In his travelogue, George Mikes narrates four anecdotes which will help any foreign visitor to understand the cultural traits of the Japanese people. The author first highlights how peoples courtesy serves a double function in Japan. He assertively states that a couple, with perfect confidence, can carry on even their intimate love quarrels in public, in perfect privacy, without being apprehensive of any passerby overhearing them. Next, he talks about the bowing mania of the Japanese people and how the Japanese manage to show even the slightest differences in their hierarchy with a great deal of natural and inimitable grace.

Then, he narrates how, the very same people who, a few minutes ago had bowed to each other with such ceremonious solemnity would behave like savages, push each other aside, tread on each other’s toes and elbow their way into the bus. Finally, he talks about soup-eating in Japan. He says that, according to the Japanese, when eating soup one must make a fearful noise so as to express his appreciation, otherwise the guest will be considered an ill-mannered lout.