Welcome to Japan 英語版

When staying in Japan, it’s important to be mindful of the following manners and etiquette:

1. Greetings and Courtesy: In Japan, proper greetings are highly valued. It’s good etiquette to greet people properly when meeting them or entering a shop.

2. Quiet and Reserved Behavior: Japan appreciates quiet and composed behavior. Avoid loud actions or speaking loudly in public places.

3. Handling of Shoes: It’s customary to take off your shoes when entering indoor spaces. Get accustomed to the habit of removing your shoes when visiting homes, shrines, temples, etc.

4. Dining Etiquette: During meals, proper use of chopsticks and eating without making noise are essential manners. Also, it’s customary to say “Itadakimasu” before starting a meal.

5. Behavior in Public Spaces: Public places require consideration for others. For example, on trains or buses, maintaining a quiet demeanor is preferred.

6. Sorting of Waste: Japan has strict waste sorting regulations. While rules may vary by area, it’s important to sort waste properly and put it out on designated days.

7. Smoking in Public Spaces: Smoking outside designated areas like train stations or restaurants should be avoided.

8. Toilet Etiquette: Public toilets should be used cleanly. Be mindful that some toilet paper cannot be flushed, so caution is needed.

9. Handling of Gifts: Gift-giving is an important cultural practice in Japan. It’s considered good etiquette, especially when visiting or receiving help, to bring gifts or souvenirs.

10. Queueing Culture: In restaurants or shops with waiting lines, respecting the queue order is crucial. Avoid cutting in line or pushing.

11. Photography Etiquette: When taking photos at sacred places like shrines or temples, it's important to obtain permission beforehand. Also, strive to respect people's privacy while taking photos.

12. Volume Control: Especially during late nights or early mornings, it's crucial to keep noise levels down to avoid disturbing others. In residential buildings like apartments or hotels, extra consideration is necessary.

13. Punctuality for Meetings: Japanese culture values punctuality, so make sure to arrive on time for appointments.

14. Using Public Wi-Fi: When using public Wi-Fi, be mindful of etiquette and security. Avoid engaging in illegal activities or unauthorized access.

15. Smartphone Usage: In public spaces and on public transportation, it's important to minimize smartphone noises and refrain from making phone calls. Let's be mindful not to inconvenience those around us.

16. Tipping Customs: Tipping isn't a common practice in Japan. Service charges at restaurants and hotels are often included in the bill, so unless specifically requested, there's no need to leave additional tips.

17. Adherence to Traffic Rules: As pedestrians, it's crucial to follow pedestrian signals, and when driving, to obey traffic regulations. Especially when walking on sidewalks, let's maintain etiquette by giving priority to pedestrians.

18. Use of Public Facilities and Accommodations: When using public restrooms or accommodations, make an effort to keep them clean. After use, ensure to return items to their original state and consider the next person.

19. Payment at the Cash Register: When paying at the register, aim for smooth money exchange and product receipt. Additionally, it's customary to wait until instructed by the cashier before bagging items.

20. Environmental Consideration: Environmental consciousness is highly valued in Japan. Let's segregate waste and prioritize recycling. Moreover, bringing reusable bags for shopping is recommended.

21. Utilization of Baths and Hot Springs: When utilizing public baths or hot springs, maintaining cleanliness is required. Before bathing, wash your body, and when entering the tub, make an effort not to introduce dirt or soap into the bathwater.

22. Shopping at Supermarkets: When shopping at supermarkets, handle each item carefully when selecting, and when returning items, make sure to put them back in their original places. Additionally, it is desirable to maintain distance from others while queuing.

23. Utilization of Bicycles: When using bicycles, adhering to traffic rules regarding pedestrians and vehicles is important. When cycling on sidewalks, prioritize pedestrians and obey signals and signs.

24. Respect for Buildings and Cultural Heritage: When visiting historical buildings or cultural heritage sites, respect their value and history, and refrain from destructive acts or graffiti.

25. Expressing Gratitude to Service Industries: When receiving service at restaurants, hotels, shops, etc., expressing gratitude is good etiquette. Use a smile and the words “Thank you” to convey appreciation.

26. Utilization of Seats on Public Transportation: When using public transportation such as trains or buses, it is important to show consideration for other passengers, such as by offering seats to the elderly, pregnant women, or those with physical disabilities.

27. Expression of Respect towards Others: When speaking to others, showing respect by using their names or employing polite language is essential.

28. Consideration for the Importance of Items: In Japan, there is an emphasis on the efficient use of resources. It is desirable to avoid wastefulness and to use necessary items carefully.

29. Umbrella Etiquette: When using an umbrella on rainy days, be mindful not to splash water on others or buildings. After using the umbrella, shake off water in an appropriate place and store it in its provided bag, demonstrating consideration for those around you.

30. Understanding of Seasons and Events: Japan has various seasonal events and cultures. It is important to show interest in and respect for local customs and events.

31. Waiting time in public toilets: When waiting in line for a public toilet, it's common to join the back of the queue. Avoid cutting in line and maintain quietness while waiting.

32. Respect for local rules and customs: Each region in Japan has its own culture and customs. It's important to research and respect the rules and customs of the area you're visiting.

33. Respecting silence in accommodation facilities: In hotels or ryokans (Japanese inns), it's crucial to keep quiet during nighttime and early morning hours to not disturb other guests' sleep.

34. Handling leftovers: While it's best to avoid leaving food uneaten, if leftovers occur, dispose of them politely and try to clear dishes as soon as you finish eating.

35. Confirming appointments: When making plans or appointments, it's important to confirm mutual understanding through emails or phone calls to avoid misunderstandings or confusion. Pre-confirmation is crucial to prevent any issues.

36. Using seats on trains or buses: In crowded public transportation, when using seats, be mindful not to spread belongings onto neighboring seats or inconvenience other passengers.

37. Playing in parks or public spaces: In public areas like parks or squares, maintain manners to not obstruct others' activities, especially be cautious with ball games or loud noises.

38. Cleaning up after using the toilet: After using public toilets, it's necessary to clean up by flushing and washing hands to maintain cleanliness.

39. Expressing respect: It's important to use polite language and show respect towards elders, superiors, and those in higher positions.

40. Response to earthquakes and disasters: Japan frequently experiences earthquakes and natural disasters. If encountering a disaster during your stay, follow local instructions and act calmly.

41. Use of mobile phones on trains: When on a train, please lower the volume of your mobile phone's ringtone and conversation, or switch to silent mode, to avoid disturbing other passengers.

42. Asking for directions: When lost, it's important to politely ask those around you for directions, with a smile and respect.

43. Retie shoelaces: If your shoelaces come undone, ensure to retie them in a safe location, so as not to inconvenience others.

44. Disposing of trash outdoors: When disposing of trash in public areas or natural settings, make sure to properly sort and dispose of it in designated bins. If bins are unavailable, carry your trash with you.

45. Contributing to the community: By participating in local events or clean-up activities during your stay, you can contribute to the local community.

46. Quiet behavior in public facilities: In public facilities such as libraries or museums, be considerate of other visitors and maintain quiet behavior. Avoid speaking loudly or causing disturbances.

47. Consideration for other guests in accommodations: In accommodation facilities, avoid making noise late into the night to respect the privacy and sleep of other guests.

48. Interest in local culture and history: Showing interest in the history and culture of the visited area and engaging with local people can demonstrate deeper understanding and respect.

49. Behavior in sacred places: In temples or shrines and other sacred places, maintain a quiet and modest demeanor, and when taking photographs, respect the people around you and the sanctity of the place.

50. Expressing gratitude: It's important to express gratitude when receiving services or acts of kindness. Show your appreciation with a smile and words of thanks.

51. Use of local language and greetings: Learning regional dialects and traditional greetings facilitates smoother communication with local people.

52. Placement of belongings in public spaces: When placing belongings in public areas such as train stations or bus stops, strive to place them in non-obstructive locations to avoid inconveniencing passersby or those waiting.

53. Participation in local customs and festivals: Participating in traditional local festivals and events during your stay allows you to experience the local culture and deepen interactions with the community.

54. Sharing of public spaces: It's important to share public spaces such as parks and squares with others. When having a picnic or playing, considerate of others and the natural environment.

55. Sampling local ingredients and cuisine: Trying local ingredients and dishes shows respect for the region's food culture and supports the local economy.

56. Involvement in the local community: Contributing to local volunteer activities and events helps to support the community and strengthen connections with local residents.

57. Purchasing local products and crafts: Buying goods from local markets and craft stores supports the local economy and preserves traditional industries and craftsmanship.

58. Promoting etiquette in public spaces: By promoting the manners and morals you uphold to others, you can contribute to creating a better society.

59. Participation in local environmental conservation efforts: Participating in community clean-up activities and environmental conservation efforts contributes to beautifying the area and protecting the natural environment.

60. Learning about local history and culture: Learning about the history and culture of the area shows respect for the local pride and identity, deepening empathy with the local community.

61. Consideration for animals: When accompanied by animals in public spaces, be considerate of others and animals, and maintain a safe distance. Additionally, it's important to properly dispose of pet waste in designated areas.

62. Minimization of environmental impact: By bringing eco-bags and reusable containers when shopping, you can reduce the use of plastic and minimize environmental impact.

63. Understanding the meaning of words and gestures: Understanding the meanings of local words and gestures helps avoid misunderstandings or uncomfortable situations.

64. Maintenance of personal appearance and cleanliness: It's considered good manners to groom oneself and dress in clean attire when visiting public spaces or shops.

65. Understanding and respecting cultural diversity: Japan is a country where diverse cultures and ethnicities coexist. It's important to show understanding and respect towards different cultures and ethnicities.

66. Adjustment of music and volume: In public spaces and accommodation facilities, adjust the music and volume from mobile phones or music players to be considerate of those around you.

67. Respect for privacy: It's important to respect others' privacy and avoid inappropriate behavior or remarks in conversations and actions in public spaces or accommodation facilities.

68. Handling of lost items: When carrying personal belongings, be careful not to lose important or valuable items, and promptly take action if they are lost.

69. Response in emergencies: In emergencies, remain calm, and if necessary, contact local emergency services or police and follow their instructions.

70. Transparency and integrity in actions: It's important to have transparency in your actions and demonstrate a sincere and honest attitude towards others and the local community.

71. Use of Priority Seats: On public transportation such as trains and buses, priority seats are reserved for the elderly and those with physical disabilities. Young and healthy individuals should avoid occupying priority seats for extended periods and prioritize yielding them to those in need.

72. Adaptation to Seasons and Weather: Japan experiences varying climates throughout the seasons. When visiting, it’s important to prepare appropriate clothing and items for the weather and temperature of the season, and pay attention to managing your health.

73. Pedestrian Etiquette on Roads: When walking on crowded sidewalks or narrow roads, maintain distance between pedestrians and strive for smooth passage. Additionally, in crowded areas, refrain from activities such as using smartphones to ensure the safety of those around you.

74. Use of Local Currency: When using local currency, prepare the appropriate amount and choose the right timing to use coins for payment. When paying with foreign currency, aim for smooth transactions by exchanging currency in advance.

75. Understanding of Local Beliefs and Religion: Japan is home to various religions and beliefs. When visiting a region, deepen your understanding of its beliefs and religion, and respect its beliefs and customs.

76. Attendance at Funerals and Memorials: In Japan, it’s common to wear black or subdued clothing when attending funerals or memorials. Additionally, showing respect to the bereaved family and bringing appropriate greetings or offerings is desirable.

77. Smoking Etiquette in Public Places: Smoking in public places is restricted in many areas of Japan. Smoke in designated smoking areas or be considerate of those around you to avoid causing inconvenience.

78. Use of Elevators During Crowded Times: When using elevators, wait for those already inside to exit during crowded times and avoid forming queues. Additionally, be considerate of other passengers inside the elevator and refrain from conversation or using mobile phones.

79. Participation in Local Events: When attending local festivals or events, it’s important to enjoy the local culture and traditions. During crowded times, be mindful of those around you and mutually show consideration.

80. Enjoying Local Flavors: When trying local specialties or regional dishes, show interest in local ingredients and cooking methods, and appreciate the unique flavors of the area.

81. Communication with Local Residents: To facilitate communication with local residents, it’s important to learn and be able to use basic greetings and fundamental phrases in Japanese.

82. Adherence to Local Traffic Rules: When driving, understanding and obeying Japan’s traffic rules is crucial. Particularly, consideration for pedestrians and cyclists is required.

83. Manners at Local Tourist Sites: When visiting tourist sites, demonstrate consideration by yielding to others, especially during crowded times, and by taking back any litter to coexist harmoniously with other tourists and local residents.

84. Understanding and Respect for Language: Respect the local language and dialect, and when speaking your native language or English, strive to communicate clearly and be understood by the other party.

85. Conservation of Local Natural Environment: To protect the natural environment, make an effort to hike or picnic in trails and parks without littering or disrupting ecosystems.

86. Respect for Local History and Culture: It’s important to learn and respect the history and culture of the visited area. When participating in local traditional events or rituals, strive for appropriate attire and behavior.

87. Preservation of Local Scenic Beauty: Make efforts to maintain the beauty of natural landscapes by taking back litter and conserving plants and animals. Especially in nature reserves or parks, follow designated routes and avoid approaching wildlife.

88. Expression of Gratitude to Local People: Showing gratitude to local residents and service industry workers is essential. When receiving service, express gratitude with a smile and say “thank you.”

89. Support for Local Shops and Restaurants: Supporting local small-scale shops and eateries can boost the local economy and promote local employment and vitality.

90. Interaction with Local People: Create opportunities to experience the local culture and lifestyle through interaction with local residents. Foster friendships with local people by participating in local events and workshops.

Following these guidelines will help ensure a smooth and respectful stay in Japan❤️