Lecture Notes: Life in Japan

A Day in the Life of a Salaryman

Morning Routine

• Wake up around 6-7 a.m.
• Wash face and eat breakfast (traditional Japanese breakfast: rice, miso soup, grilled fish, rolled eggs; some eat bread or skip breakfast).
• Brush teeth.
• Change from pajamas to a suit (for salarymen).
• Leave home around 8 a.m. (roads are congested).

Commuting

• Various methods: train, bus, car, motorcycle, bicycle, walking.
• Urban areas (e.g., Tokyo) prefer trains; rural areas prefer bus or car.
• Head to the nearest station, buy a ticket or use an IC card/commuter pass.
• Pass through the ticket gate and wait for the train.
• Trains are crowded during the morning, may need to transfer.
• Navigating large stations like Tokyo Station can be difficult.
• Aim to arrive at work at least 5 minutes early.

Workday

• Greet superiors and colleagues with "Good morning."
• Sit at desk, use personal computer.
• Morning assembly to share tasks and goals.
• Work begins after assembly, mostly computer-based tasks (emails, documents).
• Lunch break from 12:00 to 13:00 (bento from home/store, or eat out, prefer quick dishes like noodles).
• Afternoon work continues, coffee can help combat post-lunch sleepiness.
• Work ends around 5-6 p.m., typical 8-hour workday, overtime is common in busy companies.

After Work

• Head home (may have dinner on the way).
• Socialize at izakayas with colleagues (drinking parties, may visit multiple places).
• Take a bath at home to relax.
• Eat dinner (family time for those living with family).
• Household chores (laundry, cleaning).
• Personal activities (TV, YouTube, social media, reading, music).
• Go to bed around 11 p.m. to midnight (late nights are common on days off).

Amazing Aspects of Japan for Foreigners

Convenience Stores

• Open 24/7, found everywhere.
• Offer a variety of foods and daily life items.
• ATMs, copy machines, parcel services available.
• Some restrict toilet use without purchase.

Vending Machines

• Found everywhere, even in unique locations (e.g., Mount Fuji).
• Offer cold and warm beverages, food items (bread, ice cream, instant ramen).
• Some have special features (free drinks as prizes, disaster support).

Trains and Buses

• Highly punctual, extensive network in urban areas (e.g., Tokyo).
• Crowded during rush hour, complex stations can be confusing.

Toilets

• Equipped with features like washing, adjustable water pressure/temperature, automatic functions, heated seats.
• Hand-washing areas with automatic faucets and hand dryers.
• Clean and free to use, maintained regularly.

Safety and Security

• Low crime rate, safe to walk alone at night (with caution for women and children).
• Lost items (e.g., wallets) often returned to owners.
• Police presence and patrolling, comprehensive education for children on laws and rules.

Hot Springs (Onsen)

• Numerous hot springs nationwide, beneficial for health and beauty.
• Etiquette: rinse body before entering, don’t soak towel in the bath.
• Popular tourist destinations.