Mind your manners

Japan is an incredible polite society.  I guess when 127 million people live in a space about the size of California (California has 40 million), manners are essential to maintain a civil community.  It is often the little things - people say excuse me and welcome you to their stores.  I have been in the thickest of crowds and yet, not once, have my toes been stepped on. 

I know bad things happen and rudeness is out there.  But, for the most part, Japan is so polite it is shocking.

I have noticed that manners are not just taught at home.  They are also emphasized at school.  It is a group effort to raise polite citizens.

Just in case people forget their manners, there are lots of signs up in the subways reminding people to mind their Ps and Qs.  The various ad campaigns are quiet entertaining.  I get a kick out of seeing the tips.