Japan is a beautiful country rich in culture and tradition. While it welcomes millions of tourists each year, it’s essential to be aware of local customs to ensure a respectful and smooth visit. From bowing to removing your shoes, these simple guidelines will help you navigate Japanese culture with confidence and respect. Here are some vital tips to keep in mind.
Bowing as a Greeting
In Japan, bowing is the traditional way to greet people and show respect. The depth of your bow depends on the situation—deeper bows are used for more formal occasions. A small nod may suffice in casual interactions, but for formal meetings or when showing respect, a deeper bow is expected. Handshakes are becoming more common, especially in business settings with foreigners, but bowing remains the default.
Handling Business Cards
Business cards, or meishi, play a critical role in Japanese business culture. If you’re handed a card, receive it with both hands, examine it for a moment, and avoid stuffing it into your pocket or wallet immediately. Always treat business cards with care and respect, as they are an extension of the person giving them.
Shoes Off Indoors
In many places, especially homes, traditional inns (ryokan), and temples, it’s customary to remove your shoes before entering. Often, indoor slippers will be provided, and there will be a designated place to leave your shoes. Make sure your socks are clean and intact, as they will be visible.
Quiet in Public
Japan is known for its quiet public spaces, especially on trains and buses. Talking on your phone in these settings is frowned upon. If you need to take a call, move to a less crowded area or wait until you are off the train. Even conversations with friends should be kept at a low volume to avoid disturbing others.
Tipping is a No-No
Tipping is not a part of Japanese culture, and attempting to tip can cause confusion or even offense. Whether you’re in a restaurant, taking a taxi, or receiving a service, the best way to show gratitude is by simply saying “thank you” (arigatou gozaimasu). The high level of service, known as omotenashi, ensures that no tip is required.
The Importance of Cleanliness
Japan takes cleanliness seriously. You’ll notice the streets are spotless, and public restrooms are well-maintained. Tourists are expected to follow suit by not littering. Many public places do not have trash cans, so you may need to carry your trash with you until you find a place to dispose of it properly. Additionally, if you have a cold, it’s common courtesy to wear a face mask to avoid spreading germs.
Onsen Etiquette
Visiting an onsen (hot spring) is a quintessential Japanese experience, but it comes with its own set of rules. Most importantly, make sure to thoroughly wash yourself before entering the communal bath. Entering the bath dirty is considered highly disrespectful. Tattoos are also taboo in many onsens due to their association with organized crime (yakuza). However, some establishments now allow tattoos or provide cover-up stickers.
Don’t Point or Gesture
Pointing at people or objects with your finger is seen as rude in Japan. If you need to indicate something, use your whole hand to gesture. When beckoning someone, wave with the palm down rather than up, as the latter is seen as too direct or even aggressive.
Use Chopsticks Correctly
There are several rules when it comes to using chopsticks. For instance, never stick chopsticks upright into a bowl of rice, as this resembles a ritual performed at funerals. Similarly, passing food from chopstick to chopstick mimics a funeral custom and should be avoided. Always use the provided utensil to take food from shared dishes, rather than your own chopsticks.
Avoid Eating While Walking
In Japan, eating on the go is generally frowned upon. You might see people eating in designated areas, such as benches or standing counters at convenience stores, but walking and eating is considered impolite. The same goes for public transportation; avoid eating or drinking unless it’s on a long-distance train or you are seated in a designated eating area.
Queueing in an Orderly Fashion
Orderliness is highly valued in Japanese society, and this extends to queuing for everything, from trains to elevators. Stand behind the line, wait your turn, and be mindful not to push. Especially in train stations, there are designated spots marked on the platform for lining up before boarding.
Giving and Receiving Gifts
Gift-giving is an important part of Japanese culture. If you’re invited to someone’s home, it’s customary to bring a small gift. The value of the gift isn’t as important as the gesture itself, but the presentation is key. Gifts are typically wrapped beautifully, and when giving or receiving, it’s polite to present and receive them with both hands.
Silence on Public Transportation
You will quickly notice that trains and buses in Japan are almost always quiet, even during rush hour. Locals often read or use their phones discreetly, but loud conversations or phone calls are rare. As a visitor, it’s best to follow suit and maintain a peaceful atmosphere.
Visiting Temples and Shrines
When visiting temples and shrines, dress respectfully and follow the prescribed customs. This typically involves washing your hands at a purification station before entering and bowing before the main altar. Some temples also request that visitors refrain from taking photographs, especially inside sacred areas.
The Right Way to Sit
In Japan, sitting on the floor is still common in traditional settings such as tea ceremonies, temples, or when dining at low tables. The traditional way to sit is called seiza, where you kneel and fold your legs underneath your body, resting your feet flat. It’s a sign of respect, but can be uncomfortable for those not used to it. If seiza becomes too painful, sitting cross-legged is often acceptable, especially for foreigners. However, it’s polite to ask or observe what others are doing before shifting to a more relaxed position.
Respect Personal Space
In Japanese culture, maintaining personal space is a key aspect of social etiquette. Unlike in some Western cultures where physical closeness might be common, Japanese people are more reserved in public spaces. Avoid loud conversations, and be mindful of physical boundaries in elevators, stores, and public transportation. Standing too close or touching someone, even unintentionally, can be seen as intrusive.
Pay Attention to Street Etiquette
When walking on the street, especially in busy cities like Tokyo or Osaka, it’s important to follow designated pedestrian lanes. In most major areas, signs or painted lines indicate which side of the sidewalk to walk on—usually the left side. Always wait for the signal to cross the street, as jaywalking is not only illegal but also seen as a sign of impatience and disrespect for rules.
Cash is King
While Japan is advancing in digital payments, cash remains the preferred method of payment in many places, especially outside of major cities. Convenience stores, vending machines, and even taxis in rural areas may only accept cash. When making a cash payment, it’s customary to place the money on a small tray near the register, rather than handing it directly to the cashier.
Don’t Blow Your Nose in Public
In Japan, blowing your nose in public is seen as unhygienic and impolite. If you feel the need to clear your nose, excuse yourself and do so in a more private area, such as a restroom. If you’re suffering from a cold or allergies, it’s common courtesy to wear a surgical mask to prevent the spread of germs. These masks are readily available and wearing one shows consideration for others, a value deeply ingrained in Japanese society.
Eating Etiquette in Public Spaces
Though Japan has a vibrant street food culture, eating while walking or on public transport is considered impolite, especially in urban areas. In places like Tokyo, you’ll notice people standing near food stalls or sitting on nearby benches to eat. The reason for this is not only to avoid littering but also to maintain the cleanliness and orderliness that Japan is known for. Eating on trains is typically acceptable only on long-distance journeys, such as Shinkansen (bullet trains), where it’s common to bring a meal like a bento box.
Japan is a country deeply rooted in courtesy, and by adopting these practices, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for its culture. Have you been to Japan or are you planning to visit? Share your thoughts or experiences in the comments! For more travel tips and hacks, visit our website and explore our resources to enhance your next adventure.