Additional tips

The “OK” hand sign in Japan signifies money.

Learn these Japanese words, it may come in handy:

• Sumimasen – means “Excuse me”
• Kampai – use this when giving a toast
• Itadakimasu – means ”I receive this.” Utter this before you begin your meal.
• gochisou-sama-deshita- means “I enjoyed the meal.” Utter this after the meal.

The last two phrases denote graciousness.Use envelops to pass money and don’t count them in public.

The number “14” is bad luck. When spoken, it sounds like shuh-shuh which means death.

Don’t pat Japanese on the shoulder, nor argue with them in public.

Lastly, Japanese gives a great deal of importance to reputation and networking as it establishes a strong business sense in the people that they deal with.