Most of us have probably wondered at some point whether we have inadvertently said something to offend another person, even a person we know well. And we probably have been uncomfortable with something some one has said to us because we "took it the wrong way." How much more so between cultures which have totally different historical backgrounds and social values! Both Japanese and Americans have conversation topics with which they feel comfortable, and other topics which are uncomfortable, upset thing or even taboo. How can we enjoy getting to know our business partners without sailing into dangerous water? Here are some typical American and Japanese communication styles, comfortable and uncomfortable conversation topics, and types of conversations to avoid.