Japanese Manners and Etiquette: Essential Guide

Understanding Japanese manners and etiquette is crucial for a respectful and enriching travel experience. Japanese culture places high value on politeness, consideration for others, and social harmony. Following these customs will help you navigate social situations smoothly and earn appreciation from locals.

Bowing is the traditional Japanese greeting, with the depth and duration indicating the level of respect. As a visitor, a slight bow with your hands at your sides is appropriate. When receiving business cards (meishi), accept them with both hands, study them briefly, and place them carefully in a card holder or on the table during meetings—never in your back pocket.

Shoe etiquette is important in Japan. Remove your shoes when entering homes, traditional restaurants, temples, and some hotels. Look for a genkan (entrance area) with shoe racks or slippers provided. Toilet slippers are sometimes provided; remember to change into them before entering the bathroom and change back when leaving.

Public behavior emphasizes quietness and consideration. Avoid talking on phones while on trains, eating while walking, and speaking loudly in public spaces. When using escalators, stand on the left in Tokyo (right in Osaka) to allow others to pass. Queuing is taken seriously—always wait in orderly lines at stations, stores, and attractions.

Chopstick etiquette has several important rules: never stick chopsticks vertically in rice (resembles funeral rituals), don't pass food from chopstick to chopstick, and don't point with them. When not using chopsticks, rest them on the chopstick holder provided. If unsure, observe how locals handle them.

Gift-giving (omiyage) is deeply embedded in Japanese culture. When visiting someone's home, bring a small gift, preferably regional specialties or sweets from your country. Presents are typically given and received with both hands and are not opened immediately in front of the giver. The thought and presentation matter as much as the gift itself.

Tipping is not practiced in Japan and can even cause confusion or offense. Excellent service is standard and included in the price. At restaurants, call staff with "sumimasen" (excuse me) rather than making eye contact or waving. In onsens (hot springs), wash thoroughly before entering the communal bath and keep your towel out of the water.