7 points to keep in mind about manners and customs in Thailand

Hello, this is Macchan.

Thailand is a Buddhist country like Japan, so there are many things in common, such as daily customs and national character.

However, there are also values, manners, and customs that are surprisingly different from Japan. There is a saying, ``When you enter a country, obey the country.'' He kept this in mind when he went to Thailand, and he summarized the Thai manners and customs that he learned.

1. Avoid touching people's heads as much as possible

In Thailand, a person's head is said to be the place where the spirit "Pi" resides, and is considered to be a particularly important part of the body.

Therefore, refrain from touching it unnecessarily. In Japan, when you see a cute child, you can't help but pat him on the head, but try to refrain from doing that. There have also been times when I unconsciously stroked someone and said, "Oh! Sorry!"

2.The left hand is unclean

In Japan, we don't really pay attention to our left and right hands, but in Thailand, the right hand is considered clean, and the left hand is considered unclean.

Therefore, it is considered impolite to handle important things with your left hand.

When receiving something, do so with your right hand. Of course, in daily life, as a tourist, you may be seen a lot, but it is prohibited at important events such as ceremonial occasions and official occasions.

3. Don't show the soles of your feet

Like the left hand, the sole of the foot is also considered unclean. When visiting a Buddha statue at a temple, etc., be careful not to point the soles of your feet toward the Buddha. The same applies to people.

4. Avoid stepping over other people's legs.

Stepping over someone else's leg is considered taboo in Thailand.

Be especially careful in crowded places such as buses and trains. If you look inside buses in Thailand, people who are already seated will shift their bodies 90 degrees to give her more space.

This is the etiquette in Thailand. Similarly, if you are sitting first, don't block the space by throwing your legs out.

5. Show respect to religion

This is of course not limited to Thailand, but be sure to pay particular attention to the history of the religion of the place you visit.

Thailand is a Buddhist country like Japan, and it is said that 95% of the people are Buddhist.

However, because Buddhism was spread through different routes and at different times, there are major differences in her teachings even though she is a Buddhist. Japan: Mahayana Buddhism


→ The idea that one can attain enlightenment by listening to the teachings of those who have practiced Thailand

: Theravada Buddhism
→ The idea that only those who have undergone rigorous training can attain enlightenment Compared to Japanese Buddhism, Thai Buddhism has stricter precepts and many restrictions in daily life. This is why monks and monks are highly respected in Thailand.

Avoid exposing your skin at temples

It is prohibited to wear clothing that exposes too much skin in temples. Therefore, you cannot enter the temple grounds wearing sleeveless clothing, tank tops, shorts above the knee, or hot pants. Make sure to bring a light hoodie and long pants.

6. Show respect to the royal family

Current King Rama X

In Thailand, the royal family and the king are highly respected by the people.

When the former King Bhumibol Adulyadej passed away in 2016, all Thai people were deeply saddened. In Thailand, criticizing or insulting the royal family is a serious crime and is considered lese majeste.

Even if it's just a prank while you're drunk, don't do it. Before the theaters and cinemas open, a portrait of the king is projected on the screen and the Royal Hymn is played.

Be sure to stand up when doing so. National or royal hymns are also played at public facilities such as airports, bus terminals, and train stations at 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. In the same way, stand up and try to remain as motionless as possible.

7. Women should not touch monks.

As mentioned earlier, Thai monks lead their daily lives while observing strict precepts.

One of the teachings is that it is a violation of the precepts for monks to touch women. Therefore, it is better to keep your distance from monks to avoid any trouble.In fact, there are seats reserved for monks on subways in Thailand. Do not touch your body or ask for a handshake. Women should be especially careful.

summary

When visiting a foreign country, be sure to treat the local culture and religion with respect. If you can do what she does to accept other people, the other person will definitely accept you as well. Let's respect each other's culture and enjoy a pleasant trip to Thailand.