History of Japanese Culture

Every civilization is influenced—at least in some aspect —from other empires, even an island (like Japan) isolated from all neighboring domains. Nonetheless, this widespread declaration may be present due to what is known in Japan as the Edo Period, where the Shoguns attempted to separate the kingdom from the rest of the world. Cultural History of Japan By the time the Tokugawa family rose to power in 1603, religion in Japan had already been established. The faiths of Buddhism, Christianity, and Confucianism were all existent, each being introduced to Japan by different nations. Buddhism, which originated in India, made its way across Asia, reaching Japan in the 6th century from Korea. Furthermore, the Europeans brought guns; forty years after these weapons were first attained, Japan had more guns than any other empire on the planet.

Trade is another significant factor as to why Japan could be considered an open country before Perry’s arrival. When the Europeans arrived in Japan, they not only attempted to spread their beliefs but also aimed at benefiting economically. European merchants were interested in exchanging silk for the silver the Japanese land had to offer, which they would then use to trade with other Asian nations to acquire certain spices they desired. However, Shogun Toyotomi Hideyoshi was replaced by Tokugawa Ieyasu, the effect on the entire culture of Japan is worth noting. Cultural Elements and Dimensions in Japan Six different dimensions of culture will be discussed to come up with an understanding of the origin of the various traditions in Japan.

The study, therefore, highlights how the Japanese society has been able to become what it appears to be today. This section also keeps in mind the religious, and traditional paths followed by different individuals in the society. Communication In understanding the Japanese way of communicating, first, the language itself must be interpreted. Contrary to how the English language is universal around the world, the use of the Japanese language is primarily expressed in Japan and by Japanese living abroad. According to Minoru (1998), until recently, few Japanese have tied their religious roots to Taoism. However, many of the political practices seen in Japan can be linked more directly to the early Taoist teachings. Apart from Taoism, other Asian religions fail to acknowledge the ideological perspective of a living god amongst the people.

The contemporary society believes so about their emperor. During the Second World War, the U. Japanese workers feel they must seek the betterment of the company and as such do not engage in any behavior that in their eyes would ‘shame’ the company. Rastogi (1988) also brings up another aspect of ethics. He states that cooperative interpersonal relationships are ethical skills that are common in the productivity culture of the Japanese. The Japanese believe in working hard and fully dedicating themselves to their companies for that company to succeed. However, contrary aspects of this thought process can also be present. This lends to a public attitude adopted by most Japanese that allows for minimal public conflict. Even the Japanese language is shaped according to their values.

Another attitude worth mentioning is Japanese workers attitude towards work. Rastogi (1988) makes a great observation when he notes how young Japanese men are taught that this culture of productivity is so important, that the very survival of their nation is at stake (p. This internalization of the norms of work and duty are at times used to explain the “workaholic” nature exhibited by the Japanese. The Japanese allow this thought process to guide them in all business dealings. Rather than seek personal gain from any negotiation, the Japanese businessman will first weigh how the negotiation will impact his company and even go so far as asking how it will impact the nation as a whole. This type of business custom has been instrumental in allowing Japan to become a first world country, even after suffering major losses during the Second World War.