Mongolia

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Mongolian culture regarding time

Mongolian culture regarding time

Harmony with nature derived from nomadic culture

In Mongolia, due to the influence of traditional nomadic life, the idea that time should be in line with the flow of nature is deeply rooted, and the rhythm of life is often determined by sunsets and changes in the weather.

Different sense of time between cities and rural areas

In urban areas such as the capital Ulaanbaatar, there are more and more situations where punctuality is required, but in rural areas, time is still seen as a guideline, and it is common to be late than planned.

Differences in lifestyle by season

The four seasons and climate have a significant impact on how time is used, with the cold being severe in winter and often restrictions on going out, and the increase in opportunities for travel and socializing in summer.

Mongolian values ​​regarding time

Relationships with people take priority over time

In Mongolia, there is a culture that places more importance on trust with others and a spirit of hospitality than on being on time, and flexible changes in plans are also tolerated.

A spirit of tolerance and flexibility

Mongolians tend to be flexible in their actions, and prefer to do what they can now rather than forcing themselves to do things on time.

Emphasis on individual pace over group pace

Especially in traditional societies, people tend to follow their own and their family's rhythms rather than worrying about time to match those around them.

Things foreigners should know about time when traveling or moving to Mongolia

Assume people are loose with time in rural areas

When meeting or visiting in rural areas, people are often late for appointments. Even if you arrive on time, you may not be prepared, so you need to be prepared.

Strict punctuality in urban areas such as Ulaanbaatar

In business and government offices, being punctual is valued, so in urban areas, you may be expected to be punctual just like in Japan.

Travel time depends on the natural environment

Many areas in Mongolia have underdeveloped roads and transportation infrastructure, and there is a high possibility of unexpected delays in travel, so it is important to have enough time in your schedule.

Interesting trivia about time in Mongolia

Life on the grasslands where you "forget time"

Nomads who spend their time on the grasslands live their lives sensing time based on nature, such as the position of the sun and changes in the wind, rather than the time on their watches or smartphones.

Weddings and celebrations do not start on schedule

Traditional Mongolian weddings and celebrations often start significantly later than scheduled, and the end time is generally flexible.

Traditional "shadow clock" culture

In some parts of Mongolia, the traditional sense of time known as the "shadow clock," which tells the time by the movement of the sun's shadow, is still passed down to this day.

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