Why we think the Japan is a Type 6 culture

• No job is too small. When you go into the Tokyo subway, you can see “eki staff” (station attendants) doing their job with extreme dedication (even when no one is on the platform) using hand signals and verbal cues to make sure everything is in order and so that the trains continue to operate on time. You will also see street cleaners, janitors, and sanitation workers doing their jobs with humility and a sense of pride in their work. The meticulous cleanliness of Japanese cities and public spaces reflects the high standards these workers uphold. 

• Respect and honor. Japanese society holds a high level of respect for individuals in all professions, regardless of the job's perceived status. This respect is evident in the polite interactions with service workers, such as bus drivers, cleaners, and convenience store clerks. Everyone bows to everyone. Even the CEO bows to the janitor. The historical samurai code is all about honor, duty, and respect. 

• Compliance. There was near 100% compliance with wearing masks throughout the Covid era in Japan, despite no official laws. Companies adhere to incredibly strict occupational health and safety regulations, ensuring safe working environments and compliance with standards to prevent workplace accidents and illnesses. With recycling, citizens comply with incredibly detailed sorting and disposal guidelines to ensure efficient recycling and waste reduction.

• Cautious investment approach. Japanese companies, individuals, and the government are all known for their extreme risk aversion when it comes to investing. For example: 1. A significant portion of Japanese household financial assets is held in cash and bank deposits (54% in Japan  vs. 13% in the US). 2. The Japan Government Pension Investment Fund (GPIF), the world's largest pension fund, has approximately 50% of its assets allocated to domestic bonds and cash (a very large and conservative amount), vs. 25-30% for pension funds in other countries like the US, Canada, Netherlands, and UK). 3. Less than 15% of Japanese households are invested in the stock market vs. nearly 40% in the US. 4. As of 2022, Japanese non-financial corporations held $2.4 trillion in cash and deposits (45% of its GDP), which is a huge number, and reflects a very conservative approach. This number is only 10% of GDP in the US.

• Hierarchical structure. Japanese society is traditionally hierarchical, with a strong emphasis on respect for elders and authority figures. It’s very difficult for talented young people in Japanese companies to rise to the top because of the emphasis on age and experience over ability.  This hierarchical nature reinforces conservative values, as individuals are expected to adhere to established norms and practices.

• Loyalty to groups. Loyalty to one's family, company, and social groups is a significant cultural value in Japan. This loyalty fosters a sense of responsibility and mutual support, contributing to the sense of stability and continuity that exists in the country. The concept of "wa" (harmony) encourages individuals to prioritize group interests over personal desires. 

• Uniformity and conformity. The Japanese educational system emphasizes these values in many ways that reflect broader cultural values that prioritize social harmony and group cohesion. As an example, nearly 100% of Japanese students in high school and middle school wear uniforms. This practice minimizes visible socio-economic differences among students and reinforces a sense of unity and belonging.