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Sailor Moon and Others Teach Foreign Tourists Japanese Etiquette in Manga Manners Art Series
Manners play a crucial role in Japanese society, shaped primarily by a foundation of common sense.
While many cultural norms might be clear to locals, visitors may find certain aspects challenging to grasp.
Fortunately, people in Japan are generally patient with newcomers and are often willing to clarify key etiquette points.
The project Manga Manners features beloved characters from renowned manga series, such as Sailor Moon and Cardcaptor Sakura, providing straightforward guidance on Japanese customs.
Introduction of Manga Manners
The Manga Manners initiative was launched to enhance the experience of international travelers at Narita Airport and has since expanded to Shinkansen stations across Japan.
As of April 24, this project includes various displays in major stations: Tokyo, Shinagawa, Nagoya, Kyoto, and Shin Osaka.
In total, there are now six fresh designs enriching a collection of 17 different manga series.
Featured Series
The following list includes the diverse array of series represented in the Manga Manners project:
- Chiikawa
- Fire Force
- The Seven Deadly Sins
- Ghost in the Shell
- Shota no Sushi
- Sailor Moon
- Tokyo Revengers
- Skip and Loafer
- Attack on Titan
- Cardcaptor Sakura
- Akira
- Blue Lock
- Parasyte
- Cells at Work
- Fairy Tail
- Medalist
- Kaiji
Additionally, a limited number of pamphlets featuring all series are available at the stations, making these insights easily accessible.
Essential Etiquette
Topics addressed by the panels vary from critical rules to general advice, ensuring that both aspects are covered effectively.
Some rules, if not respected, can lead to genuine offense.
For instance, in public baths or onsen, it is obligatory to wash one’s body before entering communal tubs.
There are also places where removing your shoes before entry is the norm.
There are pieces of guidance aimed at enhancing a visitor’s experience, such as the importance of saying “Kanpai!” before drinking, conveyed by Chiikawa.
Characters like Fire Force’s Shinra encourage slurping noodles as a sign of appreciation for the meal.
Visual Representation
The artwork associated with each advice point reinforces its significance.
For example, Sailor Moon is depicted in a kimono while explaining that a woman’s left robe should always go over her right.
Ghost in the Shell’s Major Kusanagi raises a sake cup with a reminder that the legal drinking age in Japan is 20, inviting those who are of age to respond with a lively “Kanpai!”
Safety Tips and Etiquette
Certain panels address safety, reflecting the intersection of etiquette and practical advice.
A notable reminder comes from Akira’s Kaneda, emphasizing that vehicles in Japan drive on the left side of the road.
This is especially important for travelers hailing from countries where right-side driving is the norm.
Adjusting one’s instincts to look right first when checking for traffic can prevent mishaps.
This left-side driving custom also extends to pedestrian behavior.
Individuals are expected to walk on the left on sidewalks and in transit station areas.
Bowing Etiquette
One of the points raised involves bowing, illustrated by Cardcaptor Sakura.
The suggestion to bow at a 45-degree angle to express gratitude seems a bit excessive for most instances a traveler may encounter, such as thanking restaurant staff or acknowledging someone’s directions.
A gentler bow at the hips suffices and feels more natural for casual interactions.
Duration of Displays
The Manga Manners displays are set up to remain in place until the end of June. The guidance they provide is valuable for anyone traveling in Japan at any time of the year.
Whether you are preparing for your first visit or have traveled frequently, these insights from beloved manga characters can enrich your experience.
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