Nobody expects a tourist to know every rule. People in Japan are generally forgiving of visitors who make an honest effort. Still, a little preparation makes your trip smoother and shows respect. This guide covers the basic points of Japanese etiquette you are most likely to meet: greetings, shoes, dining, baths, trains, shrines and everyday behaviour.
The overall principle is simple. Be considerate, keep noise and mess to a minimum, and follow what others around you are doing.
Greetings and bowing
Bowing is the standard greeting, but visitors are not expected to perform it perfectly. A small nod with a smile is fine. A deeper bow shows more respect, usually used in formal or business situations. When someone bows to you, return it.
Handshakes are used less commonly in everyday settings, though some people will offer one to foreigners. Follow their lead.
Useful phrases:
- Konnichiwa: hello (daytime)
- Arigato gozaimasu: thank you
- Sumimasen: excuse me / sorry / thank you (very versatile)
- Onegaishimasu: please (when requesting)
Shoes: where to take them off
Take your shoes off when entering:
- Private homes
- Traditional inns (ryokan) and some guesthouses
- Many temples, some restaurants with raised tatami seating
- Certain clinics, schools and changing rooms
Look for a step up, a shoe rack or slippers lined up at the entrance. Step out of your shoes and face them toward the door, so they are ready when you leave. Wear clean socks without holes, and carry a spare pair if you often visit such places. Toilet slippers are a separate pair used only in the bathroom of some homes and inns; do not wear them back into the main rooms.
Dining etiquette
Before eating. Say itadakimasu, a phrase of thanks before the meal. You may be given a damp towel (oshibori) to clean your hands, which you should not use on your face.
Chopsticks. Avoid:
- Sticking chopsticks upright in rice. It resembles funeral offerings.
- Passing food from chopsticks to chopsticks, which is also tied to funeral customs.
- Pointing or waving chopsticks.
- Spearing food.
Place them on the chopstick rest, or across the bowl if there is no rest, between bites.
Noodles and soup. Slurping noodles is acceptable, especially for ramen and soba. Lifting a soup bowl to drink is normal.
Tipping. Not customary in Japan and sometimes politely refused. A sincere gochisosama deshita (thanks for the meal) on leaving is appreciated.
Pouring drinks. In group settings, it is polite to pour for others and let them pour for you.
Onsen and public baths
Hot-spring baths have a clear sequence. The rules can differ slightly by facility, so read signs.
- Undress in the changing room and put your clothes in the basket or locker.
- Wash and rinse thoroughly at a seated shower station before entering the bath.
- Enter quietly. Do not put your small towel in the water; keep it on your head or at the side.
- Tie up long hair so it does not touch the water.
- Dry off most of the way before returning to the changing area.
Baths are generally separated by sex, with some mixed or private options. Tattoos are restricted at some facilities, since they have been associated with organised crime in the past. If you have tattoos, check the policy beforehand, or look for tattoo-friendly venues and private baths.
Trains, buses and public spaces
- Speak quietly and keep phone calls off public transport. Switch your phone to silent mode.
- Queue where lines are marked on platforms.
- Let passengers exit before boarding.
- Put large backpacks on the floor or on the rack so they do not bump others.
- Do not eat on local commuter trains. On long-distance trains and some express services, eating a boxed meal is accepted.
- Priority seats are for people who need them, such as older passengers, pregnant women and people with disabilities.
Walking while eating is often discouraged. Many people finish a snack near the shop where they bought it. Rubbish bins can be scarce, so carry a small bag and take your trash with you.
Shrines and temples
Shrines (Shinto) and temples (Buddhist) share some etiquette:
- Bow slightly before passing under the main gate (torii at shrines).
- Walk toward the edge of the path rather than the centre, which is traditionally reserved for deities.
- At the hand-washing basin, rinse your hands and mouth using the ladle as shown on the sign.
- At a shrine, the common prayer pattern is to toss a coin, bow twice, clap twice, pray, then bow once more. Some shrines have their own variations, so check signs.
- At a temple, you typically put your hands together quietly and do not clap.
- Respect photography restrictions and do not climb or touch sacred objects.
For deeper context, see our Japan culture guide.
Gifts, money and business cards
Hand over and receive items with both hands. When paying in shops, place money on the small tray instead of handing it directly. If you are invited to someone’s home, a small gift from your home country is a thoughtful gesture, wrapped simply.
Business cards (meishi) are exchanged with both hands and a slight bow. Read the card for a moment and place it on the table in front of you instead of pushing it into a pocket.
Common mistakes visitors make
| Mistake | Better approach |
|---|---|
| Tipping at a restaurant | Say thank you and leave without tipping |
| Talking loudly on trains | Keep your voice low |
| Blowing your nose at the table | Step away or use a tissue discreetly |
| Leaving trash on the street | Carry it to a bin or back to your hotel |
| Wearing shoes on tatami | Remove them before stepping on |
| Taking photos of people without asking | Ask first, especially in Kyoto’s geisha districts |
What if you make a mistake?
Apologise politely, with a small bow and sumimasen. People will usually appreciate the effort. Japan has a reputation for strict manners, but in practice visitors are given a lot of grace.
If you want a more relaxed route into the culture, our guide to a first trip to Japan on a budget shows how to plan so you have time to observe, and the Japan travel FAQ answers practical questions.
Japan Culture Guide: Traditions and Daily Life
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to bow to everyone?
No. A nod and smile are sufficient for most situations as a visitor.
Is it rude to eat while walking?
It is often discouraged, especially in crowded areas. Stand near the stall or find a bench.
Can I wear shoes in temples?
It depends on the area. Look for a raised floor and shoe racks. Follow the signs.
Is tipping ever acceptable?
It is not expected, and some places will return the money. Good service is already included.
Conclusion
Japanese etiquette is mostly about consideration for the people around you. Keep quiet on transport, take your shoes off where others do, learn the chopstick basics, and say thank you. That alone will cover most situations a visitor meets.
