Our trip to Japan was an unforgettable experience. We were already expecting something very different from all the other countries we had visited, and we can confirm: Japan is truly unique.
The Japanese are incredibly polite and courteous people, and they have certain habits that are important to know to avoid any potentially uncomfortable situations during your trip. The customs we share today are part of their daily lives and impressed us so much that we naturally adopted them without any effort.
Note: In this article you will find some links to different partners in the travel sector. They are all trusted and if you use any of them to book an experience or stay, for example, you are helping us monetize the work we have on this project.
Here are 12 essential tips for anyone visiting Japan
Take Off Your Shoes Before Entering Homes
In Japan, removing your shoes before entering homes, temples, and even some restaurants is customary. Usually, slippers are available at the entrance for you to wear indoors. Don’t forget to follow this practice to show respect.
Silence on Public Transport
One of the things that impressed us the most was the silence on public transport — it’s incredible! Even when the subway is crowded, no one speaks loudly. Taking phone calls on public transport is also considered rude. Additionally, public transport in Japan is extremely punctual.
No Trash Bins on the Streets
One of the first things you’ll notice is the lack of trash bins on the streets. There are very few places where you can find them. Our tip is to bring a plastic bag when leaving your hotel to store your trash until you find a bin. The places where we found bins most often were convenience stores like Family Mart and 7-Eleven.
Avoid Eating While Walking
Eating while walking on the street is considered impolite in Japan. We confess this was one of the rules we found hardest to follow… We’re very used to snacking on the go, enjoying ice cream, or having a quick bite while walking. However, in Japan, we always looked for a place to sit or a designated area to enjoy our meals.
No Tipping
Unlike many Western countries, tipping in Japan can be considered offensive. The service charge is already included in the price, and the Japanese take pride in providing excellent service without expecting extra gratuity.
Always Walk on the Left
If there’s one organized country, it’s Japan! Whether on sidewalks or escalators, the Japanese follow the rule of walking on the left. This helps keep the flow of people organized, especially in busy cities like Tokyo. On escalators, stand on the left if you’re staying still, leaving the right side free for people in a hurry. (In Osaka, this rule is reversed!)
Greet with a bow
The Japanese don’t shake hands or exchange kisses. In Japan, people greet each other with a slight bow. No need to overdo it — a small tilt of the torso is enough in informal situations.
Don’t Open Taxi Doors Manually
Taxi doors in Japan open and close automatically. Don’t attempt to open or close the door yourself; the driver will take care of it.
Avoid Smoking in Non-Designated Areas
In big cities, you’ll find specific smoking areas, which we absolutely love. In some places, smoking on the street is strictly prohibited, and you could be fined if caught. So, remember to respect this rule to avoid disapproving looks.
Always Queue
In Japan, queues are sacred. Whether it’s to board a train, enter a shop, or wait at a restaurant, respecting the order is essential. The Japanese value discipline and respect for others' space, so no cutting in line!
Don’t Stick Chopsticks in Rice
Never stick chopsticks vertically into a bowl of rice — this gesture is associated with funeral rituals. When not using them, place your chopsticks on the holder or the edge of your plate.
Avoid Blowing Your Nose in Public
If you need to blow your nose, try to do so discreetly or in a private space like a restroom. In Japan, people often clean their noses subtly, but doing so loudly in public is considered impolite.
With these 12 tips, you’ll be ready to enjoy the best that Japan has to offer, avoiding awkward moments and showing your respect for the local culture. Respecting Japanese customs will not only help you feel more integrated but will also allow you to enjoy your experience even more.
Have a great trip, and may Japan surprise you as much as it surprised us!
How to stay connected
If you plan to visit Singapore, don't forget that mobile data does not work outside the European Union!
The best solution to stay connected to the Internet is to buy an eSIM or a local SIM. This time we bought an eSIM at Holafly, and it always worked well. Just have a phone compatible with eSIM and buy the card through the Holafly app. It's very easy!
Get Travel Insurance
It is essential to be prepared for any trip you take, especially outside of Europe. Unexpected events happen, and no one wants to come back from vacation with a huge hospital bill to pay. That's where travel insurance comes in, an indispensable ally to ensure tranquility and safety for your holidays.
IATI offers numerous types of travel insurance depending on your type of trip and various coverages. Moreover, by purchasing insurance through our link, you get a special 5% discount.
Don't let unforeseen events ruin your adventure!
Click here to get your discount.
Comments