5 Interesting Cultural Norms Around the World That Will Surprise You

5 Interesting Cultural Norms Around the World That Will Surprise You

Every culture is unique and fascinating in its own way. From food and fashion to values and traditions, every society has its distinct practices that make it stand out from the rest. In this article, we will take a look at five interesting cultural norms from around the world that will surprise you.

1. The “Nose Tap” gesture in Italy:
In Italy, a particular gesture with the hand is quite common, and it is known as the ‘nose tap.’ The gesture is made by tapping the nose with the index finger, and it is used to convey secrecy or to imply that the person speaking is in on a secret.

2. The “Pikachu wave” in Japan:
The Pikachu wave is a common sight in Japan, especially at airports, train stations, and tourist destinations. It is a gesture made by waving both arms and hands simultaneously, and it is said to be inspired by the famous Pokemon character, Pikachu. The gesture is used to acknowledge someone or show gratitude.

3. The “Circle Dance” in Israel:
The Circle Dance is a popular celebration dance in Israel that involves a group of people holding hands while dancing in a circle. The dance is a symbol of social unity and is performed on joyous occasions such as weddings and religious festivals.

4. The “Tea Ceremony” in China:
The Tea Ceremony is an ancient Chinese tradition that dates back to the Tang dynasty (618-907 AD). It involves the ceremonial preparation and presentation of tea with strict attention to detail, and it is considered a form of meditation and a way to cultivate inner peace.

5. The “Whistled Language” in Turkey:
In Turkey, a whistled language known as “Kuş Dili” or “bird language” is used in some remote villages where neighbors live far away from each other. The language is used to communicate over long distances, and it is said to be able to convey complex messages that can’t be communicated with regular speech.

In conclusion, these five cultural norms show how diverse and intriguing our world can be. From secret gestures to ceremonial practices, each culture showcases its values and heritage uniquely. Exploring and understanding these cultural norms can give us a better insight into the customs and traditions of different societies, and ultimately enrich our understanding of humanity as a whole.