Is Japan the most polite country?

From the unfailingly courteous taxi drivers in their immaculate vehicles to the precisely wrapped parcels for the most humble department store purchase and the little dance of bows guests get from attendants whenever they enter a hotel, Japan is probably the most polite place on earth.



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Prolonged eye contact (staring) is considered rude. Don't show affection, such as hugging or shoulder slapping, in public. Never beckon with your forefinger. The Japanese extend their right arm out in front, bending the wrist down, waving fingers.

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Confucianism is one of the fundamental ideas of Japanese politeness. Confucianism stresses loyalty, justice, sense of shame, refined manners, modesty and honor among other values.

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First, Japan is firmly allied with the United States in the Cold War against communism. Second, Japan relies on American military strength and limits its own defense forces to a minimum.

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If you're thinking of visiting or working in Japan, it'll put you in good stead to learn a good bowing technique and etiquette. Don't worry about getting it wrong though. Most Japanese people will not expect foreigners to know proper bowing rules, and they'll probably let you off…

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Any readers who've followed the GPI over the years won't be particularly surprised: Iceland has topped the poll every year since all the way back in 2008. Thanks to its low crime rates but also low military spending and low rates of international conflict, Iceland is, once again, the safest country in the world.

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Tradition, form and protocol are highly valued. Japanese customarily bow to each other rather than shake hands upon meeting. However, most Japanese accustomed to dealing with foreigners expect to shake hands with them and are rarely embarrassed when a foreigner offers his hand.

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