Unusual and Surprising Cultural Norms From Around the World

Unusual and Surprising Cultural Norms from Around the World

Have you ever considered that what seems normal to you may be considered unusual or even strange to someone else? Cultural norms vary greatly from country to country, and some of them can be unexpected and intriguing.

Here, we’ll explore some of the most unusual and surprising cultural norms from around the world.

Japan’s Omotenashi

In Japan, customers are treated with an exceptional level of hospitality, known as Omotenashi. From the moment a customer enters a store or restaurant, the focus is on making them feel comfortable and valued. Servers might bow deeply, offer refreshing hand towels, or even walk customers out the door. The philosophy behind Omotenashi is to put the customer’s needs above all else, and it is ingrained in Japanese cultural communication.

Fiji’s Kava Drinking Ceremony

In Fiji, the traditional way of welcoming guests is by holding a Kava ceremony. This is where locals gather to drink Kava, a traditional drink made from the root of the Piper methysticum plant. The drink is made by grinding the root and mixing it with water before serving it in a communal bowl. It’s considered a sign of respect to drink the entire bowl in one go, and refusing is generally seen as a sign of disrespect.

India’s Head Wobbling

If you’ve ever been to India, you may have been surprised by the locals’ head wobbling. It’s a gesture that can mean “yes,” “no,” “maybe,” or “I don’t know” depending on the context in which it’s used. It can be a confusing cultural norm for someone not from India, but it’s become so ingrained in Indian culture that it’s now considered a unique form of communication.

Canada’s Apology Culture

In Canada, apologizing is considered an important social norm. Saying “sorry” is not always an admission of guilt, but rather a way of showing empathy and an effort to maintain harmony in relationships. This cultural norm is so ingrained in Canadian society that some people have referred to it as an “apology culture.”

South Korea’s Fan Death

In South Korea, it’s widely believed that sleeping in a closed room with a fan on can cause death. The belief is so strong that fans sold in Korea will often come with automatic shut-off timers to prevent people from accidentally leaving them on overnight. This belief in fan death is not supported by any scientific evidence, but it’s a cultural norm that continues to be widely believed and practiced.

Takeaways

Cultural norms can vary greatly around the world, and some can be more surprising than others. The examples we’ve explored here give just a glimpse into the many different cultural norms that exist around the world.

Whether it’s the hospitality-focused Omotenashi in Japan, the Kava drinking ceremony in Fiji, or the apology culture in Canada, each cultural norm has its own unique history and importance. Understanding these norms can help us navigate our travels, and also gain a new appreciation for the differences that enrich our world.