Japan is a country of deep traditions, respect, and unspoken rules. While Japanese people are incredibly polite and forgiving of tourists, making a major cultural faux pas can quickly turn an amazing trip into an awkward experience.
If you are planning a trip to Japan, you need to know the rules before you land.
Here are the absolute “Don’ts” in Japan to help you travel like a respectful local.
1. NEVER Leave a Tip
In many Western countries, tipping is mandatory. In Japan, it is confusing and sometimes even insulting. Great service is considered a standard part of your meal or hotel stay, not something you need to pay extra for. If you leave money on the table, the waiter will likely chase you down the street thinking you forgot your change!
- What to do instead: Simply say politely, “Gochisousama deshita” (Thank you for the meal) when leaving.
2. Don’t Talk on the Phone on Trains
Japanese public transport is famously quiet. It is considered extremely rude to have a phone conversation on a train, subway, or bus.
- What to do instead: Put your phone on “Manner Mode” (silent). If you must take a call, wait until you get off at the next station. Texting and browsing the internet are perfectly fine!
3. NEVER Stick Your Chopsticks Upright in Rice
This is the ultimate dining taboo. Sticking chopsticks vertically into a bowl of rice (Tsukitate-bashi) resembles a ritual performed at traditional Japanese Buddhist funerals. Passing food from chopstick to chopstick is also a funeral ritual and must be avoided.
- What to do instead: Rest your chopsticks horizontally on the provided chopstick rest (hashioki) or across your bowl.
Pro Tip: Check out our full guide on “Essential Japanese Restaurant Etiquette” for more dining secrets!
4. Don’t Wear Shoes Indoors (Especially on Tatami)
If you see a lowered entranceway (genkan) and a row of slippers, take your shoes off. Wearing outdoor shoes inside a Japanese home, Ryokan (traditional inn), temple, or even some Izakaya (pubs) is a massive sign of disrespect.
- The Golden Rule: NEVER step on Tatami (bamboo mats) with slippers or shoes. Tatami is for bare feet or socks only.
5. Don’t Eat While Walking (Aruki-tabe)
In many countries, grabbing a sandwich and eating it while walking down the street is normal. In Japan, it’s considered sloppy and bad manners.
- What to do instead: If you buy a snack from a convenience store (Konbini) or a street vendor, stand to the side or sit on a nearby bench to eat it. The only exception is during a festival (Matsuri).
6. Do Not Ignore the Onsen Tattoo Rules
Tattoos are traditionally associated with the Yakuza (Japanese mafia). While this is changing slowly, the vast majority of public hot springs (Onsen), public baths (Sento), and swimming pools still ban anyone with tattoos, no matter how small.
- What to do instead: Book a Ryokan with a “Private Onsen” (Kashikiri-buro), or use special tattoo cover-up stickers if your tattoo is small enough.
7. Stop Pointing at People or Things
Pointing your finger directly at a person, a sacred object at a shrine, or even a menu item can be seen as aggressive or rude.
- What to do instead: Use an open hand with your palm facing upwards to gesture towards something, or simply use words.
8. Don’t Blow Your Nose in Public
Loudly blowing your nose into a handkerchief or tissue in a crowded place (like a train or restaurant) is frowned upon.
- What to do instead: Sniffle until you can find a restroom, or turn away from others and do it as quietly as possible using a disposable tissue.
9. Never Pour Your Own Drink First
If you are drinking with friends or colleagues at an Izakaya (Japanese pub), it is customary to pour drinks for others before pouring your own. Pouring only for yourself is considered selfish.
- What to do instead: Keep an eye on your friends’ glasses. When they are almost empty, offer to pour them some more. They will do the same for you!
10. Don’t Walk on the Wrong Side of the Stairs
Tokyo and Osaka are incredibly crowded, but they flow smoothly because people follow the rules of walking.
- What to do instead: Always follow the arrows on the floor in train stations. Generally, keep to the LEFT in Tokyo, and keep to the RIGHT in Osaka when riding escalators or walking up stairs.
Conclusion
Japan is a wonderfully welcoming country, and locals know you are a tourist. They will not be angry if you make a small mistake, but understanding and respecting these 10 rules will earn you a lot of smiles and make your trip 100x better!
Have a safe and respectful trip to Japan!
Comments