Translation guide
This proverb advises adapting to local customs. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 郷に入っては郷に従え, but other expressions exist for fitting in or following local ways.
Expressing the idea that one should follow the customs of the place one is in.
The standard Japanese equivalent of the proverb. Literally 'When you enter a village, obey the village.' Used in both spoken and written contexts.
When traveling abroad, it's important to have the spirit of 'when in Rome, do as the Romans do.'
A variant of the above, using the conditional form 入れば instead of 入っては. Slightly more literary or emphatic.
新しい職場では、郷に入れば郷に従えで、まずはやり方を学ぼう。
In a new workplace, as they say, 'when in Rome,' let's first learn how things are done.
A proverb meaning 'Different places, different customs.' It emphasizes that customs vary by location, but doesn't directly command adaptation. More descriptive than prescriptive.
所変われば品変わるで、地域によって習慣が違うのは当然だ。
As they say, customs differ from place to place, so it's natural that habits vary by region.
Informally suggesting someone should adapt to the local way of doing things, often in a light-hearted manner.
A shortened, casual version of the proverb. Often used as a verb phrase meaning 'to follow local customs.'
ここではみんなそうしてるから、郷に従おう。
Everyone does it this way here, so let's just go with the flow.
Literally 'read the atmosphere of the place.' This is a broader cultural concept of adapting to the situation, not just customs. Very common in Japanese communication.
初めての集まりでは、その場の空気を読んで行動するのが無難だ。
At a gathering for the first time, it's safest to act by reading the room.
Expresses resignation or acceptance: 'We have no choice but to follow local customs.'
ルールが違うなら、郷に従うしかないね。
If the rules are different, we just have to do as the locals do.
The full proverb 郷に入っては郷に従え is well-known but can sound a bit formal or preachy. In casual conversation, it's often shortened to 郷に従う or used with って (e.g., 郷に入っては郷に従えって言うし).
郷に従う specifically refers to following established customs or rules of a place. 空気を読む is broader, meaning to sense the mood or unspoken expectations in any social situation and adapt accordingly. The latter is a key Japanese social skill.
変な感じだけど、郷に入っては郷に従えだよ。
I know it feels weird, but when in Rome, do as the Romans do.
彼女はすぐに現地の習慣に馴染んで、まさに郷に従う姿勢だった。
She quickly adapted to the local customs, truly embodying 'when in Rome.'