Want to fit in while in Japan? Follow these unusually specific 'life rules' issued by the government

Japan recently introduced a Digital Nomad Visa that allows foreigners from 49 countries to live in the country for six months.

But before they pack their bags, they may want to read Japan's "Life and Work Guidebook," which is aimed at helping foreigners fit in.

The guidebook, published by Japan's Immigration Services Agency, provides advice on immigration, medical care and housing. But the chapter on "Daily Rules and Customs" is where foreigners will find specific guidance on "life rules" that illustrate Japan's emphasis on collectivism and respect.

Here are some of the rules.

According to the guidelines, "Japanese people tend to think that loud sounds and voices bother others."

Not only party and music levels should be kept to a minimum, but also "voices" and "TV" levels, the guidebook states.

Foreigners are also advised to avoid making noise when using "a washing machine, or a vacuum cleaner, or taking a shower early in the morning or late at night."

Listening to music through earphones may not even be enough on buses and trains.

"Be sure that your music is not too loud and cannot be overheard outside of the earphones," the guidebook states.

Section 2.2 of the rulebook deals solely with "coughing manners."

There are even separate rules for "sudden" coughs and persistent coughs.

"If you suddenly cough or sneeze, do so in your elbow or inside your sleeves of jacket," it states. "Do not use your hands."

Others should wear a mask, it states.

Mask-wearing was a fixture in Japanese daily life even before the Covid-19 pandemic, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, thanks to the country's focus on personal hygiene and cleanliness.

"Japan is home to a culture of being considerate of other people," the Ministry of Foreign Affairs