Table of Contents
Introduction
During my three-week journey in Japan, I observed one major aspect that is rooted in their culture: a profound sense of respect for their traditions and identity.
Showing respect for the local customs and traditions in Japan and any other country you travel to is not just a nice to have feature to have but a necessity. I believe it’s the key to truly understanding and appreciating a country’s unique charm and character.
In April 2024, Kyo City implemented restrictions on tourists accessing areas of the Gyon district following incidents of disrespectful behavior towards Geishas from visitors worldwide. This incident prompted me to create this blog post discussing travel etiquette in Japan, such as appropriate greetings and manners in public spaces and dining establishments. By sticking to these guidelines nothing can stand in the way of a successful journey.
Greetings & Politeness
Bowing
When you arrive in Tokyo and exit the airplane, something quickly becomes evident: the importance of a bow as a sign of respect. A bow is not just a gesture; it’s a way to show gratitude or offer sincere apologies when interacting with others in Japan.
The depth of your bow when greeting or expressing gratitude to someone in Japan is a direct reflection of the respect you’re giving them. A small bow at around 15 degrees is suitable for casual situations, such as when you greet a store worker or thank a server. However, a deeper bow, between 30 to 45 degrees, is required in more formal settings or when showing deep gratitude.
In Japan, handshakes are rare. When they do happen, they are usually done without making eye contact and often followed by a bow.
Honorifics
To seamlessly integrate with the locals, it’s important to grasp the significance of using titles in different situations. Respectful titles are additions to a person’s name that indicate the level of respect or formality in your interactions with them. These titles are used in social contexts, and choosing the right one can significantly impact how you are perceived by others.
“San” is commonly used as a title that is like “Mr.” or “Ms.” It is appropriate for most situations and can be used when you are unsure about how formal you need to be when addressing someone politely. For formal and respectful occasions, you might also come across “sama,” which is used to show reverence towards customers, clients, and people of high social standing. Finally, sensei typically describes teachers, surgeons, and other professionals acknowledged for their skill and mastery in their areas of expertise.
Footwear Etiquette
Remove shoes indoors
When visiting places in Japan, like homes, traditional ryokan inns, and temples, always remove your shoes before entering. It’s common to see a designated entryway called Genkan where you can take off your shoes and keep them before stepping. Remember, wearing socks without holes is a sign of respect in this tradition, as you’ll often find yourself walking barefoot inside these spaces. This small detail can make a big difference in showing your mindfulness and consideration for the culture.
Most of the time, slippers will be offered for you to wear inside the premises. However, never forget this one rule: never walk over tatami mats with your slippers or shoes on. Tatami mats hold significance and are deemed sacred; therefore, it is important to take off your slippers before stepping onto them. Also, be mindful of the toilet slippers. These are designated only for bathroom use; remember to switch to your regular indoor slippers once you exit the restroom.
Dining Etiquette
Using Chopsticks Properly
When using chopsticks there are certain protocols to follow. Never insert chopsticks upright into rice, as it is seen as a sign of disrespect and has a connection with funerals. Also, avoid transferring food between chopsticks directly, as it has symbolic ties to funerary practices. When not in use, place the chopsticks on the holder rather than directly on the table.
Table Manners
When invited to dine in a Japanese home, wait for your host to start the meal with the remark “Itadakimasu,” which means “thank you for the food.” Then after finishing your meal expressing thanks by saying “Gochisousama ” shows gratitude towards the host or chef who prepared the meal. It is kind to offer assistance with serving or clearing the table after the dinner, even if your host kindly declines. This tiny gesture expresses gratitude for their hospitality.
In Japan slurping noodles is totally fine. Is seen as a positive indication that you are enjoying your food. However it’s important to avoid playing with your chopsticks as it is considered impolite, in dining customs.
Paying the Bill
When it’s time to settle the bill in Japan’s restaurants or cafes, you usually head to the register to pay directly at your table. If you decide to divide the bill among friends, it’s usually done at the cash register, with each individual covering their share of the expenses. Tipping isn’t a practice in Japan and might even be considered impolite, so there’s no expectation to leave compensation. On occasion, though, hotels that cater to tourists or tour guides may take tips.
Drinking Etiquette
In Japan, pouring drinks for others before taking a sip yourself is traditional. Before you start drinking, wait for everyone to be served and for the host to say “Kanpai” to start the toast. Additionally, someone else will fill your glass, so you should fill theirs as a gesture of reciprocity. Do not refill your own glass.
Public Behavior
Quietness in Public Spaces
Silence in public places is highly valued in Japanese culture. Trains and buses are no places to have loud discussions. Avoid using a phone in these situations; if you must, put it on mute to avoid distractions.
Queueing
A large portion of Japanese life consists of waiting in line. Lines are commonplace everywhere, from train stations to stores to elevators. Particularly when waiting for public transit, always be patient and join the line without squeezing other people in. Also, pay attention to the designated spaces for lining up.
Hygiene and Cleanliness
Japan is known for its meticulous attention to cleanliness. The public garbage cans are not easily accessible, so you must carry your trash till you find one. Hand sanitizers and wet wipes are commonly used before and after meals. Lastly, cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing in public for personal hygiene and others’ comfort.
Respecting Privacy
Japanese people value personal space, even in crowded places. Especially while talking to strangers, it’s courteous to keep your distance and not touch them unless absolutely necessary. This demonstrates regard for the privacy of the individual.
Heavy Scent
Avoiding strong scents is highly advised in Japan; The use of such is also called “sumehara,” commonly referred to as “smell harassment”. Japan boasts one of the smallest perfume markets worldwide, even if skincare and cosmetics are rather popular there.
Escalator Etiquette
Standing on the right side in the Kansai region—with the major citie’s including Kobe, Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, and Wakayama—is usual etiquette. Those tourists visiting cities in the Kanto region stand on the left side.
Smoking
As a matter of common politeness, people should only smoke in approved smoking locations. Additionally, when cigarette bins are not available, smokers should bring small portable ashtrays to dispose of their cigarette butts. Convenience stores often have portable ashtrays for sale.
Cash Etiquette
Japan may be one of the most technologically advanced nations, but its citizens still prefer to pay using cash. Usually, when paying with cash, you are expected to arrange your money on a tray close to the register. You will get your change the same way, hence avoid attempting to take it from someone’s hand.
Gift-Giving & Omiyage (Souvenirs)
When visiting someone’s home, it is traditional to bring a gift as a token of respect, gratitude, or admiration. This practice has strong historical roots in Japan. Japanese people value thoughtfulness more than material wealth, thereby they tend to choose modest but meaningful gifts over flashy ones.
When giving a gift to a Japanese person, the wrapping is nearly as significant as the gift itself. Properly wrapping a gift shows that you care about the receiver and want them to feel special. The number four (shi) is bad luck because it is linked with death, therefore it’s best to avoid giving presents in sets of four as well.
It is considerate to think about the season or the regional delicacies while selecting presents. Fruits, candies, and handmade crafts that are in season are highly prized and admired because they capture the essence of the season and the local culture.
Omiyage Culture
Omiyage are unique souvenirs that you can bring back from your trips and give to loved ones, coworkers, or friends. These exquisitely packaged presents often reflect the culture of the area you explored. The traditional Japanese gift of omikuji is more than meets the eye; it is a way to express loved ones how much you care when you return from a trip.
Respect for Temples & Shrines
Special Rituals and Customs
People typically bow at the entrance of a shrine or temple as a sign of respect. Use the purifying fountain to cleanse your hands and mouths before you enter the holy site. Avoid touching any sacred objects until you know for sure it is okay.
Unique ceremonies such as ema (wooden plaques) where one may express their desires and omikuji (fortune slips) revealing your luck abound are held in temples and shrines. If you draw a fortune slip, either take it with you if it’s a good fortune or follow local custom of tying it onto a designated stand should it be a bad fate.
Donations and Prayers
Traditional offering rituals include dropping a coin into the container, ringing the bell, bowing twice, clapping twice, wishing, and finally, bowing one again. Allow those who are praying the space and time they need out of respect.
Be sure to check for signs that say it’s okay to take pictures before you do so. Avoid using flash if you can help it, and remember that it’s usually not okay to take pictures of prayer halls or anyone attending without their permission.
Communication with Locals
Basic Phrases
A lot of difference may be made by learning a few basic Japanese words like “Konnichiwa,” (Hello), “Summary,” (Excuse me/sorry), and “Arigatou gozaimasu,” (Thanks very much). Using these phrases indicates that you’re trying to honor the local language and culture even if your pronunciation isn’t flawless. If you struggle with language, substitute easy English, if needed, add gestures to augment your speaking. Though they can be quite helpful, try not to rely just on translating tools like Google Translate. Often the finest weapons you have are a smile and some patience. I used rocket languages both before and during my Japan travel; if you are looking for a language learning app, rocket languages was a well worth companion.
Asking for Help
Politely approach someone with a smile and a gentle tone when you require assistance. The Japanese people are known to be incredibly helpful, particularly if you try to communicate with them in some basic Japanese. The reception of your request might be greatly affected by your demeanor.
Bathing Etiquette
Public Baths and Onsen Rules
Start by going to the locker room, taking off your clothing, and placing them in the appropriate lockers. Before using the shared restroom, make sure you wash and exfoliate your body completely. This takes place in a designated shower space with little seating for the purpose of lathering up with shampoo and soap. After you’ve showered, go gently into the tub so as not to splash anyone, and be quiet so as not to disturb the tranquility for others. Please ensure that you thoroughly dry yourself before leaving a public restroom after using the restroom to avoid any potential leaks.
Tattoos and Onsens
Some onsens in Japan do not welcome customers with visible tattoos due to the stigmatization of tattoos by the yakuza (Japanese mafia). Prior to visiting the onsen, it is recommended that you ask about their policy about tattoos. A waterproof patch or, increasingly, tattoo-friendly onsens are options for those who want to protect their ink from the elements.
Transportation Etiquette
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