What Are Japanese Manners?

Japanese manners emphasize respecting others and behaving politely. Here are some key points that can be helpful for travelers to Japan to know.

1. Greetings and Bowing

• Bowing is a common way to show respect. The depth of the bow can vary depending on the situation.
• Greetings are very important in Japan. Words like “Konnichiwa” (Hello), “Ohayou gozaimasu” (Good morning), and “Arigatou gozaimasu” (Thank you) show politeness.

2. Taking Off Shoes

• In homes and certain places (like ryokan inns, temples, and traditional rooms), you are expected to take off your shoes and change into slippers or remain barefoot.

3. Being Quiet in Public

• On trains, buses, and in public spaces, it’s considered polite to keep noise levels low. Talking on the phone in these areas is usually avoided.

4. Table Manners

• Finish your plate: Eating everything served to you is seen as polite and appreciative.
• Using chopsticks: Don’t point with chopsticks or pass food from one person’s chopsticks to another (this resembles funeral rituals).
• Eating sounds: It’s okay to slurp noodles like ramen or soba, but avoid making loud eating noises with other foods.

5. Sorting Garbage

• Japan has strict rules about waste separation. Trash must often be sorted into burnable, plastic, bottles, etc., depending on local regulations.

6. Bathhouse Etiquette

• Keep noise to a minimum out of respect for others.
• Shower and wash your body before entering a hot spring or communal bath.
• Avoid putting towels in the bathwater.

7. Gift-Giving and Gratitude

• When expressing thanks, say “Arigatou gozaimasu” while bowing.
• When giving a gift, present it with both hands as a sign of respect.

8. Queuing

• Forming lines is common in Japan, whether for buses, trains, elevators, or at stores. Cutting in line is considered rude.

9. Avoid Causing Inconvenience

• It’s important to avoid behaviors that disturb others, such as talking loudly or engaging in self-centered actions in shared spaces.

10. Restaurant and Café Etiquette

• No tipping: Japan does not have a tipping culture. Service charges are already included in the bill.
• Avoid eating while walking: While this is allowed in some tourist areas, it’s generally better to eat at designated spots or inside restaurants.

11. Photo Etiquette

• Follow rules in sacred places: Some temples and shrines prohibit photography. Always check for signs before taking pictures.
• Respect others’ privacy: When taking photos, avoid capturing strangers without their permission.

12. Escalator Etiquette

• Stand on one side of the escalator to allow others to pass. This practice varies by region: stand on the left in Tokyo and the right in Osaka.

13. Drinking and Smoking Etiquette

• Smoking in public spaces: Smoking is prohibited in many public areas. Use designated smoking areas to light up.

14. Expressions of Gratitude and Apologies

• Even for small things, saying “thank you” (“Arigatou gozaimasu”) or “sorry” (“Sumimasen”) is a sign of politeness. This reflects the culture of thoughtfulness and respect in Japan.

By following these manners, you’ll be able to navigate Japan more smoothly and experience the country’s culture of respect and thoughtfulness firsthand!

For Basic Phrases to Learn Before Traveling to Japan, Click Here

Useful Phrases for Everyday Conversations, Click Here

Useful Phrases for Restaurants and Shopping, Click Here