Oscar: I’m enjoying my time in Japan, but I sometimes feel confused about the culture.

Hiro: That’s normal at first. What’s confusing you the most?

Oscar: Well, people bow when they say hello. I don’t know how to do it properly.

Hiro: Don’t worry. Just keep your back straight and bow your head gently.

Oscar: Got it. And when I visit someone’s house, should I take off my shoes?

Hiro: Yes, always take off your shoes at the door. It’s a basic rule.

Oscar: Should I do anything special with my shoes after taking them off?

Hiro: Yes, place them neatly by the entrance. Sometimes you’ll get slippers to wear inside.

Oscar: Oh, I see. Can I wear slippers on tatami mats too?

Hiro: No, don’t wear slippers on tatami. Take them off before stepping on it.

Oscar: Thanks. Also, I’m having trouble using chopsticks.

Hiro: It takes practice. Hold one chopstick still and move the other like a pencil.

Oscar: I always drop my food. It’s hard!

Hiro: Everyone struggles at first. Keep practicing and you’ll get better.

Oscar: There’s a lot to learn, but I really want to understand Japanese culture.

Hiro: That’s a great attitude. I’m sure you’ll do well and enjoy Japan even more!

Hiro: What's bothering you?

Oscar: Well, Japanese people bow when they greet each other but I don’t know how to do it.

Hiro: Just keep your back straight and bow your head. It’s easy.

Oscar: OK. How about when I visit a friend's house? Should I take off my shoes at the door?

Hiro: Yes, of course. And you should leave your shoes neatly by the entrance. They sometimes give you slippers. Remember not to wear slippers on tatami mats.

Oscar: Oh, I have to keep that in mind. One more thing, I can’t figure out how to use chopsticks properly.

Hiro: Hold one chopstick like a pencil and use your thumb, index, and middle fingers to control it. And hold the other chopstick with your thumb and ring finger.

Oscar: It’s really challenging to use chopsticks.

Hiro: The more you practice, the better you get. Don’t worry.

Oscar: There are a lot to learn but I'm eager to understand Japanese culture.