When it comes to etiquette in Japan for tourists, there are many things to remember.
Japan is a fascinating country with a rich culture that attracts tourists from all over the world
If you’re planning a trip to Japan, it’s important to be aware of the country’s customs and traditions.
In this blog post, we will provide an insider’s guide to Japanese customs for tourists!
Etiquette in Japan for Tourists – What foreigners should be aware of
After two decades living in Japan, I think I can blend in for the most part.
And act just like the locals do.
But when I see a tourist, they often stand out like a sore thumb, often inadvertently breaking cultural rules.
Now, foreigners, or gaijin as they’re called in Japan, are often given a “gaijin pass” when they do something wrong.
People will have an open mind.
But if you follow a few key customs, you’ll fit in better with the people there.
And when we are talking about etiquette in Japan for tourists, this first one you probably know.
Removing Your Shoes
In Japan, it’s customary to remove your shoes when entering a home or a temple.
This is because shoes are seen as dirty and they are not allowed in these places.
The Japanese have gotten used to sitting on tatami mats instead of chairs when they eat.
The futon they sleep on is also rolled out on the tatami floor.
So, when they come inside, they take their shoes off so the floor doesn’t get dirty.
You should always take your shoes off before entering someone’s home and put them on again when you leave.
If you’re visiting a temple, you will usually be asked to take your shoes off before entering.
There will usually be a shoe rack near the entrance where you can leave your shoes.
Addressing Someone
Respect is paramount.
When it comes to addressing someone, always use an honorific unless you are invited to do otherwise.
The most common honorifics are -san ( Mr., Mrs., Miss, Ms.), -kun (used for young boys), and -chan (used for young girls).
It’s also important to note that the Japanese bow instead of shaking hands when greeting someone.
No Tipping
Tipping is not customary in Japan, and you should avoid doing it as it may offend someone.
This is because the Japanese believe that service should be included in the price of a meal or hotel stay.
One time, I took my parents to Nagasaki and they tried to tip one of the staff.
Although they meant well, it caused a bit of stress for the young lady as she could not accept it.
Wearing Face Masks
Face masks are commonly worn in Japan, especially during cold and flu season.
Wearing a mask is considered polite as it prevents the spread of germs.
Regardless of whether you think they work, in the post-COVID world, it’s best simply to have a ‘When in Rome’ attitude.
Outside, there is no need to wear them and the Government has come out and said so.
You’ll see many Japanese with one on regardless.
On public transportation and inside, almost everyone will be wearing one.
Using Your Mobile
People don’t talk on their phones on public transportation.
Don’t be shocked if someone tells you to stop.
You can use it to play games (as long as the sound is turned off), surf the web, check your messages, and so on.
On the Shinkansen bullet trains in Japan, there are signs in the cars that say you can only take and make calls in the vestibules between cars or in certain other places.
People think it’s rude and inconsiderate to use phones in restaurants or cafes.
If you need to make or answer a call, go outside.
Don’t play videos or music really loudly in public.
Bathing in Japan
For example, it’s considered polite to wash your body before entering the bathtub.
Also, be sure to rinse off the soap before getting in the tub.
Sadly, if you have a tattoo, you’ll probably not be allowed to enter.
They are connected with the Yakuza here.
if it’s a small one, over it up and make sure it’s not visible.
You might be OK.
Public Transportation
Japan has an extensive and efficient public transportation system.
The most common types of transportation are trains and buses.
If you’re traveling with a group, try to stay together and speak quietly so you don’t bother other people.
This also goes for phones.
Don’t talk on the phone, watch videos with sound, etc.
If you have headphones on and are listening to music, don’t let other people hear it.
Because many people in Japan live in small spaces, they live by the idea of omoiyari, which means having compassion and being kind to those around you.
While we’re talking about public transportation, here are some rules you should know:
Be sure to:
- Stand to the right on escalators and stairs
- Not to eat on the train, the bus, or the street as you walk. Drinking is okay.
- Give up your seat to elderly or disabled people
- Do not use your phone near the seats for people with disabilities or the elderly.
- Be quiet and considerate of other passengers
Also, respect the train cars that say “Women Only” at the times they say to.
Now, contrary to all this, many younger Japanese ignore some of the rules and sit in priority seats.
Many businessmen will sit down and pretend to sleep and ignore the elderly person or pregnant lady nearby.
Do not be like them.
Business Cards
Business cards are exchanged after introductions have been made.
When receiving a business card, always use both hands and take the time to read it before putting it away.
You should also avoid writing on someone’s business card unless they give you permission to do so.
Table Manners
Eating out is a great way to experience Japanese culture, but there are some things you should keep in mind when dining in Japan.
For example, it’s considered rude to leave food on your plate, and you should always use chopsticks to eat.
It’s also polite to slurp your soup and noodles.
Other important table manners include:
- Not speaking with your mouth full
- Not blowing your nose at the table
- Not using your chopsticks to point at someone
- Not sticking your chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice (this is associated with death)
- Not passing food from one set of chopsticks to another
Restaurants
The waiters must be summoned before they appear.
You’re there to eat and shouldn’t be distracted.
Don’t expect the waiter to check on you during your lunch.
Most restaurants have call buttons for this.
You push it to summon the waiter.
In a restaurant without call buttons, say “sumimasen” to call the server.
When it comes to drinking, always pour for others before pouring your own drink.
Booze
Here are a few key points when it comes to alcohol:
- Twenty is the legal age to drink.
- Anywhere is fine to drink alcohol in public.
- It is illegal to make more than 1% alcohol at home (though rarely enforced).
- You can buy alcohol at any time of day or night.
- If your blood alcohol level is 0.03 or higher, you are considered to be driving under the influence (DUI).
This works in Japan because alcohol is such a big part of their culture that only green tea is more of a cultural fit.
Alcohol is just a normal part of life here.
Final Words
In conclusion, when it comes to etiquette in Japan for tourists, there are a few things that foreigners should be aware of.
However, as long as you are respectful and considerate of others, you will likely have a great time.
Now, you might be thinking that, as the media portrays, the Japanese are super polite.
Not so fast.
Japan is a safe and welcoming country and while it has a dark side too, much of that is not visible to tourists.
Some of them can be very rude and that will make for a fun post one day.
