Witnessing a Secret Underground Washoku Tour!
It was early evening when I walked past a small izakaya. A cosy little pub run by a husband and wife—nothing fancy, just the kind of place where ten people would make it feel full. Looked like an ordinary local spot, nothing unusual.But then, something odd happened.A massive tour bus pulled up right in front of the shop. A group of people started pouring out, chatting in what sounded like Chinese....
Food exports from Japan are thriving.
Japanese food is all the rage worldwide! Fruits, seafood products, sake – they’re all a big hit with wealthy folks overseas, and exports are booming. Meanwhile, in Japan, supermarkets are seeing price hikes left and right. Prices for veggies and fruit keep going up, and even when they claim to be
Differences in Thinking Between Japanese and Westerners: Ambiguity vs Clarity
When it comes to how Japanese and Westerners think, one big difference is how clearly they say “yes” or “no.” In Western countries, people usually give a quick and direct answer—either “yes” or “no.” But in Japan, you often hear responses like “I think it’s fine,” “I’ll consider it,” or “It depends.” This isn’t just a language issue; it’s deeply rooted in cultural values and ways of thinking. For ...
Is Japanese Manufacturing Really on the Way Out?
Yet another major Japanese electronics company is thinking about pulling out of the TV business. We’ve already seen a few others do the same, and the reason is always the same – it’s just not profitable anymore. With tough competition from overseas, the more they try, the more money they lose. From a business point of view, you can see why they’d make that decision.But it’s still a bit sad, isn’t ...
Unbelievable Generosity Still Exists in This World
An elderly couple from a small town has donated a massive £1.3 billion to rebuild their local hospital, which had become too old and worn out. This kind of donation is almost unheard of for a local government, and it's making headlines all over the country.But when I heard this news, I felt something was a bit off. Of course, it's an incredible act of kindness, but doesn't it feel strange that a p...
Here’s something that caught my eye in the news—apparently, the president of a certain country has decided to delay a planned 25% tariff at the very last minute. They’re calling it “deal-making diplomacy,” but to be honest, it all feels a bit strange. The president himself has posted that it was a “very friendly conversation,” but is this really how diplomacy usually works?I’ve been in the trade b...
Japanese Food Exports Are Booming!
Lunar calender newyear holidays are almost over and many countries in Asia is now slowly resuming business.Great news, everyone—Japanese food is becoming more and more popular around the world! In 2024, Japan’s food exports hit a record-breaking 1.5 trillion yen. That’s twelve years in a row of breaking records! While exports to China have gone down, sales in the UK, Europe, and the US are booming...
Traders and Gamblers – Worlds Apart, Mate!
Every time the exchange rate starts jumping around, you see loads of videos popping up. “Is the yen crashing for good?” “Time to buy dollars now!” – all sorts of dramatic headlines. It’s like a soap opera, but with more graphs and fewer dodgy love triangles. And, of course, for those treating forex like a slot machine, these ups and downs are either a goldmine or a financial disaster waiting to ha...
You’re not ‘half’ of anything—you’ve got three times the strength!
I believe the Lunar New Year holidays are still ongoing in mainland China.Recently, I had a conversation with someone whose background was particularly intriguing. They were born in Japan, raised in the United States, and yet are 100% ethnically Chinese. At first glance, anyone would assume they were Japanese. However, they explained that while they were born in Japan and take pride in their Chine...
Well now, looks like the Japanese yen is about to turn into worthless paper. And apparently, the Bank of Japan has been hoarding more than half of the government bonds. If that reaches 90%, guess what? The whole economy will just be the Bank of Japan printing money and buying it back from itself – a proper financial circus!
Weekend Chit-Chat: A New Way of Thinking About Hard Work
Lately, I’ve been thinking—what does
Come On, Japan! Time to Get Back on Our Feet!
Japan lost the war and was in bits, but somehow, we bounced back as a trading powerhouse. Not bad, eh? We’ve always been a pretty clever bunch, so surely, we can pull it off again. The economy’s in a bit of a pickle right now, but if we knuckle down, we can sort it out.While most of Southeast Asia is snoozing through the Lunar New Year, I can’t help but wish for a bit of an economic miracle back h...
Chinese lunar calender new year holidays now
At the moment, Chinese people are on their Lunar New Year holidays, so business might be a bit slower. This is a time for family gatherings and celebrations, which could affect the speed of economic activities in the region.In Southeast Asia, many countries are welcoming the fact that Trump has become president, but it's not really about him personally. It’s more about his policies, especially his...
Japan’s GDP ranking has been falling, first getting overtaken by Germany and now likely by India, dropping to fifth place. So, is Japan’s economy doomed? Well, GDP is an important measure of a country’s economy, but just because the ranking goes down doesn’t mean Japan is finished. To be fair, GDP is strongly linked to population size, so with India having over 1.4 billion people, it was only a ma...
Maybe Japan Really Is a Peaceful Country
If you look around the world, you see countries where the president is raising tariffs, tightening immigration rules, or desperately trying to control fuel prices. Governments are making huge decisions that could change the future of their nations. But in Japan, the news feels a bit more... relaxed. TV shows are full of celebrity scandals, and magazines are busy chasing politicians’ slip-ups. Ev...
The Future of Business in the World
Have you ever heard of the idea that certain groups of people are naturally good at business? It’s something that’s been talked about for ages in the world of trade. But now, in this era of massive change, I think the definition of a successful businessperson has shifted quite a lot. So, who are the “new traders” of today?It’s not about gender, age, or nationality anymore. To me, it seems like the...
Thoughts on Strange Things Happening in the World
Looking at the news lately, it feels like the whole world has turned into some kind of strange theatre. A big leader’s swearing-in speech, a mind-blowing announcement of an enormous investment, and a scandal involving a huge sum of money – all these events seem to pop up as if they’ve been timed perfectly. How can such things happen all at once?First, the swearing-in speech. Every time, the media ...
Why Do People Move? A Curious Look at Migration
Trade Winds and Timeless Tales : 貿易風と時を越える物語
The old lunar calender New Year
The old lunar New Year is still celebrated in some parts of Japan, especially in areas with strong old communities in upcountries. In fact, next week, many people in these Japanese communities will start their celebrations, marking the start of the new year with a variety of events within Japan for purely Japanese celebration. In Japan, after the Meiji period, the New Year began to be officially ...
Weekend Chat: A Little Talk About Rate of Exchange
So, here's something a bit different for the weekend – let's have a chat about money and the exchange rate. I know, it sounds a bit serious, but don't worry, we'll keep it simple.You’ve probably heard of the US President, Donald Trump, right? Well, he’s back again! After the next American election, he could become president once more. And when he does, it might have an impact on the way the money ...
Leaders Giving Quick Orders in Other Countries
In Japan, when people need to decide something, they all talk together and take their time. But in some other countries, one important person can just say,
You know, today feels like one of those days when the whole world’s buzzing with energy, doesn’t it? A new president’s just been sworn in somewhere – big news on its own – but as if that wasn’t enough, everyone’s already chattering about economic forecasts and exchange rates flying up and down. Meanwhile, back here in Japan, we’ve had our own share of surprises. First, a famous celebrity drops a b...
Lunar New Year and the Curious World of Business: Gifts or Pleas?
As the Lunar New Year approaches, Southeast Asia gears up for what can only be described as the grandest homecoming event of the year. Imagine millions – no, billions – of people packing into trains, buses, and planes, all trying to get back to their hometowns for a long-awaited reunion with family. It’s not just travel chaos; it’s a spectacle! Airports look like sardine cans, and highways turn in...
What’s All This Fuss About That TV Star, Then?
Now, I’m not usually one to poke my nose into celebrity gossip – not my cup of tea, really. But blimey, this one’s everywhere! You can’t scroll through the internet or watch YouTube without stumbling across it. So, I thought,
The Rising Cost of Hotels in Japan
Planning a trip within Japan these days can feel like a proper punch to the wallet. I was looking at hotels in Fukuoka for two people, and the prices were anywhere between 24,000 and 32,000 yen per night. Just a year or two ago, I’m pretty sure it was about 30–60% cheaper. Thanks to the weak yen and the flood of tourists, hotels seem to care more about visitors from abroad than locals like us. The...
A Cheery Weekend Theme: Smiles with Wonky Veg Recipes
You know, I’ve been travelling all over the world as a trader, and let me tell you, I’ve seen some truly fascinating ways people use vegetables. In countries we’d call “developing” or “emerging,” folks have this amazing knack for making the most of what they’ve got. A veg that’s a bit too ripe or looks a little wonky? They’ll turn it into something brilliant – it’s like magic!Take this for example...
Are Veggies Only Expensive in Japan? A Funny Look at Global Greens
A Relaxed Weekend Chat“Veggies are ridiculously pricey!” That’s what I’ve been grumbling about lately here in Japan. But then, out of nowhere, I remembered that time I went to Africa. Let me tell you, their veggie situation? A whole different kettle of fish. Over there, fresh vegetables are almost entirely imported, and the price? Oh, just about three times what you’d pay in Japan. And that’s not ...
Watch out for dodgy emails going around lately!
Hi there! Hope you’re doing well. I just wanted to take a moment to share something with you that’s been bothering me recently – you know, just to keep everyone safe and in the loop.Lately, I’ve been seeing more and more suspicious emails claiming to be from big online shopping sites or banks. They usually say something like, “We couldn’t verify your identity, so we’re restricting your account,” a...
Security deposit locker incident
There was a big problem at a famous bank where someone working there stole money and things from the customers’ safe deposit boxes. To take responsibility, the boss and some of the leaders at the bank are getting less pay for a while. The boss will lose 30% of their pay for three months, and the others are also being punished in different ways. The bank said they’ll put in more cameras and keep a ...
Life in overseas, short trips and long stays in overseas,
I’ve had many short business trips abroad, and for me, there’s a big difference between short trips and long stays. While short trips are quick and work-focused, long stays involve settling into a new country and culture. Recently, though, there’s a noticeable trend of more Japanese people moving abroad for good. In fact, the number of Japanese living overseas has been steadily increasing. Many ar...
Japanese people moving overseas
Since life has returned to normal after the pandemic, there’s been a noticeable trend of Japanese people leaving the country to live abroad. In 2023, around 160,000 Japanese citizens moved overseas. Even after accounting for those who returned, more than 25,000 people left Japan for good. Surprisingly, even Tokyo, where people usually flock to, saw more people leaving than moving in.This isn’t jus...
What’s Going to Happen with the USD and Yen in 2025? Trump’s Back, So Let’s Talk About ItSo, Donald Trump got re-elected as US President in 2024, and that’s probably going to shake things up a bit when it comes to exchange rates in 2025. With Trump back in charge, there’s likely to be a mix of trade policies, tax cuts, and energy plans that could make the dollar stronger or weaker. Naturally, all ...
Japan’s getting poorer and poorer.
These days, you keep hearing folks say, “Japan’s getting poorer and poorer.” But honestly, how bad is it compared to other developed countries? Turns out, it’s a bit of a mixed bag.Let’s start with Japan, shall we? Sure, wages have been stuck in neutral for ages, and with the whole ageing population thing, the future does look a bit... well, grey. But when it comes to inflation – you know, prices ...
What’s Going On in Japan? Expensive Veggies and Lost Trust
The other day, I read two stories in the news that really made me scratch my head. First, a bank worker got caught stealing gold bars worth a fortune from people’s safe deposit boxes. Second, a cabbage – yes, a cabbage – is now selling for over 500 yen! That’s, like, four quid for a single cabbage! At first glance, these two stories seem completely unrelated, but if you ask me, they show something...
As spring festival, or Lunar New Year, creeps closer, Southeast Asia’s already slipping into holiday mode. You can feel it in the air – a sort of lazy, happy buzz, like everyone’s decided it’s time to put their feet up and have a cuppa, but with a lot more red and gold decorations flying about.Take Singapore and Malaysia, for example. The streets are practically glowing with lanterns, banners, and...
Can people easily tell if you're Japanese when you're abroad?
When you head abroad, there’s no real intention to hide the fact that you’re Japanese – you’re not exactly planning on wandering around in disguise, like some kind of undercover agent. But, let’s be honest, whether you like it or not, it’s not exactly difficult for people to spot you as Japanese, is it? It’s like there’s some invisible sign above your head flashing
Narita Airport’s New Flight Slots – Exciting News, But Really? Let’s Have a Laugh Anyway!
Well, here’s a New Year’s surprise for you – Narita Airport is planning to increase its flight slots from 300,000 to 340,000 a year. I mean, my first thought was, “Oh, that’s nice!” Followed immediately by, “Wait a minute… is this actually a good idea?” But hey, let’s not start the year on a gloomy note. Let’s have a laugh about it instead!So, I was casually looking at the global airport passenger...
I had the chance to speak with a gentleman from Africa for the first time. Honestly, he left quite an impression. He spoke English, French, Arabic, and even some Japanese. On top of that, he said he could also manage Korean and Chinese! It’s amazing how some people can pick up so many languages. He was tall and slim, the kind of person you’d easily imagine as a model—maybe not a top one, but defin...
A Bit of Fuss Before the Lunar New Year
The other day, I had a rare chat with someone from the local council. We covered all sorts of topics, but one thing really stuck with me—why on earth are so many people suddenly wearing masks again? Turns out, there’s a new virus making the rounds. And get this, it’s called something like “Human Metapneumovirus.” Honestly, just saying the name feels like a tongue twister. Whoever named it surely w...
This time of year, you can’t help but notice all those job-hopping ads popping up everywhere. It’s like they’re having their own little New Year’s party on every billboard and website. In Japan, especially since late last year, a lot of businesses in certain industries have been shutting up shop or going belly-up. And guess what? That’s probably why we’re seeing all these fancy job ads boasting ab...
There’s just something about Japan, isn’t there? It really is wonderful.
Lately, I’ve been hearing a lot about things like the rise in postage fees, how “formalities should be scrapped,” and how fewer people are sending New Year’s cards or going around for greetings. It almost feels like some parts of the New Year tradition are fading away.But now that we’re two days into the New Year, I realise it’s not all as bad as people make it out to be. The post still brought me...
A World Gone Mad with Questions
You know, something odd’s been happening lately. I’ll be shopping around, minding my own business, and suddenly – bam! – I’m hit with a barrage of questions from companies. And not just the usual
The long holiday’s finally over, and tomorrow we’re back to kicking off a brand-new year. Feeling a bit gloomy about it? Yeah, I get that. It’s not always easy to shake off that holiday mood, is it? Some might even call it a “Blue New Year.” But hey, let’s not start the year on a downer, shall we? A fresh year means fresh chances, new opportunities, and who knows – maybe even a bit of magic along ...
The new year has started, and finally, I managed to steal a bit of time to relax. Over the weekend, I got together with some good mates, and we had a little wine session. It was the first time in ages that I felt so chilled, enjoying a couple of hours of laughter and good company. Honestly, what better way to shake off the chaos of the new year?Now, I’ve always thought that wine equals France, rig...
New Year’s Reflections: Riding the Waves of Change
Happy New Year, everyone! Well, this New Year’s holiday was nothing short of a whirlwind. Normally, I’d be all set to enjoy the traditional “three quiet days” of the New Year, but this time, it was non-stop from the get-go. Would you believe it? Emails started pouring in on New Year’s Eve, and by New Year’s Day, I was knee-deep in work. By the end of the third day, it felt like I’d worked a full w...
A Heartwarming Family Moment on New Year’s Day
On the second day of the New Year, it’s always clear how much Japanese families enjoy spending time together. Everywhere you look, there are families out and about, and it’s a lovely sight. Perhaps it’s just me, but life seems a bit tougher for many people these days. Even so, the smiles on everyone’s faces tell a different story – parents, kids, grandparents, all chatting away and enjoying each o...
I had a few international calls right at the start of New Year's Day, and to be honest, it was a bit of a surprise. It began with the usual New Year greetings, a
A very happy new year to you all !
Hope you lot have an absolutely brilliant New Year!にほんブログ村にほんブログ村...
A Very Happy New Year to You All!
To all my dear readers, both from overseas and here in Japan, thank you ever so much for your kind support over the past year. Despite my humble writing skills, you took the time to read my blog, and for that, I am deeply grateful. Your comments, feedback, and encouragement have meant the world to me.Reflecting on last year, I was fortunate to share a variety of topics with you, and it’s truly tha...
Counting Down to 2025: A Year of Hope, Growth, and Fresh Starts
Hey there, friends! Can you feel the excitement building up as we inch closer to the end of 2024? The clock’s ticking, and here we are—on the brink of a brand-new chapter. It’s that magical time of year when nostalgia for the past meets the thrill of what’s ahead. Let’s take a breather, reflect on the year we’ve had, and gear up for the opportunities waiting for us in 2025.Looking Back at 2024What...
Thank you so much for reading my blog this year.
Hello, everyone!Thank you so much for reading my blog this year. Can you believe it? There’s only one day left of 2024!This year has been full of movement and change. With things settling down after COVID, people and goods started moving around again, and it’s been a big year for trade and travel. I bet it’s been a year of changes for you too, hasn’t it?At the same time, places like London saw som...
A Day Without Mobiles and Batteries
It was the end of the year, and I was tucked away in a cosy café, coffee in one hand and my phone in the other, mindlessly scrolling through the internet. Then, without warning, the screen went black.
The Power of the Passport: A Key to the World
As we approach yearend end, it’s a perfect moment to pause and think about something simple yet vital: the passport.For many, this small booklet is much more than a document; it’s the key to the world. As we reflect on the year gone by, it’s worth considering the role this key plays in connecting us all—whether for business, travel, or personal journeys.The Japanese Passport and Its SignificanceWh...
ALTO - A Life Time Opportunity
Suzuki ALTO, one of their best selling gar model.I was very sad to hear that the chairman of Suzuki has passed away at the age of 94, during Christmas time. What an amazing life he lived! He helped make Suzuki famous all over the world and brought so much to so many people.Did you know Suzuki started out as a company making weaving machines? Back then, it was called
From Resolutions to Reality: Building a Year Worth Remembering
Hello, lovely people!Blimey, can you believe it? 2024 is almost over! Feels like it flew by, doesn’t it? I hope this year’s been a cracking one for you. Over here in Japan, most folks have finished their work for the year today. Some even spent the afternoon tidying up, doing a big clean-up before the New Year kicks off. It’s the season when everyone starts thinking, “What’s next year gonna look l...
Hello, everyone! First things first – well done for making it through another year!You know, having worked with folks from so many different countries, it’s always fascinating to see how each place has its own special holiday traditions. Whether it’s Christmas, New Year’s, the Lunar New Year, Ramadan, or the Indian New Year, people everywhere seem to share one thing – this time of year is all abou...
I’ve met so many amazing Japanese people working hard in all sorts of places around the world. It’s incredible how much effort they put in, no matter where they are. But recently, I’ve been hearing more and more sad stories from them—stories of struggles, setbacks, and challenges. It’s tough to hear, and it makes me hope even more that happiness and brighter days are just around the corner for eve...
It was Christmas Eve morning, and I was still in bed, dreaming about Santa sliding down the chimney with a sack full of presents. Then—BANG! My phone started buzzing like mad. “Who on earth is calling me this early?” I thought, squinting at the screen. And there it was—an international number from Africa or the Middle East. “Oh, great,” I muttered. “This can’t be good.”I picked up, and before I co...
Big Changes Coming for Japanese Car Makers!
Alright, everyone, you might have heard this already, but two big Japanese car companies, H Motors and N Motors, are planning to join forces. And guess what? That bloke C. Ghosn, the one who famously escaped from Japan in a musical instrument case, is back in the news! Reporters have even gone all the way to Lebanon to dig up stories about him. Of course, many people are saying, “This merger? It’l...
What 2025’s “Great Reset” might look like.
This weekend, I found myself with a beer in hand, lazily mulling over what 2025’s “Great Reset” might look like.You see, when it comes to property, the posh bits of big cities like New York, London, Tokyo, or Paris aren’t losing their shine anytime soon. In fact, prices are only expected to go up. The wealthy and investors tend to park their money in these prime spots because, well, it’s safe and ...
A Weekend Thought: What If We Didn't Have to Work?
So, here’s a little thought I had while staring at my cup of tea this weekend: what’s going to happen to the world economy? You hear people saying all the time, “Oh, this country’s economy is doomed!” It’s all a bit gloomy, isn’t it? But the thing is, it’s not just one country. The whole world seems to be heading in the same direction.Apparently, we’re moving towards a future where GDP growth migh...
Looking Forward to 2025 – Let’s Have a Giggle!
Well, here we are at the end of another year, and it’s time to have a little think about all that’s happened. Let’s be honest – 2024 has been a bit of a rollercoaster, hasn’t it? One minute we’re all stuck at home because of that pesky virus, and the next minute we’re talking about chips (no, not crisps – I mean semiconductors), robots, and electric cars. It’s like we’ve all suddenly become expert...
Let’s give it our best and finish the year strong!
The end of the year is nearly here, isn’t it? In Japan, it feels like we still have another week of work to go. But in Europe, this week is pretty much the end of business for the year. Lots of people are already getting ready for their holidays. The streets are full of bright Christmas lights, but in Japan, Christmas is more of a fashion thing, isn’t it? It’s more about the look than the meaning....
The Japanese yen is getting weaker again, and for anyone planning a trip abroad over New Year, well, it’s not exactly cheerful news, is it? The exchange rate dropped on the 19th, hitting 157 yen to the dollar – the lowest since July. Apparently, it’s all because the head of the Bank of Japan, Mr. Ueda, said something along the lines of, “We need a bit more info from the spring wage talks before we...
What’s Going On With Japan? Let’s Have a Little Think!
Lately, every time you hear news about Japan’s economy, it feels a bit worrying, doesn’t it? Like, big car companies are now talking about teaming up to survive. Imagine that! These car makers used to be the pride of Japan’s factories, and now they’re thinking, “Let’s stick together to keep going.”And then there’s this trade deficit – Japan’s been spending more money buying stuff from other countr...
To stop the trade deficit, making Japanese products more appealing to overseas buyers would be a big help. For example, improving product quality, introducing innovative designs, or offering better prices could make Japanese goods more competitive in global markets. Promoting Japan’s unique strengths, like advanced technology or traditional craftsmanship, could also attract more international buye...
Japan’s trade deficit has been going on for months now, and it’s quite worrying. In November, the country had a trade deficit of 117.6 billion yen, making it the fifth month in a row. While exports have increased, imports are still too high, so the deficit hasn’t been fixed. If this carries on, Japan could face some serious problems.First of all, there’s the risk of the yen losing its value. When ...
Doing Business with Japanese Expats Abroad
When people hear about trade work, they usually picture dealing with foreigners, right? But funnily enough, I’ve had quite a few business deals with Japanese folks living overseas or companies that have expanded abroad. Most of the time, we speak English, of course, but the way negotiations go can be pretty different depending on whether I’m dealing with a local native or a Japanese expat.Now, whe...
Today, I learned the term
Top Countries with Thriving Trade Merchants
Right then, let me ask you – have you ever stopped to wonder which countries are churning out the most trade merchants, zipping about the globe with their deals and wares? Well, you’re in for a treat! Each of these countries brings its own flair, strengths, and a dash of history that make their merchants absolutely ace at the trading game.Do you know which countries have the largest number of peop...
Top Holiday Spots for Brits in 2024
A fun topic for the weekend – yes, overseas travel! Let’s talk about the favourite destinations for British travellers.Here’s the scoop on where us Brits love to jet off to when the holiday itch kicks in:Spain (Think Costa del Sol, Barcelona, or Mallorca – sun, sea, and sangria, anyone)France (Paris, of course, or the glitzy French Riviera – très chic, innit)Italy (Rome, Venice, or a dreamy Tuscan...
A Cheeky Weekend Take - What Makes the Japanese So Unique?
The Japanese really are masters of “reading the room,” aren’t they? Take rush hour trains, for example. Packed like sardines, not a word uttered, and everyone just stands there… enduring. My mate from abroad once asked, “Is this some sort of ninja training?” Honestly, I wanted to say, “No, no, this is our version of cultural sophistication.” But between you and me, I’m just standing there thinking...
Well, here’s a bit of weekend talk for you. By chance, I spent this weekend relaxing and listening to some music for the first time in ages. With Christmas just around the corner, the streets are twinkling with decorations, and there’s that festive feeling in the air, isn’t there? While I was out and about, I couldn’t help but notice quite a few people from Africa. Feeling a bit bold (perhaps than...
Why Are the Chinese Among the World's Top Three Merchants?
Is the talent for business inherited, or is it nurtured by one's environment? The answer to this mystery may lie within the very spirit of Chinese entrepreneurship. No matter where you go in the world, you'll invariably find Chinese-owned restaurants, shops, or even sprawling factories. This phenomenon seems to be as natural a law as gravity itself. But what exactly makes the Chinese so exceptiona...
You know why people say Jewish folks are amazing at business? Well, there are a few reasons, and they’re pretty interesting! It’s all about how they learn things, stick together as a team, and what they’ve been through in history. Let me tell you a bit more with some fun examples.A long time ago, Jewish people had a tough time. They were often kicked out of places and weren’t allowed to own land o...
Why Japanese Businessmen Totally Lose to Indian Businessmen
Today, we’ll be talking about the people often referred to as the world’s three great merchants: the Jewish people, Indians, and Chinese.Japanese businessmen are known for being hardworking and super serious. People say, “Ah, the Japanese are so professional!” And sure, they are. But when it comes to facing Indian businessmen, oh boy, things don’t always go so well. Why? Because Indians have maste...
Do you, too, have one or two in mind? Those harmful Japanese business practices:
I often hear complaints from people outside Japan about doing business here. Maybe you’ve heard some of these things too! Decision-Making Takes Ages
The Art of Eating Your Way to a Business Deal
Ever wondered when it’s the right time to grab a bite with a new business partner? Turns out, it’s a bit of a cultural adventure! Let me share what I’ve noticed – it might give you a chuckle.Take people in Asia, for example. If they’ve got black hair and dark eyes, chances are that after a few good chats about business, they’ll say, “Shall we go for lunch then?” It’s not a grand dinner or anything...
Indirect expressions and cultural differences
The Japanese language is rich with indirect expressions and polite ways of saying things. These phrases often aim to convey one’s thoughts while being considerate of the other person’s feelings or situation. In Japan, there's a strong cultural expectation to
My Experience with a Lawyer from Eastern Europe
So, I met this guy from Eastern Europe – a chap in his 30s, who’s a lawyer back home. Now, before you start thinking this is going to be all about courtrooms and legal jargon, let me tell you – the bloke spoke English like a pro. Proper clean, no strange accents or anything, like he’d been trained in the Queen’s English. I thought, “Alright, here’s a gentleman!” Friendly, polite, seemed nice enoug...
How many trade fairs have I been to, you ask? Well, let me tell you, it’s quite the collection! From the world-famous, once-every-four-years international expos to the tiniest local exhibitions where you’re lucky if there’s a tea stall. Back in the day, I used to find it nerve-wracking—chatting to complete strangers, not knowing who they were or what they did. But as the years went by and the name...
The Great Bargain Showdown: How the World Haggles
Let’s imagine you’re selling something for £100. Now, the fun begins as buyers from around the world try their best to knock down the price. Trust me, haggling is like a game, and each country has its own quirky way of playing it.First up, we’ve got the Europeans. They walk in, all serious and clever, and say, “I’ll take 100 of these. What kind of discount can you give me for such a big order?” Ve...
Sundays are always a treat, aren’t they? The joy of a day off, the satisfaction of spending time just for yourself… But as the evening creeps in, that little thought pops up: “Oh no, tomorrow’s the start of another week…” It’s a familiar feeling, isn’t it?And it makes sense, really. Whether it’s work or school, tomorrow marks the continuation of life’s daily rhythm. But you know, that’s exactly wh...
What's More Important? First Impressions with Foreigners
Meeting new people, you often find yourself shaking hands with folks from all over the globe. First comes the polite intro, then straight into the business chat. Of course, you’ve done your homework – Googled them, skimmed their LinkedIn – but here’s the kicker: nothing prepares you for the surprise of meeting someone face-to-face. First impressions? Oh, they matter, and let’s just say they can be...
The World’s Unsung Heroes: Trade Middlemen
You know, there are loads of jobs out there, but have you ever thought about trade? It’s one of the oldest jobs around, as simple as swapping a biscuit for a crisp at school lunch. Long ago, in the lands with borders everywhere, people started trading because, well, they fancied what the neighbours had. “We’ve got loads of fish. Fancy a swap for your juicy apples?” That’s how it all kicked off.Pic...
Am I a lifelong chattering machine?
When you work in a job where meeting people, having a good old chinwag, and pushing business forward is your bread and butter, the time you spend chatting and connecting with them really sticks in your memory, doesn’t it? In my case, most of the folks I meet are from all over the world – different countries, different languages, and let’s not forget, all sorts of skin colours too. My work involves...
Crossing Cultures in Business: The Beauty of Trade Negotiations
The world of trade is a fascinating place, full of challenges and surprises. What makes it so special? For me, it’s the incredible blend of cultures, languages, and traditions that come to life during negotiations. You see, every business deal isn’t just about numbers and contracts—it’s a snapshot of human history and culture unfolding right before your eyes.I’ve had days where a simple negotiatio...
My Funny Experience with a Salesman - "Lessons from African Negotiations"
Just this morning, I had a phone chat with a salesman from a country far away. You know, it was one of those
Why Japan Won't Collapse: A Simple Explanation
Let me explain why Japan won’t collapse economically in a way that even young children can understand!1. Japan Borrows Money in a Special WayJapan’s government borrows a lot of money, but most of it is borrowed from people and companies inside Japan. The Bank of Japan, which is like Japan’s
If you're curious where Japanese folks are most likely to ring in the New Year abroad—whether for business, study, long-term assignments, or full-blown relocation—the top ten destinations might surprise you. Here's a fun little ranking:The United States – The land of opportunities, or perhaps just better weather in Hawaii and Guam? Either way, it's a top spot.South Korea – Quick hops to Seoul and ...
At last, it seems like Japanese folks are ready to spread their wings and fly abroad this New Year’s holidays! According to travel data, bookings for overseas trips have gone up by a whopping 25% compared to last year. Let’s take a peek at the top destinations for 2024 and have a bit of fun guessing why these places are so loved.**The Close-to-Home Comforts** First place goes to Seoul, followed b...
Poor old Mir has sadly passed away
This story has a certain unexpected charm, doesn’t it? A cat named Mir, meaning
Ah, the glory days of Japanese hotel chains! Twenty or thirty years ago, they were marching out into the world, spreading the magic of Japanese hospitality like samurai on a mission (only with less armour and more fluffy towels). Big names like Okura and Nikko weren’t just about fancy stays; they were cultural ambassadors, showing the world what
In Japan, the ageing population and fewer kids are causing quite the headache, especially when it comes to finding folks to take over businesses. Lately, there’s been a lot of chatter about something called “profitable closures” – businesses shutting down even though they’re making a tidy profit, simply because there’s no one to take the reins. When I first heard about this, I was gobsmacked and, ...
A noticeable shift for yearend in Japan
In recent years, there’s been a noticeable shift in some traditional New Year’s customs in Japan, especially when it comes to sending New Year’s cards (nengajo) and giving end-of-year gifts (oseibo). For example, in 2023, the number of New Year’s cards sent dropped to 1.8 billion, the lowest in history. This is mainly due to more people using social media and email to send their greetings, especia...
Bonus Edition: Today’s London Weather – A Little Snapshot
So, it’s the start of December in London, and it’s a bit nippy. The air feels cool, but it’s not too cold—around 10 degrees, just enough to make you think, “Hmm, I might need a jacket!” The wind is there too, gently kissing your cheeks, making you feel a bit chillier than the thermometer says. But hey, it’s winter in London, not a snowstorm in Siberia! No need for a heavy coat—just a nice jacket w...
As I sit here on this weekend, I'm thinking back on all the European and Japanese people I've had the pleasure of meeting over the years as a trade merchant. It’s been quite the journey, and I can’t help but reflect on the differences and similarities that have popped up along the way.So, I've spent a fair bit of time around both European and Japanese wealthy folks. Over the years, I’ve noticed a ...
The freedom is glorious, the responsibility is terrifying
So, imagine this: back in the old nine-to-five days, there’s this person whose boss used to say, “Oh, your work is so meticulous!” But not in a good way. Nope, it was more like, “You’re so slow it’s painful to watch.” Fast forward a bit, and this same person decides to go independent. What happens next? Chaos? Freedom? A bit of both, really.When you’re your own boss, no one’s there to roll their e...
Better way to spend the weekend
The weekend’s just around the corner, isn’t it? Lately, the news has been a bit gloomy, hasn’t it? But weekends are the perfect time to switch gears, take a breath, and find a little joy in the simple things. You know, most people in Japan say they feel happiest when they’re having a good rest or spending time with their family. And honestly, doesn’t that just make you smile? No matter how tough l...
World's largest recycling plant
I came across a story about a big European company planning to build the world's largest recycling plant for drink bottles. Now, I thought, that’s massive! But what really caught my attention was where they’re doing it. Not in Europe, no, no – they’re off to Asia! Imagine that – mixing clever European recycling know-how with loads of young, energetic workers. They’re aiming to take on the big leag...
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