There are many subtle and obvious differences between Japanese society and that of Western countries. In making observations about the former, it must be born in mind that the Japanese land mass, of which over 80% is mountainous, is small and houses a population of around 126 million. These features have had profound formative effects on life in Japan, and the way society works. Visitors to Japan soon notice that despite large numbers of people in most urban areas, movement is orderly. People are used to queuing and waiting, whether as pedestrians or motorists, and do so patiently. Pushing … [Read more...]