Master the techniques of using and interpreting indirect speech. Since harmony is so important in the culture of Japan, it can be very difficult for the Japanese to say or do anything that is disagreeable, negative, or confrontational. You will rarely hear someone living in Japan say "no" or directly confront, deny, challenge, or disrespect anything you say. This does not mean they don't disagree; it means they are indicating disagreement softly and indirectly. Phrases like "this needs further study," "these things can be difficult," and "perhaps we can look at this in a different way" all indicate a definite problem. If things really are difficult, you might simply get silence. Don't press. Remain silent. Change the subject. Lighten up around another issue. If you press too hard, the Japanese might indicate this by sucking air deeply through their teeth and remaining silent.

This is just a sample of what you'll find in the complete Japan guide.