A short guide to politeness: what to do and what to avoid so you do not embarrass locals or yourself.

Japanese culture is built on respect, restraint and attention to others. A few rules will make your trip more pleasant for everyone.

Do

  • Take off your shoes wherever there is a raised floor or a slipper rack (ryokans, temples, some cafés).
  • Keep quiet on public transport, with your phone on silent.
  • Stand in line and let people off the train first.
  • In an onsen, wash thoroughly first and only then get into the shared bath (without a swimsuit).

Don’t

  • Do not tip — it is not customary and may cause embarrassment.
  • Do not eat while walking and do not stick chopsticks upright in rice.
  • Do not point with your finger or raise your voice.
  • There are few trash cans — carry your waste with you until you get home or to your hotel.

The main thing: a polite smile and a light bow open almost any door in Japan.

Little things that give you away as a newcomer

  • You may slurp noodles loudly — it is not rude but a sign that you like the dish (and ramen burns less that way).
  • Tattoos: many onsens and bathhouses refuse guests with tattoos (a historical association with the yakuza). Look for a “tattoo-friendly” onsen or cover them with a plaster.
  • The number 4 (it sounds like “death”) is avoided — do not give sets of four items.