Japanese Etiquette Tips: Do’s and Don’ts for Travelers
Visiting Japan is an incredible adventure full of stunning sights, delicious food, and rich culture. But beyond the scenery and cuisine, Japan is also known for its strong sense of etiquette and social rules. Understanding a few key do’s and don’ts will not only help you avoid cultural missteps but also show respect for local customs—earning you smiles and appreciation from the people you meet.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through essential etiquette tips covering greetings, dining, clothing, transportation, and more. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, these insights will help you navigate Japan’s culture with confidence.
Meeting and Greeting Tips
Bowing
In Japan, bowing is the standard way to greet, say thank you, and say goodbye. It’s used in a variety of situations, from casual to formal. As a traveler, you’re not expected to know the precise angles or duration of bows, but a simple bow or nod in return is appreciated when someone bows to you. Lean slightly forward with your hands at your sides to show respect.
Handshakes are becoming more common in business settings, especially with foreign visitors, but are still less typical in casual interactions. If you’re not sure whether to bow or shake hands, simply follow the other person’s lead.
Gifts and Business Cards
If you’re traveling for business or staying with hosts, be aware of Japan’s gifting culture. It’s customary to bring a small souvenir or omiyage from your home country to show appreciation. Think of regional treats, candies, or a small craft item unique to your area.
In professional settings, exchanging business cards (meishi) is a formal ritual. Always offer and receive cards with both hands, ensuring the text faces the recipient. Take a moment to look at the card before carefully putting it away in a cardholder or wallet—never shove it into your pocket, as this is considered rude.
Clothing Tips
Dress Modestly and Neatly
Japanese culture values modesty and cleanliness in appearance. While casual clothing is fine for sightseeing, avoid overly revealing or sloppy outfits, especially when visiting temples, shrines, or nicer restaurants. Shorts, tank tops, and low-cut tops may draw attention or seem inappropriate in certain settings.
You’ll also frequently need to remove your shoes when entering homes, traditional inns, some temples, and certain restaurants. Wear clean socks and avoid shoes that are hard to slip on and off to make this process easier.
Be Mindful of Tattoos
Tattoos in Japan have a historical association with organized crime (yakuza), and some establishments—like public baths (onsen), pools, and gyms—may prohibit visible tattoos. While attitudes are gradually changing, it’s still a good idea to cover tattoos with clothing or a patch if you plan to visit these places. Tourist-friendly onsens may allow tattoos; check their policies beforehand.
Eating and Drinking Tips
Chopstick Etiquette
Good chopstick manners are important in Japan. Never stick chopsticks upright into a bowl of rice, as this resembles a funeral ritual. Similarly, avoid passing food from one pair of chopsticks to another, since this also mimics a funeral practice. When not in use, rest your chopsticks on the holder rather than crossing them or sticking them into food.
Also, avoid pointing, waving, or playing with chopsticks. Using chopsticks as a tool for gestures or spearing food is considered impolite. Respectful handling of chopsticks is a small gesture that leaves a good impression.
Slurping is Okay
In Japan, slurping noodles is not only acceptable—it’s seen as a sign that you’re enjoying your meal! Feel free to slurp your ramen or soba, as it’s part of the dining experience. However, this doesn’t apply to other foods like rice or soup, where quieter eating is preferred. Eating quickly and quietly is generally appreciated in public dining settings.
If you want to go the extra mile, you can also say “itadakimasu” before eating to give thanks for the meal that you are about to eat and “gochisou sama deshita” after eating to do the same.
Street Etiquette
Walking and Standing Rules
In Japan, pedestrian flow can differ by region. In Tokyo, people generally walk on the left side of sidewalks and stand on the left side of escalators (to let others pass on the right). In Osaka, the opposite is true: people stand on the right. Observe local patterns and follow along to avoid confusion or blocking the way.
Additionally, avoid walking while eating or drinking. While it’s more accepted at festivals or outside convenience stores, eating while walking in daily life is uncommon and may be seen as sloppy or disrespectful. Finish food in designated eating areas instead.
Keep Public Spaces Quiet
Japanese cities can be bustling, but public spaces like trains, buses, and shops often maintain a quiet atmosphere. Keep your voice low when talking with friends, and avoid playing music or videos without headphones. It’s also considered rude to speak on the phone while walking through crowded areas or in public transportation.
Taking Out the Trash
One of the most surprising things about Japan is how incredibly clean the streets are—despite the noticeable absence of public trash cans. Many visitors are astonished to discover that locals often carry their trash home rather than disposing of it outdoors. If you’re out and about for long hours, don’t worry—most train stations and convenience stores have garbage bins available. At convenience stores, it’s extra polite to make a small purchase if you plan to use their trash facilities.
When you do find a trash bin, be prepared to sort your waste properly. Japan’s recycling system is thorough, with separate bins for burnable trash, non-burnable items (like glass or small electronics), aluminum cans, and PET bottles (plastic drink containers). For extra consideration, remove the plastic label from PET bottles along the perforated line and dispose of it in the correct slot—sometimes even the bottle cap has its own bin. Following these sorting rules shows respect for Japan’s commitment to cleanliness and recycling.
Temples and Shrines
Respect Sacred Spaces
Temples and shrines are important religious sites in Japan. When visiting, maintain a respectful demeanor—walk quietly, lower your voice, and avoid blocking pathways. At Shinto shrines, you’ll often pass under a torii gate; avoid walking through the center, as this path is reserved for the gods.
At the purification fountain (temizuya), follow the ritual: rinse your left hand, then your right, then pour water into your left hand to rinse your mouth (spitting beside the basin). After rinsing, use any remaining water to cleanse the ladle handle before returning it.
Photography Rules
Some temples and shrines allow photography, but others prohibit it inside buildings or around sacred objects. Always look for posted signs indicating photo rules. Even where photos are permitted, avoid using flash or standing in sacred areas for extended photoshoots. Respect locals’ prayer and worship time by keeping your visit discreet.
Trains and Public Transportation Tips
Be Quiet and Courteous
Japanese trains are known for their calm, orderly atmosphere. Talking on the phone is frowned upon; set your phone to silent (manner mode) and avoid making calls. Keep conversations with friends low and brief. If you listen to music or watch videos, use headphones at a low volume.
Offer your seat to elderly passengers, pregnant women, people with disabilities, or travelers with small children when in designated priority seating areas. During crowded times, hold backpacks in front of you to avoid bumping others.
Follow Boarding Etiquette
On train platforms, people line up neatly at marked spots to board. Always wait your turn and let passengers exit before stepping onto the train. During rush hour, be prepared for tightly packed trains—move toward the center to make space for others.
Eating, drinking, and applying makeup are discouraged on public transportation. Respect the shared space by keeping behavior polite and unobtrusive.
FAQs
1. Do I need to bow every time?
Not necessarily. A simple nod or small bow is sufficient in most casual situations. You’re not expected to know formal bowing etiquette as a tourist, but showing a gesture of respect is appreciated.
2. Is tipping required in Japan?
No. Tipping isn’t customary in Japan and may even be refused. Great service is already part of the culture.
3. Can I wear casual clothes at temples?
Casual clothing is acceptable, but avoid revealing or flashy outfits. Modest, neat clothing is best for religious sites.
Conclusion
Learning a few Japanese etiquette tips can transform your trip from good to unforgettable. Small gestures like bowing, keeping quiet on trains, and following temple customs show respect for Japanese culture and help you connect with locals in meaningful ways.
Lastly, if you want to take one step further and immerse yourself in the Japanese language, download Sakuraspeak to practice real-life Japanese conversations today—whether it’s greeting someone, ordering food, or asking for directions.
Happy traveling in Japan!
