Japan: A Guide to Traditions, Customs and Etiquette is the first book to explain in detail why the Japanese think and behave as they do and it has now been completely revised and expanded.

Veteran Japanologist Boye Lafayette De Mente unlocks the mysteries of KATA-the cultural forms that shape and define Japanese attitudes, behaviour and character. These forms are responsible for creating the unique traits and talents which make the Japanese distinct. Virtually all interactions in Japan are governed by KATA and they remain the key to understanding and interacting successfully in Japan in all personal and business matters.

In seventy short, clear essays ranging from "The Art of Bowing" and "Importance of the Apology" to "The Compulsion for Quality" and "Exchanging Name Cards", De Mente unravels the complexities of Japanese culture and etiquette by exploring the origin, nature, use and influence of KATA in Japanese life.