PDA in Japan is an interesting topic. The reason I am posting about this is because after Japanese Language class today two American students gave each other a hug. The teacher saw and started laughing at them, and when everyone looked at her strangely she stated that "hugging is not our custom". She stated that in Japan only couples hug when they are alone. It was surprising for her to see two friends give each other a hug in public.

Public displays of affection in Japan are very rare. Among young people you often see couples holding hands or linking arms but rarely do you see them hug in public and almost NEVER see them kiss. I realized that I sometimes give some of my new Japanese friends hugs because in America it is normal to give friends hugs. I wonder if that makes them feel uncomfortable :P