The Importance of <i>Wa</i> When Doing Business in Japan

Volumes have been written on the supposed non-litigious nature of the Japanese, usually citing statistics showing there are hundreds of times fewer attorneys and lawsuits per capita in Japan as compared to the U.S. These statistics are generally misleading because they fail to take into account the structure of the Japanese court system itself, which presents significant barriers for litigants. <br>This article focuses on two aspects of Japanese culture that noticeably affect the Japanese approach to business relationships. First, the Japanese insistence on preserving harmony as evidenced by consensus decision-making, avoidance of confrontation and attention to formalities of rank and seniority. Second, the importance of mutual trust to the business relationship as evidenced by the emphasis on non-business discussions.

26 minute readOctober 30, 2006 at 09:37 AM
By
Craig Parry
The Importance of <i>Wa</i> When Doing Business in Japan

'The Master said, in hearing litigation, I am no different from any other man. But if you insist on a difference, it is, perhaps, that I try to get parties not to resort to litigation in the first place.'

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