1. Daily Life in Japan

2. Dining Etiquette & Customs
Kneel on tatami mats at low tables
Tatami mats: straw or reed mats

3. Dining Customs Use chopsticks Eat rice, fish & vegetables
Appearance is important. Appearance of the food & of the people sitting down to eat.

4. Economy
Fishing is a major part of their economy. Fish is a main part of their diet. Industry is also a large part of their economy.
Industries: Iron/Steel (cars & car parts.)
Technology (computers & video games)
People work long hours & six days a week.

5. Unit of currency is Yen

6. Japan is very expensive
Japan is very expensive. Since it is made up of islands, they have to import many things making goods expensive to buy.
School:
Typical subjects & English
Wear uniforms & indoor slippers
Students help to clean the school & some help to make lunch.
All participate in after school clubs.
Teachers are admired.
3-4 hours of homework a night.
Pressure to get good grades & to get into a good high school.

7. Japan Pop Culture J Pop – “pop” bands J Rock – rock bands
Visual Kei - hard rock

8. Anime – cartoon like figures with large eyes

9. Manga – comic like stories usually using anime illustrations
Manga – comic like stories usually using anime illustrations. Books are written right to left (opposite of what we are used to.)