Local Customs & Etiquette in Fujisawa, Kanagawa, Japan
1. Shoes Off at Doors Custom
Removing shoes before entering homes and some public buildings is a common practice in Fujisawa.
- Cleanliness: Keeps floors clean and prevents dirt from being tracked indoors.
- Respect: Shows respect for the host's home and culture.
- Comfort: Ensures a clean pair of indoor shoes is available.
2. Bowing Greeting
A deep bow is the traditional way to greet someone in Fujisawa.
- Courtesy: Shows respect and politeness towards others.
- Acknowledgement: Signifies the recognition of the other person's presence.
- Reciprocity: The depth and number of bows depend on the relationship between the people involved.
3. Chopsticks Etiquette
In Fujisawa, it's considered impolite to stick chopsticks vertically into a rice bowl.
- Respect: Avoids resembling incense sticks at an altar.
- Cleanliness: Prevents chopsticks from becoming dirty while not in use.
- Superstition: Avoids bad luck and symbolizes death, as it resembles the way offerings are made at funerals.
4. Gift-giving Customs
Giving and receiving gifts is a common practice in Fujisawa, especially during festivals.
- Reciprocity: Gifts are typically given with the expectation of a reciprocal gift.
- Significance: Gifts should have some symbolic meaning or be seasonally appropriate.
- Politeness: Wrapping gifts with care shows thoughtfulness and attention to detail.
5. Temples & Shrines Dress Code
Visitors are expected to dress modestly when visiting temples and shrines in Fujisawa.
- Respect: Shows respect for the sacred nature of the temple or shrine.
- Coverage: Shoulders and knees should be covered to show modesty.
- Removal: Shoes are often required to be removed before entering temples or shrines.
6. Obon Festival
The Obon festival in Fujisawa honors the spirits of ancestors.
- Family Ties: A time for families to gather and remember their ancestors.
- Community Spirit: Neighborhoods often come together to perform traditional dances.
- Respect: Offerings are made to the spirits of ancestors and graves are cleaned.
7. Tengu-no-yakata Dance
A traditional folk dance performed during the Tengu no Yakata festival in Fujisawa.
- Cultural Preservation: Keeps a centuries-old tradition alive.
- Community Bonding: Fosters a sense of camaraderie and unity within the community.
- Entertainment: Provides an enjoyable experience for both performers and spectators.
8. Hama-iri Festival
The Hama-iri festival is a beach cleaning event held annually in Fujisawa.
- Environmentalism: Promotes environmental awareness and care for the local beaches.
- Community Engagement: Encourages residents and visitors to participate in maintaining the beach.
- Solidarity: Builds a sense of unity and purpose within the community.
9. Kawai-cho Sake Brewery
Visiting Kawai-cho sake breweries provides insights into the traditional sake-making process.
- Cultural Education: Learn about the history and craft of sake-making.
- Taste Testing: Tasting different types of locally brewed sake.
- Local Support: Supporting local businesses and their traditional craft.
10. Seafood Market Etiquette
Haggling for prices is not customary in Fujisawa's seafood markets.
- Respect: Shows respect for the vendors and their work.
- Directness: Ask for the price directly without bargaining.
- Patience: Be patient while waiting for your turn to be served.
11. Midori-no-oka Green Space
Midori-no-oka is a popular green space in Fujisawa where picnics and barbecues are allowed.
- Relaxation: A peaceful place to unwind and enjoy nature.
- Community Gathering: Offers an opportunity for residents and visitors to socialize.
- Food & Fun: Allows for family-friendly activities like picnics and barbecues.
12. Hayama Pottery Village
Visit Hayama Pottery Village to witness traditional pottery-making techniques.
- Artistic Appreciation: Appreciate the beauty and craftsmanship of Japanese pottery.
- Interaction: Meet local artisans and learn about their work.
- Shopping Opportunities: Purchase unique, handcrafted pottery pieces as souvenirs.
13. Enoshima Island Busy Season
Enoshima Island experiences high visitor numbers during summer and holidays.
- Popular Destination: Attracts numerous tourists due to its scenic beauty and historical sites.
- Preparation: Plan your visit during off-peak hours or days for a more enjoyable experience.
- Patience: Be patient and expect large crowds during peak season.
14. Odawara Castle Grounds Etiquette
Respecting the quiet atmosphere and following rules helps preserve the serenity of Odawara Castle grounds.
- Tranquility: Helps maintain a peaceful environment for visitors to enjoy.
- Respect: Follow posted rules and guidelines to preserve the castle's historical significance.
- Caution: Be mindful of your surroundings, especially near delicate structures or artifacts.
15. Enoshima Aquarium Evening Illumination
The Enoshima Aquarium's evening illumination offers a magical underwater experience.
- Entertainment: Provides an enjoyable and educational nighttime activity.
- Aesthetics: Beautifully illuminated exhibits create a mesmerizing atmosphere.
- Learning: Gain insights into the marine life and conservation efforts.