As Japanese people don't like straightforwardness, how to know if one doesn't like me?

Question:

In general: what are the signs that Japanese don't want anything to do with someone? If they don't say it straight, how do I know?
(this applies to e-mails, penfriends, friends....)
Dating: do men show the initiative first or do they expect females to do it or does it depend on person?

Answer:

If a (Japanese) man says, "I've been too busy and can't find enough time for you", most of the time it's an excuse. Because if he's serious about you, he makes time for you.
That's what my ex Japanese boyfriend told me a long time ago....