Introduction:
Eye contact is a form of nonverbal communication that has long been used to convey respect, interest, and even aggression. In many cultures around the world, making eye contact with someone is seen as a sign of respect or acknowledgement. However, in Japan, direct eye contact is considered rude and can make people feel uncomfortable. In this article we will explore why eye contact is considered rude in Japan, how it differs from other cultures, and how to avoid making people uncomfortable with eye contact when visiting the country.
Cultural Differences:
The cultural differences between Japan and other countries are vast and often misunderstood by those who are unfamiliar with the country’s customs. The Japanese culture places a high value on politeness and respect for elders, which can be seen in the way they interact with each other. Direct eye contact is seen as confrontational and disrespectful in Japan because it implies that one person has more authority than the other. This contrasts greatly with other cultures where direct eye contact is seen as a sign of respect or acknowledgement.
Respect for Elders:
In Japanese culture, there is an expectation of respect for elders that is not present in many other countries. Eye contact between younger generations and their elders should be avoided at all costs as it can be seen as a sign of disrespect or challenge to their authority. This applies even more so when speaking to someone who holds a higher rank than you such as your boss or teacher.
Direct Eye Contact as a Sign of Disrespect:
In some cases, direct eye contact can be interpreted as a sign of disrespect or aggression in Japan. It implies that one person has more authority than the other which can be seen as confrontational or arrogant behavior. For this reason, it is important to remember to maintain indirect eye contact when speaking to someone older than you or someone who holds a higher rank than you do.
The Role of Gender in Eye Contact:
In addition to age differences, gender also plays an important role when it comes to making eye contact in Japan. Men are expected to maintain direct eye contact when speaking with women while women should maintain indirect eye contact instead. This shows respect for the woman’s position within the conversation and helps avoid any potential misunderstandings caused by direct eye contact between genders in Japan.
The Significance of Eye Contact in Japan:
In many cultures around the world, making direct eye contact is seen as a sign of confidence and trustworthiness but this isn’t always true when it comes to Japanese culture. Making direct eye contact with someone could be interpreted as aggressive behavior or an attempt at dominance which could lead to feelings of discomfort on both sides if not avoided altogether.
How to Avoid Making People Uncomfortable with Eye Contact in Japan:
When visiting Japan it’s important to remember that maintaining indirect rather than direct eye contact during conversations will help avoid any misunderstandings or feelings of discomfort from either party involved in the conversation.When speaking with someone older than you or someone who holds a higher rank than you do,try not to make direct eye contact but instead focus on their forehead,chin,nose,etc.Additionally,men should avoid making direct eye contacts when speaking with women.
Conclusion:
Making direct eye contact may seem like an innocent gesture in many parts of the world but this isn’t always true when it comes to Japanese culture.Directly looking into another person’s eyes could be interpreted as aggressive behavior or an attempt at dominance which could lead to feelings of discomfort on both sides if not avoided altogether.By understanding why making direct eye contacts is considered rude in Japan,visitors will have no trouble navigating conversations without offending anyone.
Resources:
Tokoyama C (2020). Why Is Eye Contact Rude In Japan? Retrieved from https://japaninsidersblog/why-is-eye-contact-rude-in-japan/
Prolonged eye contact (staring) is considered rude. Avoid showing affection in public such as hugging or patting on the shoulder. Never wiggle your fingers. The Japanese extend their right hand forward with a bent wrist and shaking fingers.
In what culture is it rude to make eye contact?
For example in African-American culture making eye contact with an authority figure can be considered impolite. Likewise in some Asian groups eye contact between strangers can be considered awkward. In some Latin cultures eye contact is considered impolite.
What countries is eye contact disrespectful?
In some countries such as Japan and Korea intense eye contact is often considered aggressive and offensive.
What is considered disrespectful in Japan?
In Japan pointing at people or things is considered rude. Instead of using their fingers to indicate something Japanese people use their hands and slowly wave their fingers. When referring to themselves people use their index finger to touch their nose instead of pointing at themselves.
Why don t Japanese people look you in the eye?
In fact in Japanese culture people are taught not to make eye contact with others as excessive eye contact is usually considered disrespectful. For example Japanese children are taught to look at each others necks because then the other persons eyes still fall into their peripheral vision[].
Is it rude to hug in Japan?
In Japan it is considered rude to hug or kiss another persons body even with friends or family. Hugging and kissing is common for couples.