In Japan, the concept of “hairyo” – a profound embodiment of thoughtfulness and consideration – serves as a foundation for public interaction, reflecting a culture deeply rooted in mutual respect. This principle encourages individuals to be aware of their surroundings and anticipate the needs and feelings of others in order to cultivate a harmonious environment. However, navigating the many unwritten rules and social cues can be challenging for foreign travellers. As our readers named Japan the best country in the world in this year's Readers' Choice Awards, resident foodie and travel connoisseur Tokyo Halfie offers a snapshot of essential guidelines for your visit to help you avoid any faux pas.
1. Arrive early
Punctuality is not just polite in Japan – it's expected. Here, being on time means arriving five to 10 minutes early (especially for restaurant bookings), strongly aligning with the culture of reliability and courtesy. While many may not take offence to being a few minutes late back home, tardiness is considered incredibly disrespectful in Japanese society – so be sure to plan your travel route accordingly, and account for any unforeseen delays.
2. Honour silence
Embrace the Japanese appreciation for peace and quiet by adopting a softer demeanour in public spaces. Whether dining in a restaurant, travelling on public transport, or enjoying other shared environments, keeping your voice low is paramount – this mindful approach demonstrates consideration for those around you. By keeping conversations discreet and refraining from loud or disruptive behaviours, you help preserve the tranquil atmosphere that is highly cherished here.
3. Understand "mottainai" culture
The principle of “mottainai” embodies a deep gratitude for finite resources, underscoring that nothing should be taken for granted. This philosophy encourages individuals to minimise waste in all forms – whether it’s food, time, or effort. Practising “mottainai” can manifest in simple actions, such as avoiding over-ordering dishes at a meal. Rather than allowing food to go to waste, this encourages us to savour every bite by recognising the rich ecosystem from which the ingredients are sourced, honouring the dedication of the producers, and appreciating the artistry behind each dish.
4. Dining etiquette
Dining in Japan comes with its own set of rules that reflect respect for the culinary experience. Aside from arriving on time and using inside voices, guests are expected to follow several important protocols. Asking for the chefs’ permission before taking photos or videos, and refraining from placing your phone or camera directly on the counter at upscale restaurants to prevent scratching the delicate surface (you can ask for or bring a placemat for your device), are just a few examples. In addition, speediness is paramount when taking a snap – each dish is at its best condition the moment it's served and deteriorates with time (some chefs may take offence to this).
When toasting with “kanpai,” it's frowned upon to clink wine glasses or tea cups; instead, simply raise your drink without making contact. Additionally, it's essential not to wear strong scents (including aftershave and hand cream) that may overpower the delicate flavours of the meal for other customers. Adhering to proper chopstick etiquette is vital: do not pass food directly between chopsticks or stand them upright in rice. As tempting as it may be to wipe your face with the refreshing “oshibori” wet towels, these are designated for your hands only; be sure to fold them neatly after each use.
5. No tipping
Tipping is not customary in Japan; instead, service charges are often included in your bill at restaurants. To express your appreciation, consider ordering drinks rather than leaving a gratuity. What truly matters is your demeanour and attitude: showing respect for the chefs, staff, and fellow diners by adhering to cultural norms. This practice fosters a pleasant atmosphere, allowing everyone to enjoy their meal without the complexities that come with tipping expectations.
6. Public transport manners
When using public transport in Japan, silence is golden. Ensure your mobile devices are on silent mode, and avoid making phone calls or engaging in loud conversations with fellow travellers. Eating is discouraged, with the exception of “shinkansen” bullet trains – you may notice a number of passengers indulging in “ekiben” (bento boxes sold at train stations) on longer haul trips.
Orderly queuing is anticipated, and the considerate procedure is to allow riders to disembark first before boarding the train. Escalator conventions can be confusing (even for locals!), as the correct side to stand on varies by region: in Tokyo, people stand on the left, while in Osaka, it's the right. To navigate this smoothly, simply observe those around you and follow their lead.
7. Bring rubbish home
The streets in Japan are impressively clean despite the scarcity of public rubbish bins – a testament to the collective effort of its citizens to sustain a tidy environment. It's common practice to hold onto your litter, typically in a designated plastic bag. When you do come across a bin, they often have separate sections for various recyclable materials, so be sure to categorise and dispose of your waste thoughtfully.
8. Hot spring guidelines
There are several standards to adhere to when entering an “onsen” (hot springs). Before soaking in the communal baths, you are expected to cleanse yourself thoroughly at the shower stations for sanitary reasons. Avoid wearing swimsuits or bringing towels into the bath – to maintain its purity, the mineral-rich waters are to be enjoyed fully unclothed. Furthermore, silence is encouraged to preserve its relaxing and rejuvenating ambience. Be mindful that tattoos, traditionally associated with the “yakuza” gangs, may need to be covered, depending on the bathhouse’s policy.
9. Remove shoes indoors
Shoes are typically removed before entering homes or certain establishments, as guests are required to be considerate of hygiene and the indoor space (if you are wearing sandals, it's advisable to carry clean socks to change into). Many places have designated areas for this, such as the “genkan”, where visitors can neatly leave their footwear. In a similar fashion, placing bags on tables is regarded as unsanitary and impolite; bag holders are usually provided for this purpose.
10. Acknowledge personal space
Personal space is highly valued, and it’s important to respect boundaries – hugging is seldom practised and may even evoke discomfort, especially among those who are not closely acquainted. Handshakes are not the norm; instead, a graceful bow serves as the preferred gesture for greeting. Additionally, public displays of affection are not prevalent and may be perceived as inappropriate.
11. Follow traffic protocol
In Japanese culture, there is a strong emphasis on rules and order, and this extends to traffic regulations. Jaywalking is discouraged, and locals typically only cross streets at designated pedestrian crossings. You may notice people patiently standing at a red light, even when the road appears clear; it’s recommended to follow suit and wait until the light turns green to comply with communal standards.
12. Respect temples & shrines
When visiting temples and shrines in Japan, it's vital to acknowledge that they are sacred spaces and not mere tourist attractions. There are distinctions between Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines, each with unique customs. Participate respectfully in traditional rituals, such as cleansing your hands at purification stations and bowing, to show reverence. Additionally, be attentive to signs regarding photography and refrain from any disruptive behaviour that could detract from the overall serenity.
13. Dress modestly
The principle of “TPO” in Japan – an acronym for “Time, Place, and Occasion” – highlights the importance of selecting appropriate attire and conduct based on the specific context of an event or setting. This is particularly relevant in formal or professional situations, as it demonstrates regard for social norms. Dressing modestly is advised; overly revealing outfits – such as excessively short skirts, low-cut tops, or sheer fabrics – are uncommon outside of fashion districts and may raise eyebrows.
14. Correctly handle business cards
Business cards reflect individuals, making it essential to handle them with care. When receiving a card, accept it with both hands and take a moment to examine it intentionally. This practice holds significance in professional contexts and casual settings, such as when a chef presents you with a card at the end of a meal. In formal meetings, placing the card on your card case, akin to resting it on a “zabuton” cushion, signifies your genuine appreciation for the connection.
15. Read between the lines
In Japan, communication is often characterised by an indirect style, requiring one to read between the lines to fully grasp the intended meaning. Rather than a straightforward “no,” you might encounter phrases like “it’s difficult” or “maybe another time,” which can subtly indicate refusal. Understanding the distinction between “honne,” representing true feelings, and “tatemae," the public façade, is fundamental for navigating interactions smoothly in a society where harmony is preferred over confrontation.