This is an ongoing list. Please send suggestions to the Contact Form

Cultural Etiquette

Bowing: Bowing is a common way to greet and show respect. A slight bow is sufficient for most situations.
No Tipping: Tipping is not a custom in Japan. Good service is expected and already included in the price.
Respect for Personal Space: Japanese people value personal space; avoid overly physical gestures like hugging or patting on the back unless you know the person well.
Quiet Public Behavior: Speak softly on public transportation and in public spaces. Loud conversations are considered impolite.

Line Up: Queue up neatly when waiting for trains, buses, or elevators. Let people exit before entering.
Phone Use: Keep your phone on silent (manner mode). Avoid talking on the phone while on public transportation.
Priority Seats: Leave priority seats for the elderly, disabled, pregnant women, or those with small children.

Chopstick Manners:
- Do not stick chopsticks upright in rice (this resembles a funeral ritual).
- Do not pass food from chopstick to chopstick.
No Eating While Walking: Eating or drinking while walking is considered rude unless you're in designated areas like food stalls.
Say "Itadakimasu" and "Gochisousama Deshita":
- Before eating: Itadakimasu (Thank you for the meal).
- After eating: Gochisousama deshita (Thank you for the food).

No Littering: Carry your trash until you find a bin. Public trash bins are rare, so bring a small bag for your waste.
Recycling: Separate garbage into categories (burnable, non-burnable, recyclable). Follow local rules for sorting and collection.
Clean Public Restrooms: Use them respectfully and leave them as clean as you found them.

Keep Noise Levels Down: Avoid loud music or conversation, especially in residential areas.
No Smoking in Public: Smoking is allowed only in designated smoking areas.

Purify Yourself: Use the water ladles at shrines to wash your hands and rinse your mouth before entering.
Offer Respect:
- Bow once before approaching the shrine.
- Throw coins into the offering box.
- Bow twice, clap twice, and bow once again.
Photography: Avoid taking photos in restricted areas or during ceremonies.

Wash Before Entering: Shower and clean yourself thoroughly before entering the bath.
No Towels in the Water: Leave towels outside or on your head.
Tattoos: Some onsen prohibit tattoos. Check beforehand or look for tattoo-friendly ones.

Learn Basic Phrases: Use simple Japanese phrases like:
- "こんにちは" (Konnichiwa) – Hello
- "ありがとうございます" (Arigatou gozaimasu) – Thank you
- "すみません" (Sumimasen) – Excuse me / I'm sorry
Be Patient: Many Japanese people are shy about speaking English. Speak slowly and clearly.

Cash is King: Many places still prefer cash, although credit cards and IC cards (Suica, Pasmo) are increasingly accepted.
Respect Store Staff: Place money in the tray provided at the register instead of handing it directly to the cashier.

Gift-Giving: Bring a small gift (omiyage) when visiting someone's home.
Be Punctual: Arriving on time is a sign of respect in Japan.
Avoid Direct Confrontation: Japanese people prefer indirect communication. Be polite and avoid confrontational tones.

Noise in Apartments: Keep noise levels low, especially at night. Walls can be thin in Japanese homes.
Seasonal Greetings: Participate in traditions like giving ochugen (summer gifts) or oseibo (year-end gifts) if appropriate.

Follow Signs and Instructions: Look for English signage, which is common in tourist areas.
Be Open to Learning: Mistakes are okay if you show a willingness to learn and adapt.
Show Gratitude: Saying thank you and bowing goes a long way in showing respect.