How can we communicate effectively despite cultural differences?

Case Study: Hiromi (Japanese, female, aged 20) and Isobel (Spanish, female, aged 20)

Hiromi, a 20-year-old Japanese university student, was thrilled to hear from her junior high school penpal, Isobel, from Spain. Isobel had always been curious about Japanese culture and expressed her desire to visit Hiromi in Kyoto during her summer break. Hiromi happily agreed and started planning their itinerary.

When Isobel arrived in Kyoto, Hiromi was excited to show her all the famous temples and shrines. However, on the first day, Hiromi realised that Isobel had a very different concept of time. Hiromi was always punctual and had planned their entire day in advance, but Isobel was more laid-back and took her time getting ready in the morning. Hiromi tried to explain the importance of being on time in Japanese culture, but Isobel didn't seem to understand why it was such a big deal.

On the second day, Hiromi took Isobel to a famous restaurant where they had to remove their shoes before entering. Hiromi was surprised to see that Isobel had worn sandals with socks, which was considered inappropriate in Japanese culture. Hiromi was hesitant to say anything, but the restaurant staff pointed out the mistake, and Isobel was embarrassed.

As their trip continued, Hiromi started to feel frustrated with Isobel’s lack of consideration for cultural differences. Hiromi had always been taught to respect hierarchy, but Isobel didn't seem to understand the importance of showing respect to older people. One day, they visited a traditional tea house where Isobel accidentally interrupted a tea ceremony, causing the host to become angry. Hiromi scolded Isobel for not understanding the cultural norms and accused her of being insensitive. Isobel was hurt by Hiromi's words and felt like she was being unfairly judged. She tried to explain that she had no intention of disrespecting Japanese culture, but Hiromi was too upset to listen. They ended up having a serious argument, and Isobel considered cutting her trip short. 

However, after some time to cool off, Hiromi realised that she had overreacted and apologised to Isobel. They had a heart-to-heart talk about their cultural differences, and Hiromi explained that Japanese culture had a strong emphasis on respect and hierarchy. Isobel listened attentively and shared her own experiences of growing up in a more egalitarian culture. They both acknowledged that their cultural backgrounds had influenced their perspectives, and that understanding each other's differences was key to their friendship.

In the end, Isobel and Hiromi resolved their differences and continued to have a wonderful time exploring Kyoto together. They became even closer friends by the end of Isobel’s trip, and both learned valuable lessons about cultural sensitivity and understanding.

Questions

1. What were some of the cultural differences that Hiromi and Tanja encountered during Tanja's visit to Kyoto?

2. How did Hiromi react to Tanja's cultural missteps, and why did she feel so strongly about them?

3. Why did Tanja feel hurt and misunderstood during her argument with Hiromi?

4. How did Hiromi and Tanja resolve their differences, and what lessons did they learn about cultural sensitivity and understanding?