Kampai!

I like to drink. Quite heavily on occasion. So I guess it’s a good thing I came to Japan where crazy drinking in the name of social solidarity is expected and demanded. I guess it’s a good thing I came to a place that has basically institutionalized alcoholism.

Let’s go over some of the fun drinking rituals you can expect to encounter should you be fortunate enough to get unspeakably drunk with your Japanese co workers (then never mention it again, in true Japanese fashion.)

First, never pour your own drink. What to do when your glass is empty then? Pour for someone else, even if their glass isn’t empty. They’ll get the hint and pour for you.

Second there’s pretty much always rounds of toasting before the drinking begins, even in less formal situations. Obviously, speeches are not made by every person in every situation, but as a good rule don’t start drinking until you hear “Kampai!”

Speaking of Kampai (Kanpai), say it with some enthusiasm. It’s a fun word to say, and it’s something to hear a group full of rowdy drunkards shout it.

When toasting with someone, the older person’s glass is always held higher.

In more formal situations, there’s some sort of clapping thing that happens to signal the close of the drinking festivities. I’m not too clear on the details.

I’m not sure if this is an Okinawan thing, or a general Japanese thing, but the fun rarely ends with the end of the original meeting. Often there are nijikai (second party) and for you crazy kids sanjikai (third party). These are often much more fun and rowdier than the first party as everyone is already drunk and ready for a good time. Supposedly once the group ends up at a karaoke place that is the sign that the after parties are over.

Fun’s over when you get to karaoke, kids.

Kampai!