When people travel or move abroad, they often wonder how deeply they can understand a foreign culture. Some believe that learning the local language is necessary for true understanding, while others think it is possible without it. In my opinion, language is extremely important, but a basic understanding of culture is still possible without speaking it.
Those who say language is essential have strong arguments. A language is full of jokes, polite expressions, and phrases that show how local people think and feel. When someone speaks only through a translator or in English, much of this meaning is lost, and conversations stay on the surface. For example, a foreigner who learns Japanese soon notices that there are several ways to say “thank you” depending on the situation, which teaches them about respect and social roles. Without the language, a visitor can see temples and try food, but they cannot really understand what their neighbours believe or worry about. To form deep friendships and follow local news, the language is almost always necessary.
On the other hand, I can understand why some people believe culture can be understood without language. Many travellers learn a lot by watching daily life, joining festivals, and trying traditional cooking, even when they do not speak a single word. Books, films, and documentaries with subtitles also explain history and customs clearly, and global cities now offer guided tours in English. For short trips or general knowledge, this kind of cultural learning is often enough.
In conclusion, while it is possible to gain a basic understanding of a culture without learning its language, deep understanding really requires the words people use every day. Language is the key that opens the most personal parts of any culture.