Japan: A Guide to Traditions, Customs and Etiquette - by Boye Lafayette De Mente (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

"A unique look at a unique culture. If you're trying to figure the Japanese out, this book provides another important piece of the puzzle."--Terrie Lloyd, Founder & Publisher, Jap@n Inc.; CEO LINC Media, Tokyo

In Japan: A Guide to Traditions, Customs and Etiquette veteran Japanologist Boye Lafayette De Mente unlocks the mysteries of "Kata"--the cultural forms that shape and define Japanese etiquette, character, and world view to this day.

These forms are responsible for creating the unique traits and talents which distinguish the Japanese people. Kata governs virtually all interactions in Japan and remains the key to understanding Japanese customs, business etiquette, and daily communication.

De Mente's 70 essays include:

• "The Art of Bowing"

• "The Importance of the Apology"

• "The Compulsion for Quality"

• "Exchanging Name Cards"

• "The Dangers of Speaking English"

• "The Ritual of Tea"

In these short, clear essays, De Mente unravels the complexities of Japanese culture by exploring the origin, nature, use, and influence of Kata in Japanese life. By delving into Japanese history and the collective Japanese psyche, readers will experience the modern expressions of this ancient culture and specific way of thinking.

Review Quotes

"Even long-time students of Japan will find the book illuminating and thought-provoking." --Sam Jameson, former Tokyo Bureau Chief of the Chicago Tribune and the Los Angeles Times

"For anyone with an interest in history, customs, or sociology, this book leaves you with as many, or more, questions than you started with...If you've been to Japan you'll see it in a new light. If you have plans to go in the future you will have a better understanding of the culture and ways of Japan after reading Japan: A Guide to Traditions, Customs and Etiquette. I highly recommend it." --Castle View Academy blog

"In Japan, the process of accomplishing a goal is just as significant, if not more significant, than the actual result--a notable contrast to the West. De Mente defines kata as the 'way things are supposed to be done, ' and he educates readers on how the concept has shaped Japan throughout its history and the present. [...] Japan: A Guide to Traditions, Customs and Etiquette is really an exploration of the Japanese psyche. " -- JQ Magazine

"The book explores many important aspects of Japanese society. With help from his book, visitors will certainly better understand the people and their culture." --Travel Pulse

"This book is great for anyone looking to get deep under the surface of Japanese culture and better understand this fascinating country" --Japan Australia blog

"This book is great for everyone that is interested in the Japanese culture and wants to go beyond the surface of this fascinating country and its people. Especially if you have plans of living in Japan for a longer period of time and/or working with a Japanese company, this book is definitely a must-read." --The Travel Tester blog

About the Author

Boye Lafayette De Mente first went to Japan in 1949 as a member of a U.S. military intelligence agency, and was involved with the country for more than six decades as a student, journalist, editor, lecturer, and writer. He is the author of more than thirty books on Japan, including Japanese Etiquette and Ethics in Business and How to Do Business With the Japanese.

Completely revised and expanded by Geoff Botting who has lived in Japan for over a quarter century, witnessing Japan's economic bubble, its bursting, and the changes that came in its wake. He is a freelance translator and a print and broadcast journalist specializing in business.