort,” 2 being “comfortable,” 3 being “very comfortable,” 4 being “top level comfort,” and 5 being “luxurious and top level.
These items will be evaluated by an undercover investigator who will actually stay at the hotel, use it, and rate it.
Both of these criteria focus on service, interaction with staff, etc., and a 5-star hotel is recognized when it is rated as the highest level in these areas.
5-Star Hotels in Japan by Area
Do you know how many 5-star hotels actually exist in Japan? Although it varies by survey agency, the Forbes Travel Guide 2023 lists 14 5-star hotels in Japan.
In addition, there are 22 five-star hotels in Japan in the Michelin Guide.
Here are seven hotels that have been awarded 5 stars (5 pavilion for Michelin) by both organizations.
No matter where you stay, you will receive 5-star service at all of these hotels. Please refer to them if you have a foreign VIP to stay or someone you want to entertain.
Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo
Mandarin Oriental Hotel, Tokyo is a luxury hotel directly connected to Tokyo Metro Mitsukoshimae Station. It is the only hotel in Japan to be awarded five stars in both the “Hotel” and “Spa” categories for eight consecutive years.
The fact that it is located in the traditional town of Nihonbashi is also unique to a first-class hotel. It is a 5-star hotel with easy access to various areas and has received the highest rating.
Official website: https://www.mandarinoriental.com/ja/tokyo/nihonbashi
Reservation phone: 03-3270-8800
Address: 2-1-1 Nihonbashi Muromachi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 103-8328
Palace Hotel Tokyo
The Palace Hotel Tokyo is located at 1-1-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, and is directly connected to the Tokyo Metro Otemachi Station. Rooms are luxurious yet relaxing, and rooms with balconies are rare in Tokyo.
Located in Otemachi, the heart of Tokyo’s business district, but surrounded by the natural beauty of Marunouchi and the Imperial Palace, you can relax and enjoy your time here.
It is a world-renowned hotel that has received a five-star rating in the hotel category of the Forbes Travel Guide for seven consecutive years.
Official website: https://www.palacehoteltokyo.com/
Reservation phone: 03-3211-5211
Address: 1-1-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-0005
Hotel New Otani Executive House Zen
Executive House Zen is a hotel-in-hotel located on the 11th and 12th floors of The Main, the main building of Hotel New Otani. It has been awarded five stars in the Forbes Travel Guide 2023 for four consecutive years.
You can spend your time strolling through the 400-year-old Japanese garden or exercising at the exclusive sports club. The lounge will offer six different culinary offerings, so you will be able to relax and spend time just inside the hotel.
Official website: https://www.newotani.co.jp/tokyo/stay/exe/
Reservation phone: 03-3265-1111
Address: 4-1 Kioi-cho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 102-8578
Conrad Tokyo
Conrad Tokyo is located in Shiodome, on the waterfront in central Tokyo, with convenient access to the rest of the city. The interior of the hotel blends the prestige of Conrad Hotels with a modern Japanese design.
Standard rooms are 48 square meters or larger, making it one of the most spacious rooms in Tokyo. The spectacular view of Tokyo Bay and Hamarikyu Palace is also unique to Conrad Tokyo.
Official website: https://conrad.hiltonhotels.jp/hotel/kanto/conrad-tokyo
Reservation phone: 03-6388-8000
Address: 1-9-1 Higashi-Shinbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-7337
Peninsula Tokyo
The Peninsula Tokyo is a leading first-class hotel in Japan, awarded five stars for seven consecutive years by Forbes Travel Street. While being within walking distance to Ginza, the hotel is also surrounded by nature as it faces the Imperial Palace Outer Gardens and Hibiya Park.
Peninsula Hotels, which boasts the tradition of being the oldest hotel company in Asia, promises an elegant, glamorous, and sophisticated hotel stay here in Japan.
Official website: https://www.peninsula.com/ja/tokyo/5-star-luxury-hotel-ginza
Reservation phone: 0120-348-288
Address: 1-8-1 Yurakucho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-0006
Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto
Four Seasons, which operates luxury hotel brands around the world, expanded to Kyoto in 2016. Located at the foot of Higashiyama, an area lined with Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples, visitors will be amazed by the Shokusuien, a famous garden with 800 years of history.
The rooms combine functionality and Japanese comfort, and in the living room you will enjoy a relaxing and quiet time surrounded by light from the windows. 5 stars have been awarded to the hotel since 2018, and the on-site restaurant, Sushi Wakon, has been awarded 1 star in the gourmet category.
Official website: https://www.fourseasons.com/jp/kyoto/
Reservation phone: 075-541-8288
Address: 445-3 Myohoin Maegamachi, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto 605-0932
The Ritz-Carlton, Osaka
Opened in 1997, it was the first “Ritz-Carlton” brand hotel in Japan and will celebrate its 25th anniversary in 2022, becoming the first and only hotel in Osaka to receive five stars in the Forbes Travel Guide in 2023.
A doorman in a silk hat opens the front door and welcomes you into a space that resembles an English aristocrat’s mansion.
With two one-star restaurants, the hotel offers memorable service to guests who come to the hotel.
Official website: https://www.ritzcarlton.com/ja/hotels/osarz-the-ritz-carlton-osaka/overview/
Reservation phone: 06-6343-7000
Address: 2-5-25 Umeda, Kita-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka 530-0001
Summary
This article described 5-star hotels.
There are various research organizations, of which “Forbes” and “Michelin” are the most famous and recognized rating agencies by people around the world.
If you are inviting foreign VIPs to Japan and want to satisfy them, choosing a 5-star hotel will definitely give them a sense of Japanese hospitality.
Please refer to this page.

日本独自のおもてなし文化を世界中の人へ広めるために日夜努力しています。外国人の方の接待やおもてなしのご相談はお気軽にご連絡ください。お問い合わせはこちら
Japan Experience Project for the ultra-wealthy
2023年09月14日At Motenas Japan, we are happy to propose and plan content tailored to your needs.
This time, we proposed and implemented a project titled “Japan Experience Project for Ultra-High Net Worth Individuals”, which is a special Japan experience for VIPs and ultra-high net worth individuals (private jet) + itinerary production support.
Outline of Implementation
Service Page Category | Planning and production for VIPs (private jet) Special experiences in Japan for VIPs and ultra-wealthy people + support for itinerary production |
Company Category | affluent family |
Number of participants | 5 persons |
Location | Tokyo, Nagoya, Kyoto, Osaka |
Customer Requests
A very VIP family of five from Dubai will be coming to Japan by private jet, hoping to visit Tokyo, Nagoya, Kyoto, and Osaka in eight days and to experience something uniquely Japanese in each location. The daily activities were requested to be upscale and unique, with requests to incorporate many cultural experiences for the whole family to enjoy.


Proposal and implementation details
We have planned a luxurious 8-day tour of Japan. The menu includes meals at izakaya (Japanese-style pubs) and yokocho (side streets) visited by the president and other state guests, an anime theme park for children, a family karate and samurai experience, activities in beautiful nature, and a special temple tour. All of this is unique to Motenas Japan and allows you to experience Japanese culture from multiple perspectives.


Impressions from Sales Representatives
This project required a lot of detail coordination and a lot of pressure to handle VIPs. There were also cancellations and delays due to client circumstances, making it difficult to coordinate schedules, but in the end we were able to obtain a high evaluation. It was a very fulfilling experience.




\Detailed service page/
We have many examples that are not posted on the web.
Please feel free to contact us to discuss your needs.

日本独自のおもてなし文化を世界中の人へ広めるために日夜努力しています。外国人の方の接待やおもてなしのご相談はお気軽にご連絡ください。お問い合わせはこちら
Seminar on the Art of Harmony
2023年09月14日At Motenas Japan, we are happy to propose and plan content tailored to your needs.
This time, we proposed and conducted a seminar titled “The Art of Harmony Seminar” and would like to introduce it to you.
Outline of Implementation
Service Page Category | Seminar |
Company Category | Foreign Investment Company |
Number of participants | 20 persons |
Location | Tokyo |
Customer Requests
A foreign investment firm requested a seminar that would allow them to feel the unique charm and depth of Japan and learn from it at the same time. They requested to be exposed to Japanese traditions and culture in order to gain deep insights and knowledge that can be applied in the business world.


Proposal and implementation details
To allow participants to feel close to the essence of Japanese culture and to gain deep insights that can be applied to business, we combined Zen meditation with a tea ceremony experience in a solemn temple setting. In addition, the abbot gave a valuable lecture focusing on the “beauty of Japan.


Impressions from Sales Representatives
It was somewhat time-consuming to propose a seminar on Zen and tea ceremonies in order to meet the diverse demands of our clients. It was especially difficult to coordinate the program to be held in a temple. However, as a result, we received a very high level of satisfaction from our clients, and we feel that all of our efforts were rewarded when we saw the response.




\Detailed service page/
We have many examples that are not posted on the web.
Please feel free to contact us to discuss your needs.

日本独自のおもてなし文化を世界中の人へ広めるために日夜努力しています。外国人の方の接待やおもてなしのご相談はお気軽にご連絡ください。お問い合わせはこちら
Lessons for VIPs
2023年09月14日At Motenas Japan, we are happy to propose and plan content tailored to your needs.
This time, we have proposed and implemented a Japanese experience in private lessons titled “Lessons for VIPs” and would like to introduce it to you.
Outline of Implementation
Service Page Category | Private Lesson |
Company Category | affluent family |
Number of participants | 5 persons |
Location | Kyoto |
Customer Requests
He was fascinated by the depth and spirituality of Japanese martial arts and wanted to learn the art in earnest. She wanted to experience the essence of Japanese culture and strengthen her body and spirit, while strengthening her family ties.


Proposal and implementation details
We proposed a special martial arts experience: on the first day, participants experienced basic karate techniques, kata, and the actual training flow; on the second day, they learned judo throwing and kata techniques, and experienced them in an actual training hall. Both days were a valuable opportunity to learn deeply about the spirituality and civility of budo and to further strengthen family bonds.


Impressions from Sales Representatives
An authentic martial arts proposal was a big challenge. Finding the right dojo and instructors was difficult, but in the end we feel we provided the best experience possible. The response from our clients was very positive, especially seeing the smiles and excitement on the children’s faces, and words cannot express the joy we felt at that moment.




\Detailed service page/
We have many examples that are not posted on the web.
Please feel free to contact us to discuss your needs.

日本独自のおもてなし文化を世界中の人へ広めるために日夜努力しています。外国人の方の接待やおもてなしのご相談はお気軽にご連絡ください。お問い合わせはこちら
Incentive Japanese Experience
2023年09月14日At Motenas Japan, we are happy to propose and plan content tailored to your needs.
In this issue, titled “Incentive Japanese Experience,” we have proposed and implemented a Japanese experience for incentive travel, which we would like to introduce to you.
Outline of Implementation
Service Page Category | Japan Experience in Incentive Travel |
Company Category | Foreign luxury brands |
Number of participants | |
Location | Osaka |
Customer Requests
As a special reward to our overseas staff for their high level of contribution, we wanted to provide them with a memorable experience in Japan. This incentive trip was requested to honor their hard work and dedication and to form a deep sense of gratitude.


Proposal and implementation details
A special program that brought the essence of Kabuki to everyone. Enjoy direct interaction with true actors and experience firsthand what goes on behind the scenes of Kabuki. In addition, the Kabuki dance unfolded before your eyes while you tasted fine French cuisine. We were able to offer a fusion of tradition and modernity, a moment of Japanese culture that you will never forget.


Impressions from Sales Representatives
At first we wondered which cultural experience would fit, but we proposed Kabuki because we thought the depth of Kabuki was appealing. The behind-the-scenes experience and performance, realized in cooperation with the actors, presented some challenges that were not straightforward. However, all our efforts were rewarded when we were able to directly hear the surprise and delight of our guests.




\Detailed service page/
We have many examples that are not posted on the web.
Please feel free to contact us to discuss your needs.

日本独自のおもてなし文化を世界中の人へ広めるために日夜努力しています。外国人の方の接待やおもてなしのご相談はお気軽にご連絡ください。お問い合わせはこちら
Multinational Teamwork
2023年09月12日At Motenas Japan, we are happy to propose and plan content tailored to your needs.
We are pleased to introduce our proposal for global team building, titled “Multinational Teamwork,” which we have proposed and implemented.
Outline of Implementation
Service Page Categories | Global Team Building |
Company Category | Foreign luxury cosmetics |
Number of participants | 50 persons |
Location | Tokyo |
Customer Requests
A luxury cosmetics brand requested to conduct a global team building program based on the charm and depth of Japanese culture for their overseas executive candidates. The brand expressed a strong desire to develop true global leaders through experiences that deepen the unique Japanese spirit of harmony and team bonding.


Proposal and implementation details
Overseas cadets learn traditional Japanese cooking techniques. Through team cooking, they experience the importance of communication skills and cooperation. They also learn the importance of timing and flexibility through the concept of “season” in Japanese cuisine. Through this experience, we aimed to improve global teamwork.


Impressions from Sales Representatives
When proposing Japanese Cooking, it was difficult to choose which technique to use. There is also the challenge of linking tradition and global team building. But I felt a sense of accomplishment when I saw the participants’ smiles and communication during the training. We received high praise from our clients and are proud of our choice.




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We have many examples that are not posted on the web.
Please feel free to contact us to discuss your needs.

日本独自のおもてなし文化を世界中の人へ広めるために日夜努力しています。外国人の方の接待やおもてなしのご相談はお気軽にご連絡ください。お問い合わせはこちら
Cross-border training
2023年09月11日At Motenas Japan, we are happy to propose and plan content tailored to your needs.
We are pleased to introduce our proposal for and implementation of an overseas staff corporate training program titled “Cross-Border Training”.
Outline of Implementation
Service Page Category | Corporate Training for Overseas Staff |
Company Category | Manufacturer, IT/Information and Communication |
Number of participants | 20 persons |
Location | Tokyo |
Customer Requests
We would like to develop leadership skills in overseas cadets through Japanese culture. Through this training, we would also like to develop leaders with an international perspective, incorporating Japanese traditions and thinking.


Proposal and implementation details
Sessions focus on the philosophy of “subtractive aesthetics” of flower arrangement to foster calmness and focus of mind. Through a uniquely Japanese sense of beauty, which differs from Western flower arrangement, participants experienced the depth of true leadership. Many cadets realized its value and it led to leadership development from a new perspective.


Impressions from Sales Representatives
This was our first attempt at proposing the use of the “subtractive” aesthetics of flower arrangement in a training program. The customer satisfaction was extremely high, and I realized the value of the proposal when I saw that the cadets were learning deeply from the Japanese tradition. This experience was very valuable to me.




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We have many examples that are not posted on the web.
Please feel free to contact us to discuss your needs.

日本独自のおもてなし文化を世界中の人へ広めるために日夜努力しています。外国人の方の接待やおもてなしのご相談はお気軽にご連絡ください。お問い合わせはこちら
Japanese Show Time
2023年09月04日At Motenas Japan, we are happy to propose and plan content tailored to your needs.
This time, we have proposed and implemented an entertainment titled “Japanese Show Time,” which we would like to introduce to you.
Outline of Implementation
Service Page Category | entertainment |
Company Category | Financial Global |
Number of participants | 500 persons |
Location | Yokohama (city) |
Customer Requests
This year’s event will be held in Tokyo. We ask that you incorporate Japanese culture into a spectacular production for this occasion, which attracts financial professionals from around the world. Please consider introducing a live band for the dancing.


Proposal and implementation details
Light and Shadow Samurai Legends” is Japanese entertainment that captivates the financial elite. The story of a ninja, a kunoichi, and a samurai is woven together in a production of light and shadow that captures the heart. In a short time, it conveys the charm of Japanese culture and delivers an unforgettable impression that will stay with you forever.


Impressions from Sales Representatives
Planning the “Warriors of Light and Shadow” project was a series of challenges. It required a deep pursuit to impress the world’s financial leaders and a harmony of tradition and innovation. There were many difficulties, but every time I hear the excitement of our clients, I feel that all our efforts have been rewarded.




\Detailed service page/
We have many examples that are not posted on the web.
Please feel free to contact us to discuss your needs.

日本独自のおもてなし文化を世界中の人へ広めるために日夜努力しています。外国人の方の接待やおもてなしのご相談はお気軽にご連絡ください。お問い合わせはこちら
New experience menu is now available! The world’s best subculture experience!
2023年08月23日Click here for more details

日本独自のおもてなし文化を世界中の人へ広めるために日夜努力しています。外国人の方の接待やおもてなしのご相談はお気軽にご連絡ください。お問い合わせはこちら
Hosting the French: Mastering Business Etiquette and Customs for Successful Hospitality!
2023年06月06日
The image of the French people as a country of individualism, fashionable and liberal. On the other hand, they are also assertive and are said to be the most pessimistic country in the world.
When entertaining French visitors from France in Japan, knowing French business etiquette will help to create a more relaxed mood.
This is an introduction to business manners and French customs that you should know when entertaining French people, who respect the depth of history and culture of other countries and have a very high sense of pride in their country.
We will also guide you on how to entertain French people based on Japanese cultural experiences that they will love, so if you have decided to entertain French people, this is a must-read for you.
This article is presented by the author, who has lived in France for 20 years, so you can learn about current French manners and customs based on his actual experience.
We hope you will find it useful for your business with French people.
French Business Manners
Here we introduce some basic French business etiquette that may come as a surprise.
French Greetings
The French greeting is “bis”, a greeting that involves kissing both cheeks alternately.
Of course, same-sex people of all ages will also biz.
Nowadays in After Corona, fewer people do biz, especially in the case of business, but we are back to the usual practice of basically having a biz with those who are close to you.
A kiss is a mutual kiss, but it is more like a “kiss” between cheeks when the cheeks touch.
The number of times the cheeks are touched varies from region to region: once, twice, three times, etc., but basically twice is the norm, with the frequency increasing as one moves south.
Although this is a rather difficult greeting method for Japanese people, rest assured that in most cases, biz people shake hands basically when they meet for the first time or with business partners.
When meeting for the first time in business, the greeting is generally a handshake. When shaking hands, look the person firmly in the eye, grasp the hand firmly, and say your greeting and name.
However, if you have met someone many times or have developed a friendship with them through work, bizing them makes the greeting more natural and approachable.
They say it is very sad for French people not to biz in greeting even though they are very close to each other.
If a French person has come to Japan and spent a lot of time with you, many people do the biz to show their appreciation, especially when you say goodbye.
If this is the case, please do not be shy to respond with your biz.
French sense of time
Some French people are extremely loose with their sense of time, while others are more precise, but on the whole, they tend to be more relaxed than the Japanese and consider appointment times as a guide.
In France, there are many demonstrations and strikes, and public transportation is completely unreliable, so tardiness for that reason is common.
Therefore, it is important to tell the other person the reason why you are late if you are late, as many people are very tolerant and say, “If you are late, it is no problem if you have a reason.
However, there are many people who are clumsy in the second half of the project as far as progress is concerned, so it is sometimes best to check in with them around the time of the deadline.
If communication or reporting tends to break off in the middle of a meeting, do not miss a deadline.
The French look you in the eye and talk to you.
Always look French people in the eye when greeting them, but also in conversation.
It is very important to look the other person in the eye when speaking, so although the French will stare at you with a great deal of eye contact, do your best not to be outdone and look them in the eye when speaking.
Looking away or looking elsewhere while speaking is considered rude and “not focused on the conversation with you,” making it difficult to gain credibility, no matter how great the content.
Also, if you keep looking away, you are often perceived as lying or saying something awkward.
When conversing with French people, be sure to look them in the eye.
The French respect vacations.
France, which has the world’s highest number of annual vacation days, averages 145.0 days per year for a 38-hour work week.
And, depending on the position, there are 4 to 8 weeks of paid annual leave.
French people, who believe that the most important thing in life is to “enjoy a vacation,” take vacations no matter how packed their work schedules are.
Be especially careful in the summer months of August, when French society as a whole is not moving, as it is next to impossible to communicate about work at this time of year and you will be perceived as a rather rude person.
No matter how packed our schedules are, we usually receive emails that say, “I’m on vacation from this date to this date, so please don’t contact me,” and if we both receive such an email, we avoid contacting each other while on vacation.
If you work with French people, you should accept this feeling because they do not feel guilty about taking vacations at all like Japanese people do.
Difference in Customs between Japanese and French
Here we introduce some of the differences in thinking and customs between the Japanese and French in order to avoid misunderstandings and problems in business.
The French don’t apologize.
The French do not apologize.
Even if they are at fault, many people make lots of excuses and cover it up.
C’est pas ma faute” and “C’est pas grave” as the French say.
C’est pas ma faute” means “It’s not my fault” and “C’est pas grave” means “It’s no big deal. C’est pas grave” means “It’s not my fault” and “C’est pas grave” means “It’s not a big deal”.
If something is wrong or inconvenient, the first thing that comes back to you is a “sepamaphot”.
For example, if you knock over a bottle and spill the contents, a Japanese person would immediately say “Excuse me! but a Frenchman would say, “Sepamaphot! and say, “It’s not my fault that the bottle is here. It’s not my fault. It’s not my fault.
Similarly, when I make a mistake, there is no apology, but rather, “Sepagrave, it’s no big deal.
There are also many “don’t care don’t care” responses.
Therefore, if you are going to do something with the French, it is important to understand this idea, which is the opposite of the “Sorry” or “I am sorry” apologies of the Japanese culture anyway.
Be careful not to take the easy way out and admit your fault, which is common courtesy for Japanese people, as it can lead to trouble later on.
The French are considered the best pessimists in the world.
One of the characteristics of the French, known as the world’s most pessimistic people, is that they complain about everything.
However, this should not be taken as a complaint, but rather as “I am just stating my opinion, my feelings, and my thoughts as they are.
And one point that is very different from the Japanese is that even if the French guests have many opinions about the things we showed them, they are not opinions about “you” who prepared the tour, but about the things they are experiencing.
For example, a French person might say about a restaurant I took him to, “This restaurant is a bit noisy and the flavors are a bit strong.
As a Japanese, I would say, “Oh, you didn’t like this restaurant….
I should have shown you a different restaurant….
In this case, however, it is not a complaint against “you” who guided us, but rather a sense of “I want to hear your honest opinion about what we are experiencing together.
Even if it sounds like a complaint at first, many people are more and more affirming as they talk, saying things like, “But it fits the atmosphere of the restaurant, and the wine is enhanced because of this intensity of flavor.
So, if you get a little negative feedback about what you have prepared or what you have prepared, and you feel that “I complained! In most cases, however, they are not blaming you.
It is complicated, but when the French start to complain, it is important not to be discouraged and to give your opinion, positive or negative.
Simply, many French people want to have a discussion about anything.
This way, they will feel closer to you and you will have a more and more open relationship with them.
Thus, when it comes to hospitality, French people are not expected to be hierarchical, but to be on the same page with respect to the phenomenon at hand.
Recommended related article: How do Japanese manners look like from overseas? Japanese Etiquette and Customs to Convey to Foreigners
What I want to say is clear.
Although there are social greetings in France, words are respected because the people are very language oriented.
Therefore, many people tend to take words as they are said, and many people tend to take excessive flattery and modesty as they are said, so refrain from excessive expressions.
There is no particular aesthetic of humility, so if you are too modest, people genuinely wonder, “How can you be so insecure?” I am genuinely curious.
If you give them a gift or a meal when entertaining someone and say, “It’s a boring thing, but…,” they will wonder, “Why would they go to the trouble of giving me something boring? If you give something as a gift, it may be considered rude to say, “This is the best recommendation! This restaurant is delicious! I recommend that you give something with confidence.
And be sure to say no.
Vaguely, “It’s a little difficult….
If you say, “I can’t do it,” they will suggest many solutions that will enable you to do it, and if you don’t make it clear that you can’t do it, it may never be over.
Thus, it will be important for the French people to firmly announce their opinions in concrete terms.
Is there hospitality in France?
So, does France have a culture of hospitality?
Here you will learn about French hospitality and how to choose a venue.
French entertainment is centered on dinner.
Entertainment also exists in France, and most French entertainment is based on dinner meetings.
The dinner is usually a time to relax and enjoy good food and wine while deepening the friendship.
During the first half of the meal, people tend to talk about what’s going on and about the meal they are eating, and as they get closer to dessert, people tend to talk about important things last.
So be sure to listen to the end of the story, even if it is long.
In any case, many people like conversation and discussion, and are expected to explain the support for their opinions.
This is not only for business, but we are always asked for reasons about everything.
As in everyday life, your opinions and values should be expressed with care.
Receptions and other events following the symposium will be important social occasions, where participants will exchange business cards, deepen exchanges, and actively promote themselves.
At this time, too, we will seize the opportunity by appealing ourselves more and more, including our own opinions, values, and approach to work.
Thus, in doing business with French people, it is important to be frank in sharing your opinions with them.
Recommended reading: Popular in France! What is Fine French Cuisine with a Japanese Taste?
What is the recommended dinner for French entertainment?
If you want to entertain well, I still recommend dinner rather than lunch.
In France, a country of gastronomy, many people are particular about food, and enjoying good food is very important to the people.
If you are having dinner with French people visiting Japan, Japanese cuisine is recommended.
Basically, the country has a fairly large number of pro-Japanese people, most of whom say they love Japanese food and atmosphere.
It is said that French nouvelle cuisine was inspired by Japanese kaiseki cuisine, so we recommend kaiseki cuisine because it is very familiar to French people.
In France, the standard appetizer, main course, and dessert is more familiar to diners at a flowing restaurant than at a one-course restaurant.
In particular, many people always want dessert, so even men will appreciate a restaurant that offers delicious desserts.
Recommended related article: Japanese Hospitality Episodes and Home Parties in France
Useful Manners for French Entertainment
Here are some manners to keep in mind when entertaining French people.
There are some details, but knowing them will make for a smooth dinner.
What kind of venue should I choose for entertaining with French people?
French people tend to prefer quiet restaurants with a nice atmosphere.
If you are entertaining French visitors to Japan, we recommend a relaxed Japanese restaurant.
Japanese cuisine is quite popular in France, and many people want to taste authentic Japanese cuisine in Japan.
There are many gourmets who enjoy even the most subtle changes in taste, which is similar to the Japanese palate.
Japanese popular culture such as izakaya (Japanese style pubs) and ramen are also popular, so if you are going to show them around for several days, take them to some good restaurants.
In addition, many Arab-African French people are Muslim, so they will be served with Halal food.
Some Jewish people may be present, so it is important to research in advance whether or not there are any food items you cannot eat, just in case.
How to make a French toast
The French toast is “Tchin! =or “Santé ! (Santé) = To your health! .”.
Raise your glass and look into the other person’s eyes, never look away, and look them in the eye.
At that time, it is against manners to toast across the room while others are toasting, so when toasting someone close to you, you should do so after the people in front of you have finished toasting first.
Toasts at celebrations are usually made with Champagne or Clermont bubblies.
It is recommended that they be provided for all celebrations and other receptions.
Then, after the toast, drink slowly, savoring each sip, not drinking the entire bottle.
Except for the toast, we will prepare different drinks again with the food and enjoy drinks that match the meal.
There is no particular pouring of alcohol.
If you want to drink, you pour your own glass, but if you see that someone else’s glass is empty, you ask if you should pour. It is good manners to ask if you would like to pour.
How French people drink alcohol
The key to drinking with the French is not quantity or attitude, but “good drinking”.
French people always drink wine with their meals.
Being able to choose the right wine to go with the meal is also important to know the status and values of the other party, so it is important that you give consideration to food and drink pairings when you are the host.
If you can stand by for a nice marriage of food and alcohol, you will be quite respected and will be credited with good taste.
Many people are familiar with good wine, so if you are not familiar with wine yourself, try a restaurant with a professional sommelier or recommend a good Japanese sake to go with your meal.
It doesn’t have to be wine because the balance between food and drink is important.
If you like sake, even shochu will be appreciated.
And wine and sake are very similar, not in taste but in their existence.
So, enjoying a variety of sake will also please the French.
What surprises me tremendously is the highball, which goes well with any food.
First-timers are quite surprised.
Since Japanese whiskey is very popular in France, you will be quite pleased with the experience of enjoying authentic Japanese whiskey in a secluded, authentic bar.
Thus, many people drink alcohol not to get drunk, but because they want to enjoy the taste, so a lot of alcohol is not necessary for French entertainment.
Recommended Related Article:
About the culture of souvenirs
Among French business people, there is not much culture of hand-me-downs or souvenirs.
Especially in business, it is rarely necessary to give the other party a souvenir, and it is not rude not to do so.
If gifts are to be given within the company, Christmas gifts from the president to employees are the most common.
However, French people who visit Japan will be very happy if you give them a small gift as a memento or a friendly gesture.
However, there is no guarantee that business will proceed smoothly because you gave them a souvenir, since they feel it is a personal gift.
But I recommend souvenirs to go beyond the business framework and get to know them personally.
Japanese cultural experiences for French people
Here are some Japanese cultural experiences especially recommended for French people.
The French admire Japan as much as the Japanese admire France.
Isn’t it rare to find a country that is so compatible with each other? I can feel the same air in their feeling.
Therefore, if you have important French guests coming to Japan, I highly recommend experiencing Japanese culture!
We will guide you through Japanese cultural experiences that are particularly popular with French people, so please take a look.
Recommended related articles: Japanese cultural experiences popular among foreigners! Recommended 12 Experiential Sightseeing & VIP Entertainment
tea ceremony
I often meet French people who admire the Japanese tea ceremony.
Many French people are interested in philosophy, and they attach great importance to the concept in their daily lives.
Therefore, the tea ceremony is a traditional Japanese culture that is of deep interest to French people, and there are so many people who admire its world.
Since many people are very sensitive to authenticity and tradition, and respect the depth of history and culture, we recommend that if you offer a tea ceremony experience, you should do so in an authentic setting.
Recommended related article: The French Perspective on Japan’s Attractiveness! Reasons to Love Traditional Japanese Culture
calligraphy
France also has a traditional culture of beautifully written letters called “caricatures,” a tradition that has continued since medieval times.
Since this is a country that places great importance on words and letters, many people tend to be interested in Japanese calligraphy.
In the calligraphy experience, you will actually do calligraphy.
Many French people are so impressed by the small details of calligraphy, such as the beautiful calligraphy tools, the aroma of the ink, and the careful handling of the calligraphy, that they are full of charm.
Recommended related article: Experience Japanese culture through calligraphy! Which kanji performance is popular among foreigners?
martial arts
Former French President Jacques Chirac was famous for his unparalleled love of sumo, and Japanese martial arts are also very popular among the French.
Karate, aikido, kyudo, kendo, and jujutsu are popular as lessons for both children and adults, and karate in particular continues to be the No. 1 lesson for boys.
Martial arts experience as a team building or foreigner training will also be a lot of fun, as the French may already have a black belt.
Above all, many people admire the spirituality of martial arts, so if you are going to have French people experience it, by all means, introduce them to the theory of thought as well.
Recommended related article: Former French President and Diplomatic Hospitality who Loved Sumo and Japanese Culture
Sake Tasting and Sushi
Wine is a French fermented liquor loved around the world, whose taste varies depending on the region where the grapes are grown, the climate of the year, and the amount of water and rainfall.
Japanese sake is also a fermented alcoholic beverage nurtured by beautiful water in a region famous for its rice, and people in other countries take the taste of sake more seriously than those in other countries.
Rizake is similar to wine tasting, so it can be considered a familiar Japanese experience.
However, it is so similar to the wine culture that it may not be as special to the French….
Therefore, if you are planning a sake-tasting event, we recommend a combination of sake-tasting and other aspects of Japanese culture, such as having a sushi chef in a private Japanese-style room and having the chef make sushi on the spot.
The French are sensitive to taste.
It is fun to enjoy several kinds of sake and discuss their flavors, and if you prepare a rarely experienced Japanese cultural experience on top of that, it will be quite an impressive entertainment.
Recommended related article: [What is the popular sushi culture in France? Sushi Entertainment in France
traditional incense-smelling ceremony
The French are very particular about fragrance.
Since the Louisian period, perfume has been cherished in France.
Even today, not wearing perfume is like walking around naked! As they say, many people, young and old, men and women alike, wear perfume naturally in this country.
As expected, Kodo is a popular Japanese cultural experience for French people.
As a nation that also enjoys fragrance, the Kodo experience is very profound, and you will enjoy a peaceful time while actually smelling the depth of the fragrant wood.
Thus, many French people are very interested in Kodo, the traditional culture of enjoying fragrance.
Recommended Related Articles:What is Japanese Culture from Foreigner’s Perspective|10 Special Japanese Experiences and 5 Popular Plans that Foreigners Prefer
Noh, Kyogen, Kabuki
Even in France, interest in ballet and orchestral music is a status symbol for highly educated people.
So, if you are entertaining French people who are interested in history and culture, a Noh viewing is recommended.
As the birthplace of Japonism, the French have long loved Japan’s unique aesthetic.
Noh and Kyogen are also very inspiring to many people because they allow them to experience the ethereal beauty of Japan.
Many people are also deeply interested in Noh masks, and some even have collections of Noh masks.
Recommended Related Articles: [What is Japonism? The Influence of Japanese Art in the History of Western Art
Recommended for inbound visitors to Japan! What is popular traditional entertainment?
summary
Many French people believe that no matter how much money you have, you are worthless if you are not cultured, so people, especially those in high society, expect their partners to be culturally educated and have a deep historical perspective.
In addition, because of the respect the people have for history and tradition, many people have a deep interest in and respect for Japanese culture, especially among foreign countries around the world.
At first glance, the French seem to be the opposite of the Japanese in their individualism and assertiveness, but they are very close in their view of tradition.
Since France and Japan are countries that respect each other’s culture and history, it is very easy for them to understand each other’s hospitality and they are deeply moved by it.
I hope that this spirit will be applied to business as well.
If you are going to entertain French people, let’s entertain them with the highly cultured Japanese culture!

日本独自のおもてなし文化を世界中の人へ広めるために日夜努力しています。外国人の方の接待やおもてなしのご相談はお気軽にご連絡ください。お問い合わせはこちら
Business with Australians: Demystifying Their Unique Approach to Hospitality and Dining
2023年05月31日

Australia is said to have no hospitality.
That said, Japanese people would like to offer some kind of hospitality to visitors to Japan, wouldn’t they?
When Australians visit Japan, it is important to understand Australian business etiquette.
It is a very smart way to welcome guests and convey hospitality with care.
This article is an introduction to the key points of communicating with Australians and Australian business etiquette.
Please also refer to the following information on Japanese cultural experience entertainment programs for special guests in Australia.
Australian Business Manners
Australian business etiquette that respects and embodies the word equality.
Knowing Australian business etiquette will help you conduct business more smoothly.
Here we introduce Australian business etiquette that can be used without rudeness.
What are Australian values and mateship?
This idea of “mateship” is important to Australian business style.
Mateship, meaning friendship, loyalty, and equality, is intrinsic to Australian culture.
Although “mateship” is typically applied to friends, this value usually permeates the employee-leader relationship, resulting in a more collaborative and relaxed work style.
In the Australian workplace, an egalitarian society, hierarchical relationships are not emphasized.
Everyone is on a first-name basis, many supervisors are open, and subordinates are easily comminicated.
This egalitarian approach gives employees a voice in the workplace and results in a more relaxed management and communication style.
This derives from the egalitarian concept of “mateship.
It is from this value of mateship that the Australian business style is so relaxed.
Punctuality and efficiency
Australians are said to be a bit loose with time compared to the Japanese.
However, in business situations, time is more precise than one might think.
Punctuality is important, especially in the first meeting, as being late can have a significant negative impact.
However, it is said that the mainstream is usually about 15 minutes late for a private or after-work rendezvous, so be tolerant if the other party is late.
And it is said that Australians are characterized by a great love of efficiency.
However, in Australian business culture, it is common for top management to consult with subordinates.
Because of this very collaborative nature, decision-making can be slower than usual and projects can take longer, but basically Australians are expected to be efficient and punctual.
Everything is straightforward.
Avoid vague expressions and preamble about business dealings with Australians and the main subject, and be less habitual and straightforward in your negotiations.
We often dislike roundabout phrases and exchanges that are far-fetched, so we keep everything straightforward.
We often exchange frank opinions at meetings, so don’t think, “I was personally blamed…” Do not think, “I am personally blamed….
They are also said to have little fear of discussion, and they openly share their opinions.
The general stance is that work is just work.
When working with Australians, be cooperative and assert your opinions, but be humble!
Call them by their first name, not their last.
From quite early on in the business world, Australians address each other by first names or nicknames rather than family names.
However, at the first meeting, we call each other Mr., Mrs., Ms., or Sir followed by our last name, but quite early on, we call each other by first names or nicknames across positions.
From a Japanese point of view, it is very difficult to know when to switch from surname to first name when calling a business partner, but we recommend that you make a decision based on the situation.
Politicians, doctors, lawyers, and professors are not called “sir,” and first names are so common that people call them by their first names.
So they feel how cold it is to call them by their last name forever….
Be sure to call Australians by their first names to deepen your familiarity with them.
Bragging is taboo.
One concept that is very important to Australians is the word “equality.
Perhaps that is why, although self-promotion is important, topics such as “boasting” and “exaggeration” are quite taboo.
Of course, as in any country, especially among Australians, “little boastful” talk about education, income, status, etc. is quite frowned upon, so refrain from it.
How sensitive they are, so much so that they refrain from promoting their job title even when introducing themselves. This is because it could be perceived as boasting.
They will find out their positions and titles after they start working together.
There is no idea that titles or positions are important, and the general perception is that what is important is each person’s ability and daily conduct to earn recognition no matter what position they hold.
Australians are also discouraged from responding to others differently depending on their title or other factors.
So, when welcoming guests, let’s take care to treat them well, no matter what their title is.
See also: Cultural Atlas, ” Business Culture.
How Australians communicate in business
It is said that there is no hospitality in Australia.
So what exactly is the method of business communication?
Here is some information about Australians and the culture of hospitality.
There is no graft in Australia.
In the Australian business scene, there is no business entertainment.
It is important to note that having a dinner or drinking party with a business partner during a transaction can be perceived as a bribe.
Even if they did spend dinner together, it is said that it would have no effect on their work.
Since entertainment and dinners do not fall under any expenses, it is normal for any company not to organize an occasion called entertainment.
If you are dining together for a business lunch or dinner, you will most likely pay the bill separately.
The same is true for gifts; a gift from a business partner with whom you do not have a private relationship will be perceived as a bribe.
So, be aware that they may refuse to receive it, and the relationship may deteriorate afterwards.
However, foreigners may casually present small souvenirs from their own country, so it is a good idea to prepare a small, tasteful gift for the first meeting.
See also: ” Top 5 Australian Business Culture You Need to Know When Working in Australia “
coffee break
In Australia, coffee is an important business point.
It’s more casual, and the daily coffee break is an important time for people all over the world.
Catching up or having a quick meeting over coffee at a local cafe is more common in Australia than a business lunch meeting.
In Australia, coffee is seen as more social than just a means of energy.
It is important to note, however, that just because you meet over coffee and have a nice chat and a good time does not necessarily mean that you will ultimately do business together.
This may confuse non-Australians….
When Australians go out for a drink
Australians generally do not talk about work after work when they go out for a drink or dinner, although the conversation may turn to work.
In Australia, after work, colleagues buy each other beer, known as “shout”.
It is the same culture as “Round” in England, but you pay in order, so you always buy a drink when it is your turn.
Note that if it is your turn to pay and you do not buy a drink, it will be quite awkward.
And at business events held after working hours, alcohol is typically served.
If you do not wish to, you will not be obligated to drink alcohol, and you can refuse if you cannot drink.
Dinners are only held after the contract is signed.
Australian business is not known for bringing personal friendliness to work.
If you must entertain Australian business partners, it is usually after the work is done, such as after a contract has been signed or a project has been successfully completed.
If you ask them to have dinner with you after the project is completed, avoid taking them to a restaurant that is too expensive, as you will most likely have to split the bill.
Basically, the person who invites you to a restaurant will often offer to pay for the restaurant bill, but among friends and associates, you pay for your own portion.
In Japan, you should feel like choosing a nice izakaya (Japanese-style pub), a good Japanese restaurant, or some other kind of restaurant that you would go to with other Japanese colleagues.
Recommended Related Articles; 17 Tokyo Restaurants and Izakayas for Entertaining Foreigners
Gift Culture in Australia
In Australian business culture, it is not customary to give gifts, but gifts are greatly appreciated.
It is important that the gift not be perceived as an attempt at bribery.
For example, a gift given while waiting for a partner to make a decision would be considered inappropriate.
On the other hand, gifts given at the conclusion of a deal or negotiation are considered congratulatory.
Gifts to employees of government organizations may be allowed only if the amount is low and must be declared in advance to the Human Resources or Finance departments.
When giving a gift to an Australian, give it at the right time, like this!
See Polyglot, ” 8 Things You Should Know About Australia’s Business Culture.”
Dislike any sound coming out of the mouth or nose in any way.
This is not business etiquette, but it is important etiquette, so I will introduce it here.
In most countries, it is bad manners to make such physiological phenomena as burping and sniffing in front of others, but Australians are particularly averse to these sounds coming from the mouth and nose.
Australians are so sensitive to the sounds that come out of their mouths that they are said to be the most surprised by the Japanese way of eating noodles.
Never burp, cough loudly, or make sniffling noises in front of Australians.
So be sure to bite your nose, even if it makes a loud noise. They really don’t like it when you sip!
Japan Tourism Trends Preferred by Australians
So, what are the trends of Australians when it comes to sightseeing in Japan?
It is designed to be a useful reference for showing Australians you have become personally acquainted with in Japan.
Australia’s Tourist Season
The tourist season for Australians is from December to February, so if you are coming to Japan on business, the best time to visit is from March to November.
In particular, since summer in Australia corresponds to winter in Japan, many Australians come to Japan to enjoy the Japanese winter.
Since the northern and southern hemispheres are in the opposite seasons, it is also important to take into consideration the timing of your visit to Japan in order to facilitate business.
Consumption of things is definitely more important than consumption of goods
Many Australian tourists tend to make their own travel arrangements and travel around Japan in search of things that are uniquely Japanese.
They are less interested in shopping and are more interested in “kotoconsumption,” which is popular for experience-based tourism.
Japanese cultural experience is a type of tourism that allows foreign visitors to Japan to directly experience Japanese culture.
There are a wide variety of experiences, ranging from those that combine sightseeing with Japanese culture, such as walking around town in a kimono, to workshop-type experiences such as sushi making and geisha experience.
Most of the tours take about one hour, making them popular and easy to incorporate into sightseeing schedules.
From this perspective, I would recommend a Japanese cultural experience that allows you to experience Japan for Australian entertainment.
Popular for tours throughout Japan
Australian tourists tend to be more independent travelers.
Many people visit tourist destinations throughout Japan, freely arranging their travel schedules to visit their favorite lands rather than in groups.
The tendency is also to plan picture trips based on well-sourced information rather than unstable information that the other party does not understand.
So if you have an Australian acquaintance or business partner who is thinking of visiting Japan! If you are thinking of visiting Japan, we would be happy to provide them with our recommendations.
Reference: INBOUND INSIGHT Comprehensive Support Service for Inbound Measures ” Focusing on ‘Unique to Japan’! Characteristics of Australians visiting Japan revealed by data ” (Japanese only)
Daily necessities are popular for shopping
The shopping trend among Australians in Japan tends to be for daily necessities.
Convenience stores, hundred-yen stores, drugstores, and other stores that Japanese people use on a daily basis are popular.
Cosmetics, health items, snacks, and 100-yen convenience items are also popular among shoppers.
So, if you are considering a casual souvenir for Australians, they would be pleased to receive something they have used and found useful or a tasty snack.
Also, since people tend to prefer things that give them a sense of “Japanese culture,” traditional handicrafts that are full of Japaneseness and Japanese-style souvenirs that impress them with their craftsmanship are also good.
Once you get to know Australians well, be sure to bring them good Japanese products as souvenirs!
Reference: Reference site: Visit Japan Lab ” Australian tourists visiting Japan as understood by data “.
Japanese cultural experiences for special Australian guests
Although Australians do not have a hospitality culture, there are occasions when we entertain important guests when they come to Japan.
There are also many occasions when we can arrange Japanese cultural experiences for Australians, such as project success celebrations, training, team building, etc.
Here we introduce a Japanese cultural experience that is perfect for such situations and especially appreciated by Australians.
Tokyo Travel Guide
Australians are said to be a people who feel very comfortable on an equal footing.
Therefore, the best thing to do is to give them a tour of Japan.
By spending time together, seeing, hearing, and being moved by the same things, it creates time to understand each other better and build a trusting partnership.
Of course, try to split the cost or alternately buy each other a drink.
The more equal the fellowship, the more intimate the relationship will be.
Tokyo has many eating spots where you can easily stroll around and enjoy delicious food.
So it will be a very perfect project for slowing down and getting to know each other.
Related articles:Tokyo Sightseeing for Entertaining Foreigners! Recommended Spots by Area
Japanese Dance Experience
Nihon Buyo is a Japanese dance form that was born from the roots of Kabuki and Noh, which are the beauty of the gesture of wearing a kimono.
I recommend this Japanese dance experience to Australians.
In the Japanese dance experience, you will actually learn how to dance from a Japanese dance master.
You will actually wear a fan and kimono (yukata in the experience) to the sounds of Japanese instruments and practice in a Japanese-style room, so you can experience Japanese culture in its entirety.
We can guide you through a Japanese cultural experience that specializes in Japaneseness for an unforgettable time.
Recommended related articles: Japanese Dance and Kimono Dressing Experience that Foreigners Enjoy|Examples of Japanese Traditional Culture Kimono Hospitality [Very Popular!
Sushi Workshop
The Sushi Workshop is an experience where sushi is actually made by a foreigner.
Learn how to make sushi from a real sushi chef.
It is one of the most popular Japanese cultural experiences among foreigners, as they also wear Itamae (chef) costumes and make sushi in an authentic manner.
Australians, like many other foreigners, want to try delicious sushi in Japan, so they are quite impressed with the idea of actually making their own sushi.
It is also recommended that the program can be crossed with lunch and dinner hours, making it easy to adjust schedules.
We are sure that you would be pleased with a dinner project that is not an over-the-top entertainment, but rather something you can enjoy.
Let’s watch the timing of the project and nigiri the delicious sushi!
Ninja Entertainment
For fun-loving Australians, ninja entertainment is also recommended.
Ninja Entertainment offers acrobatic shows by descendants of real ninja.
These are perfect for large parties, receptions, successful project celebrations, and other glamorous occasions.
You never know where the ninjas will come out of the venue! The audience will be excited by the realistic and authentic shows such as battles between ninjas and samurai.
Recommended Related Articles: [Explaining the Ninja in English] 5 Recommended NINJA Experiences
Sake Brewery Experience
Many Australians still prefer wine and beer.
Sake and wine are similar in terms of production methods and regional characteristics, and many Australians prefer sake.
If there is one sake experience that can only be had in Japan, it would have to be a sake brewery tour.
Visitors will actually visit a long-established sake brewery with a taste and atmosphere, learn about the process of making delicious sake, and enjoy freshly brewed sake.
Such a special experience will be an unforgettable time.
Also popular with groups are parties in which the sake brewery is rented out.
It will be a great project for celebrations, success parties, and other festive occasions.
Recommended Related Articles: How to Enjoy Sake with Foreigners | Sake Brewery Experience in Simple English
Team building and training in Japanese cultural experiences
Team building with the keyword “Japanese cultural experience” is attracting attention from many foreign companies.
The reason for this is that much of Japanese culture has a deep philosophy, and there is an aspect of learning thought through one’s actions.
Team building is to train the entire team to incorporate the same thing so that the team can be more effective in business situations.
By incorporating Japanese culture into this experience, we are able to offer a unique and special experience.
The content is diverse, including flower arrangement, tea ceremony, martial arts, sushi, taiko drumming, etc. Team building can be planned from the perspective of Japanese culture that is relevant to the team and business content.
This is a perfect project for when entertaining is difficult, but you still want to strengthen teamwork.
Recommended Related Articles: Japanese Culture|6 Training and Team Building Recommendations for Foreigners: Flower Arrangement, Tea Ceremony, Karate, Sumo, Sushi, and Taiko!
summary
It is said that the most important thing in doing business with Australians is a smile and a clear greeting.
Equality” and “humility” are the key words that characterize the Australian people.
In doing business with Australians, who are very pleasant people who create trust based solely on their work and ability, there may not be many situations of entertainment to make the project run smoothly.
But a project that you can get excited about together after a successful project will enhance the time spent.

日本独自のおもてなし文化を世界中の人へ広めるために日夜努力しています。外国人の方の接待やおもてなしのご相談はお気軽にご連絡ください。お問い合わせはこちら
What is the key to entertaining Americans? How to Understand Cultural Differences and Succeed
2023年05月24日
The word “foreigner” means a person from another country, but there are as many different manners and customs as there are countries.
Welcoming guests with hospitality tailored to the culture and customs of each country will make your hospitality more heartfelt.
In this issue, we will introduce a very successful hospitality project, focusing on useful points to know for entertaining Americans in Japan.
Please read this article and try to make your American entertainment a success.
American Hospitality Culture
Here, we would like to introduce what hospitality feels like to Americans.
Is there graft in the U.S.?
There is, of course, hospitality in the United States as well.
However, business is done well because of the friendship and trust that is created by alcohol, such as in Japanese and Asian business entertainment.
It is not a sense of
Of course, over a meal, spending time together can lead to a deeper relationship with each other, but it is questionable whether entertainment strongly affects business.
However, if the person is perceived as rude or having a problem with human nature, it can affect the business, and by entertaining, the relationship can be amicably connected.
The basic entertainment for Americans is mainly restaurant dining and golf.
And entertainment methods such as watching sports or theater together, or parties such as charity parties or get-togethers sponsored by companies are often held.
In terms of deepening interactions, this tends to have more impact.
Thus, it can be said that Americans have a slightly different sense of hospitality from that of Asia.
About American Hospitality Dining
In the U.S. and Europe, there is little sense of going out of one’s way to have a meal outside of work with business associates with whom one is not that close.
Normally, it is more pleasing to have breakfast or lunch together than dinner, but when entertaining visitors to Japan, the nuances are different.
When entertaining Americans who are visiting Japan, the land, culture, and language are different, so a smart escort is very much appreciated.
We recommend invitations to recommended good Japanese restaurants, introductions to authentic bars that are difficult to enter alone, Japanese cultural experiences, and other Japan guides that also serve as entertainment.
For entertaining Americans who come to Japan, let’s entertain them in a smart way with details that will help them enjoy Japan more!
Recommended Related Articles: 17 Restaurants and Izakayas in Tokyo for Entertaining Foreigners
American Entertainment and Drinking
When entertaining people from Asian countries, it is very important to know about alcohol, but many Americans, on the contrary, do not interject alcohol into their business.
Business is business,” they say, so there is little connection between work and private life.
However, we recommend that you entertain your guests in Japan in a way that allows them to enjoy their time together, while also providing them with a pleasant motive and purpose: “I want to introduce them to delicious Japanese sake and Japanese whisky! We recommend that you entertain your guests in a way that allows them to enjoy the time they spend with you, while also providing them with a pleasant motive and purpose for doing so.
As for alcohol, if you can include an atmosphere that can be experienced only in Japan, it will make your entertainment more memorable and meaningful.
Points to keep in mind when entertaining Americans for dinner
So, what points should we pay attention to when dining with Americans?
How to choose a restaurant for entertaining Americans
As is the case with many American visitors to Japan, we recommend that you take them to a Japanese restaurant with a refined and relaxed atmosphere.
Japanese food is very popular in the United States.
Therefore, choosing Japanese food for the dinner would still be a must.
However, it is not necessarily only traditional Japanese specialty restaurants.
For example, sometimes it is memorable to take them to a restaurant with an unusual flavor.
This is especially appreciated by guests who have been to Japan many times.
From the hottest concept restaurants to the nostalgic Dobata-yaki restaurants used to entertain former U.S. presidents, Tokyo has many Japanese-inspired restaurants and izakayas to choose from to suit your guests’ tastes and experiences.
Therefore, we recommend that a restaurant that will please Americans is one that has a high quality of Japanese culture or a space where they can experience “Japan”.
Recommended Related Articles: 17 Restaurants and Izakayas in Tokyo for Entertaining Foreigners
About Souvenirs
Unlike Asian cultures, there is little sense of souvenirs in American hospitality.
It is not customary to give gifts to people in the business community, especially to people you have never met before, and even people in the workplace only give small gifts at Christmas and other occasions.
Gifts are mostly sent on days like Christmas, birthdays, and anniversaries, so since you are entertaining, you need to bring a gift.
There is no manner of
So when the Christmas season arrives, it is very much appreciated to send a Christmas card to an American who has become a close friend.
However, it is different if you want to give a souvenir to someone who has visited Japan and become close to you. If you want to give a souvenir to someone who has visited Japan and has become a friend of yours, it is a different feeling.
It will be a gift because you have become personally acquainted with them, and they will be happy to receive it.
A thoughtful gift will surely be appreciated.
However, it is safer to refrain from giving too expensive gifts, as many people feel like bribes.
Recommended reference article: [Christmas Cards for Important People] Importance and Manners of Writing Christmas Cards Overseas with English Example Sentences
It is important to know about contraindications and taboos in the diet
Americans are a multi-ethnic group, and some people have foods that are taboo according to their religion or culture.
Therefore, it is important to casually ask about what you cannot eat once the entertainment dinner has been decided.
Or if you know your partner’s religion and culture in advance, it is smart to make arrangements in advance.
This section describes those who have dietary taboos due to religion or custom.
What’s taboo in the Jewish diet
The dietary regulations are called “kashrut” and the creatures that are allowed to eat are called “kosher.
Kosher meal should not be eaten by animals that have two split hooves and do not ruminate on their food.
Therefore, we cannot eat pork.
Note that processed pork products such as bouillon and gelatin are also contraindicated.
Beef and chicken can be eaten, but blood is contraindicated, so be careful with raw meat and rare steaks.
Marine life without scales is kinky, so octopus, shellfish, shrimp, and crabs cannot be eaten, and hamburgers and stews are not allowed to have dairy products and meat in their stomachs at the same time.
Therefore, if you decide to have a dinner reception with Jewish Americans, first ask them in advance what they cannot eat.
If you don’t have a chance to ask, please consult with the restaurant in advance, but don’t be rude if you show up with a dish that focuses on fish and vegetables.
See: Kosher Japan, “What is Kosher?” (viewed May 23, 2023)
What is taboo in the Muslim diet
Even when entertaining Muslim Americans, care must be taken with the food.
The Muslim diet is called “halal meal” and consists mainly of meat from animals that have been treated with special slaughter methods.
Pork is a forbidden ingredient in Islam, so care must be taken with everything from the gelatin to the bouillon.
In addition, alcoholic beverages are generally prohibited.
Recently, the number of restaurants in Japan that serve Halal food has been increasing, so be sure to dine at such restaurants when entertaining Muslim Americans.
See: Japan Halal Church, “What is Halal?” https://jhalal.com/halal-cert/about-halal (viewed May 23, 2023)
What’s taboo in Hindu food
Hindus are more likely to avoid meat in general, which is common among Indian-Americans.
Some people eat meat, but they eat chicken, lamb, and goat meat.
However, eating cows is taboo because they are revered as sacred animals.
Pigs are considered unclean animals and are not eaten.
Other contraindications include all seafood, eggs, raw foods, and five pungent vegetables (garlic, chives, rakkyo, onions, and chives).
Vegetarian foods that do not contain five pungent roots or pungent roots are recommended, as well as yakitori, vegetable tempura and tofu dishes in the Japanese food guide.
Difference between vegetarian and vegan
Vegetarianism and veganism are dietary restrictions based on habit and ideology, not religion.
Vegetarians are basically people who consume only plant foods.
Some people eat fish, eggs, and dairy products.
Vegans are people who do not consume or use any food from animals.
Therefore, vegans are more thorough and seek to be plant-based.
For vegetarian and vegan American entertaining, vegetarian dishes unique to Japan, such as vegetarian and tofu dishes, are recommended.
The number of vegetarian-friendly restaurants is increasing, so let’s keep that in mind for dinners.
See also: Vegewel, “The Difference Between ‘Vegan’ and ‘Vegetarian’ You’ve Never Heard of! ” (viewed May 23, 2023)
Allergies and health issues
Some people have allergies that prevent them from eating certain foods.
And some people have health or pre-existing conditions that prevent them from eating certain foods, so ask casually in advance about this as well.
Since illnesses and other such matters are private topics, it is bad manners worldwide to visit deeply unless the other person is willing to talk about it.
If there is something you cannot eat, we will respond without asking any deeper questions.
If the recipient is unable to eat a particular food, whether due to allergy or health reasons, consult with the restaurant where you will be dining in advance.
Things to consider when planning for American hospitality
So, what kind of project will please Americans?
Here are some points to be especially careful about when entertaining Americans.
Americans hate nonsense?
Many Americans very much dislike what they perceive as a waste of time.
Entertainment that feels like a waste of time is very much frowned upon.
Some people, especially those with a wellness mindset, which is common among successful Americans in their 30s to early 50s, have an aversion to hospitality itself.
Therefore, rather than dinner entertainment, hospitality that provides “experiences” to make the time meaningful and enjoyable is better suited for this purpose.
The secret to success is to make good use of the other party’s time, for example, avoiding leisurely entertainment and combining a Japanese cultural experience during lunch time.
In American hospitality, it is important to respect the other party’s time in this way.
Sports entertainment popular with Americans.
The most common form of entertainment for Americans is golf.
Recently, people have been engaging in a type of entertainment where they deepen their friendship with each other through sports such as yoga, gym, and running.
It is a characteristic of Americans that many people go to the gym as if they were going out for a drink.
It could be said that business and sports are so closely connected to the people of the country.
So, if you want to organize a reception in Japan but your partner is a wellness type of person, it would be fun to entertain him or her with the keyword “Budo,” a sport that allows you to experience Japanese culture.
I am sure we will have a meaningful time together.
Planning gala parties and get-togethers for entertainment
Another way for Americans to get to know each other is through parties.
Galas and charity parties are great opportunities for executive Americans to deepen their friendships and socialize.
The advantage of a party is that you can freely interact with many people and actively participate in securing a wide range of personal connections.
While the occasion of entertaining is important, it is also very important for Americans to deepen friendships and acquaintances at parties.
So if you have a large number of people to entertain, planning a party is recommended.
Recommended related article: What is a Gala Party? How to hold a gala party in Japan? Thorough explanation of questions, dress code, planning ideas, and behavior!
In some cases, the entertainment itself is prohibited.
Some American companies and some people in official positions are forbidden from entertaining themselves.
If you suddenly invite them to a fancy ryotei restaurant because “it’s for entertainment,” they may leave because they cannot afford to be entertained.
This is especially true for people in official positions, so if you are in such a position, it is advisable to check through a secretary or other person before planning entertainment.
In this case, please note that souvenirs and other gifts cannot be given as they amount to bribes.
Six examples of Japanese cultural experiences recommended for entertaining Americans
Here are some recommended Japanese cultural experiences for entertaining Americans.
There can be a lot of anxiety about what to expect when entertaining Americans, such as food taboos and alcohol.
In such a case, how about entertaining with a Japanese cultural experience?
The experience, which can only be experienced in Japan, is very valuable and will be appreciated by Americans who value their time.
I would like to introduce seven Japanese cultural experiences that are especially recommended for Americans.
Recommended related article: Japanese cultural experiences popular among foreigners! Recommended 12 Experiential Sightseeing & VIP Entertainment
Zen experience entertainment
The first thing I would like to introduce is the Zen experience.
Many Americans, especially among those in their 30s and 40s, are living their lives with “wellness” in mind.
Wellness” refers to the overall attitude toward maintaining and improving one’s health in order to live better every day.
Among them, “Zen” is a very attractive Japanese culture for them.
Steve Jobs, who was strongly influenced by Zen, also attended a Soto Zen temple in San Francisco.
Even if you are not that familiar with Zen, there are many people who know about it, so having an authentic Zen experience in Japan can be quite a memorable experience.
Recommended related article: [What is it about Zen that attracts foreigners? The Relationship Between Meditation and Mindfulness through Zen Experience
courtesy services (e.g. to a military family)
Golf and other sports entertainment has become very mainstream among Americans.
If you are going to stay in Japan, why not entertain your guests with martial arts?
While budo is a traditional Japanese martial art, there is a uniquely Japanese philosophy of improving oneself through training.
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 entertaining sports-minded Americans.
Recommended Related Article:
Karate]: [Why karate is popular among foreigners]: A team-building example of Japanese spirit
Sake and Japanese Whiskey Entertainment
We want our guests to taste delicious Japanese sake, not just get drunk and mingle! We are always pleased to provide sake entertainment to Americans.
From a sake sommelier to enjoy sake tasting, to a tour of a sake brewery to taste freshly brewed sake, there is something for everyone.
Entertainment with sake has a lot of potential, such as
We also recommend entertaining with Japanese whisky, which is gaining popularity overseas.
It is very difficult to discover a nice little hideaway bar alone in a foreign land, so we are happy to take you to an authentic bar, which is a unique Japanese culture.
Recommended Related Article:
houseboat
If you are planning to entertain Americans in Tokyo, we recommend that you do so on a yakatabune.
This is a way to entertain guests while enjoying Japanese cuisine on an elegant yakatabune boat ride along the Sumida River.
By inviting geisha, you can enjoy the Japanese atmosphere even more.
Since time is limited for houseboat entertainment, it is easy to incorporate into your schedule, and if planned in conjunction with lunch time or dinner, you can guide your guests through their tight schedules without difficulty.
And being able to enjoy a relaxing time on a boat with an Edo-style atmosphere is a brief respite for busy people.
Flower arrangement and tea ceremony
Flower arrangement was one of the arts of the samurai, and was also enjoyed by Japanese warlords.
The “right person in the right place” in the language of flower arrangement often translates to business and is also suitable for team building.
Ikebana flower arrangement requires continuous determination to make the most of flowers in order to make them more beautiful.
As you concentrate on the modeling process, you may come up with hints for your business.
After the flower arrangement experience, you can treat your guests with a tea ceremony for a very emotional Japanese cultural experience.
The flowers arranged by the artist are displayed in the tokonoma (alcove), and tea is served in the tea ceremony room.
We can provide you with a very meaningful time for a leisurely reception.
Recommended related article: Why I recommend flower arrangement for foreign team building training
sushi
Sushi is the most popular Japanese food in America.
It would be interesting to incorporate the experience of actually making such sushi yourself into your entertainment.
Recommended for people with little time or for entertaining large groups.
Of course, you will be able to enjoy your own special sushi, so this is another Japanese cultural experience that is easy to set up at meal time.
For entertaining American executives, we also offer a private Japanese-style room where a sushi chef can come and make sushi directly on the spot.
It’s the perfect place for special guests to relax and enjoy themselves.
Also, if you cross sake with sushi, you can make a plan to enjoy both.
summary
What is important in entertaining Americans is “smart planning without feeling wasteful.
Because they are people who keep their work and private lives separate, they are able to enjoy their personal pleasures to the fullest.
If you have come all the way to Japan, we want you to enjoy the wonderful things that Japan has to offer.
If hospitality planning is centered on that feeling, I am sure that American hospitality will be successful!
Recommended related article: What are the tips for successful business entertainment with foreigners?

日本独自のおもてなし文化を世界中の人へ広めるために日夜努力しています。外国人の方の接待やおもてなしのご相談はお気軽にご連絡ください。お問い合わせはこちら
Understanding Taiwanese Guests: Key Insights into Culture and Etiquette
2023年05月16日
Taiwan, a neighboring country, is said to have many pro-Japanese people.
However, there are many things about manners, customs, and national character that we may not be aware of.
This article will provide you with the information you need to know when entertaining Taiwanese people.
Points, manners, and culture to keep in mind when entertaining important Taiwanese guests.
And here are six Japanese cultural experiences that Taiwanese people will love.
If you have decided to entertain Taiwanese, please read to the end as it is all useful information that you should read.
What are the characteristics of Taiwanese people?
Of course, it is not possible to say that all Taiwanese have the same characteristics, but everyone has some kind of national character.
So, by knowing the characteristics of Taiwanese people, we can come up with a plan to provide close entertainment!
Here are some of the characteristics of Taiwanese people.
Taiwan is a multi-ethnic country
It is important to have a basic knowledge of Taiwanese culture and customs.
Taiwan is a combination of traditional Chinese culture and indigenous culture, and we should respect its diversity.
Taiwanese are divided into two groups: mainlanders, who came to Taiwan before 1945, and ex Taiwanese who came to Taiwan after 1945.
Therefore, even if we say Taiwanese in one word, their roots are different from each other.
Therefore, they are not a “read” or “guess” culture like the Japanese, and “Yes” and “No” are said to be very clear.
Taiwanese people are quite reluctant to respond ambiguously, so be sure to express your opinions clearly.
Taiwanese national character, also known as friendliness
Taiwanese people are generally described as having a sociable and friendly disposition.
To facilitate communication, speak to them in a friendly manner and listen to what they have to say with interest.
Many people have the generosity characteristic of the tropics, and it is said that women tend to be more outspoken than men.
And many people value family ties very highly.
Basically, many people are pro-Japanese, and many people are easy for Japanese to get along with, and it can be said that Japanese and Taiwanese people are easy to get along with each other.
However, although they are generous in the best sense of the word, they are also loose when it comes to time, so please take their appointment times as a rough guide.
Reference: Recruitment Support Network for Foreigners, “[ Recruitment Manual for Taiwanese] What are the points and cautions? Explained along with the characteristics of Taiwanese ” (viewed May 16, 2023)
Languages spoken in Taiwan
The language used in Taiwan is Chinese/Standard Mandarin. However, it is Taiwanese that most Taiwanese use on a daily basis with their close friends.
So, if you can speak Taiwanese, you will feel much closer to them if you try to speak in Taiwanese.
It is said that there is no problem if English is considered as good as Japanese, but among the younger generation there are some who speak English quite fluently.
And there are many pro-Japanese people, and a relatively large number of them speak Japanese fluently.
Some people say that they studied abroad or studied in Japan when they were students, since they are our neighbors. Some of them are quite pro-Japanese, so you may be able to get excited about your favorite topics.
Conversely, the older generation has a background of having been forced to learn Japanese during the Japanese military occupation, so they need to be careful when speaking in Japanese.
Thus, in general, you should respond in different languages depending on the person you are dealing with, such as Standard Mandarin Chinese, then Taiwanese for friendliness, and English if you are both fluent in English!
Learn more about the etiquette of Taiwanese hospitality!
When entertaining Taiwanese, it would be nice to know more about Taiwanese manners.
Here we introduce the manners of Taiwanese people.
Taiwanese Courtesy and Customs
Taiwanese are generally polite and respectful of others.
Careful greetings, polite language and an attitude of respect are important.
Taiwanese people shake hands, not bow. When you meet someone for the first time, you will always shake hands with them, so be sure to do so properly.
Business cards are exchanged as in Japan. Unlike in Japan, when we receive a business card, we look at it carefully and add comments to deepen our friendship.
And since many people use “LINE” as a business tool, you should prepare a business account so that it is easy to contact them, and include it on your business card.
Recommended related article: 3 points for successful entertainment and dinner for important overseas guests
Taiwanese Sense of Time
Taiwanese are said to work on projects by holding numerous meetings and building a relationship of trust.
So, if you are working with Taiwanese, it is important to match the number of meetings and gatherings as they see fit.
Adjust your schedule in anticipation of the need for flexibility in dealing with others.
Another characteristic of Taiwanese people is that they are hard-working people, and that many of them work long hours on projects.
There may be a reason for this, as many people are time-consuming but get the job done right.
We must be flexible in following and responding to time.
Dining at Taiwanese entertainment venues
Taiwan’s cuisine is diverse and delicious, but some people have religious restrictions or dietary requirements.
Review dietary requirements and restrictions in advance and provide appropriate options.
Also, please note that Taiwanese dining etiquette is slightly different from that of Japan.
In Taiwan, there are not as many table manners as in Japan. So, on the contrary, do not be surprised at the free-flowing dining scene of Taiwanese people.
That said, there are certain dining manners, and one that is considered particularly important is the manner in which one’s superiors take their seats and begin eating when they begin to take the meal.
In Taiwan, if you are entertained, you will be served more food than you can eat.
Although this may not easily apply to entertainment in Japan, the behavior is meant to be generous and hospitable, so we should respond in an equivalent manner when entertaining in Japan.
Recommended Related Articles: 17 Restaurants and Izakayas in Tokyo for Entertaining Foreigners
See ” Things to keep in mind when dining with Taiwanese & dining etiquette ” (viewed May 16, 2023).
Banquet in Taiwan, the manners of the day and how to deal with them ” (viewed May 16, 2023)
Taiwanese Drinking Manners
Alcohol is an important part of entertainment, as it is in other Asian countries.
However, they are not as strict in their manners as the Chinese or Koreans, and are said to be very generous.
As in other Asian countries, the manner of toasting is to drink up. The first drink is considered especially important, but from the second drink onward, the atmosphere is such that only one sip is needed, even if the toast is made with great gusto.
The custom is to pour the alcohol yourself, so when your glass is empty, you pour it yourself.
If you don’t pour it yourself, it will be poured by the other party, so you will need to be extra careful than usual.
Also, if you clearly state the reason at the beginning that you cannot drink, that you are weak, that you cannot drink because you are driving, or that you are not feeling well today, this will not create an atmosphere that leaves you in a rut.
The height of the glass is important for the toast. The superior person is at the top, followed by the descending order of status.
However, the most important rule to keep in mind while entertaining with Taiwanese people is to not get drunk.
In Taiwan, getting drunk is considered to be an undignified behavior and is the worst form of bad manners.
Therefore, it is good manners for Taiwanese people to drink in moderation, adjusting the amount of alcohol by themselves.
See also: ” Drinking habits in Taiwan are different from those in Japan! What is the drinking rate among Taiwanese? ” (Viewed May 16, 2023)
Five Important Manners on How to Behave at Banquets and Drinks in Taiwan ” (viewed May 16, 2023)
Souvenirs for Taiwanese
Taiwanese, like the Japanese, are very particular about their souvenirs.
And in business situations, the recipient often prepares a souvenir for the first meeting.
If you can respond quickly to such situations, you will be more likable.
And in Taiwan, there is no deep meaning in giving each other gifts on the spot, so it is okay to give a belated return gift at a later date.
Since it is important for the people to build trust, choose your souvenirs carefully.
However, it is important to note that there is a “gift taboo” among Taiwanese people.
Below we have listed items that require special attention.
Handkerchief Towel
As with the Chinese, this is something that is “associated with parting,” so avoid giving it.
Cute hand towels and nice Japanese handkerchiefs may be tempting gifts, but it is best to avoid them for Taiwanese people.
candle
Candles are gifts as offerings to the deceased. Therefore, they are not appropriate as souvenirs.
Be aware that even if the scented candle smells good, it can be quite unpleasant for some people.
Blades and knives
It is not a suitable souvenir because it means “farewell.”
Even if it is a traditional Japanese craft, it is best to avoid cutlery-related items.
umbrella
Like the Chinese, the umbrella is pronounced “san,” which is the same sound as the Chinese word for parting.
Therefore, although there are many nice parasols made in Japan, such as high-end parasols, giving umbrellas is also an item to avoid.
clock
Clocks are considered very unlucky, as they are the agents of death.
Clocks are often produced as corporate image items, but this is another item that should be given with care.
Recommended related article: Important Points and Manners to Avoid Failure in Chinese Entertainment
See also: BECOS ” Special Gift Guide: Gifts Taiwanese People Will Love! | Check out the taboos to be aware of and 12 Japanese souvenirs and gifts! ” (Viewed: May 15, 2023)
6 Japanese cultural experiences for entertaining Taiwanese
Japanese cultural experiences are recommended for entertaining Taiwanese, many of whom are pro-Japanese.
It will be a particularly impressive project that you will be very pleased with.
Here are six Japanese cultural experience projects recommended for Taiwanese business entertainment. We hope you will find them useful.
Recommended related article: Japanese cultural experiences popular among foreigners! Recommended 12 Experiential Sightseeing & VIP Entertainment
Popular Geisha Experience for Taiwanese Entertainment
Geisha are still recommended for Taiwanese entertainment.
Taiwanese people, who place great value on courtesy and manners, are perfectly suited to geisha, who are professionals in the art of entertaining.
Because these women are professionals in the smallest of details, they treat their customers with wonderful hospitality.
Geishas are also popular in Taiwan, and in recent years they have gained a reputation as an admired figure, especially among women.
And geisha are experts in Japanese culture.
By providing geisha for a dinner reception, you can enjoy Japanese dance and have a wonderful time at the dinner.
In this way, we can offer you hospitality with geisha to handle your reception.
Recommended Related Articles: [Special Birthday for a loved one] How to plan a party? Surprise them with a Geisha! For Wealthy Foreign VIPs
Entertaining Taiwanese with Ninjas
It is said that many Taiwanese are cheerful people.
Of course, there are individual differences, but overall, many people have a tropical generosity.
Ninja hospitality is a Japanese cultural experience that will delight such Taiwanese.
Ninja x entertainment at a large celebration is recommended as it adds glamour and excitement to the occasion.
Then, a ninja suddenly appears at a private dinner! A surprise performance such as “Ninjas suddenly appear at a private dinner” will be appreciated.
You can have a custom-made Japanese cultural experience with a ninja workshop, so having a surprise ninja lecture you on how to throw a shuriken will be a memorable experience.
Since we are here, let’s make sure you enjoy Japan!
Recommended Related Articles: [Explaining the Ninja in English] 5 Recommended NINJA Experiences
Experience the Japanese Tea Ceremony
Taiwan also has its own tea ceremony.
The tea ceremony in Taiwan is considered a culture imported from Japan during the war, but there is a unique tea ceremony culture that is a mixture of Chinese tea ceremony, Taiwanese tea ceremony, and Japanese tea ceremony.
Taiwanese people also have a deeply rooted culture of spending time while slowly making tea, so the Japanese tea ceremony is also very familiar to them.
It is a very different style of tea ceremony from the Japanese tea ceremony, and you will be very pleased to experience the Japanese tea ceremony.
Many people are also interested in Japanese wagashi, as the country has many varieties of azuki bean sweets.
Please try to deepen your friendship with tea and sweets, a culture you share with Japan.
Recommended related article: [Practice by expatriates] Omotenashi with Tea Ceremony and Kimono
See also: ” Alone or with Someone. The Goodness of Tea as Seen through Taiwanese Tea ” (viewed May 17, 2023).
Kabuki experience for a special time
Kabuki has a “flamboyance” unique to Japanese culture.
Therefore, it is perfect for celebratory occasions, and you can see the glamour of Asia as in the culture of the Chinese-speaking countries.
However, since it is a Japanese-style restaurant, it is a very Japanese cultural experience, and if you are entertaining special Taiwanese guests, it is a popular choice for entertaining them in a private room while watching Kabuki.
Above all, it’s not often that you get to see kabuki up close and personal, and it’s fun to communicate with kabuki actors.
Thus, kabuki is a recommended Japanese cultural experience for Taiwanese people.
Related articles:Recommended for inbound visitors to Japan! What is popular traditional entertainment?
With Sumo wrestlers! Fun Sumo Experience
The next Japanese cultural experience we recommend for entertaining Taiwanese is the Sumo experience.
The Sumo Experience is a program that allows visitors to experience sumo through lectures by former rikishi, watching a serious match, actual hand-to-hand combat with rikishi, chanko-nabe, and other activities related to sumo.
Many people like to have fun together, so the Sumo experience is highly recommended.
Taiwan also has a nabe culture, so chanko-nabe, a special Japanese sumo wrestler dish, is a hot topic of conversation.
Sumo projects have a wide range of potential, as they are ideal for entertaining a slightly larger group.
Recommended related article: [For Wealthy Foreigners] Tailor-made Sumo Experience! How to entertain VIPs at the national sport
Let them enjoy the history of sake with a sake brewery tour!
Sake is also popular in Taiwan.
The sake brewery experience, in particular, allows visitors to actually visit a Japanese sake brewery and see the process of sake production.
For a custom-made sake brewery experience, you can plan a party inside the brewery, and combining it with a sushi performance by a sushi chef from dismantling tuna is also popular.
This is a very exciting project because it can accommodate a large number of guests.
Taiwanese guests who have been to Japan many times, especially if they are a large group, may want to consider a slightly different entertainment plan than usual.
In such cases, we recommend entertaining with the keyword “sake brewery.
Recommended Related Articles: How to Enjoy Sake with Foreigners | Sake Brewery Experience in Simple English
summary
Taiwan, a neighboring country, is also characterized by many pro-Japanese people who have a favorable impression of Japan.
It has many similarities with China, of course, but it is also a multi-ethnic country with a good mix of both.
By being flexible and responsive to the generous sensibilities of Taiwanese people, you will be able to build a closer relationship with them.
When entertaining important Taiwanese guests, why not make a lasting impression with Japanese culture?
Motenas Japan offers tailor-made plans for Taiwanese business entertainment.
Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions about planning Taiwanese entertainment.

日本独自のおもてなし文化を世界中の人へ広めるために日夜努力しています。外国人の方の接待やおもてなしのご相談はお気軽にご連絡ください。お問い合わせはこちら
Korean Business Manners and Popular Entertainment Methods to Avoid Failure in Entertaining Koreans
2023年05月09日
When an important business partner from neighboring Korea comes to Japan, you want to plan an entertainment that will please them.
Because of the proximity of Korea, Japan’s neighbor country, there are differences in manners and customs that are of concern, and it is very important to know them in business.
In this issue, we will introduce the basic knowledge you need to know about the manners you should be concerned about when doing business with Koreans.
We will also guide you on the best way to entertain Koreans, so if you have decided to entertain Koreans, this is the information you need to know.
Please refer to this article to plan a very successful Korean entertainment.
Business Manners in Korea
In Korea, Confucianism is prevalent, so people respect superiors and older people, and family and blood relatives are very important.
So it is important to know its impact in business etiquette.
Here we focus on the most important Korean business manners.
Greetings and handshakes
Greetings in Korea are primarily a bow and a handshake.
Bowing is the norm for older people, but these days a handshake seems to have become a common manner of greeting.
In Korea, a Confucian nation, people may be asked their age at the first meeting.
This is due to the background that language and attitude must be changed in the case of older people.
So don’t worry about being asked out of the blue and answer accurately.
Then, shaking hands is the Korean way of greeting. At this time, the superior person offers his/her hand first.
Refrain from offering your hand first to women and superiors. It is customary for women to offer their hand first to all but superiors.
Shake hands with the right hand. When shaking hands with a person of higher rank or seniority, hold the left hand slightly above the elbow of the right hand, or place the left hand on the chest area.
It is elegant to remember to put your left hand on your chest, as it is also good manners when bowing to a superior or older person.
Do not confuse the grip with a hard, strong grip as Americans do, but rather a gentle grip, which is the manner of the American people.
See also: ” Customs and Manners ” on the Korean Anything Information Site (viewed on May 10, 2023).
exchange of business cards
In the Korean business scene, as in Japan, exchanging business cards is very important.
So, if you have a reception or social gathering with Koreans, be sure to have more business cards ready.
After exchanging business cards, be sure to check and remember your job title and the reading of your name so that you do not make a mistake later on.
It is important to note that many Korean names, even when written in Chinese characters, have readings and pronunciations that are difficult for Japanese people.
If you ask at the time of the exchange, it is simple and not rude.
In addition, although e-mail is the mainstream method of communication, the Korean SNS “kakaotalk,” like the mainstream Japanese SNS “LINE,” has become a mainstream tool.
It is also used for business like “LINE” in Japan, so it would be kind to the other party if you create an account and mention it on your business card.
kakaotalk :https://www.kakaotalk.jp
hierarchical relationship
In Korea, hierarchical relationships are very strict, so it is customary to always confirm your position.
Be sure to make no mistake about the position up or down, as this is a very important point in doing business with Koreans.
When calling someone, always add “nim” (任).
It is important because “Nim” is the Japanese word for “Sama”. So, when you call someone, you should address them as [title + 任] or [surname + title + 任].
It will be smoother if you confirm your position when exchanging business cards.
culture of hospitality
In Korea, it is said that even if a project or proposal is superior to others, it is often turned down because the current one is a closer relationship.
Trust is very important in business with Koreans, and entertainment dinners and banquets are frequently held to build this trust.
Therefore, the culture of entertainment is more important than in Japan, so it is necessary to plan entertainment without rudeness.
A rude attitude seems to be particularly important in terms of manners and demeanor toward superiors based on the nature of the entertainment.
Points to keep in mind when entertaining Koreans
Here we introduce the business manners of Korean people in the business entertainment scene.
So what are the actual points to keep in mind when entertaining Koreans?
dining manners
Korea is Japan’s neighbor, but there are often scenes that often surprise both sides when it comes to dining etiquette.
For example, when eating on the floor of a Korean tatami room, it is considered polite for women to kneel on their knees and for men to sit cross-legged.
While women’s kneeling posture is not seen as a common sight nowadays in skirts, men’s kneeling posture is considered a natural posture for eating.
Another typical example of something that is the exact opposite of Japanese manners is eating with a bowl or small plate in one’s hands.
As Japanese, we always eat with our hands, which is considered good manners, so it feels strange for both parties.
Also, if your superior begins to eat, you may eat as well, and if your superior finishes eating, you should stop eating, even if you are never in the middle of a meal. Leaving food behind is not a breach of etiquette.
Manners for Drinking
In Korea, where hierarchical relationships are strictly enforced, rules regarding alcohol and cigarettes also vary depending on the relationship between superiors and subordinates.
For example, when drinking alcohol with elders, those of lower rank or younger should turn to the side and cover their mouth with their left hand to avoid being seen drinking.
When pouring alcohol for a superior, hold your left hand there on the bottle, at the elbow of your right hand, or on your chest. When pouring alcohol for a superior, hold the cup with your right hand and put your left hand on the cup.
Unlike in Japan, it is not considered acceptable for a woman to pour a man a drink unnecessarily, although this has become less sensible in recent years.
When toasting, the glasses should be at different heights, starting with the person of higher rank or seniority. Those of lower rank should toast at the lowest position of the overlapping glasses. By the way, the Korean word for toast is “Cheers (konpae).
Thus, Confucianism is still strongly taught at the drinking table, so try to match your manners to the Korean style.
Recommended reference article: How do foreigners see Japanese manners? Japanese Etiquette and Customs for Foreigners
(See: KONEST Korea Begins, Korea Spreads. (Korea ‘s Drinking Culture, viewed on May 10, 2023)
How to choose a restaurant
When you entertain Koreans in Japan, you probably have many dinners.
The most popular Japanese food among Koreans is still meat dishes, such as high-end pork cutlet dishes, kushiyaki (skewered meat) and yakitori (grilled chicken).
And, not surprisingly, sukiyaki is also popular as a way to enjoy Japanese meat dishes. The way of eating and seasoning are completely different, which makes it a popular topic of conversation.
And we recommend high-end sukiyaki restaurants, many of which have private rooms such as tatami rooms.
They think it is more luxurious to have many dishes served than to have a small amount of food served a little at a time, as in kaiseki cuisine.
Therefore, Izakaya is a popular favorite spot for Korean tourists and a good place to set up for entertaining dinners and drinking parties.
High-class izakaya have private rooms and a wide variety of food and drinks, so they are recommended for dinner receptions.
Note that, as with the Chinese, splitting the bill is not allowed.
Recommended Related Articles: 17 Restaurants and Izakayas in Tokyo Recommended for Entertaining Foreigners
See: Seoul Mate Korean Language School, ” Introducing the Top 5 Most Popular Japanese Foods in Korea ” (viewed on May 10, 2023).
What is the best way to entertain Koreans?
Here are some recommendations for entertaining Koreans.
We will guide you through specific methods of entertainment, as well as ideas on how to entertain Korean visitors to Japan with Japanese cultural experiences that are appropriate for entertaining Korean visitors to Japan.
dining entertainment
Eating together is considered very important when doing business with Koreans.
Entertainment dinners are held as frequently as in Japan for the purpose of deepening friendship.
Trust is often more important to Korean companies than the novelty of planning. To build a closer relationship, plan your business dinners well.
Therefore, dinner entertainment is necessary to organize entertainment at dinners and banquets actively with many parties involved in order to facilitate business with Koreans.
In such cases, manners in entertaining are very important, so it is very important not to be vague just because you are Japanese, but to behave in a manner that is respectful to your superiors.
In addition, guests may have requests for Korean entertainment, so be flexible.
(See also: Korea World Times, ” Chinese Korean Managers Discuss Differences in Perceptions of Money, Credit, and Hospitality between Koreans and Japanese,” viewed May 10, 2023.)
souvenir
Korea, like Japan, has a strong souvenir culture.
As a sign of closeness, there is also the custom of hand-me-downs and gifts for the purpose of furthering friendship.
Korea is a nation that values family, so giving a gift to the recipient’s family is very much appreciated.
When giving souvenirs to groups or within the company, always change the items between supervisors and subordinates.
Even when you give a lot of cookies, etc., to share, the gift for your boss is a little more prestigious.
This gift tends to make a more positive impression by emphasizing hierarchical and familial relationships.
Japanese cultural experience in entertaining Koreans
Although this is especially true of the elderly, the reality is that many people in Korea still harbor anti-Japanese sentiment due to the effects of World War II.
On the other hand, since the announcement of the “Japanese Popular Culture Lifting Policy” in 1998, there has been a trend toward enjoying mainly Japanese pop culture, especially among the younger generation.
Therefore, entertainment that fully embraces traditional Japanese culture with the same feeling as entertainment for other foreigners tends not to be well received.
However, if you are entertaining Korean visitors to Japan, they tend to appreciate the Japanese cultural experience.
Some cultures are common between Japan and Korea, and some Japanese cultural experiences are relatively new, so check with your destination to plan accordingly.
Below are five recommended Japanese cultural experiences for entertaining Koreans.
See: Visit Japan Lab, ” Characteristics of Korean tourists visiting Japan ” (viewed May 10, 2023).
Newsweek, ” Anti-Japan and Japan-loving South Korea increasingly polarized ” (viewed May 10, 2023).
Wikipedia, ” Restrictions on the influx of Japanese popular culture in South Korea ” (viewed May 10, 2023).
Calligraphy Performance
The Japanese cultural experience in calligraphy, which also exists in Korea, can be a cultural treat for the entire Asian region.
Of course there is calligraphy in Korea, and there are also Chinese characters.
Therefore, using calligraphy as a key word allows mutual respect and familiarity with each other’s culture, and it is recommended to plan a calligraphy performance at a celebration or get-together.
Having a calligrapher write with full force on a gold folding screen or on a large sheet of Japanese paper letters that express the prospects and wishes for each other’s future business will create a greater sense of intimacy.
Japanese culture, but also an important Asian culture of letters. If you take the time to savor them together, you will be treated to a sense of hospitality that will bring you closer to each other.
Recommended reading: Experience Japanese culture through calligraphy! Which kanji performance is popular among foreigners?
karate
Taekwondo is the national sport of Korea, originating from the ancient martial arts of the Korean peninsula, Chinese martial arts, and the Japanese Shotokan style of karate.
Karate is very similar to Korean Tae Kwon Do, so it is possible to enjoy karate as if you are sharing each other’s culture.
Martial arts entertainment, like golf entertainment, is an aspect of deepening friendship while exercising the body together.
Since we want to share Japanese and Korean culture with each other, we would like to deepen our friendship! We recommend this as an idea for entertainment when you want to share Japanese and Korean culture with each other and deepen your friendship.
Recommended Related Articles: [Why Karate is Popular among Foreigners] A Team Building Example of Japanese Spirit
Reference: Official Olympic website, ” Origins of Taekwondo Competitions|Martial Arts Originating in Korea ” (reference May 10, 2023).
Japanese whisky
It is said that Japanese whiskey has been gaining popularity around the world for the past 20 years.
Whiskey is not an ancient Japanese culture, as it was originally a Western liquor culture.
Therefore, it can be said that this is a Japanese cultural experience that older Koreans will also enjoy.
The authentic bar with a slow and relaxed atmosphere will be reserved for you to enjoy the finest Japanese whisky.
Such hospitality with “new” Japanese culture is recommended for elderly Koreans.
Recommended reading: Japanese Whisky Experience and Differences in Alcoholic Beverage Culture
hot spring 
Since Korea also has a culture of public baths and hot springs, we recommend this as a Japanese cultural experience that Koreans can easily relate to.
Taking a bath in a hot spring to deepen friendship is a natural way to entertain guests because Japan and Korea share a similar bath culture.
The hospitality of Japanese onsen ryokan is especially popular and well received by Koreans.
However, it would be nice if we could explain in advance the manners in public baths and hot springs, as they are different everywhere.
See also: All you need to know to enjoy Korean public bathhouses 120% Author Yujin Kim (viewed on May 10, 2023)
Chunichi Shimbun The Charms of Korea I Want to Know More About Author Mi-Hui Park(Date viewed May 10, 2023)
Tourist information reception
We recommend that business visitors to Japan be entertained with sightseeing information.
Touring Tokyo’s famous sites together increases mutual intimacy, and the appeal of this event is that it allows people to enjoy the place that is Tokyo.
It is also a very good way to deepen friendship because you can experience the similarities and differences between Korea and Japan together.
Recommended reading: Tokyo Sightseeing for Entertaining Foreigners! Recommended Spots by Area
summary
Korea is a neighbor of Japan and has many cultures in common, but there are still differences in culture and customs.
The key to be careful and attentive when entertaining Koreans is still the importance of hierarchical relationships and building trust.
Manners for entertaining are especially important, and we recommend that you check them out well in advance.
Let’s plan a great reception and develop into a good partner, respecting the cultures and customs that are important to both parties!

日本独自のおもてなし文化を世界中の人へ広めるために日夜努力しています。外国人の方の接待やおもてなしのご相談はお気軽にご連絡ください。お問い合わせはこちら
Mastering Chinese Guest Reception: Key Points and Essential Etiquette to Avoid Faux Pas!
2023年05月02日
The impression that “you are special” is very important in business with the Chinese, who value face value.
In particular, the key to success in entertaining Chinese guests is not only to respond in a rude business manner, but also to treat them in a more exceptional manner.
This article introduces business entertainment etiquette when in Japan and examples of entertaining Chinese guests at Japanese cultural experiences with a special touch that we recommend for entertaining Chinese guests.
This guide also includes points to keep in mind when entertaining Chinese people and business manners for entertaining Chinese people, so it is worth reading if you have decided to entertain Chinese people.
Please read this article to get some tips for successful business entertainment with Chinese people.
Points to keep in mind when entertaining Chinese guests
Here are some points to keep in mind when entertaining Chinese nationals for business.
To “face” Chinese customers.
It is said that the most important thing in doing business with the Chinese is to “set the other party’s face.
Make sure that you face any situation.
In the same sense as the important Japanese custom of “reading the air,” there is a Chinese custom of “making faces.
In Japanese, “menshi” is a sense of pride, but in China, it is something much deeper.
Self-worth is the core of face value, and face value is essentially the self-worth one has in the minds of others and the interest one has in one’s status.
Therefore, being face down is such an important value that it is not just a wound to one’s pride, but it is also the very value of one’s existence.
This aspect also exists behind people saying that Chinese people do not apologize or that Chinese people like money.
With money, you can make more face and attract more people. And to apologize is because they think it will damage their face.
Therefore, when apologizing or refusing, we must always consider the other party’s face.
If you are entertaining as a guest and organizing a reception, always respond in a way that respects the other party’s face.
Thus, it is important to think of Chinese hospitality as entertainment based on masks.
Face is important, so it is not a good idea to help your boss when he is drunk.
If you find yourself in such a scene, be sure to secretly ask one of your subordinates at the other company for help.
See: SIJIHIVE LOCAKIZATION, “Chinese ‘Face’ is Japanese ‘Air’?!” https://www.thesijihive.com/post/understanding-the-concept-of-face-in-china ( viewed May 2, 2023)
Baidu Encyclopedia (Chinese Wikipedia), “Face”, https://baike.baidu.com/item/%E9%9D%A2%E5%AD%90/14579?fr=aladdin ( viewed May 2, 2023)
Chinese Values about Eating
There is a saying “Min yi shi wei tian”, which means “Eating is the most important thing for people”, and there is a phrase in the Han book “Wang shimin wai tian, min yi shi wei tian” (King is heaven because of his people, and his people are heaven because of their food).
In China, the most important thing is to deepen friendship by sitting around the table together, and dinners are very important for family, friends, and business.
In China, it is considered good manners to leave a little on the plate. and it was customary to ask for more and leave more when entertaining.
With the current Chinese hospitality situation, which has been gradually changing with President Xi Jinping’s ban on leftovers, change is also coming within China.
Therefore, it is not necessarily true that they are always left out, but the reason behind this is that it includes the meaning of “to entertain guests so lavishly that they cannot finish eating.
For the Chinese, food is quite an important part of their culture.
When entertaining Chinese people in Japan, it is not necessary to order so much food because you have heard that the Chinese order so much that they leave out a lot of food, but it is more important to make them feel special.
See “No. 2 What is Chinese people’s commitment to “food” = Duan Wengui,” Mainichi Shimbun, 9/13/2017 https://mainichi.jp/articles/20170908/org/00m/070/002000d (viewed 2023) (May 2, 2006)
Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism About China https://www.mlit.go.jp/common/000116954.pd ( viewed May 2, 2023)
How to choose a restaurant that Chinese people will enjoy
When choosing a restaurant and considering the content of your entertainment, it is recommended that you prepare a place that is special in location and content.
Basically, when Chinese people receive entertainment, they tend to base their decisions on how the person providing the entertainment evaluates them.
They try to find their value in all the details of the entertainment, such as the rating of the restaurant, whether it is a private room, the quality of the food, the price, the food ordered and the drinks prepared.
In Japan, it is considered a moral hazard to provide expensive entertainment, but if it is a Chinese person with a very important business meeting or person, prepare a dinner at a famous restaurant as much as possible, while keeping in mind the budget for the entertainment.
We tend to prefer busy and popular restaurants to quiet ones. In any case, we recommend restaurants that are sparkling and gorgeous.
And many people are also concerned about whether the restaurant is well-known or not.
It is best to take your guests to restaurants that are not so well known to those in the know, such as hidden gems or hidden restaurants known only to food connoisseurs, only after getting to know them very well.
A large percentage of people have a favorable impression of the status of having been entertained at a famous restaurant, so we recommend that Chinese business entertainment be at a famous restaurant as much as possible.
Recommended Related Articles: 17 Restaurants and Izakayas in Tokyo Recommended for Entertaining Foreigners
Payment
And payment is not always split, but the person who invited the guests should pay the bill.
It is said that the way a person pays for a meal determines whether or not the relationship will last, so much so that an atmosphere of stinginess is frowned upon anyway, and generosity in acting big is preferred.
And since there is a belief that mutual exchange deepens the relationship between the two parties, they are sure to reciprocate in equal measure any treats or hospitality they are given.
For guests from China, it is said, “If you invite people over, don’t be stingy, even if you are lonely at the time,” and stinginess is frowned upon anyway.
Be aware that even in business, a cheapskate is often judged as not being a trustworthy partner.
The key to Chinese hospitality is not that “luxury is good enough anyway,” but rather to make people feel that you have gone to great lengths for them and that you care about them that much.
See: more important than “drinking alcohol” at a Chinese banquet: https://xtech.nikkei.com/dm/article/COLUMN/20111215/202643/ ( viewed on May 2, 2023)
Important Alcoholic Beverages for Chinese Entertainment
Alcohol plays a very important role in Chinese entertainment.
It is said that the Chinese always finish their drinks after a toast is made. However, presidents and executives in their 30s and 40s at recent venture companies do not seem to place as much importance on the toast as in the past.
However, among presidents and executives of traditional companies or those who value Chinese customs and culture, the custom may still be in place today, so we should make a judgment based on the situation.
The toast is anyway an act of getting to know each other in a pleasant way by being frank with the other party.
There are also some Chinese people who cheerfully make toasts over and over again.
If you can’t drink alcohol, it is better to take a sip or a glass to avoid spoiling the atmosphere. If it is difficult for you to do so, tell them first that you cannot drink for health reasons.
The height of the glass used for the toast also depends on one’s status. It is considered polite to make the toast with the hand slightly lower than the other person’s. Subordinates participate in the toast from a lower position than their superiors.
And since there will be a lot of drinking, be sure to arrange for a cab home.
Business Etiquette for Entertaining Chinese
It is said that real business meetings occur at dinner receptions, as some executive bosses who would not appear at a business meeting may be present.
So often, decisions made once at a business meeting are changed after the entertainment.
Here are some business etiquette tips for entertaining Chinese guests.
punctuality
In Chinese business entertainment, time etiquette is extremely important.
It is rude to arrive too early or too late, so be sure to keep your appointment on time.
If you are the one who is entertaining, never be late. It makes a very bad impression.
In China, business entertainment often takes longer than expected.
It is especially important to allow plenty of time for meetings, especially when meeting with business partners for the first time or negotiating important contracts.
A schedule with plenty of time to spare will allow for unexpected problems.
And reading time cues is another important business skill.
For example, it is a signal for the host to take his or her seat or toast the table. It is common for the meeting not to begin until the other party has signaled the time.
Waiting for these cues helps build trust with the other party.
About Seats
In Chinese business entertainment, seating arrangements also have manners.
In Chinese culture, the seating position of the host and guests is very important.
The host should sit in a superior position to the guests. Typically, the host sits in the center of the table and the guests sit around the host.
In traditional Chinese seating arrangements, as in Japan, there is a concept of kamiza (upper seat) and shitaza (lower seat).
The upper seat is the most important seat and is generally located on the north side. The lower seat is located on the south side and is lower than the upper seat.
Seating for elders and persons of high rank: Elders and persons of high rank are generally seated in the upper section. If they are not present, the host will sit in the upper seat.
In business entertaining, it is important to arrange seating based on the business relationship.
Important clients and partners should be seated close to the host, and the other party’s president and senior executives should be seated at the same table as their own president and senior executives.
See 沪江沪江网hujiang “接待礼仪” at https://www.hujiang.com/zhichang_s/jiedailiyi/ ( viewed on May 2, 2023)
About Alcoholic Beverages
Alcohol is an important value in Chinese entertainment.
This is because the culture is one of communication and trust building over drinks.
When pouring alcohol, pour before the other person’s glass is empty. Also, when the glass is empty, ordering immediately after yourself before the other person orders may cause discomfort to the other person.
In China, the toast is called “ganbei” (dried cup). However, ganbei means to drink the same amount as the other person in one gulp, so if you think the other person is weak, toast with a smaller amount so as not to inconvenience them.
Try to match the amount you drink with the person you are drinking with. Also, if the other party is about to get drunk, deal with it skillfully by getting up and leaving the table before you do.
Also, drinking every time you make a toast is quite a lot, so be aware of your alcohol tolerance while attempting this.
In recent years, it has been said that it is not necessary to drink up every toast, so it is advisable to make a judgment based on the situation.
As mentioned above, it is important to pay attention to detailed manners when serving alcoholic beverages for business entertainment with Chinese people, taking the other party into consideration.
Tobacco Manners
Although the non-smoking trend is being reinforced in China, there tends to be a fair number of smokers.
Therefore, when entertaining, if the other party is a smoker, choose a restaurant that allows smoking or has a smoking area.
If you are both smokers, it is rude to decline an invitation to smoke.
However, if you do not smoke, you can tell them you are a non-smoker and politely decline.
In China, when you smoke a cigarette, it is good manners to offer your own cigarette to the other person before lighting it.
In addition, when the other person smokes, he or she will be offered cigarettes in opposition, so do not offer your own cigarettes but accept them.
Souvenirs for Chinese
China, like Japan, has a souvenir culture.
We recommend souvenirs that would be appreciated by Chinese visitors to Japan.
There are occasions when you give not only souvenirs, but also corporate souvenirs and image items.
In doing so, please note that there are taboo items that should not be sent as gifts to Chinese people.
Here are some taboo items that should not be given to Chinese people.
Place clocks and wall clocks
Clock is pronounced “bell” or “chong” in Chinese.
The word for “present a clock” is “send a bell,” and the same pronunciation is used for “send an end” to mark the end of a person’s life.
Therefore, table clocks and wall clocks are items that are never given as gifts because they are associated with mourning death.
Since watches are common in Japan as souvenirs, care should be taken here as well to avoid inadvertently sending them.
handkerchief
Since Japan has wonderful handkerchiefs and hand towels, handkerchiefs are often chosen as small gifts even among Japanese people.
Although you might choose it as a light souvenir, a handkerchief is considered an unsuitable gift because it is said to be associated with sadness.
socks
Socks are another taboo item, although they may not be given often among business people.
Many socks are popular among Japanese foreigners, such as Japanese motifs and toe socks, but socks have the meaning of “good riddance,” so refrain from using them.
purse
Chinese people basically do not give wallets as gifts. Because of the belief that wallets are a source of wealth, they choose their own wallets.
And it is best to avoid the gift of a purse, as it sends the message that you are not in control of your finances.
umbrella
Sending an umbrella means, “I want you to get away from me.
Umbrella is pronounced “san” in Chinese. Therefore, it is not chosen as a gift as it is pronounced the same as the word for scattering “sun” and evokes the image of parting.
Green or white hat
In China, during the Ming Dynasty, there was a law that a person who was unfaithful to his wife had to wear a green-colored dressmaker’s hat, so there are still vestiges of green hats today that mean a person has been unfaithful.
White hats are also not very popular because they remind people of the dead, and white hats remind people of death costumes.
Avoid giving either of these gifts, even if they are company memorabilia.
Example of Japanese cultural experience entertainment with a special feeling suitable for Chinese business entertainment
A more effective and successful way of entertaining Chinese guests, tailor-made Japanese cultural experiences.
Here we will show you how to prepare a Japanese cultural experience for your special entertainment.
Why Japanese cultural experiences are recommended for Chinese business entertainment
If you are looking for a way to entertain Chinese people in a way that preserves their face and makes them feel special, we recommend planning a Japanese cultural experience for your entertainment.
This is because you can tailor the plan to suit the person you are planning to entertain, making it a “special” entertainment plan full of “specialness” that will help them save face.
We can then prepare the lively and luxurious content that many Chinese prefer and the experience that you can savor because you are special.
Here, we would like to introduce the details of the Japanese cultural experiences that Motenas Japan has organized for the entertainment of many wealthy Chinese people.
Please take a look at it for reference.
Recommended related article: Japanese cultural experiences popular among foreigners! Recommended 12 Experiential Sightseeing & VIP Entertainment
Chinese entertainment with professional geisha who make a good face
Japanese geisha are professionals in hospitality. It is still a popular Japanese cultural experience for Chinese business entertainment.
The reason for the popularity among the wealthy Chinese is, again, the attractiveness of the beautiful geisha and the opportunity to enjoy Japanese dance.
A decade ago, the image of geisha was that they were popular among men, but today they are very popular among women as well.
Geisha entertainment is still very special, and we can provide special entertainment for your important Chinese guests.
Geishas are skilled at putting up a good front, so you can leave the entertainment to them with peace of mind.
It is also popular for birthday parties and kanreki celebrations.
Recommended related articles: [Geisha play experience for first-time visitors] 4 examples of custom-made entertainment for important foreign guests
Kabuki viewing in a private room popular with VIP Chinese
I would recommend the Kabuki experience to VIPs and wealthy Chinese.
A popular Kabuki experience at Motenas Japan is the plan to dine while viewing Kabuki in a private room.
Kabuki is a traditional Japanese performing art that people usually go to places like the Gionza Theater to watch. There is something special about having a meal while watching such a prestigious kabuki performance.
If this is an important occasion for entertaining important Chinese clients, it is still important to deliver a VIP feeling of a special experience in a prestigious atmosphere.
So, the Kabuki tailor-made entertainment is what I would recommend to the very important Chinese people.
Recommended related article: What is Kabuki from a foreigner’s point of view? Why it is popular overseas and why it can be used for entertainment
Gorgeous Ooku-style kimono dressing experience popular among Chinese women
Many foreigners are interested in wearing the kimono, the traditional Japanese folk costume.
A photo studio where visitors can have their photo taken in kimono is a popular tourist experience, especially among tourists from China.
If you are preparing such a kimono experience for entertaining wealthy Chinese, choose a kimono that is not usually available.
Motenas Japanese Ooku-style kimonos, oiran (courtesan) kimonos, and other gorgeous kimono experiences are very popular among wealthy Chinese women.
You will all look like princesses in your expensive kimonos.
Recommended Related Articles: [History and Basic Knowledge of Kimono] How to Explain to Foreigners and Experience Traditional Japanese Culture by Dressing
Welcoming reception entertainment at Ninja, where a spectacular presentation is appreciated.
The combination of ninja and entertainment in a show is the perfect plan for a celebration.
This is because the ninja is a Japanese icon and a Japanese image that many people admire.
The ninja entertainment will offer a spectacular show, with state-of-the-art light and sound effects added to the acrobatics of the ninja.
The combination of the recognizable ninja and a spectacular show will enhance the entertainment of group guests, welcome parties, celebrations, and other glamorous occasions.
Special entertainment at Ninja is a great way to enliven the entire venue.
Recommended related article: [Explaining the Ninja in English] 5 Recommended NINJA Experiences
summary
In this issue, we have introduced some pointers on how to entertain Chinese people.
The Chinese are a proud people who value face value.
With important guests, it is important to remember their names, know their preferences, and always remember how “special” they are to each other.
Entertainment also plays an important role as an opportunity to express how special and important a person is to you.
It is said that character and personal relationships are important in any business, and in order to deepen friendships with Chinese people, it is necessary to pay careful attention to details without being rude. At Motenas Japan, we are happy to provide you with a tailor-made Japanese cultural experience.
Please feel free to contact us at any time for a consultation on planning the perfect special entertainment for your special guests from China.

日本独自のおもてなし文化を世界中の人へ広めるために日夜努力しています。外国人の方の接待やおもてなしのご相談はお気軽にご連絡ください。お問い合わせはこちら
Ultimate Esthetic Experience at Veteran Salon in Kansai for extreme relaxation and beauty
2023年05月01日When it comes to high-end esthetic salons for VIPs, there’s an image of a luxurious space exuding sophistication where only the chosen few can experience top-notch services. But what sets them apart from regular esthetic salons? And what exactly is the “supreme esthetic experience” offered by MoTenas Japan?
We visited e’H2O SPA, operated by the well-established esthetic group “H2O” in Kansai, located in the Swiss Hotel in Namba, Osaka, to experience the ultimate esthetic treatment.
Luxury esthetic experience in a tea room
Old-established Esthetic Salon in Kansai
The place I visited this time was the well-established esthetic salon “e’H2O SPA” located inside the Swiss Hotel in Namba, Osaka. e’H2O has been loved by many people for over 30 years and is popular among various famous people and foreigners for its high-quality techniques and services. It is a high-end esthetic salon that boasts top-class quality and technical skills in the industry, and has many stores in the Kansai area.
In addition, the cosmetics used in the salon are of the highest quality and are developed and researched under their own brand. The quality of their products is so high that it is very popular, even among many fans overseas.
We develop treatments and products that purify and balance the mind and body, based on the concept of Japanese hospitality, with the desire to invigorate everyone’s mind and body with Japanese (wa) hospitality and techniques.
A Special Moment Spent in an Authentic Tea Room
When you step into the e’H2O SPA on the 11th floor of the Swiss Hotel, a five-star hotel in Namba, Osaka, you will be transported to a uniquely Japanese healing space, as if you have entered a different world.
The six tea rooms, each with its own distinctive character, are authentic examples of traditional Japanese architecture. They feature tokonoma (alcoves), hanging scrolls, and calligraphy, and beyond the windows lies a Japanese garden, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of a top-class inn in Kyoto.
The ceiling of the tea room is made low, just like in the real thing, and outside the tea room, there is a faithful reproduction of the “ro” where the tea is prepared, and a “machiai” where guests wait. This attention to detail is one of the unique attractions that delights not only foreigners but also Japanese people.
Luxurious esthetic treatment by three top-notch therapists
We want to provide the ultimate service that satisfies all five senses and leaves our customers feeling fully content both physically and mentally. founders commitment is to provide top-notch quality expertise and first-class hospitality that truly pampers the customers. The therapists at e’H2O SPA are all beauty professionals with exceptional technical skills and service-mindedness. They always put the customers first, and they approach each customer with the attitude that whether or not they will see them again depends on their own skills. This time, Motenas Japan offers a treatment by three top-notch therapists who provide an extraordinary, immensely effective, and blissful treatment that cannot be experienced under normal circumstances, promising an exquisite esthetic experience.
Experience the highest-class plan for VVIPs!
Greeted with the luxurious scent of natural fragrances
As soon as you step into the salon, a Japanese-style space spreads out before your eyes, and you’ll feel as if you’ve time-traveled back to the Edo period with a full-fledged Japanese tea room in front of you. You can sit on the sofa next to the tea room and relax while enjoying a welcome drink, gazing at the Japanese garden in front of you.
All of the drinks offered are carefully crafted with a focus on being gentle to the body. I chose the Elderflower herbal beverage, and with just one sip, I feel enveloped in its natural sweetness and the delightful fragrance of flowers, giving me a pleasant feeling of relaxation as if the tension in my shoulders has dissipated. We offer top-quality tea made with carefully selected and blended premium tea leaves, chosen for their fragrance and taste, that are customized and ordered from the long-established Fukujuen tea shop with a commitment to the finest green tea. It adds a sense of uniqueness to have a selection of specialty drinks, rather than just ordinary ones like coffee or tea.
Offering original plans by beauty professionals
While enjoying a welcome drink, a knowledgeable and experienced beauty counselor will listen to your skin concerns, physical discomfort, and other beauty-related issues, and suggest a tailored, customized plan that meets your needs and desires. For this occasion, I have decided to leave it to the professionals and experience the VIP hospitality course.
Relaxation time at the luxurious spa of Swissotel Nankai Osaka
First, to enhance the effectiveness of the massage, we will warm up your body at the spa before receiving the treatment. The assigned therapist will guide you to the adjacent spa at the Swiss hotel and explain the usage of the locker room. After removing your makeup, you can enjoy the relaxation time in the spacious Jacuzzi bath. It feels special to be able to use the spa exclusively for hotel guests and gym members.
When it is time for the treatment, the assigned therapist will come to pick you up. You can feel relieved and experience the meticulous service spirit without any worries of getting lost in an unfamiliar place.
Full-body massage with custom-made luxurious herbal oil
“The treatment room where I received the treatment was a soothing space where I could enjoy a Japanese garden view from the window. It made me feel like I was in a temple in Kyoto, forgetting that I was in a high-rise tower hotel.
I lay on a comfortably heated bed and received a full-body lymphatic massage, followed by muscle-stretching massage to ease tension. Surrendering myself to the therapist’s skilled hand movements, I enjoyed a slow and thorough massage with the luxurious and natural scent of high-quality plant oil for effective skin care.
The therapist was a pro, who noticed my physical discomforts without me saying a word, such as “your legs tend to swell” or “you seem to be slightly constipated.” The massage pressure was just right, not too strong or too weak, and it released the tension in my body, leaving me feeling relaxed and supple. The view of the tea room ceiling, wooden beams, and the outdoor scenery outside the window that I occasionally glimpsed at, further calmed my mind, making it a truly healing Japanese-style space.”
Advanced facial course with quality serum
Next up is a luxurious facial massage using H2O’s original cosmetics, generously applying one bottle of the product. First, the Natu-Relaxing Cleansing, derived from plants, is used to thoroughly remove makeup and dirt from the pores. The soft foam and gentle natural scent provide a refreshing feeling that leaves the skin feeling clean and moisturized even after wiping it off carefully.
This is a luxurious facial massage using a highly concentrated beauty serum called HAS, which is specialized for anti-aging care. Using an entire bottle, the serum is carefully applied to provide nourishment to every corner of the skin. The therapist’s hands move in a precise and rhythmic, yet graceful manner that feels extremely comfortable, as if touching a baby’s skin. It’s truly a heavenly experience.
The combination of strong pressure point massage to stimulate the lymphatic system on the face is very pleasant, and it is said that a small face effect can also be expected. This is a course that is truly a blissful experience, as the combination of techniques that increase blood flow and recover muscles results in a tightened and glowing face with improved elasticity all at once.
Experience Blissful Relaxation with our Special Head Massage
Next up is a head massage enveloped in the fragrance of cherry blossoms. Starting with a scalp cleanse using cleansing milk, this massage focuses on slowly loosening the scalp pressure points and head muscles, which are said to have 50 pressure points. It relieves tension in the muscles and nerves in the head, neck, and shoulders, promotes blood circulation, and leads you to a state of deep relaxation. With the therapist’s excellent hand movements and taking the time to give a thorough massage, I felt so comfortable that I could fall into a deep sleep, and my body felt light as a feather. This is truly the epitome of paradise.
Elegant Relaxation Time at Hotel Spa
After the treatment, I went back to the Spa at Swissotel Nankai Osaka to wash off the hair treatment and body oil. I enjoyed the Spa time while being careful not to wash off the glossy face that was full of serum. I could freely use the makeup space inside the Spa area or e’H2O SPA salon to dry my hair and do my makeup to prepare myself.
Enjoy Matcha Served in a Beautiful Tea Bowl
After experiencing the ultimate treatment and feeling refreshed, I was served a delicious bowl of matcha tea, which was prepared right there. The taste of the authentic matcha tea, savored in a beautiful patterned tea bowl, was exceptional. It was the perfect time for relaxation, and the taste of the tea seemed to seep into my body, allowing me to truly unwind from the depths of my heart.
Our in-house brand cosmetics are safe and additive-free
Prioritize good water and natural ingredients
During years of operating an esthetic salon, they had used various high-end cosmetics, but they had never been truly satisfied with their effectiveness and safety.
The goal was to create safe and effective cosmetics that suit Japanese skin, and they focused on improving the quality of water, which makes up 90% of cosmetics, to achieve this. They created the highest quality cosmetics that are safe and secure without the use of mineral oils or preservatives, and are suitable for the best luxury esthetic salons.
In addition, many people who visit the esthetic salon have skin troubles, and it is difficult to achieve the desired results without helping them with their daily care as well as salon treatments. This is also one of the reasons why they are particular about their in-house brand cosmetics.
Highly effective H2O cosmetics
We have developed cosmetics that utilize the experience, knowledge, and vast data of facial treatments that have been cultivated for over 30 years since the establishment of our salon. We carefully select materials and believe that the quality of “water” is very important even in high-quality cosmetics since the human body is made up of 60% to 70% water. Our cosmetics are highly effective, and they are popular not only among our salon customers but also in overseas online shops.
I am also using the cosmetics after the treatment, and I am very happy to feel that my skin is more hydrated and has regained its elasticity like never before. It is a cosmetic that I would like to continue using from now on.
HAS Medical Cosmetics
This is the No.1 aging care product with a high repeat purchase rate.
It contains a rich concentration of 150 types of growth factors, including Human Adipose-derived Stem Cell Conditioned Media (HAS), which is known to contain a variety of beauty ingredients. The extraction method is patented, and we use culture media from prostemic, a leading manufacturer of stem cells. By encapsulating this excellent stem cell conditioning media in nanosized capsules, it can be delivered to the deep layers of the skin in a fresh state. This product provides remarkable effects on moisturizing and anti-aging care for a long time. It also contains high-quality beauty ingredients, such as Resveratrol, β-glucan, triple collagen, and triple hyaluronic acid, which are considered high-end aging care ingredients. This beauty serum/cream is exclusively developed for professionals, especially for high-pressure oxygen nutrition injection course in Esthetic Salon H2O.
Effects: Reduces blemishes caused by sunburn, provides anti-aging care, improves skin firmness, and promotes clear skin.
Naturamorethik Series
We use “e-Energy Water,” which has excellent oxidation-reduction power to suppress rust, and is developed with a focus on water. Our organic cosmetics are additive-free (no mineral oil, preservatives, synthetic fragrances, or synthetic colors), making them gentle on the skin.
[Water-based moisturizing cream Hada-Jun]
All-in-one gel that functions as a toner, lotion, beauty serum, cream, mask, eye cream, and lip balm.
Tighten and moisturize your skin with rich beauty ingredients. It’s an excellent moisturizing skincare product that can also be used as a gel pack.
[Moisturizing cleansing foam]
A foam-type cleanser that completes both makeup removal and facial cleansing in one wash. Made with 100% natural ingredients that are gentle on the skin, it effectively removes dirt while keeping the skin moisturized. Can also be used as a 30-second pack (even over makeup).
[Moisturizing essence EX]
A luxurious beauty ingredient jointly developed by Kyoto University and Osaka City University, this moisturizing toner has a texture similar to a penetrating essence.
It contains Narusgen, an amino acid derivative that helps boost the skin’s natural recovery power from within, increasing the water content of the stratum corneum to enhance barrier function and activate cells, resulting in moisturized, elastic, firm, and translucent skin.
Lifting gel CogaoV
A mysterious gel cream that instantly lifts the skin, formulated with seven minerals (power stones) that act on the meridians of traditional Chinese medicine. The natural vibrations (vibration and frequency) of the minerals stimulate the acupuncture points, promoting the flow of meridians and restoring muscles to their original position. As a result, blood and lymph flow improves, and facial and body contours become more defined, leading to a clear, radiant complexion without dullness.
Luxurious service and hospitality: “Omotenashi Esthetic”
From arrival to departure is one course
The service provided by e’H2O SPA is not just about the therapist’s massage techniques, but also about the entire experience from the moment you walk in. As the founder says, ‘We consider the moment you smell the aroma upon entering the salon, the welcoming smile, checking on the customer’s condition after the treatment, allowing them to take a rest with tea and a feeling of happiness before they leave as a single course, which represents the spirit of Japanese hospitality.’ The founder’s commitment to providing such a refined service is the ultimate secret to healing people and providing a deep sense of satisfaction, which I personally experienced and truly felt.
Treasure every encounter with our customers
We always prioritize ‘customer first’ in our approach. Our therapists always maintain the mindset that whether they can meet the customer again depends on their own skills, and provide their services accordingly. As the concerns and requests of customers in their 20s differ from those in their 60s, our motto is to approach each customer with the intention of being with them for their entire life, understanding their needs and providing tailored services.
First-class therapists have hands that act as stethoscopes
The founder of the spa emphasizes that it is not about using techniques learned from books, but about adjusting the pressure and strength to meet the needs of each individual customer, which is the key to satisfying them. As they have mastered a range of techniques from soft effleurage to deep tissue massage, they can tailor their services to meet the diverse needs of customers of different ages and physical conditions. The therapists are also meticulous about caring for their fingers on a daily basis.
Therapists who inherit the founder’s passion
The therapist who gave me the treatment was petite, but she was able to apply strong pressure, so I asked her if she wasn’t tired. She replied, “By touching our client’s body, we also receive healing.” I was surprised and impressed that she saw the treatment as a form of work, and it made me realize that the founder’s mindset has truly been passed down to all the staff.
Traditional Japanese hospitality service
H2O Salon values traditional Japanese hospitality with “tea ceremony” and “incense ceremony”.
Tea ceremony is a Japanese traditional hospitality that H2O Salon values, which offers a serene space of “wabi-sabi” away from the disorder of daily life. In a small tea room, you can experience the art of tea ceremony and enjoy a bowl of matcha while feeling the soothing sense of unity incorporated into it.
And, Kodo is an art of appreciating fragrance. Similar to Chado, Kado, and Noh, it originated in the Muromachi period.
“Moon Koh” is a highly spiritual style of incense appreciation passed down since the Muromachi period, which involves discerning the subtle fragrances of incense woods. Beginning with an approach to the inner body through incense appreciation, the treatment starts by balancing the mind and body with the fragrances of “Kyara,” the highest-quality incense, and “Byakudan,” among others. It invites you to a luxurious and elegant world that pleases all five senses through the fragrant and satisfying richness of incense.
Summary
I had the privilege of experiencing a top-notch esthetic treatment for VIPs and listening to the founder’s story, which made me realize that the finest esthetic salon is top-notch in every aspect, including first-class techniques and treatments in a healing atmosphere, high-quality and effective cosmetics.

日本独自のおもてなし文化を世界中の人へ広めるために日夜努力しています。外国人の方の接待やおもてなしのご相談はお気軽にご連絡ください。お問い合わせはこちら
Perfecting Hospitality in Japan : Tips for Successful Business Entertaining with International Guests
2023年04月25日
When entertaining a foreigner for business, you may have more trouble than if the person you are entertaining is Japanese.
The reason behind this, I think, is to make sure that the other party will not feel uncomfortable due to differences in manners and etiquette arising from differences in culture and customs.
This article introduces points to keep in mind when entertaining foreigners for business, as well as recommended methods of entertainment.
This article will give you tips on how to smoothly plan business entertainment with foreigners.
We hope you will find this information useful in planning your international entertainment.
Overseas Entertainment
Each overseas country has its own culture and customs.
Here is an introduction to hospitality in cultures such as Asia, the West, and Arab countries.
Circumstances of foreign hospitality from Western countries
Entertainment in Europe and the United States is basically centered on meals. Entertainment is not encouraged as much as in Asia, but it is not entirely absent.
In some cases, people are in positions (official positions) where all dinners and gifts are prohibited outside of working hours, so it is important to consider this in advance, but in general, dinners and other entertainment are normal.
The most common type of entertainment in the U.S., other than dinners, is invitations to charity events organized by companies.
Invite company officials who wish to be entertained to a charity event organized by your company, such as a charity golf outing, charity auction, or charity party.
Then there is entertainment, such as going to sports games or concerts together.
Therefore, entertaining Westerners who come to Japan for dinner parties, golf receptions, Japanese cultural experiences, and celebrations will feel natural.
Circumstances of foreign reception from Asian countries
When entertaining foreigners from China and other Asian countries for business, you must be careful to “make them feel respectable.
Be aware that especially in China and Korea, it is not legal to be rude to superiors.
When you make a toast, take a sip. Many people tend to think that making a toast enhances interaction.
However, since you will be entertaining in Japan and not mainland China, there will be some differences, but keep in mind that it is customary to order extra food and leave it behind.
Even if you are a confident drinker, it is hard to keep the glass constantly empty until the after-party, no matter how strong your drink is. So it would be nice if you can find a balance while socializing.
Most business entertainment in Asia consists of a dinner and an after-party.
Since the atmosphere of the dinner is one of getting to know each other slowly in a relaxed setting, it is a good idea to choose a relaxed restaurant.
For after-party parties, lively places such as karaoke clubs and cabarets are preferred, while entertaining in a private room like a VIP room is said to be popular because of its special atmosphere.
Anyway, Asian entertainment is also a place to drink alcohol, so be sure to properly assess your own health while entertaining.
Circumstances of foreign hospitality from Arab countries
In Arab countries, few people drink alcohol for religious reasons.
For this reason, never plan entertainment over drinks.
Entertainment in Arab countries is based on invitations to dinner parties in homes. However, many people follow the customs of other countries and accept meals at hotels and restaurants.
When entertaining in Japan, if it is difficult to host many people at your home, prepare a private room or a separate room in a ryotei restaurant that has a home-like atmosphere.
Eating with the left hand, handing things with the left hand, and shaking hands with the left hand are also not allowed. This is a point to be aware of, as it is quite impolite.
Knowing the differences in culture and customs well in advance will help your important entertainment go well.
Points to keep in mind when entertaining foreigners for business
Here are three points to keep in mind when entertaining foreigners.
Dining with foreigners
Even when entertaining with foreigners, isn’t a dinner still the basis of the event?
In this case, you should try to hold down a restaurant that is suitable for entertaining foreigners.
It is preferable to have as much quiet as possible, preferably in a private room, so that the conversation is not stressful for both parties.
And it is also important to choose a restaurant that has a menu that can accommodate those who cannot eat certain foods, such as for religious or health reasons.
If halal or vegan food is available, you can choose it yourself. Or ask in advance.
For business entertainment with foreigners visiting Japan, we recommend a restaurant where you can enjoy delicious Japanese food or a restaurant where you can have a unique Japanese experience.
Many people want to experience a little bit of Japan during their short and busy stay in Japan, so we are sure they will be pleased with the experience.
Recommended related article: [Now You Know] Entertaining Foreigners with Kaiseki Cuisine
Business Entertainment and Drinks
Alcohol is often served during business entertainment, but be aware that there are cultural differences in how alcoholic beverages are enjoyed.
In Asia, especially in China and Korea, it is customary to drink up the glass after raising it in a toast.
The stronger the drink, the more exciting it tends to be, especially if it is strong, so don’t read the atmosphere and drink too much…
If you really can’t or don’t want to drink a lot of alcohol, tell them that you want to drink but can’t for health reasons.
In the West, it is not customary to pour a glass of sake, and one should not keep pouring just because the other person’s glass is empty. It is rude to do so, so it is best to refrain from doing so.
If your glass and the other person’s glass are empty, ask, “Would you like another glass? and then pour. After pouring into the other person’s glass, pour into your own glass as well.
Most people in Arab countries do not drink for religious reasons. It would be impolite to set up a place for drinking, so it is recommended to plan entertainment in a way other than drinking.
Recommended Related Article:Sake experience to entertain foreigners! Reasons for popularity, 5 sake recommendations and 6 event examples
Souvenirs when entertaining foreigners
In Japan, the custom of giving souvenirs is deeply rooted, so the feeling of being empty-handed for entertainment is somehow very uncomfortable.
However, the custom of giving souvenirs is not universal, and some people sometimes feel that giving souvenirs for business entertainment is like a bribe.
Therefore, tell them that Japan has a custom of giving souvenirs and that you really want to give them a gift, and choose a gift that will not be a burden for them.
However, for foreigners from other Asian countries, souvenir culture is just as important as it is in Japan.
The sense of market price is similar to that of Japan, so it would be nice to choose something nice from among those that are typical of Japan.
Especially in China, the return gift should be of equal value at all times. Anything more or less expensive than the item or thing received is considered rude.
On the other hand, in Western countries, luxury souvenirs that feel like bribes are often not accepted, and small gifts or mementos are preferred.
As you can see, the value of souvenirs differs from country to country, so please respect the country and culture of the recipient.
Specific business entertainment methods for foreign visitors to Japan
So, what are some ways to entertain business visitors to Japan?
Here are some specific methods that are effective for business entertainment with foreigners.
dining entertainment
The easiest way to set up a reception is to have a dinner.
The method of planning business entertainment with foreigners will be the same as planning entertainment between Japanese.
Unlike among Japanese people, the key point to keep in mind is to dine together while respecting differences in religion, customs, and culture.
And we recommend that you choose a quiet restaurant, taking into consideration the ease with which you can hear each other’s conversations.
If possible, it would be safer to have a private room available so that you can entertain guests in a relaxed atmosphere.
Many foreigners visiting Japan want to try delicious Japanese food, so you will be pleased if you choose a restaurant where you can enjoy wonderful Japanese cuisine for your reception dinner.
Recommended Related Articles: 17 Restaurants and Izakayas in Tokyo for Entertaining Foreigners
Sports Entertainment
Golf is still a representative of sports entertainment, isn’t it?
Golf entertainment has become a hot topic of conversation with former U.S. President Trump’s reception of state guests. It can be said that golf entertainment is common all over the world, including the United States.
The charm of golf entertainment, where golfers leave the city behind and become closer to each other as they sweat together on the course in the great outdoors, is undiminished.
And in recent years, an increasing number of health-conscious businesspeople, especially those in their late 30s and 40s, are mainstreaming a wellness mindset that sees the value in positive physical and mental benefits.
When entertaining someone who values the wellness philosophy, sports entertainment, rather than lavish meals and drinks, will make a good impression.
Entertainment x sports can be combined in many ways.
In addition to golf, other popular ways to incorporate sports such as squash, climbing, gym and yoga into business entertainment are also popular, but if you are considering sports for business entertainment for foreign visitors to Japan, martial arts x entertainment is recommended.
In Japan, there are many martial arts such as karate, judo, kyudo, kendo, aikido, and sumo.
Japanese martial arts are very popular overseas, and a surprisingly large number of people have a personal taste for them, and many people tend to be impressed by the experience of martial arts in Japan. (Reference: Ministry of Sports, Martial Arts Tourism https://sporttourism-japan.com/budo.html)
Why not plan entertainment with martial arts as the keyword and bring each other closer while sweating together?
Recommended related article: [For Wealthy Foreigners] Tailor-made Sumo Experience! How to entertain VIPs at the national sport
hospitality (industry)
Besides dinner, the most popular entertainment for foreigners visiting Japan is sightseeing entertainment. This is a form of entertainment in which you provide sightseeing tours of Japan on your days off from work.
Since you will be together the entire way, you will be closer to each other, and if you can escort the sightseeing entertainment well, your points will be much higher.
For sightseeing entertainment, hold out in advance the areas that you think will please your guests, and build your schedule according to their preferences.
For VIPs and wealthy clients, many change their plans on the spot, so the key is to plan with plenty of time to spare.
Please refer to the following article for a list of recommended spots for sightseeing for business entertainment in Tokyo.
Tokyo sightseeing for entertaining foreign guests! Introducing recommended spots by area
And if you are planning a full-day tour guide from morning to night, we recommend booking a Japanese cultural experience along the way.
There are many possibilities for Japanese cultural experiences for foreigners, from tea ceremony experiences to Japanese dance, Japanese drums to martial arts, with traditional Japanese culture as a keyword.
We can also offer a custom-made Japanese cultural experience project for important guests, which will be appreciated as a very special experience.
Japanese cultural experience for entertainment
Japanese cultural experience is a program for foreigners to experience Japanese culture.
From tea ceremony, flower arrangement, karate and calligraphy to Japanese cooking and candy crafting, you can experience all of the traditional Japanese arts under the guidance of experts.
Therefore, entertainment that allows people to actually experience Japanese culture has the advantage of deepening friendship while deepening understanding of Japanese culture.
There are as many possibilities for content as there are for traditional Japanese culture, and custom-made programs can be tailored to meet your needs, making them perfect for entertaining.
I will now introduce five popular traditional Japanese cultural experiences for business entertainment for foreigners, starting with the next item.
Related article: Japanese cultural experiences popular among foreigners! Recommended 12 Experiential Sightseeing & VIP Entertainment
How to Entertain Foreigners at a Tea Ceremony Experience
Tea ceremony entertainment, which is always planned for entertaining state guests, is a Japanese cultural experience suitable for entertaining foreigners.
This is because the Japanese tea ceremony is steeped in the spirit of hospitality, which is embodied in the gentle, quiet time spent in a tea room surrounded by serenity and a cup of tea.
This is especially recommended for entertaining foreigners who cannot be entertained with alcohol from Arab countries.
In addition to enjoying a cup of tea, a popular plan is to actually try on a kimono and do the ode by yourself.
There is a deep philosophy behind the tea ceremony, and tea utensils are very attractive to foreigners, making it an interesting world with high artistic value.
Wagashi (Japanese confectionery) is also popular among foreigners, and some visitors enjoy the experience of making wagashi in combination with their visit to the museum.
We can talk about the tea ceremony in a relaxed and important way while experiencing the tea ceremony with our valued guests, and most importantly, we can give you an unforgettable time.
Recommended related article: [Practice by expatriates] Omotenashi with Tea Ceremony and Kimono
How to Entertain Foreigners with Karate Experience
Karate is a Japanese martial art popular in foreign countries.
It is estimated that there are more than 130 million karate enthusiasts worldwide and that karate is popular in 193 countries.
Therefore, it is possible that the person you are entertaining is a karate enthusiast, and there are a surprisingly large number of people who learned karate as children.
Even for those who have never practiced karate, karate is a popular martial art that is easy to learn and popular in Japan among both children and the elderly.
The reason for this is that although karate is a martial art, it is not a direct combat sport, but rather a process of concentrating the mind while learning kata and balancing the body’s movements and balance.
Karate entertainment means changing into a dohyo and receiving direct instruction by a karateka together while mastering the kata.
It is a type of sports entertainment, but it is expected to be used as entertainment for foreign visitors to Japan because it can be experienced as a Japanese cultural experience.
Recommended Related Articles: [Basic Knowledge of Karate] Explained in English for Foreigners to Understand
How to entertain foreigners with geisha
Geisha are experts in traditional Japanese culture and have supported the Japanese economy as professionals in entertainment.
There is a method of entertaining foreigners by inviting a geisha to a reception, but it is difficult to prepare a geisha personally since geisha are deeply rooted in the culture of not accepting ichigen-san.
Tailor-made plans for foreigners can be arranged for a personalized geisha experience.
The advantage of inviting a geisha is the aspect that she is a professional Japanese dancer and a professional in hospitality that enhances the occasion.
Japanese dance is a traditional Japanese art form that is very popular among foreign women. A decade ago, geisha was perceived as a Japanese cultural experience for men, but in recent years it has become increasingly popular among foreign women.
This is due to the fact that geishas are admired by women for their beauty and attentiveness.
Thus, geisha are a Japanese cultural experience for foreigners and a delightful presence for both women and men.
Recommended related article: [Hospitality with Geisha] Foreigners are delighted! Ozashiki play and performance as an event
How to Entertain Foreigners with an Ikebana Experience
The ikebana experience is one of the most popular cultural experiences for foreigners.
Ikebana began as a warrior’s pastime, and it is said that many warlords arranged flowers to focus their nerves before a battle.
Ikebana is perfect for business people who instantly see the right place for the right person and make a series of decisions while arranging flowers as if they were there.
The Japanese-style room with a view of a Japanese garden can be used as a venue for the event, where participants can experience a more Japanese atmosphere through ideas such as arranging Japanese flowers in Japanese vases while wearing kimonos.
After ikebana, it is nice to have a smoke in the tea room.
Recommended related article: Why I recommend Ikebana for foreign team building and leadership training? Let’s build your artistic brain in the Japanese way with Ikebana!
How to Entertain Foreigners in a Kabuki Experience
One of the most popular entertainment plans at the Kabuki Experience is to view Kabuki while preparing a dinner party in a private Japanese-style room.
Kabuki is essentially a Japanese cultural experience that is enjoyed by visiting a special theater such as the Kabuki-za.
However, in our custom-made plans for entertaining foreigners, we invite real Kabuki actors to perform at the reception venue.
Motenas Japan has a reputation for being easy for foreigners new to Kabuki to understand, not only because of the performances, but also because of the explanations given by Kabuki actors before the performance.
After the performance, you can take pictures with the kabuki actors and ask them questions about kabuki directly, which is also popular.
Thus, entertaining at a Kabuki experience is a popular and quite special form of hospitality.
Related articles:Recommended for inbound visitors to Japan! What is popular traditional entertainment?
summary
How was it?
In this issue, we introduced business entertainment for foreigners.
Even if the person you are entertaining is a foreigner, entertainment is still important for smooth business.
If the other party is a foreigner, it is difficult to know what points to keep in mind, but if you understand the culture and customs of the other party in advance and plan accordingly, you will surely have a smooth time.
If you are entertaining business guests visiting Japan, you can provide them with a unique and special experience by incorporating unique Japanese cultural experiences into your business entertainment.
Motenas Japan has organized many projects, so please feel free to contact us if you are interested.
Please try to plan a great reception.

日本独自のおもてなし文化を世界中の人へ広めるために日夜努力しています。外国人の方の接待やおもてなしのご相談はお気軽にご連絡ください。お問い合わせはこちら
The Ultimate Guide to Tokyo for International Visitors: Must-Visit Spots in Every Area!
2023年04月19日
When you take a foreigner on a sightseeing tour of Tokyo for business entertainment or other purposes, you may wonder what kind of places to take him or her.
In this article, we will introduce some of the best areas for sightseeing in Tokyo with foreigners, as well as recommended spots that will be appreciated by foreigners.
This article will help you to give a tour guide that will please foreigners.
Among the 10 areas that are perfect for sightseeing with special people such as business partners, here are some recommended sightseeing spots that foreigners will enjoy.
We hope you will enjoy Tokyo with foreigners.
Tokyo Station Area
The area around Tokyo Station, the gateway to Tokyo, is still a popular tourist spot for foreigners, especially “Tokyo Station” and the Imperial Palace.
This area is also recommended for sightseeing for entertainment when you are between businesses or otherwise short on time. Here are five spots that are particularly popular.
Tokyo Station Marunouchi Station Building
The Marunouchi Station Building has been restored to its original appearance of 100 years ago. A particular highlight is the north-south dome on the first floor.
Some of the reliefs from the original construction have been reproduced from what remains behind the dome ceiling, which was installed as part of the reconstruction work after the war, so visitors can enjoy the aesthetics of the Meiji era.
TOKYO STATION CITY also has commercial facilities for shopping and cafes, making it convenient for sightseeing.
It is a popular sightseeing spot as a new symbol of Tokyo’s growing beauty. At night, it is illuminated, making it a wonderful sightseeing spot.
Tokyo Station Marunouchi Station Building
Address: 1-9 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Access: Tokyo Station
Official website: https://www.tokyoinfo.com/
Imperial Palace
The Imperial Palace is the residence of the Emperor, the symbol of Japan. It is also popular among foreigners.
It is divided into three areas: the East Gardens and the Outer Gardens of the Imperial Palace, where visitors can stroll without reservations, and the Imperial Palace grounds, including the Katsura Imperial Villa, which is popular among foreigners and requires reservations. ( Imperial Palace Reservations page )
The 400-year history and seasonal Japanese flowers on the grounds make this a spot where you can feel the Japanese atmosphere in any season.
In particular, “Ninomaru Garden” is the former shogun’s villa. You can enjoy the seasonal beauty of nature in Tokyo.
More about The Imperial Palace
Address; 1-1 Outer Garden of the Imperial Palace, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Official website: http://sankan.kunaicho.go.jp/index.html
Phone: 03-3213-0095
Hours: Always open *Closed for national events, etc.
Chidorigafuchi boatyard
Chidorigafuchi Boat Park is located in Kitanomaru Park, where visitors can enjoy the rich natural scenery from the water.
Boating along the moat, visitors can see the stone walls of Edo Castle and large trees that are hundreds of years old.
In spring, it is expected to be crowded because of the cherry blossoms, but foreigners are impressed by the beauty of the hedgerows and the uniquely Japanese scenery, and are enchanted by the beauty of this spot regardless of the season.
Normally, it is open only during lunchtime. However, during the “Chiyoda-no Sakura Festival,” the hours are extended until nighttime, so you can enjoy viewing the cherry blossoms at night.
More information about Chidorigafuchi Boat Park
Address: Kudan Minami 2-chome to Sanbancho destination
Official website: https://www.city.chiyoda.lg.jp/shisetsu/koen/chidorigafuchi-boat.html
Phone number: 03-3234-1948
Access: The nearest stations are Kudanshita and Hanzomon. Both are a 10-minute walk.
Closed: ・Closed: Every Monday Closed in winter: December to February
Tokyo Ramen Street
Under the concept of “You could go to this place for a year and never get tired of it,” famous ramen restaurants representing Tokyo have gathered on the first basement floor of Tokyo Station Ichibangai.
The area is lined with some of Tokyo’s best ramen stores, including Rokurinsha, a pioneer in the tsukemen boom, and Tokyo Station Ikaruga, a seafood tonkotsu ramen restaurant that opened its first store outside the main branch.
Ramen is a very popular Japanese food among foreigners, so it is a great point of interest for lunch during sightseeing around Tokyo Station.
More about Tokyo Ramen Street
Address: 1-9-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-0005, Japan
Official website: https://www.tokyoeki-1bangai.co.jp/street/ramen/
Hours of operation: 7:30 – 23:00 (hours vary by store)
Access by train: Inside JR Tokyo Station (outside the ticket gates), right outside each ticket gate on the Yaesu side
KITTE Garden
The next spot I would like to recommend is the garden on the roof of KITTE, the first commercial facility by Japan Post in front of the Marunouchi South Exit of JR Tokyo Station.
Part of the former Tokyo Central Post Office building has been preserved and reconstructed, and the rooftop garden with its distinctive atrium atrium is highly recommended.
The garden is illuminated with soft lights such as floodlights, and the lush observation deck overlooks Tokyo Station and the Imperial Palace, which are lit up spectacularly.
Especially if you visit on a weekday evening, you will be delighted to see Tokyo Station and the Imperial Palace, as well as the neon lights of the office district and the people passing by, and you can feel Japanese society, which will be appreciated by foreigners.
Rooftop Garden “KITTE Garden” Details
Address: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Official website: http://jptower-kitte.jp/kittegarden/
Access: 1 minute walk from JR Tokyo Station
Directly connected to Tokyo Station on the Marunouchi Line from the underpass.
Approx. 2 min. walk from Chiyoda Line Nijubashimae Sta.
Open hours: 11:00-23:00 (Sun., Holidays 11:00-22:00) *Subject to weather conditions
Ginza/Yurakucho area
Ginza and Yurakucho are Tokyo’s leading office districts as well as attractive shopping and cultural areas.
Here are four recommended spots in Ginza and Yurakucho that foreigners will enjoy.
Kabuki-za (theatre in Tokyo)
The Kabuki-za Theater, where visitors can enjoy the traditional Japanese performing art of Kabuki in earnest, opened in 1889 and is the only theater in the world dedicated to Kabuki.
Although it may seem a bit intimidating, there is an English-language guide and a program that allows visitors to see only one act for those from overseas.
You can stop by the Kabuki-za Theater to see a play, or you can buy souvenirs and other items at the stores in the basement.
If a foreigner says he or she loves Kabuki and would like to see the real thing, I will show him or her around!
Recommended related article: What is Kabuki from a foreigner’s point of view? Why it is popular overseas and why it can be used for entertainment
More information about Kabuki-za
Address: 4-12-15 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
Official website: http://www.kabuki-za.co.jp/
Access: Short walk from Higashi-ginza Station [Exit 3] on Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line and Toei Asakusa Line
micro FOOD & IDEA MARKET
Opened under the concept of “a market where curiosity intersects,” this multifunctional market allows visitors to encounter people, ideas, culture, and food.
A fashionable food court and local specialties that you will want to take a closer look at. This is a great spot for foreigners as well, as it is a gathering place of good things from all over Japan.
It is conveniently accessible on foot from Yurakucho and Tokyo Stations.
More information about micro FOOD & IDEA MARKET
Address: Yurakucho Building 1F, 1-10-1 Yurakucho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Official website: https://yurakucho-micro.com/
Business hours: 11:00 – 21:00
UNIQLO Ginza
UNIQLO is a well-known Japanese brand among foreigners as it is expanding its stores worldwide, so there are a surprisingly large number of foreigners who want to buy in Japan.
Opened in 2012, UNIQLO on Ginza’s main street is the world’s largest global flagship store, with the entire 1st through 12th floors devoted to UNIQLO and a UNIQLO Cafe on the top floor.
The main difference from other stores is the wide selection of goods and the exhibition space inside the store, which is like a museum. Since duty-free procedures can be done inside the store, it is crowded with many foreign customers.
More information about UNIQLO Ginza
Address: GINZA KOMATSU East Building 1F-12F, 6-9-5 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
Phone number: 03-5159-3931
Business hours: 11:00 – 21:00
Official website: https://www.uniqlo.com/jp/
Closed New Year’s Day only
MUJI Ginza
MUJI is very popular overseas as well. The MUJI store in Ginza has 10 floors, all of which are MUJI stores, and also includes a hotel.
The store displays that allow you to fully enjoy the MUJI concept, and you can make your own original blend of tea, so it is indeed the real MUJI of Japan! You will be impressed.
MUJI HOTEL” and “MUJI diner” are also recommended. Foreigners who are fans of MUJI will be impressed.
More information about MUJI Ginza
Address: 3-3-18 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
Business hours: 11:00-21:00
Official website: https://shop.muji.com/jp/ginza/
Shiodome/Shinbashi/Shinagawa area
The Shiodome, Shinbashi, and Shinagawa areas have direct train service to Haneda Airport, which is convenient when you want to take a short sightseeing tour.
The area has many popular spots, so if you visit efficiently, you can enjoy Tokyo to the fullest in half a day.
Here are eight popular spots.
Shinbashi Enbaijo
Shinbashi Enbujo, a prestigious theater with a history dating back to 1925, is famous as the venue for “Azuma Odori,” Japanese dance performances by Kanto geisha.
The theater will feature a variety of performances, including kabuki, new school and super kabuki, contemporary plays, and musicals.
The venue offers not only performances, but also a summer-only beer stage and on-site dining, which will be appreciated by foreigners interested in traditional Japanese theater.
Recommended related articles: [Geisha play experience for first-time visitors] 4 examples of custom-made entertainment for important foreign guests
More information about Shinbashi Enbaijo
Address: 6-18-2 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
Official Website :https://azuma-odori.net
Phone number : 03-3541-2600
Access: 5 min. walk from Higashi-ginza Subway Station
Hours of operation: Varies depending on the performance.
Closest station : Higashi-ginza station on the Subway Hibiya line / Tsukiji Ichiba station on the Oedo line
Gotenyama Garden
The Gotenyama Garden, located on the south side of the Tokyo Marriott Hotel in the Gotenyama Trust City, is a garden where visitors can enjoy beautiful nature so much that it is hard to believe that they are in the middle of a city.
The approximately 2,000-tsubo (approximately 1,000-square-meter) site has a walking path with a pond and waterfalls, where you can spend a relaxing time.
Gotenyama has been famous for its cherry blossoms since the time of the 8th Tokugawa Shogun, Yoshimune.
More information about Gotenyama Garden
Address: 4-7-36 Kita-Shinagawa, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo
Official website: https://www.trustcity-g.com/
Fee: Free of charge
Access: 12 min. walk from JR Shinagawa Station, 5 min. walk from Kita-Shinagawa Station
Hours of operation: 7:00 – 19:00 hours (some hours)
Maxell Aqua Park Shinagawa
An urban aquarium located in the Shinagawa Prince Hotel.
The aquarium uses sound, light, and images to exhibit the creatures, which is a type of aquarium not often seen overseas.
The stadium-type venue offers a dolphin show and includes a merry-go-round and other attraction areas that will delight family visitors.
The jellyfish area “Jellyfish Ramble” is particularly impressive, with jellyfish gently drifting in a fantastic light display.
Maxell Aqua Park Shinagawa” Details
Address: 4-10-30 Takanawa, Minato-ku, Tokyo (in Shinagawa Prince Hotel)
Official website: http://www.aqua-park.jp/aqua/index.html
Admission: Adults 2,500 yen, elementary and junior high school students 1,300 yen, infants 800 yen
Access: 2 min. walk from Takanawa Exit of JR/Keikyu “Shinagawa” Station
Hours: Aquarium 10:00 – 20:00, Attractions 10:00 – 19:00 *Varies according to season.
Kitashinagawa Onsen Tenjin Yu
Located a 3-minute walk from Keikyu Shinbaba Station, Kita-Shinagawa Onsen Tenjinyu is a natural hot spring that can be enjoyed in Tokyo with its deep amber-colored black water.
Foreigners who love hot springs will be surprised and impressed by the rarity of the black water and the rich mineral content that makes it moist and smooth.
Even if you go empty-handed, there are sets of towels, body soap, shampoo, etc. for sale, so you can stop by whenever you feel like it.
More information about “Kitashinagawa Onsen Tenjinyu
Address: 2-23-9 Kitashinagawa, Shinagawa-ku
Official website: http://www.tenjinyu.com/
Business hours: 15:00~23:00
Entrance fee: Adults 500 yen
Closed: Friday
MariCAR Public Road Go-Karting MariCAR Public Road Go-Karting
This is an interactive sightseeing experience that allows visitors to drive around Tokyo on public roads in a Nintendo Mario Kart-like vehicle.
Starting from Shinagawa, you can choose between a 2-hour and 3-hour course that includes Tokyo Tower, Roppongi, Shibuya, and more. This is a very popular sightseeing experience for foreigners visiting Japan, and we are sure to deliver unforgettable memories.
You will need an international driver’s license, so if you plan to include it in your sightseeing plans, let them know before you come to Japan and ask them to bring it with them.
More about MariCAR Public Road Go-Karting
Address: 1-23-15 Kita-Shinagawa, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo
Phone number: 080-8899-8899
Official website: http://maricar.jp/
Business hours: 10:00-22:00
Tokyo Tower
Tokyo Tower, a 333-meter-high comprehensive radio tower located in Shiba Park, Minato-ku, Tokyo. It has long been loved by people around the world as a symbol of Tokyo.
It is also well known to foreigners, as it occasionally appears in Japanese movies and films set in Japan.
The main deck is entirely covered with large glass windows that offer a panoramic view of the entire Tokyo area, and at night you can enjoy a very atmospheric night view of Tokyo.
More information about “Tokyo Tower
Address: 4-2-8 Shiba-Koen, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Official website: https://www.tokyotower.co.jp/
Access: 7-minute walk from Kamiyacho Station on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line, 5-minute walk from Akabanebashi Station on the Toei Subway Oedo Line, 6-minute walk from Onarimon Station on the Mita Line, 10-minute walk from Shibakoen Station
Admission: Adults 900 yen, children 500 yen, infants 400 yen
Hours: Main Deck 9:00 – 23:00, Top Deck Tour 9:00 – 22:15
TOKYO WATER TAXI
In fact, water cabs were actively utilized during the Edo period (1603-1867), and were used as a means of transportation for the common people to travel around the city of Edo. Such water cabs are still in use today, and boats can be used to travel around Tokyo’s various boarding areas.
There are approximately 20 landing sites from Asakusa to Haneda, and you can specify the landing site and time of your cruise according to your schedule before and after the cruise.
You can make reservations through the website, set your own time and course, and freely travel back and forth across Tokyo Bay, allowing you to see Tokyo from a different perspective.
More information about TOKYO WATER TAXI
Official website: https://water-taxi.tokyo/
Phone number: 03-6673-2528
Access: 2 minutes walk from Tamachi Station, 5 minutes walk from Mita Station, behind Excelsior Cafe Tamachi East Exit
Fee: Varies depending on the operation menu. Please check the website for details.
Hours: 11:00 – 21:00 (depending on the operation menu) Closed on Mondays
Tsukiji Market
The Tsukiji Market is a lively place where the atmosphere of Edo period (1603-1868) seems to have remained intact. It is popular among foreigners as a sightseeing spot.
Not only can you enjoy fresh seafood, seafood, and Edomae sushi, but you can also watch the lively tuna auctions and other market activities.
It is also a fun place to eat and drink, and it is hard to decide which one to try. If you are meeting someone first thing in the morning, it is fun to start at Tsukiji.
More information about the Tsukiji Central Wholesale Market
Address: 4-10-16 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
Access: 5 min. walk from Tsukiji Subway Station Business hours: 8:00-15:00
Ryogoku/Sumida Area
The most popular Tokyo sightseeing spots for foreigners are Asakusa, Ueno, and Ryogoku areas.
Here we introduce five spots, from the landmark Tokyo Skytree to recommended facilities where you can experience the humanity and Edo chic of downtown Tokyo.
Tokyo Sky Tree
Tokyo Sky Tree, the world’s tallest tower at 634 meters, opened in 2012 and towers over downtown Tokyo.
From the TENBOU DECK, you can see the whole Kanto region, and on a clear day, you can even see Mt.
After all, many foreigners think of it first as a landmark of Tokyo, so it is a popular tourist spot in Tokyo that we would like to guide you to.
More information about Tokyo Sky Tree
Address: 1-1-2 Oshiage, Sumida-ku, Tokyo
Official website: http://www.tokyo-skytree.jp/
Fee: TEMBO DECK + TEMBO KAIRO Adults 2,500 yen
Access: 2-minute walk from the front ticket gate – entrance of Toukyou Skytree Station on the Tobu Isezaki Line (Tobu Skytree Line), etc.
Hours: 10:00 – 21:00 6F, 7F, 30F, 31F
Food and beverage outlets: 11:00-23:00
Tokyo Solamachi
Adjacent to the Tokyo Skytree is the attractive Tokyo Solamachi facility.
Tokyo Solamachi is a commercial complex with an aquarium and planetarium. Among them, there are more than 300 stores including fashion, sundries, and restaurants, so you can fully enjoy yourself all day long.
If you visit the Tokyo Sky Tower, this is the place to stop by and see.
More information about Tokyo Solamachi
Address: 1-1-2 Oshiage, Sumida-ku, Tokyo
Official website: https://www.tokyo-solamachi.jp/
Access: Tobu Isesaki Line (Tobu Skytree Line) “Toukyou Skytree Station” Main ticket gate – entrance 2 min. walk
Tobu Isezaki Line, Keisei Oshiage Line, Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line, Toei Asakusa Line “Oshiage Station” Exit B3 – entrance 3 min. walk
Toei Asakusa Line “Honjo-Azumabashi Station” Exit A5 – Entrance 8 min. walk
Tobu Isezaki Line and Kameido Line “Hikifune Station” West Exit – Entrance 15 min. walk
Hours: 10:00 – 21:00 6F, 7F, 30F, 31F
Food and beverage outlets: 11:00-23:00
Edo-Tokyo Museum
The Edo-Tokyo Museum, where visitors can enjoy a wealth of Edo culture, is a popular tourist facility for foreigners.
The permanent exhibition at the Edo-Tokyo Museum offers much about Edo culture, and is perfect for foreigners who want to learn more about Japan, such as Edo’s commerce and why Edo became Tokyo.
You can also experience Japanese culture from various angles as we offer Japanese cultural experiences for foreigners.
More about Edo-Tokyo Museum
Address: 1-4-1 Yokoami, Sumida-ku, Tokyo
Phone number: 03-3626-9974
Official website: https://www.edo-tokyo-museum.or.jp/
Hours: 9:30-17:30 (admission 30 minutes before closing)
Ryogoku Kokugikan
Ryogoku Kokugikan is recognized as the place where sumo wrestling is performed. It is a popular spot to visit when you stop by the Asakusa area.
In addition to sumo wrestling, many other events are held here, including professional wrestling, boxing, and concerts.
Souvenir shops are popular among foreigners. Many of the products are only available here, so you can’t help but spend a lot of time there.
The Sumo Museum, which is attached to the museum, has photos of past yokozuna (sumo grand champions), so those interested in sumo should definitely stop by.
More information about Ryogoku Kokugikan
Address: 1-3-28 Yokoami, Sumida-ku, Tokyo
Phone: 03-3623-5111
Hours of operation: Varies depending on content
Official website: http://www.sumo.or.jp/Kokugikan/
Drug Seimes Sumida Ryogoku Store
Japanese drugstores are popular among foreigners. It is conveniently located so that it is easy to stop by during sightseeing spots in Ryogoku.
Drug Seimes offers a wide variety of products from medicines and cosmetics to daily sundries, food beverages, and alcoholic beverages.
The cosmetics section features a lineup of popular foreign manufacturers such as Shiseido, Kanebo, Kao Sofina, and Kose.
Chinese-speaking staff are also available, so customers from China can shop with confidence.
More information about Drug Seimes Sumida Ryogoku Store
Address: Ryogoku City Core 1F, 2-10-14 Ryogoku, Sumida-ku, Tokyo
Phone number: 03-5638-0571
Official website: https://store.seims.co.jp/map/9987
Access : 4 minutes from Ryogoku Station (Toei Oedo Line / Sobu Line)
Hours of operation: Open 24 hours a day
Asakusa Area
The Asakusa area is one of the must-visit places for foreign visitors to Tokyo.
The atmosphere of the downtown area, with its Senso-ji Temple and other Edo-style buildings, will enchant you. Here are five spots we recommend.
Sensoji Temple
Senso-ji Temple is one of the most popular sightseeing spots in Tokyo. It is a popular traditional tourist spot filled with Japanese charm.
After all, it is also a popular place to experience the chic of Edo, including the famous Kaminarimon Gate.
After visiting the shrine, it is fun to take a leisurely stroll along “Nakamise-dori” and browse the stores.
The evergreen incense burner, which says, “Bathing in the smoke improves what is wrong with your body,” is very rare for foreigners, so they will be delighted if you bathe in the smoke with them while explaining its benefits.
Sensoji Temple
Address: 2-3-1 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Phone number: 03-3842~0181
Official website: http://www.senso-ji.jp/
Access: 5 min. walk from Asakusa Station on the Tobu Skytree Line
Hours: 6:00 – 17:00, 6:30 from October to March
Kappabashi Tool District
Kappabashi Togutogai is a row of specialty kitchenware stores in Tokyo. The 800-meter-long street is lined with stores specializing in tableware and cooking utensils.
Many foreigners are fascinated by the cooking utensils lined up in a narrow space, and it is a popular spot where they are happy to show visitors around.
There are also many cooking utensils unique to Japan, making it a great place for those who are particularly interested in cooking.
Kappabashi Tool Street
Address: 1-4 Matsugaya, 1-3 Nishi Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Access: 5 min. walk from Subway Tawaramachi Sta.
Hours of operation: Varies by store
Hoppy Street
Hoppy Street, located just past Nakamise-dori and Denboin-dori, is a gourmet downtown street where you can drink from noon onward.
Many foreigners find the exotic atmosphere of this street, lined with popular bars with a street stall-like appearance.
The standard gourmet food is “beef stew” and “hoppy” as well. If you are sightseeing in Asakusa with a foreigner who likes to drink, he or she will enjoy the Japanese drinking culture.
More about “Hoppy Street
Address: 2-3-19 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Access: Approx. 2 min. walk from Exit A1-1 of Tsukuba Express Asakusa Station
5 minutes walk from Exit 6 of Asakusa Station on Tokyo Metro Ginza Line.
Business hours: [Weekday]15:00-23:00/[Saturday and Sunday]9:00-23:00 Closed on Monday
amethyst
Asakusa Amezaiku Ameshin is a traditional Amezaiku specialty store that boasts the best techniques in Japan.
This is a very popular spot for foreigners, as it offers demonstrations and sales of Amezaiku, as well as hands-on Amezaiku making experience.
The candy, softened by heat, can be shaped quickly and freely, which is impressive to watch.
The Asakusa store also has a café where you can enjoy a candy-related menu.
More information about Asakusa Amezaiku Ameshin Hanakawado Store
Address: Hori Bldg. 1F, 2-9-1 Imado, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Phone number: 08093730644
Official website: http://www.ame-shin.com/
Business hours: 11:00-18:00
Hanayashiki
Hanayashiki is the oldest amusement park in Japan. The wide variety of rides is one of the secrets of its popularity among foreigners, and it can be enjoyed by both small children and adults.
The traditional Japanese fair corner will give you the feeling of a Japanese festival in any season.
Foreigners are always surprised to see a big amusement park with a retro atmosphere in a place like this! They are always amazed.
The haunted house is a great way to experience Japanese horror and will be appreciated when guiding foreigners.
More information about Hanayashiki
Address: 2-28-1 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Phone number: 03-3842-8780
Access: 3 min. walk from Asakusa Sta.
Official website: https://www.hanayashiki.net/
Business hours: 10:00-18:00 Closed on Tuesdays
Akihabara Area
From Japanese pop culture to electronics, Akihabara is an impressive town for foreigners just walking down Chuo-dori.
It has become such an important Japanese tourist attraction that it should not be missed when sightseeing in Tokyo.
Here are five spots where you can enjoy Akihabara to the fullest!
Recommended Related Articles: [Foreign Reactions to Anime and Manga] 13 Works and 5 Cultural Experiences Popular with Foreigners
AKIBA Cultures ZONE
AKIBA CULTURES ZONE is a large collection of Akihabara’s subcultures, where you can enjoy idols, anime, and anime collaboration cafes all at once.
This is a very interesting spot for foreigners interested in Japanese subculture. Many people buy goods of their favorite anime if they can find them.
If you want to be guided to a place that is uniquely Akihabara, I recommend it.
AKIBA CULTURES ZONE
Address: Akiba Culture’s Zone, 1-7-10 Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Official website: https://www.akibacultureszone.com/
Business hours: 11:00 – 21:30
Yodobashi Camera Akihabara
Yodobashi Camera Akihabara is a general electronics retailer located in front of Akihabara Station.
The image of Japan as a country of electrical appliances is still alive and well! is still alive and well, and is a must-stop destination for foreign visitors to Japan.
Especially if you get cutting-edge electronics in Akihabara, also known as “Electric Town,” it will be a memorable shopping experience.
More information about Yodobashi Camera Akihabara
Address: 1-1 Kanda Hanaoka-cho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
tel: 03-5209-1010
Official website: http://www.yodobashi-akiba.com/index.html
Business hours: 9:30-22:00
Akihabara Radio Kaikan
Akihabara Radio Kaikan is a commercial building that symbolizes Akihabara culture. It is a commercial facility that can be considered the prototype of what Akihabara looks like today.
And there are many foreigners who want to buy figures of anime and manga characters in Japan! If you want to show them around Akihabara, you should take them to Akihabara Radio Kaikan.
It is said that there is no anime merchandise that Akihabara Radio Kaikan does not have, so you are sure to find your favorite item.
More about Akihabara Radio Kaikan
Address: 1-15-16 Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Phone number: 03-3251-3711
Official website: http://www.akihabara-radiokaikan.co.jp/
Business hours: Open 10:00 – 23:00 (as for B1F, 11:30 – 23:00)
Melon Books Akihabara Store
I love Japanese manga! I would like foreigners who love Japanese manga to stop by the Mellon Books Akihabara Store.
Descending a slightly dubious staircase, you will find yourself in a deep manga world.
You might get stuck getting the Japanese version of your favorite work, or get hooked on a work that can only be seen in Japan!
More information about Melon Books Akihabara Store
Address: 1-10-5 Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Phone number: 03-5295-7060
Official website: http://www.melonbooks.co.jp/
Business hours: 11:00 – 21:30
Roppongi and Azabu Area
Don Quijote Roppongi Store
Many foreigners say, “When I go to Japan, I want to go into Don Quijote! I want to go to Don Quijote when I go to Japan!
It is also famous as the Hall of Fame for super cheap prices, and is popular among foreigners as the Hall of Fame for souvenirs.
This is a great spot for foreigners as it offers everything from Japanese sweets to cosmetics and sundries at low prices.
Since the luggage will increase dramatically on the way home, it is recommended to go in at the end of the day since the restaurant is open 24 hours a day.
More information about Don Quijote Roppongi
Address: 3-14-10 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Phone number: 0570-010-831
Official website: http://www.donki.com/search/shop_detail.php?st_store_id=31
Hours of operation: Open 24 hours a day
Roppongi Hills
Roppongi Hills is a Japanese skyscraper that houses many popular spots from commercial complexes to museums.
The observation deck is especially popular among foreigners, as both Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Sky Tower can be seen at the same time.
The Sky Deck has no windows despite being at the top of a skyscraper, so it is quite a surprising experience for foreigners.
More information about Roppongi Hills
Address: 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Official website: https://www.roppongihills.com/
Hours: Shop 11:00-20:00 / Restaurant 11:00-23:00, [Indoor Observation Deck] 10:00-22:00,
V2TOKYO
V2TOKYO, a club in Roppongi popular among foreigners. It is a good place to visit with foreigners who want to try a Japanese club! This is a recommended spot for sightseeing with foreigners who want to try a Japanese club.
From special lighting systems to Japan’s first VOID acoutics sound system Incubus, you will enjoy sounds and rhythms that resonate throughout your body.
It is recommended for those who want to enjoy a gorgeous adult nightlife.
More information about “V2TOKYO
Address: 7-13-7 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Official website: https://www.v2tokyo.com/contact/
Average budget: ¥20,000/1GUEST
Hours of operation: 21:00~.
Gonpachi Nishiazabu
Izakaya “Gonpachi Nishi-Azabu” is famous among foreigners as “Kill Bill Izakaya”.
It is so well known that it was used for a dinner by former Prime Minister Koizumi + former President Bush, and is a popular tourist staple for foreigners.
You can enjoy soba noodles made from buckwheat flour that is stone ground every day, grilled skewers carefully grilled over binchotan charcoal, and freshly fried tempura.
There are many foreign clerks, so you don’t have to worry.
More information about “Gonpachi Nishiazabu
Address: 1-13-11 Nishiazabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Phone number: 050-5571-2171
Access: 10 min. walk from Tokyo Metro Roppongi, Nogizaka or Hiroo Stations.
Official website; http://www.gonpachi.jp/nishiazabu/
Business hours: 11:30 – 3:30 (last order Food 2:45 / Drink 3:00) Lunch (weekdays) 11:30 – 15:00, Open Sunday
Budget:¥6,000~¥7,999 ¥1,000~¥1,999
Recommended Related Articles: 17 Restaurants and Izakayas in Tokyo for Entertaining Foreigners
Akasaka Area
The Akasaka area is a fun spot to visit with foreigners interested in Japanese politics, as it is home to important political facilities such as the National Diet Building and Akasaka Rikyu, the State Guest House.
Here are three recommendations.
Akasaka Rikyu, the State Guest House
The Akasaka Imperial Villa, a state guesthouse, is used to entertain presidents and other dignitaries from around the world. It is an important diplomatic facility in Japan.
As a facility used at the center of diplomacy, its glittering splendor is truly special.
If you make a reservation in advance, you can get in smoothly, so we recommend making a reservation if you have sightseeing plans.
More information about “Akasaka Rikyu, the State Guest House
Location: 2-1-1 Motoakasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Official website: https://www.geihinkan.go.jp/
Phone: 03~5728~7788
Hours: [Garden visit]10:00-16:30
National Diet Building (House of Councillors)
The National Diet Building is the center of Japanese politics. Many foreigners want to visit and see it.
Tours of the National Diet Building are offered free of charge, and we would be happy to take interested foreigners to see it.
The tour is carefully guided by a staff member, so you can see every corner of the Capitol.
More information about the National Diet Building
Address: 1-7-1 Nagatacho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Phone: 03-5521-7445
Official website: https://www.sangiin.go.jp/japanese/taiken/bochou/kengaku.html
Business hours: [Mon-Fri] 9:00-16:00
Kanetanaka, tea shop
When you want to fill your stomach a little, we recommend “Chatsuka Kanetanaka. The authentic Japanese taste is served in a modern moss-covered Japanese garden in front of the all-glass windows. This Japanese-style cafe is popular among foreigners.
You can enjoy a small meal in an authentic Japanese setting with plenty of Japanese sweet dishes.
It’s a great place to stop by with a foreigner when you are tired from your sightseeing stroll.
More about Kanetanaka
Address: 2F OAK OMOTESANDO, 3-6-1 Kita-Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Official website: http://www.kanetanaka.co.jp/
Access: 1 minute walk from Omotesando Station on the Subway Ginza Line (directly connected to the station)
Harajuku Area
Harajuku has always been the birthplace of youth culture. It is an area where you can experience Japanese culture to the extent that even a leisurely stroll is enough for sightseeing.
Here are three recommended spots.
Takeshita Street
Takeshita-dori has always been the birthplace of Japanese youth culture, and is very popular among teenagers.
Takeshita-dori in the daytime is now entertainment just by passing through! You can enjoy Japanese subculture. There is a wide variety of gourmet food including crepes.
The area is also home to many stores, so if you want to do some shopping, we recommend that you check out the stores before you go out.
More information about Takeshita-dori
Address: 1-17 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Official website: http://www.takeshita-street.com/
Access: 5 min. walk from JR Harajuku Station (Takeshita Exit)
Cat Street
The street is lined with many brand-name stores that are popular among junior high and high school girls. It is a fun area just to stroll around, as you can also enjoy vintage clothing and street fashion.
Popular spots include Bookmark, a bookstore by MARC JACOBS, bio ojiyan cafe Harajuku’s main store specializing in ojiya, and GPMAYA KUKI, a sesame ice cream store.
Many other popular cafes are also located here, making it a good rest point.
More about Cat Street
Address: Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Access: 5 min. walk from Tokyo Metro Meiji-jingumae Station, 8 min. walk from Tokyo Metro Omotesando Station
Kiddy Land Harajuku Store
Kiddy Land Harajuku is located in Harajuku, the birthplace of the original kawaii. The store offers a wide variety of Sanrio character goods, including Hello Kitty, which is very popular overseas as well.
This is a great place to pick up souvenirs, not only from Sanrio, but also from Ghibli, Pokemon, and a variety of other Japanese character goods popular overseas.
I would recommend it for those who have children.
More information about Kiddy Land Harajuku
Address: Kiddy Land Harajuku, 6-1-9 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Phone number: 03-3409-3431
Official website: http://www.kiddyland.co.jp/
Business hours: 11:00 – 20:00
Meiji Shrine
Meiji Jingu Shrine, located adjacent to Harajuku and Shibuya, offers a tranquility that is hard to believe in an urban area.
If you are tired of the crowds, you can take a gentle stroll and we recommend this place for sightseeing guidance.
How about guiding them on the way to Shibuya or Harajuku, as it will be a typical Japanese sightseeing course where you can enjoy the quietness and hustle and bustle?
More information about Meiji Jingu
Address: 1-1 Yoyogi-Kamizonocho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Phone number: 03-3379-5511
Official website: http://www.meijijingu.or.jp/
Shibuya Area
The Shibuya area is so firmly established in the image of Japan that many foreigners think of the scramble crossing in Shinjuku when they think of Tokyo.
Since this is an area where cutting-edge fashion and culture are born, the scenery changes each time you visit, which is another attraction of Shibuya.
Here are four areas.
Starbucks Coffee SHIBUYA TSUTAYA (STARBUCKS COFFEE)
Starbucks is located all over the world, but the great thing about this store is that it offers a good view of the scramble intersection.
It is shocking to actually cross the street, but you can enjoy the typical Japanese scenery as you sip coffee and watch the crowds passing by.
More information about Starbucks Coffee SHIBUYA TSUTAYA
Address: Q Front, 1F, 21-6 Udagawa-cho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Official website: http://www.starbucks.co.jp/
Magnet by Shibuya 109
Magnet by Shibuya 109″ is located right next to Shibuya Station. It is attracting attention as a new spot for gourmet food and culture.
The DJ lounge in the food area on the 7th floor is fun, and most recommended is the Onigiri Bar, where you can enjoy onigiri and sake.
Spots where Japanese traditions and subcultures blend well are abundant.
More about Magnet by Shibuya 109
Address: 1-23-10 Jinnan, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Official website: https://www.shibuya109.jp/MAGNET/mags_park
Phone number: 03-3477-5111
Hours: 10:00-21:00 [7F MAG7]11:00-23…
Karaoke Kan Shibuya Main Store
Let them experience true Japanese karaoke!
Karaoke is another Japanese culture that has become world famous, but karaoke boxes do not exist in most countries.
Many foreigners are quite impressed by the karaoke box system itself, so if you are a foreigner with a good sense of humor, this is a spot that will delight you.
More information about “Karaoke Kan Shibuya Main Store
Address: Shibuya B&V Building, 25-6 Udagawa-cho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Official website: http://www.karaokekan.jp/
Taito Station Shibuya Store
This game center is located inside Bic Camera, which is right outside Shibuya Station in the direction of Miyamasuzaka-saka. It is also a great place to have fun after looking at electronics.
Game centers are also places where visitors can enjoy uniquely Japanese culture, so they will be delighted if you show them to someone who likes Japanese pop culture.
Taiko Drum Master is very popular among foreigners, so I highly recommend it, and Purikura (purikura) originated in Japan. Purikura, also originated in Japan, is a great way to create a memorable photo in Japan.
Taito Station” Shibuya Store Details
Address: Shibuya Toei Plaza, 1-24-12 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Official website: http://www.taito.co.jp/gc/details/tokyo/tokyo/sgc00375/index.html
Access: 5 min. walk from Shibuya Sta.
Shinjuku Area
Although well known as a downtown area, Shinjuku is also an important business district in Japan, including the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Office.
Here are three recommended tourist spots for foreigners in Shinjuku.
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Observation Deck
Tokyo ranks high every year in the world’s most popular metropolises. Among these, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building is recognized among foreigners as a symbolic presence.
On the top floor of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building is the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Observation Deck, which is free to enter, and on a clear day you can see as far as Mt.
The North and South entrances are different, so we recommend the North Observation Deck, where there are not many group visitors.
More information about “Shinjuku and Town Observation Deck
Address: 45F, First Main Building, First Main Building, Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, 2-8-1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Nearest station: JR / Keio Line / Odakyu Line / Toei Subway Shinjuku Station or Toei Subway Tochomae Station
Official website: http://www.yokoso.metro.tokyo.jp/tenbou/
Business hours: 9h30-22h00
Shinjuku Gyoen
Shinjuku Gyoen is a very popular tourist spot for foreigners visiting Japan. No matter what season you visit, you can enjoy the seasonal flowers of Japan.
The roses are magnificent from early summer to fall, and during the cherry blossom season, it is a great spot for a hanami picnic with a packed lunch. We recommend you take a bento from the Depa-Basement in front of Shinjuku Station.
Purchase a 500 yen ticket to enter the park. The Shinjuku gate is often very crowded, so the Sendagaya gate, 5 minutes from the station, is more convenient.
More information about Shinjuku Gyoen
Address: 11 Naito-cho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Official website: https://fng.or.jp/shinjuku/
Phone: 03-3350-0151
Opening hours: Oct. 1 – Mar. 14, 9:00 – 16:00
3/15-6/30 8/21-9/30 9:00-17:30,.
7/1-8/20 9:00-16:30
Admission fee: 500 yen
alley with street stalls where one can view memories
Since the end of World War II, “Memories Yokocho” in Shinjuku West Exit has been loved by many businessmen. Today, it is also a popular Tokyo spot for foreigners visiting Japan.
It is not only inexpensive and delicious, but also a gourmet spot where you can enjoy the atmosphere of the Showa period, so it is a great place to stop by on your way home from sightseeing in Shinjuku.
It is a street where you can feel not only delicious food, but also humanity and warmth.
More information about “Memories Yokocho
Address: 1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Official website: http://shinjuku-omoide.com/
Access: 3-minute walk from Shinjuku Station JR Line Odakyu Line Keio Line Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line
summary
How was it? In this issue, we have recommended the best spots for foreigners to visit in Tokyo.
Tokyo is a vast city with many fascinating places to visit, and you will enjoy showing visitors around no matter where you take them, but if you show them around from a foreigner’s point of view, it will be an even more memorable time.
A related article on tailor-made Japanese cultural experiences for a more in-depth experience can be found here.
Please read them together and try to plan a sightseeing entertainment for foreigners.

日本独自のおもてなし文化を世界中の人へ広めるために日夜努力しています。外国人の方の接待やおもてなしのご相談はお気軽にご連絡ください。お問い合わせはこちら
Omotenashi Explained: Nurturing the Japanese Spirit through Culture and Etymology!
2023年04月11日
Japanese “Omotenashi” is attracting attention from abroad.
However, there are many things that even Japanese people do not know about the meaning and etymology of omotenashi.
This article provides a thorough explanation of the meaning of omotenashi, and also introduces points to keep in mind when entertaining foreigners in Japan.
The Meaning and Etymology of Omotenashi, the Spirit of Japan
Three tips for entertaining
Points for actually entertaining foreigners
Five Japanese cultural hospitality experiences that will delight foreigners.
I will be focusing on the following topics.
This article will help you learn more about Omotenashi and how it can help you entertain foreigners, so please use it as a reference for your own unique Japanese hospitality.
The Meaning of Omotenashi
Omotenashi means “to receive guests with cordial reception and hospitality when inviting them over.
Here we introduce the meaning and etymology of the word, as well as its origin, the “Seven Rikyu Rules” of the tea ceremony.
Etymology of hospitality “omotenashi” and “omotenashi
The meaning of omotenashi is “cordial treatment” and refers to the heartfelt hospitality and entertainment of guests.
The verb “motenasu” becomes polite and becomes “omotenashi” (hospitality). And when written in kanji (Chinese characters), it becomes “omotenashi,” which means “to have and to do.
The meaning of “zare ni narusu” is “to accomplish with a thing,” and this “thing” represents the mind and the thing.
So, what we accomplish with things is to “use our things and our minds to treat our customers well and have a good attitude when dealing with them.
From this etymology, the meaning of omotenashi is also said to mean “to satisfy others by treating them with respect.
Omotenashi is also called “Omote-nashi,” or “without front and back,” and is said to treat others with a heart that is open and honest.
This is the heart of hospitality, which is centered on sincerely welcoming important people with sincerity.
From these two etymologies, hospitality is said to be “to have respect for others and to respond flexibly to their needs in order to satisfy them without asking for anything in return.
Origins of Omotenashi: “Rikyu’s Seven Rules
It is said that hospitality began with the tea ceremony, and Rikyu left us the “Seven Rules of Rikyu,” a set of rules for hospitality.
It is said to be the source of the spirit of hospitality.
The Seven Rules of Rikyu by Sen no Rikyu, the spirit of hospitality.
1. Tea should be served as one likes it.
The phrase “yoki-yoki-yoso” not only means “delicious,” but also means “master-customer unity.
Tea should be prepared in an amount that is easy for the recipient to drink and at an appropriate temperature, considering the situation and his/her feelings.
Rule number two: Place the coals so that the water boils.
Be precise and honest in your preparation.
Rather than just swallowing the formalities of a good charcoal joint, let’s take a closer look at the essence of even a single charcoal cooking method.
Three rules: cool in summer, warm in winter
Hospitality is about making the other person feel comfortable.
Be mindful of the seasons and try to blend yourself into nature.
Rule 4: Arrange flowers as you would in the field.
The expression of a thing should be concise, knowing its essence.
Instead of reproducing nature as it is, express the beauty of wild flowers and the preciousness of life given by nature.
Five Rules: Be on time.
Everything is done with a relaxed mind, and relaxed means respecting time.
Not only will you feel relaxed, but you will also value their time.
rule of six: be prepared for rain even if it doesn’t fall
Be prepared to act calmly and practically at all times, and have a free and honest mind that can respond appropriately to the situation.
(as commanded by Jesus) love your neighbour (neighbor)
Make sure that everyone in the room is comfortable and think of the other person in everything you do.
Difference between hospitality and hospitality services
This section introduces the meanings of “hospitality” and “service,” which are often confused with hospitality.
hospitality
The word hospitality comes from the Latin hospitālis (protection of guests).
The meaning is “to protect a guest or to welcome a foreigner,” since churches and other institutions protected travelers and sick people who came from other countries.
It is very similar to hospitality, but you can think of hospitality as “being willing to respond when asked” and hospitality as “noticing before being told.”
In other countries, the term is often used to describe the hospitality of medical institutions to patients or to deal with certain special situations.
Recommended related article: In-depth analysis of Japanese hospitality services! 28 cases and 10 episodes of Japanese hospitality that impressed foreigners visiting Japan
Service
The word service comes from the Latin word servus (slave), from which the English words slave, servant, and service were derived.
So, basically, service becomes service, which means “service, work, and customer service” to serve others.
It could be said that services are subject to a position of ups and downs, a master-servant relationship, and that there is a price to be paid for the services rendered.
Three tips for hospitality
Here are three tips for success when actually entertaining.
Relax your guests
The more relaxed your guests are, the better their experience will be.
After all, we cannot deliver a wonderful experience if we are nervous, so it is important to create a relaxing environment for our clients.
Creating a relaxing environment includes greeting guests with a smile, calling their names, and talking slowly.
It is also important to pay attention to the intensity of scents and lighting to create a comfortable space that is felt throughout the body.
In this way, keep the customer at the center of your hospitality.
pay attention to detail
Attention to detail makes guests feel more special.
You will be impressed by the attention to detail and hospitality.
For example, we will prepare and fulfill “what we wish we had,” starting with proper cleaning and preparing water.
For meals, it is necessary to confirm in advance whether there are any allergies or foods that cannot be eaten, and to be able to adapt on the day of the event.
For this reason, it can be said that it is vital to imagine the other party.
Stick to first impressions.
Guests will have a better impression of you if you pay attention to first impressions as well.
For customer service, this includes smiling, greeting guests properly, and remembering their names.
It is also important to focus on appearance.
For example, by paying attention to the arrangement of meals and the decoration of the room, you can provide a pleasant atmosphere for your guests.
Thus, it can be gained that the most important thing to consider when entertaining is still to think about the importance of first impressions.
3 points to consider when entertaining foreigners
So, what points should we pay special attention to when entertaining foreigners from different cultural backgrounds?
Here are three important tips for entertaining foreigners.
Attention to language
Language considerations are important when entertaining foreigners.
Of course there are foreigners who are fluent in Japanese, but most of them do not understand Japanese.
So even small things can lead to discomfort and uncomfortableness because of the lack of Japanese language skills.
For example, the menu must be written in English and an interpreter must be assigned, which means that the staff must be able to speak the language of the restaurant.
Explanations with pictures, such as illustrations and cartoons, are also effective, and AI-based translation can be used to solve the problem.
Thus, it is important to consider in advance how language can be used for foreign hospitality.
Understanding of culture and customs
There are many different countries in the world, and each country has its own culture and customs.
Japan has its own culture and customs, and there is no shortage of foreigners who are confused by the differences.
If you are accepting foreigners in an environment where traditional Japanese customs such as temples and public bathhouses must be respected, it is important to explain in advance the manners and customs that you would like them to observe, or provide illustrations or other easy-to-understand information.
It is also a sign of hospitality to avoid problems in advance that may start because you were unaware or did not know about them.
And when entertaining a superior guest, it is important to know the etiquette of the guest’s country.
In particular, since dining etiquette differs from country to country, it is important for the host to know this in advance so that he or she can adapt his or her responses to the needs of the guests.
Thus, understanding the other person’s country and explaining the customs of your own country are very important points when entertaining a foreigner.
Recommended related article: How do Japanese manners look like from overseas? Japanese Etiquette and Customs to Convey to Foreigners
Experience Japanese culture and hospitality
One of the most important points of hospitality is to make the other person happy. The important point of Omotenashi is to make the other person happy.
With this in mind, it seems that Japanese cultural experiences can be recommended for entertaining foreigners.
Many foreigners are eager to experience Japanese culture during their stay in Japan.
It has become very important to incorporate Japanese cultural experiences when entertaining foreign guests, and you can experience the joy of actually experiencing it for yourself.
For example, we can offer Japanese cultural experiences such as tea ceremony and kimono dressing, or provide geisha and Japanese musical instruments for the party.
By treating your guests to traditional Japanese culture, which is not easily accessible, you can provide them with a special and satisfying experience that will leave them with unforgettable memories.
Thus, reading the curiosity of others and planning accordingly is also an important aspect of hospitality.
Japanese cultural experience hospitality that foreigners enjoy
When entertaining foreigners, it will be very meaningful to plan hospitality with Japanese cultural experiences.
First, we can deliver the experience of actually experiencing a different culture in a different country.
One of the most attractive points is that experiencing Japanese culture brings us much closer to each other.
Here we introduce you to some of the most popular hospitality Japanese cultural experiences for foreigners.
Tea ceremony experience
The tea ceremony experience is a Japanese cultural experience that is planned when entertaining guests from abroad at the state guest level.
In addition to the fact that the tea ceremony has a deep Japanese history and that there are many foreigners who would like to experience it, it is a Japanese cultural experience that will allow you to fully experience Japaneseness.
And the tea ceremony is essentially based on hospitality, a culture where everything is done to entertain guests.
The quietness of the tea room is an environment where guests can relax, so we can provide a comfortable time for them.
You can also experience a tea ceremony wearing a kimono, which is a special cultural experience of wearing Japanese traditional costume in a uniquely Japanese space.
This is also an easy after-dinner activity for guests with tight schedules, allowing them to experience Japanese culture in a short period of time.
Thus, the tea ceremony experience is the origin of Japanese hospitality culture, where visitors can efficiently experience Japanese culture and be healed in a serene space.
Japanese Food Culture Experience
Japanese cuisine has been designated as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
After all, many foreigners want to taste Japanese food when they visit Japan.
Japanese hospitality is especially well suited for environments that also play an important role in the international business scene, such as business entertainment and dinners.
From the beautiful appearance of Japanese food to the skill of the chefs and the attention to detail in the ingredients, Japanese cuisine is truly a treasure trove of hospitality.
The spirit of hospitality is alive and well in every corner.
And Japanese alcoholic beverages such as sake and Japanese whiskey are also attracting attention.
Many foreigners are fascinated by the delicate flavors produced in Japan and will be delighted if you serve them with their meals.
Therefore, when considering hospitality for foreigners, preparation of Japanese food is still an important point.
Recommended Related Articles: 17 Restaurants and Izakayas in Tokyo for Entertaining Foreigners
Geisha Experience
Geishas are popular among VIP foreigners and wealthy international guests.
Geishas are professionals in hospitality. They respond tactfully to any situation.
Songs, Japanese dancing, and tatami room games are also available to soothe the atmosphere for entertaining and dining parties.
And geisha are the official inheritors of Japanese culture and are a rare opportunity to appreciate authentic Japanese dance, allowing you to fully enjoy the Japanese tradition.
Above all, it is recommended for parties because of its strong visual impact and glamorous appearance.
It is not always only the seats that call for geisha.
Motenas Japan can accommodate birthday parties and celebrations on a flexible basis.
Today, their soft mannerisms and gracious gestures are popular among foreign women.
Recommended related article: [Hospitality with Geisha] Foreigners are delighted! Ozashiki play and performance as an event
Martial Arts Experience
As the Japanese government’s “Budo Tourism” shows, there is no end to the number of foreigners who want to try martial arts in Japan today.
There are many traditional Japanese martial arts such as karate, kendo, judo, aikido, sumo, and kyudo.
All of them are firmly rooted in the Japanese way of thinking, and you will gain a better understanding of Japan by experiencing them.
Such Japanese-style hospitality using budo has a wide range of possibilities, from experiencing budo as it is to appreciating it.
Martial arts experiences are also popular as training and team building for foreigners, and will be a genre that is expected to be more in demand from overseas in the future.
Reference site; Budo Tourism
Japanese Culture x Entertainment
Planning entertainment around Japanese culture is a great way to entertain at parties and celebrations.
Since it is based on Japanese culture, the project will be full of Japanese spirit and special feeling.
Typical examples are ninja performance entertainment and calligraphy performances.
Performances based on Noh and Kyogen are also gaining in popularity.
We offer entertainment in the form of traditional Japanese stage performances, which are usually difficult to see, in a way that foreigners can easily relate to.
A more detailed related article can be found here. Please read this if you are interested; Japanese cultural experiences popular among foreigners! Recommended 12 Experiential Sightseeing & VIP Entertainment
summary
The meaning of omotenashi is “to have respect for others and to respond flexibly with consideration for others in order to satisfy them without asking for anything in return.
It is conceivable that we should always be aware of the situation and respond mindfully.
Japanese hospitality is a uniquely Japanese culture not found in any other country.
Learn the meaning of hospitality and make your time with us more pleasant!

日本独自のおもてなし文化を世界中の人へ広めるために日夜努力しています。外国人の方の接待やおもてなしのご相談はお気軽にご連絡ください。お問い合わせはこちら