The Spirit of Japanese Hospitality Culture(OMOTENASHI)-Japanese home cooking class in Tokyo

Japanese omotenashi culture is a distinctive culture rooted in a long history and unique values. Here's an explanation of the main elements of omotenashi culture

Meaning and Origin of Omotenashi

There are two proposed origins for the word omotenashi:

　・Adding the polite prefix "o" to "motenashi"

　・"Omotenashi" meaning "without surface" (implying sincerity without pretense)

From these origins, omotenashi can be interpreted as "welcoming guests with high-quality goods and sincere hearts to improve their satisfaction"

The origins of omotenashi date back to the Heian period, with the introduction of the tea ceremony (chado) from China. The word "motenashi" was already used in "The Tale of Genji" from the mid-Heian period.

Mindset of Omotenashi

Important aspects of the omotenashi mindset include:

• Thoughtfulness that moves others: Striving for consideration beyond the guest's imagination

• Subtle attentiveness: Creating a pleasant atmosphere without being overbearing

• Sincerity without pretense: Interacting with genuine heartfelt care

Guests from the U.S at my Japanese home cooking class in Tokyo(Ramen and Gyoza class)

Characteristics of Omotenashi Culture

Japanese omotenashi culture is highly regarded worldwide for reasons including:

　・Influence of village culture: Consideration for others and cooperativeness fostered by a cultural background emphasizing group cooperation

　・Influence of Shinto and Buddhism: Cultivation of the spirit of harmony and compassion for others

　・Emphasis on seasonal awareness: Meticulous attention to seasonality in cuisine, language use, and other aspects

　・Perspective-taking approach: Attitude of noticing and addressing unspoken needs or dissatisfaction

Difference Between Omotenashi and Hospitality (Personal View)

While omotenashi and hospitality are similar concepts, they differ in the following ways:

• Omotenashi emphasizes preparing the "setting" in advance for visitors

• Hospitality focuses more on caring responses in the moment

Omotenashi culture is a culture of the heart that Japan can be proud of globally, characterized by the ability to show thoughtfulness and provide subtle yet high-quality care for others. Understanding and practicing this culture can lead to richer human relationships and improved customer satisfaction.

What is unique about Japan's hospitality culture compared to other countries?

Japan's hospitality culture has several characteristics that make it stand out compared to other countries. The main features are:

Philosophical Foundations

　・Selfless Service: Omotenashi is characterized by providing heartfelt service without expectation of reward. Unlike many Western countries, tipping is not customary in Japan.

　・Sincerity and Transparency: The term "omotenashi" itself reflects the idea of serving with an open heart, without pretense or hidden motives.

Cultural Background

　・Village Culture Influence: Japan's collectivist cultural background has fostered a sense of consideration for others and cooperation.

　・Shinto and Buddhist Influence: These religions have nurtured the spirit of harmony and compassion for others.

　・Meticulous Attention to Detail: Great care is taken to meet and exceed guest expectations.

　・Seasonal Awareness: Careful consideration is given to seasonal elements in cuisine, decor, and language.

　・Ichigo Ichie (一期一会）Spirit: Influenced by tea ceremony practices, each encounter is treated as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to provide the best hospitality.It is one of my favorite four-letter words.

Scope of Omotenashi

　・Advance Preparation: Omotenashi emphasizes preparing the setting for visitors in advance, not just during their presence.

　・Consideration in Absence: Care is extended even when the guest is not present.

Social Values

　・Emphasis on Etiquette: Japanese culture values "ways" or "paths," prioritizing proper manners and conduct towards others.

　・Group Harmony: Omotenashi culture tends to prioritize group harmony over individual needs.

These multifaceted characteristics combine to create Japan's globally renowned hospitality culture. The attitude of putting oneself in the guest's position and providing service from the heart forms the essence of Japan's unique omotenashi culture.

 Guests from Hawaii at my Japanese home cooking class in Tokyo(Sushi Class)

How is Japan's hospitality culture transmitted to other countries?

Japan's omotenashi culture has been transmitted to other countries and has exerted influence through various methods. Below, I will explain the main channels and impacts of this transmission:

Through International Events

　・Olympics: During the bid for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, "omotenashi" was promoted as Japan's strength, drawing global attention to Japan's hospitality culture.

　・International conferences: At international conferences held in Japan, warm hospitality is provided to visitors and participants, giving foreigners direct experience of Japan's omotenashi culture.

Through Tourism

　・Foreign tourists visiting Japan: Foreign tourists visiting Japan directly experience Japan's omotenashi culture through meticulous service at ryokans and hotels.

　・Efforts of Japan's tourism industry: Tourism-related organizations are working to improve the quality of hospitality and strengthen international competitiveness, which is gaining worldwide recognition.

Through Business

・Overseas expansion of Japanese companies: When Japanese companies expand overseas, they bring their Japanese-style omotenashi culture and service spirit..

・Foreign companies adopting Japanese-style service: As appreciation for Japan's omotenashi culture grows, overseas companies are beginning to adopt Japanese-style service.

Through Cultural Exchange

　・Tea ceremony and flower arrangement: Traditional Japanese arts are gaining attention overseas, spreading along with the spirit of omotenashi.

　・Spread of Japanese culture abroad: The concept of omotenashi is being conveyed as part of Japanese cultural values through pop culture such as anime and manga.

Through Media

・International media coverage: The characteristics and excellence of Japan's omotenashi culture are being reported by foreign media, making it known worldwide

・Spread of social media: Posts about omotenashi experiences in Japan by foreign visitors are being spread worldwide through social media.

Japan's omotenashi culture has been conveyed to other countries through these various channels and is highly valued. As a result, it has influenced the hospitality and service industries worldwide, contributing to the improvement of global service standards.

TOMOKITA's Principles of Hospitality(Omotenashi)

My Japanese home cooking classes in Tokyo focus on imparting practical Japanese culinary skills that can be applied to daily life while emphasizing the importance of hospitality.

Prepare for the guests before they arrive

Practical Learning Approach

●  Balanced Menu Planning

Classes feature a well-balanced menu of about 5 dishes suitable for entertaining. Guests learn to prepare a main dish along with several side dishes, developing skills they can easily replicate at home.

● Everyday Recipes
The class introduces visually appealing, seasonal dishes that don't require expensive ingredients, making it easy to incorporate these recipes into daily meals.

● Hearty Portions
One dish is prepared in generous quantities to satisfy even families with big appetites.

Hospitality Mindset

Gratitude: Maintaining a constant sense of appreciation for guests from around the world.

Pride: Taking pride in serving people through traditional Japanese cuisine.

Attentiveness: Being sensitive to guests' needs and providing subtle support.

Cultural Introduction: Introducing Japanese traditions and global food cultures through Japanese cuisine.

Creating the Right Atmosphere

Elegant Salon-like Space

My Japanese home cooking class environment is designed to help guets relax and learn comfortably.

Small Class Sizes
Classes are kept small to ensure personalized instruction.

Table Coordination
Guests learn not only cooking but also plating and table presentation techniques.By paying attention to these aspects, My Japanese home cooking classes in Tokyo strive to provide a satisfying and loving hospitality experience for all guests.

Please book from here.