The spirit of Kyoto "Ikezu" Part1 Although I'm not from Kyoto, or even from the Kansai (western) area, I've heard about their behavior called "Ikezu." "Ikezu" basically means "being mean." It's something that visitors to Kyoto should keep in mind. For people called "yoso-san," which means "outsiders" in the Kyoto dialect, experiencing Ikezu from locals could be a form of initiation to the ancient town. Of course, not all locals in Kyoto are fond of throwing mean comments at each other, but in the city of Kyoto, the oldest part of the town certainly has strict, unwritten codes. It's a well-known fact that many high-class restaurants and established shops turn away first-time customers without an introduction from a regular. Imagine the stereotypical Parisians. Both Kyotoites and Parisians are very proud of the city. You get the idea. According to one of expert books in Kyoto, for example, you might encounter a situation like this at your client's office. You are in a meeting with your client and asked if you'd like a cup of coffee. You answer "Yes please." but there's nothing in sight to suggest that your coffee is going to be served. Definitely it's a social cue. Apart from various social elements such as the depth of the relationship, the time of the meeting, the atmosphere, the attitude when making the appointment of the meeting etc etc, generally speaking, the questions can be divided into the following 4 patterns. A: Simply asked, "Would you care for some coffee?" B: "You don't have to rush, let me make you a cup of coffee." C: "I'm thirsty. How about coffee or something?" D: "Will coffee be alright for you?" Pattern A is just a greeting. No coffee is going to be served. If you asked in the pattern B, you have to nicely decline the offer no matter what. The client insists only as a gesture. Upon hearing the pattern C, you'd better pack your bag and get out of there. D is the question you would be safe to say yes to. However, never request an alternative drink "May I have tea instead?" will be a business relationship breaker.