Japanese spirit of give and given (1of2) You may have heard the word, a notion of spirit of give and take. When we adopt that in Japanese culture, the aspect of giving is emphasized than taking. In the other word, it is said that the spirit of give and given. In this essay, I take some instances of scenes you will see when you communicate with Japanese. This essay will help foreigners to know and understand this Japanese characteristic notion. First instance of that, it is seen in a tribute custom. When you receive some present, sometimes you can hear that Japanese say “This is not so expensive but…” You may be confused why you are given not good thing. But it express the message that “you can receive this without hesitation, and you don’t have to prepare something special in return”. Japanese have custom to making present in return of favor, but it is more moral behavior to being giver than taker. So the giver aim the message for the given person not to feel ethical pressure. Second example, in situation of eating something together such as party or dinner, you will see the last piece of food such as cake or pizza is on the table. Japanese tend to think that if there is someone who doesn’t insist that want to take the last piece, I’m sorry for him or her. So it is general manner to confirm that it is okay to take last one to other members. However, foreigner is generally welcomed as a guest for Japanese, you don’t have to hesitate take the last piece.