Now let us start with some of the dos that you should consider in Japan in order to fit in like a glove.

While English is understood in some major cities, many locals (particularly the elderly Japanese) are not proficient in the English language. Hence, it is useful before your Japan holiday to learn a few key Japanese phrases or words. 

Basic Japanese phrases that you should consider include “Irrashaimase” (welcome!), “Domo arigato” (thank you), “sumimasen” (excuse me), and greetings such as “ohaiyogozaimasu” (morning), “konichiwa” (afternoon), and “konbanwa” (evening). Knowing these few words allows you to return their warmth with yours. For a fuller list, check out this useful guide to the most common survival phrases in Japan.

The most fundamental trait of any Japanese person you meet is politeness. Bowing is exceedingly common in Japan, and it is their show of appreciation and respect. 

Typically, Japanese bow when they first meet someone, as a way of saying thanks or bidding them farewell. The staff would likely bow when you enter or leave a restaurant or a shop. In return, you can either do a slight bow or give an incline of the head to acknowledge. 

Did you know that it is hard-pressed to find trash bins in the streets of Japan? Public waste bins were removed from the cities following the 1995 Tokyo subway sarin gas attack. When out and about on your daily adventure, do bring along an empty bag to store your trash for discarding when you are back at your hotel. 

While public transportation is easy to navigate (and considerably cheaper), you may be in situations when taxis are a better option. Unless there is a group of four of you, do sit at the back. The door will automatically open for you to get in, and once you are settled, it will close behind you too. 

Now let us start with some of the dos that you should consider in Japan in order to fit in like a glove.

If visiting a friend in Japan, do not wear your shoes indoors. Take them off when you arrive at their home. “Outdoor” shoes are considered unclean, and “indoor” slippers replace them at the doorway. The same goes for specific restaurants, especially those that offer tatami dining spaces. It would be best to exchange your shoes for dining slippers upon reaching the dining rooms. 

Tip: Wear shoes that are easy to slip on and off to quicken the process.

Japan has no tipping culture, as service is included in the bill at restaurants. In fact, if you decide to leave a tip, do not be surprised if the restaurant staff chases after you to return it. Tipping may be considered an insult to service staff. 

On the subject of handling money, do use both of your hands to receive any change given back to you. The same applies if you are presented with a gift from your host or offering a gift to them. (This is quite rare, as most of the time, change is left on a tray for you to pick up.)

Japanese take their food seriously, and food etiquette is important in Japan. When dining, do not stick your chopsticks upright in your bowl of rice or noodles—this resembles a funeral ritual. Instead, put them on the chopsticks holder next to your food. Another big no is using your chopsticks to pick up food items from shared dishes; use sharing utensils instead.

If you are eating noodles—like a delicious bowl of ramen, soba or udon—do not be afraid to slurp your noodles loudly to express satisfaction at the chef’s cooking. This is considered polite behaviour in a Japanese restaurant. (And it is also fine if you prefer not to.)

The Japanese do not have the habit of eating or drinking on the go, even for snacks. Fast food or snacks sold at street stalls are usually consumed near the booth. This is convenient, as there are no trash bins along the streets. You can finish the food and discard any wrappers or bags at the stall. However, eating on trains is permitted (and even encouraged) with some of the larger and more premium train services (like the Shinkansens or high-speed trains) offering food and drinks for sale on board.

Need more recommendations on where to go in Japan or have questions about where to go? Contact our team at Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel; they would be delighted to offer their services.