Japan Travel Etiquette: Essential Do’s and Don’ts
- Japan , First time in japan
- 26 Jun, 2025
To ensure a smooth and respectful trip to Japan, follow these key etiquette rules—they’ll help you blend in and avoid accidental rudeness! Most rules stem from respect for others’ comfort and tradition. When in doubt, observe locals or ask politely!
🚆 Public Transport Etiquette
Do
Stand on the left side of escalators (except in Osaka, where it’s right).
- Why? In Japan, people stand on the left to allow others to walk up/down the right side. (Exception: Osaka stands on the right.)
- What happens if you don’t? You’ll block hurried commuters and get passive-aggressive stares.
Let passengers exit first before boarding trains/buses.
- Why? Japanese trains are extremely punctual, and this keeps boarding efficient.
- Example: At Shibuya Station, wait until everyone steps off before entering.
Keep conversations quiet—phone calls are frowned upon.
- Why? Loud talking is considered disruptive in confined spaces.
- Alternative: Text or use messaging apps instead.
Use headphones for music/videos.
- Why? Playing audio out loud is seen as inconsiderate.
Don't
Eat or Drink on Trains (Except Shinkansen)
- Why? Food smells and spills inconvenience others.
- Exception: Long-distance trains (like the bullet train) allow eating.
Take Up Priority Seats (Unless You Qualify)
- Who are they for? Elderly, pregnant, injured, or disabled passengers.
- What if the train is empty? Still avoid them—someone may board later.
Block Doors During Rush Hour
- Why? Delays cause ripple effects across Tokyo’s tightly scheduled system.
🍽️ Dining & Food Etiquette
Do
Say “itadakimasu” (いただきます) before eating and “gochisousama” (ごちそうさま) after. Both are used in the sense of gratitude to those who have prepared the meal and the ingredients by holding hands or bowing lightly.
- Itadakimasu = “I gratefully receive” (thanks to the cook, ingredients, and nature).
- Gochisousama = “Thank you for the feast.”
Use chopsticks correctly—don’t stab food or point with them.
- How?
- Hold them towards the end (not the middle).
- Don’t stab food—use them to pick up items gently.
- Rest them on the holder (or wrapper if no holder).
- Why? Stabbing food resembles funeral rites (a major taboo).
Slurp noodles—it’s a sign you’re enjoying the meal!
- Why? It shows you’re enjoying the meal and cools hot noodles.
- Exception: Fancy restaurants may prefer quieter eating.
Place money on the tray at registers (handing cash directly is rude).
- Why? Handing cash directly is seen as abrupt.
- Bonus: The cashier will place your change on the tray—pick it up from there.
Don't
Stick Chopsticks Upright in Rice
- Why? This resembles incense sticks at funerals (extremely offensive).
Pour Your Own Drink in Group Settings
- Correct Way: Someone fills your glass. Then, you fill theirs in return.
- Why? It’s about mutual respect and camaraderie.
Tip (Ever)
- Why? Good service is standard—tipping can confuse staff.
⛩️ Temple & Shrine Etiquette
Do
Bow Before Entering Torii Gates (Shrines) or Temple Doors
- How? A slight bow shows respect to the sacred space.
Purify Hands & Mouth at Temizuya (Water Pavilion)
- Step-by-Step:
- Scoop water with the right hand, pour over left hand.
- Switch, pour over right hand.
- Pour water into left palm, sip, and spit discreetly beside the pavilion.
- Tilt the dipper vertically to rinse the handle.
- Why? Ritual cleansing symbolizes purity before prayer.
Throw Coins into the Offering Box
- Best Coin? ¥5 (pronounced go-en, meaning “good fortune”).
Don't
Take Photos Where Prohibited
- Sacred Areas: Main halls, some altars.
- Why? Respect for worshippers and deities.
Walk Through the Center of Shrine Paths
- Why? The center is reserved for gods—stick to the sides.
Temizuya
🛍️ Shopping & Money Etiquette
Do
Handle Goods Gently (Especially in Anime/Figure Shops)
- Why? Damaged items can’t be resold.
Pay with Both Hands (Cash/Card)
- Why? Shows humility and gratitude.
Use the Small Tray at Registers
- Why? Keeps transactions neat and respectful.
Don't
Haggle (Except at Flea Markets)
- Why? Prices are fixed—bargaining is rude.
Eat/Drink While Walking
- Why? It’s seen as messy. Instead, eat at the stall or a bench.
🗣️ Social Interactions
Do
Bow Slightly When Greeting/Thanking
- Casual: 15° bow (for friends, shop staff).
- Formal: 30° bow (business, apologies).
Use Honorifics Like “-San”
- Example: “Tanaka-san” (Mr./Ms. Tanaka).
Carry a Small Trash Bag
- Why? Public bins are rare due to past terrorism concerns.
Don't
Blow Your Nose in Public
- Why? It’s considered vulgar. Use a restroom instead.
Be Loud in Quiet Areas
- Where? Trains, residential areas, temples.
Kyoto Vacation Checklist
- For a quick overview, see my First Time In Kyoto guide.
- Check if a visa is required for Japan
- Check Kyoto accommodation availability on Booking.com and Agoda.com.
- Buy Japan Rail Tickets and Shinkansen Tickets Online.
- For tips on where to stay, see Where To Stay In Kyoto.
- See my Packing List For Japan.
- Purchase an eSim or SIM card for Japan.
- Compare flight prices on Skyscanner.
- Consider a Japan Rail Pass - see if it’s worth for you.
- Consider a travel insurance.