A couple of weeks ago in this column, I gave some tips for foreigners visiting Japan. One reader suggested that in my next column, I give some tips for Japanese visiting the United States. So here goes: Amy's rigorous guide to what NOT to do when visiting the U.S.
Drop the slurping: Not all noodles are created equal. Spaghetti is Italian, and although it may look like a noodle and taste like a noodle, do not slurp it like a noodle! Remember, the real reason to slurp noodles in Japan is to cool them down. Spaghetti is not eaten at high temperatures, so slurping is like broadcasting rudeness over an in-mouth loudspeaker.
Leave behind the "o-battalion" gangs: Japanese abroad have the reputation as being loud and pushy. I suspect this comes from the Japanese tendency to travel in large groups, which can be overwhelming for Americans, since we seldom do anything in a group unless forming a street gang. "O-battalion" gangs on shopping sprees will not be looked upon favorably in the U.S. Nor will age get you any points. Even "o-baa-chans" have to stand in line and wait their turn.