Japanese Nightlife Etiquette: 15 Things You Need to Know

1. Izakaya (居酒屋) Basics

• Otoshi (お通し): A small dish served upon arrival, acting as a table charge. Not a scam—it's common practice in Japan.

• Beer First: Order beer first as a group before choosing other drinks. It's a cultural norm.

2. All-You-Can-Drink (飲み放題)

• Many izakayas offer time-limited all-you-can-drink (Nomihodai) deals. Mix your drinks (e.g., highballs or sours) for a manageable experience.

3. Getting Staff Attention

• Shout "Sumimasen!" (Excuse me!) to call staff, as they don’t typically check on tables.

4. Ordering Tips

• Use "Osusume wa?" (What do you recommend?) to find the best dishes if you're unsure.

5. Chopstick Etiquette

• Don’t stab food or pass it chopstick-to-chopstick. It resembles funeral rites and is considered rude.

6. Sharing Food

• Place food on plates for others rather than handing it directly with chopsticks.

7. Karaoke Basics

• Karaoke is a must! Opt for private rooms, and bring a go-to "Ohako" (signature song) to impress your group.

8. Hot Towels (おしぼり)

• Provided at bars and restaurants. Use them to clean your hands, not your face (despite the temptation).

9. Cocktail Bars

• Japan’s fruit cocktails are top-notch. Choose fresh seasonal fruit-based drinks for a unique experience.

10. Respect the Rules

• Follow venue-specific rules, such as no smoking indoors or respecting all-you-can-drink time limits.

11. Food Recommendations

• Try izakaya staples like sashimi, tempura, and Japanese-style tapas. If confused, staff can guide you.

12. Karaoke Plans

• Many karaoke spots offer "sing and drink" deals. Use the menu or staff assistance for booking.

13. Takoyaki Roulette

• A fun challenge where one takoyaki is filled with super-spicy sauce. Great for groups!

14. Nightcap Etiquette

• Thank the person who paid for the meal with "Gochisousama deshita" (Thank you for the feast).

15. Have Fun Responsibly

• Enjoy the lively nightlife but know your limits, and always respect others' comfort and cultural norms.