Japan's economic development, its modernity and degree of industrialization often lead to the assumption that there are no major differences in the Japanese way of thinking, motivations and value system to those of Western cultures. Still, Japanese behaviour is often perceived as incomprehensibly exotic, irrational and even absurd, which can lead to considerable difficulties in communication. This book identifies potential sources of intercultural conflict and shows ways of coping with these by analysing various real-life examples. It is meant to sensitise the reader for possible causes of misunderstandings, to enable him to solve or avoid them altogether, and to impart enough knowledge about the Japanese culture for him to act and communicate successfully in Japan.