This text might include affiliate hyperlinks the place I make a small fee for purchases you make from hyperlinks that you simply click on from this text. By buying by means of these hyperlinks, you assist me at no further price to you. Thanks in your assist.
After I landed in Japan for the primary time, I anticipated sushi, temples, neon indicators, and a ridiculous variety of merchandising machines. And whereas I did discover all of that (plus extra kinds of KitKats than I ever imagined attainable), what actually stood out had been the delicate — and not-so-subtle — guidelines of social conduct in Japan, typically fully stunning to a first-time customer.
Japan isn’t simply one other nation — it’s a whole system of customs, etiquette, and unstated social contracts that appear to function like clockwork. I’ve traveled to over 75 nations, however the first time I traveled to Japan, it baffled me. It’s the one extremely developed nation that I’ve been in the place every little thing is so fully international to me. I’m used to that feeling when visiting extra underdeveloped nations, however I wasn’t anticipating the “Why do they do this” thought that ran by means of my head consistently in Japan.
Should you’re questioning what to do (and never do) in Japan, this information is your etiquette cheat sheet. These cultural suggestions for visiting Japan cowl what you’ll encounter in each the bustling streets of Tokyo and the quiet alleys of smaller cities, the place the merchandising machine may be the one factor awake previous 9 p.m.
16 Methods to Not Look Like a Vacationer in Japan
Prepared to start out your crash course in not wanting like a clueless vacationer in Japan?
1. Sneakers Off — Slippers On
In Japan, taking your sneakers off is virtually a reflex. Houses? Completely. Conventional inns (ryokans)? After all. Some eating places, temples, dressing rooms, museums, and even becoming rooms? Sure, sure, and possibly sure.
Uncover the 88 Temple Pilgrimage in Shikoku, Japan’s hidden gem!
And simply if you’ve lastly gotten the dangle of swapping your sneakers for slippers, you’ll encounter lavatory slippers — a particular pair that lives contained in the restroom and nowhere else. You’ll 100% neglect to vary again in some unspecified time in the future and wander into the eating room in bathroom sneakers. Welcome to the membership.
Metropolis Tip: In Tokyo, many locations are a bit extra relaxed. However in smaller cities? They take this significantly. Search for a step up, cubbies, or a pile of slippers — it’s your cue to take your sneakers off. AND…pack sneakers which are straightforward to slide on and off, you’ll undoubtedly thank me for that tip.
2. Don’t Eat and Stroll
Japan has a few of the greatest avenue meals on the planet… and but, consuming whereas strolling is taken into account impolite. One of many quickest methods to sign “I’m not from right here” in Japan is to walk down the road chomping on a snack. Regardless that meals is in every single place — from comfort shops to these superb division retailer basements — consuming is taken into account one thing you pause for.
You’ll typically discover a small bench or perhaps a marked-off space to face and eat close to the place you acquire the meals. The toughest half for me is to not stroll and eat an ice cream cone on the identical time…it simply appears pure to do, however not in Japan!
Countryside twist: In smaller cities, individuals would possibly give you snacks on a hike or throughout a go to — pause, smile, eat, and don’t shove it in your pocket for later.
All the things you could find out about climbing the Kumano Kodo in Japan
3. You’ll Carry Your Trash Like a Memento
Japan is remarkably clear. However there’s a secret: public trash cans are virtually legendary creatures. You’ll hardly ever discover one, particularly exterior of main prepare stations or comfort shops. Baffled but?
Locals merely carry their trash till they get dwelling. You’ll too. Simply embrace it.
Professional Tip: Convey a small plastic bag in your daypack for trash. Whenever you lastly discover a bin (often close to merchandising machines or comfort shops), put together to kind like your life is determined by it.
4. Transit Etiquette: Silence is Golden
The Japanese subway is a masterclass in quiet effectivity. No cellphone chatter, no blasting music, and positively no backpack-swinging chaos.
Right here’s how to not get side-eyed:
- Silence your cellphone (they even name it “method mode”)
- No voice calls — ever
- Type an orderly line on the prepare doorways — don’t crowd or shove.
- Let individuals off earlier than you get on. Appears apparent, however value repeating. (It doesn’t work like this in the remainder of Asia…Japan is totally different.
- Maintain conversations to a whisper, particularly on Shinkansen (bullet trains)
- Take backpacks off your again throughout busy instances
- Precedence seats exist – don’t use them for those who’re wholesome and in a position.
Escalator Etiquette: Tokyo = stand on the left. Osaka = stand on the suitable. As a result of… Japan loves a curveball.
8 Locations to Uncover in Japan off the Crushed Path
5. Slurp Like You Imply It (However Don’t Stab Something)
Let’s speak about meals etiquette. To begin with, don’t tip (extra on that beneath). However past that, listed below are some delicate guidelines which may shock you:
- Slurping noodles just isn’t impolite — in actual fact, it’s inspired. It’s an indication you’re having fun with your meal.
- Don’t stab meals with chopsticks. Use them like tweezers, not skewers.
- Don’t stick chopsticks upright in rice — it resembles a funeral providing.
- Don’t go meals chopstick-to-chopstick — additionally symbolic of funeral rites.
- Many small eating places or izakayas (bars) will greet you with a moist towel (oshibori). Use it to scrub your palms, not your face or your chopsticks.
- Don’t pour soy sauce throughout your rice — it’s not a bowl of cereal. In actual fact, most Japanese don’t use soy sauce on their sushi…thoughts blown.
Mainly, chopsticks will not be mini spears. Use them gracefully — or ask for a fork. No disgrace.
6. No Tipping. Not Even a Little.
This can be a laborious one for Individuals: don’t tip in Japan. Not in eating places, not in taxis, not even for resort workers. It’s not simply pointless — it’s complicated. Should you depart money, somebody might chase you right down to return it.
Should you really need to present gratitude, bow and say “Arigatou gozaimasu” such as you imply it.
7. Restaurant Guidelines You Didn’t Know You Wanted
Some Japanese eating places work a bit in a different way:
- You would possibly order from a merchandising machine earlier than you sit down. Don’t panic — simply match the meals photograph and pay.
- Water and tea are often free. Generally self-serve.
- Don’t ask for substitutions — the chef is aware of what they’re doing.
- There could also be a small appetizer (“otoshi”) you didn’t order. It’s not a mistake. It’s a part of the expertise.
Small city twist: In countryside spots, English could also be restricted, and menus may be handwritten in kanji. Smile, level, and use Google Translate’s digital camera characteristic — it’s magical.
8. Yukata Etiquette: Methods to Rock the Gown Like a Native
A yukata is a light-weight cotton gown that you simply’ll typically be given at ryokans (conventional Japanese inns), onsens (sizzling spring baths), and even some resorts. Consider it as Japan’s reply to a bathrobe — however with centuries of custom.
The yukata is supposed to be comfy and sensible — one thing you may put on to dinner, to the onsen, whereas strolling by means of a sizzling spring village, or lounging in your room. Locals put on them prefer it’s probably the most pure factor on the planet. It’d really feel bizarre to put on a gown to dinner at your Ryokan – however belief me, you’ll stand out extra in avenue garments than the yukata.
Right here’s the rule you don’t need to mess up: left aspect over proper if you wrap it closed. Proper-over-left is reserved for dressing the deceased, not the look you’re going for. Tie the sash (referred to as an obi) round your waist or hips. Ladies usually put on it a bit larger than males. You can too put on the little socks (referred to as tabi) and slippers supplied for the total impact. And naturally, don’t neglect the slippers!
9. Depart Your Pajamas and Toiletries at House
One in every of Japan’s underrated journey joys? The goodies are ready for you in your resort room. Many Japanese resorts — even the budget-friendly enterprise sorts — present a full set of pajamas (often a gentle cotton or waffle-y button-up set) and a powerful array of toiletries. We’re speaking toothbrushes, razors, combs, hair ties, bathe caps, and typically even face lotion and toner.
Don’t be shy — they’re there for use. Locals anticipate you to put on the pajamas whereas lounging round your resort room or heading to the shared onsen/bathtub, and also you’ll typically see different visitors doing the identical. It’s half consolation, half tradition, and actually, it saves house in your suitcase.
10. Take a Seat within the Bathe
And whereas we’re speaking loos, let’s chat resort showers. You would possibly stroll in and assume: “Why is there no curtain? And why is there a stool?” Relaxation assured, it’s all a part of the plan. Japanese loos are often designed as moist rooms, that means it’s okay (and anticipated) for water to get in every single place. The ground has a drain, so don’t panic.
That small plastic stool and hand-held bathe head? They’re there so you may sit and wash completely earlier than hopping within the tub (if there’s one). Sitting is customary and helps forestall splash zones.
Professional tip: Don’t neglect your towel earlier than getting in. When you’re soaked and slippery, stepping out to search out it will get… entertaining.
11. Be taught a Few Phrases — Folks Discover
You don’t want to talk Japanese to take pleasure in Japan. However studying only a handful of phrases will go a lengthy manner:
- Konnichiwa – Hey
- Arigatou gozaimasu – Thanks very a lot
- Sumimasen – Excuse me / sorry / attention-getter
- Oishii! – Scrumptious!
- Eigo o hanasemasu ka? – Do you converse English?
Even when your pronunciation is off, the trouble is appreciated. And when unsure, bow and smile.
12. Bowing Is a Approach of Life
The bow is the last word type of politeness in Japan. Greeting, thanking, apologizing — it’s all within the tilt.
You don’t have to bow deeply — only a small respectful nod is sufficient. And for those who’re unsure how one can reply? Bow anyway. You’ll be able to’t actually overdo it. As a foreigner, nobody expects you to get it completely, however making the trouble goes a good distance.
Countryside etiquette: In small cities, bowing is extra frequent and sometimes replaces phrases. Lean into it.
13. Onsen Etiquette: Bare and Afraid (However You’ll Survive)
Public baths (onsen) are a part of Japanese life, and they’re certainly one of my favourite cultural issues to do. First time? Awkward. Second time? Magical. Nevertheless, they arrive with strict guidelines:
- Bathe and wash completely earlier than coming into the tub
- No swimsuits — you’re getting in bare
- Tattoos will not be allowed (although increasingly locations now allow them — examine first)
What’s the Take care of the Tiny Towel in Onsens?
Ah, sure, the mysterious little towel you obtain at an onsen — the modesty material that doesn’t cowl a lot in any respect. It’s in regards to the measurement of a visitor hand towel, and it comes with its personal set of unstated guidelines:
- It’s not for bathing – This isn’t your washcloth (regardless that it seems to be like one). Use the showers earlier than coming into the onsen to correctly clear your self (cleaning soap, shampoo, the entire routine), however depart the little towel dry.
- Don’t let it contact the water – That towel ought to keep out of the tub. You’ll typically see locals folding it neatly and putting it on their head or leaving it on the aspect of the bathtub. Floating it within the water is an enormous no-no.
- It’s for modesty… type of – Strolling to and from the tub, you may maintain it in entrance of you for somewhat protection, however let’s be sincere — nobody’s actually fooled.
Professional tip: After your soak, you should utilize it to dry off earlier than you seize the large towel within the locker space. It’s your transition towel, not your drying towel.
14. Punctuality Is Sacred
Japan runs on time. I imply, actually on time. If a prepare leaves at 3:17pm, it would depart at 3:17pm. Being late is taken into account disrespectful. I’m terrible at being punctual, so I actually have to observe myself once I’m in Japan! Get it…watch…
When in an enormous Japanese metropolis, my rule is to simply give myself heaps (and plenty) of additional time. The prepare stations is usually a labyrinth of confusion and folks, and I typically want further time to navigate them. Should you occur to get to your vacation spot early…then nice – you may sit and folks watch (it’s a lot enjoyable in Japan!).
Journey tip: Should you’re on time, you’re already slicing it shut.
Small city perception: Buses and trains are much less frequent. Miss one, and the following could also be tomorrow.
15. Candy Presents You’ll See All over the place
Present-giving is virtually a sport in Japan, and the MVP is meals. When individuals journey, it’s widespread to carry again regional snacks or treats, referred to as omiyage, to provide to coworkers, mates, or household. You’ll see elaborately wrapped bins of sweets at each prepare station and airport, sorted by native specialties and color-coded with a stage of packaging perfection that’s actually awe-inspiring.
Even for those who’re only a customer, this tradition is value embracing. Bringing a small field of cookies or candies when visiting somebody — even a resort or information — is at all times appreciated. And don’t be shocked if a shopkeeper or host palms you a neatly wrapped deal with if you depart — that’s simply omotenashi (Japanese hospitality) in motion.
Professional tip: These make improbable souvenirs — and also you’ll get bonus factors for those who carry one thing again dwelling that’s particular to the area you visited.
16. Goodbye Tip: The Artwork of the Limitless Wave
This tip just isn’t one that can make you look extra native, however as a substitute, only a heart-melting Japanese customized that’s good to find out about. The way in which individuals say goodbye in Japan within the journey sector is particular — with a wave that simply. retains. going. Whether or not you’re leaving a ryokan, saying farewell to a information, or watching a prepare pull out of the station, anticipate a lengthy, honest wave — typically with each palms — that continues till you’re out of sight.
And sure, you’re anticipated to wave again. Then wave once more. And once more. It’s half politeness, half heat, and fully charming. You’ll end up doing it instinctively by the top of your journey, and possibly even lacking it if you get dwelling.
The Apps That Will Make Japan Simpler
These apps and instruments will make life simpler as soon as we’re there — and provide help to navigate every little thing from subways to menus to bogs with mysterious buttons.
- Google Translate (with Japanese offline)
Use the digital camera characteristic to translate indicators, menus, or thriller onsen directions.
Apple | Android. - Suica App (for cellular transit card use — when you have a appropriate cellphone)
Apple
Or carry a bodily Suica or Pasmo card you may load on the airport. They work for many trains, buses, and even comfort shops. - Google Maps
That is my lifesaver app for Japan. I exploit it for every little thing – strolling instructions, subway/prepare platforms, choosing eating places, and discovering the closest merchandising machine with sizzling espresso in a can (sure, that’s a factor).
Last Ideas: Effort Is All the things
Right here’s the factor about Japan — you’re not anticipated to get all of it proper. You’re a visitor. However individuals deeply recognize it if you strive. Smile. Say thanks. Discover the silence. Carry your trash. Be curious.
And for those who’re coming with me on certainly one of my small group Japan excursions? Even higher. I’ll be proper there that will help you navigate chopsticks, bathroom slippers, merchandising machines, and anything this stunning, advanced, endlessly well mannered nation throws our manner.
Let’s go get awkward, curious, and amazed — collectively.
Learn extra about Japan