You enter your hotel and are greeted with an unobtrusive bow. In your room, clean pajamas are laid out on your bed, and as you wander into the bathroom, the toilet seat rises without you having to touch it. You’re experiencing omotenashi, a concept of hospitality that makes Japan the world’s most polite country. Your every need is met, you feel cared for, and a sense of peace washes over you.
While “hospitality” is an accepted translation of omotenashi, it doesn’t fully convey its depth and meaning. Omotenashi is a blend of politeness and care with the aim of maintaining harmony, and is a deeply ingrained cultural philosophy shaped by centuries of tradition.
The concept is exemplified by the traditional Japanese tea ceremony, where every gesture, from the way a cup is placed to the host’s careful preparation, is designed to create a seamless and thoughtful experience for the guest. In fact, attending a tea ceremony is one of the best things first-time visitors can do in Japan, and a certain way to experience omotenashi.
Experiencing a culture of consideration
