When offered a meal, guests often express slight hesitation before accepting it. Light refreshments are accepted graciously. Compliments are denied out of modesty. Gifts are given and accepted with both hands and a slight bow. The People Practicality, hard work, and devotion characterize the modern Japanese.
Society is group-oriented and people identify strongly with their group.
Loyalty to the group and to one's superiors is essential and takes precedence over personal feelings. Politeness is extremely important. The Japanese feel a deep obligation to return favors and gifts. Age and tradition are honored. Japan's crime rate is one of the lowest in the world.