Japanese people avoid eye contact during conversations as a way of showing respect and humility towards others, according to an article exploring the cultural significance of eye contact in Japan. The behavior is rooted in Japanese cultural values and traditions, which place a high value on harmony, respect, and social hierarchy. Eye contact is perceived as an aggressive and confrontational act that can disrupt social harmony. Communication in Japan is often indirect and subtle, with nonverbal cues such as body language, tone of voice, and facial expressions used to convey messages. Foreigners should understand and respect these cultural differences when interacting with Japanese people.