So-So Japanese

Did you have an experience when you saw Japanese you didn't know each other, you were neglected even you smiled and/or say "Hello"?

This is because culture difference and Japanese are just shy.

I don't know if every Japanese agrees, but I think typical Japanese manner when people see unfamiliar people is not seeing so mach on the road or somewhere.

Of course, it is a different story when people are gathering for same purpose (concert, play land, festival and so on).

In between is the most difficult and subtlety situation.

For example, people meet at smoking area (sorry, I am smoker), or on the line to ticket counter. Thus, when Japanese find (not only foreigner) someone coming in such a situation, typical reaction is just see the face momentary then change vision somewhere else.

I know that it could make uncomfortable situation between Western people and Japanese. When Western people ready for smiling, Japanese could have changed their vision and didn't notice the face. As a result, Western people feel that they are neglected and though the Japanese very rude.

I would like to say that this is just misunderstanding!

However, it could be true when you travel to Japan. Some people could try to escape from you. This is just because he or she cannot speak English and afraid of talking with you. Why?

As I wrote before, Japanese basicaly have complex about his/her English skill.