As with many other Asian languages body language and language reflecting the social hierarchy can essentially make or break a conversation, especially with strangers. Bowing is the first that comes to mind. In order to ensure the proper bow for each person, you first have to know their age either by simply looking at them or asking if it cannot be discerned, and it is rather normal to ask such a question early on. One bows upon meeting and leaving.
It is also not uncommon to ask about one’s family, as the family unit is imperative, similarly to other Asian languages. Concepts of yes and no are interesting. It would seem that yes does not always mean yes and in general yes or no questions are avoided. For example, if you want to know whether or not your friend wants to go have lunch with you, you would not ask them flat out as it may put them in an uncomfortable position. Instead one would ask when they would be available to go out or something to that effect.
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