Etiquette 101: The Cultural Dos & Don’ts on a Trip to Japan

The Japanese are famous for their hospitality and politeness. But this culture is very unlike any you’ll find in the West or elsewhere in Asia. You aren’t expected to know any of the rules as a visitor, however, knowing some basic etiquette can deepen your interaction with locals and add an element of fun while visiting Japan.

Greetings, Gifts & Introductions 

The Japanese tendency to bow. A lot. The lower the bow, the more respect is being shown. You aren't expected to bow as a visitor, as most Japanese will greet you with a handshake. Just be gentle, as an excessively firm grip here projects rudeness, not confidence. A slight bow is also appreciated. Do so for each person in any group you meet. Avoid physical contact or excessive closeness beyond this. The Japanese like their personal space and will also respect yours. If you’ve been invited into a Japanese home or wish to express your thanks to someone, a small, inexpensive gift is appropriate and appreciated. Something from your home country is ideal, though nothing related to the numbers four or nine, which are considered unlucky. Gifts should always be given and received with both hands. The same goes for business cards, so take a moment to read the card before placing it in your pocket.

Rules of the Japanese Home (aka A Gaijin’s Guide to Slippers) 

Bring slip-on shoes if you want to save yourself time and frustration while visiting Japan. Shoes are never worn inside a Japanese home or temple. Rather, you will wear indoor slippers. Just don’t wear them to the washroom. There are separate slippers for that, which should never be taken out of the washroom. In addition, you should leave your slippers at the entrance of any room with tatami matting. You’ll probably see a rack, shelf, or even a locker for your shoes or slippers whenever you’re required to take them off. You will likely enjoy at least one meal or tea ceremony sitting on the floor. Sit up on your knees with your feet tucked behind you in formal situations if you can. The Japanese have been doing this their whole lives and are usually quite forgiving of foreigners whose knees aren’t up to the task. It is also common (though less formal) for women to sit with both legs to one side while men sit cross-legged. Above all, do not point the soles of your feet at another person. 

Slurping with Dignity 

Given Japan’s devotion to politeness, cleanliness, and subtlety, one Japanese table rule might surprise. Slurping your noodles with gusto is a sign you’re enjoying your meal and is considered a great compliment. You might, however, want to be careful with your chopsticks. The big no-no’s include leaving them standing upright in a bowl of rice and passing food directly from your chopsticks to another diner's plate. These resemble Japanese funeral rites and should be avoided at the table. In addition, don’t play with or whittle your chopsticks. If you want to earn points for your language skills, say itadakimas at the start of your meal and gochisosama deshita at the end. When drinking, the Japanese expression for cheers is kampai. Never pour your drink, including tea, and don’t finish your soup before starting your (probably numerous) other plates. Finally, there is no tipping in Japan. 

Bathing Rituals 

Whether you’re bathing in the comfort of a private home, hotel, or a public onsen, the rules of a Japanese bath are simple but very important. Japanese baths are places to relax, not to clean. Cleaning yourself is done before entering the bath, usually at a small, individual nook with a mirror, handheld shower, shampoos, soaps, moisturizers, and sometimes toothbrushes, razors, and other essentials. Once you’ve thoroughly washed at one of these stations, enjoy the relaxing baths to your heart’s content. Note that Japanese baths aren’t for the body shy. You’re expected to disrobe completely. In addition, many public baths won’t allow guests with visible tattoos, though some are beginning to relax this policy, particularly for foreigners.