Amit Khanna
Sameer Staff answered 4 months ago
Japan is a country rich in cultural customs and etiquette that are important for visitors to understand and respect. Here are some key points to consider for first-time visitors:
General Etiquette
Bowing:
Bowing is a traditional way of greeting, showing respect, and expressing gratitude or apology. The depth and duration of the bow depend on the context and the status of the person you are bowing to.
Shoes:
It is customary to remove your shoes when entering someone’s home, certain traditional accommodations (like ryokan), temples, and some restaurants. Always wear the provided indoor slippers.
Respect for Personal Space:
Japanese culture places a high value on personal space and privacy. Avoid unnecessary physical contact, and maintain a polite distance in public spaces.
Dining Etiquette
Chopsticks:
Never stick chopsticks upright into a bowl of rice, as it resembles a funeral rite. Do not pass food directly from chopstick to chopstick, and use the opposite end of your chopsticks when taking food from shared dishes.
Tipping:
Tipping is not customary and can be considered rude. Good service is standard and included in the bill.
Drinking:
When drinking with others, it is polite to pour drinks for your companions and let them pour for you. Always wait for everyone’s glass to be filled before taking the first sip.
Slurping:
It is acceptable and even encouraged to slurp noodles and soup, as it indicates that you are enjoying your meal.
Social Etiquette
Gifts:
Giving and receiving gifts is common in Japan. Gifts should be presented and received with both hands. Modesty is important; it’s customary to downplay the value of the gift you give.
Business Cards:
If you receive a business card, take it with both hands, study it carefully, and never put it immediately into your pocket or wallet. Keep it in a proper card holder.
Silence in Public Spaces:
Quietness is appreciated in public transport and other shared spaces. Avoid loud conversations and set your phone to silent mode.
Temple and Shrine Etiquette
Purification:
At Shinto shrines, you will find a water pavilion for purification. Use the ladle to wash your hands and mouth before approaching the main hall.
Offering:
At Buddhist temples, it is customary to make a small monetary offering, bow, and possibly light incense. Be respectful and follow the local practices.
Dress Code
Conservative Clothing:
Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid revealing clothing and opt for attire that covers your shoulders and knees.
Traditional Clothing:
If you wear traditional clothing like a kimono or yukata, ensure you wear it correctly, and seek guidance if unsure.
Public Bath Etiquette
Bathing:
In onsen (hot springs) and sento (public baths), you must wash and rinse your body thoroughly before entering the communal bath. Bathing suits are typically not allowed.
Tattoos:
Be aware that tattoos can be associated with the yakuza (Japanese organized crime), and some public baths may deny entry to individuals with visible tattoos. Check in advance or cover tattoos if possible.
Transportation Etiquette
Queuing:
Form orderly queues when waiting for trains and buses. Follow the designated lines and boarding procedures.
Priority Seating:
Respect priority seats reserved for the elderly, pregnant women, and those with disabilities.
Understanding and adhering to these customs will help ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience in Japan.
Nidhi Staff answered 3 months ago
Japan is renowned for its rich culture and traditions, and understanding Japanese customs and etiquette can greatly enhance your experience when visiting. Here’s a guide to some key customs and etiquette practices to be aware of in Japan:
General Etiquette
Bowing: Bowing is a common form of greeting, showing respect, and saying thank you. The depth and duration of the bow can vary depending on the situation and the relationship between the individuals.
Greeting Bow: A slight bow (15 degrees) for casual greetings.
Respect Bow: A deeper bow (30 degrees) for more formal occasions.
Apology Bow: A very deep bow (45 degrees or more) for sincere apologies.
Shoes: Remove your shoes when entering someone’s home, temples, certain restaurants, and traditional accommodations (ryokan). Indoor slippers are often provided.
Public Behavior:
Quietness: Speak softly and avoid loud conversations, especially in public transportation and quiet places.
Queueing: Stand in line and wait your turn, whether at train stations, stores, or elevators.
Respect Personal Space: Avoid physical contact and maintain personal space in public.
Gift Giving: Giving and receiving gifts is an important aspect of Japanese culture.
Wrapping: Gifts should be wrapped nicely.
Timing: It’s common to give gifts on occasions like visits, weddings, and holidays.
Receiving: Accept gifts with both hands and express gratitude.
Dining Etiquette
Chopsticks:
Usage: Do not point, play with, or stick chopsticks upright in rice (it resembles funeral customs).
Passing Food: Avoid passing food from one pair of chopsticks to another; use serving utensils instead.
Table Manners:
Begin Eating: Say “Itadakimasu” before starting the meal to express gratitude.
Finish Eating: Say “Gochisousama deshita” after finishing to thank for the meal.
Soup and Noodles: It is acceptable to slurp noodles and soup, showing appreciation for the meal.
Sharing Dishes: Use the opposite end of chopsticks or serving utensils when sharing dishes.
Drinking:
Pouring Drinks: Pour drinks for others rather than yourself, and hold your glass with both hands when someone pours for you.
Kanpai: Say “Kanpai” (cheers) before drinking in a group setting.
Social Etiquette
Business Cards (Meishi):
Exchange: Present and receive business cards with both hands.
Respect: Take a moment to examine the card before putting it away, showing respect to the person.
Visiting Homes:
Gifts: Bring a small gift (often food or drink) when visiting someone’s home.
Shoes: Remove shoes at the entrance and wear provided slippers.
Public Transportation:
Silence: Avoid talking on the phone and keep conversations quiet.
Priority Seats: Yield priority seats to the elderly, pregnant women, disabled individuals, and those with small children.
Cultural Etiquette
Temples and Shrines:
Purification: Use the water ladle at the entrance to wash hands and mouth before entering.
Offerings and Prayers: Follow the proper procedure for making offerings and prayers, including bowing, clapping hands, and ringing bells.
Tattoo Visibility: Tattoos are often associated with the yakuza (Japanese organized crime) and might be frowned upon in public places like hot springs (onsen) and gyms. Cover them when possible.
Photography: Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially in private or sacred spaces.
Politeness and Respect
Apologizing: Apologize frequently and sincerely if you make a mistake or inconvenience someone.
Respect for Authority: Show respect to elders and authority figures, using polite language and appropriate titles.
Language Phrases
Basic Phrases: Learning a few basic Japanese phrases can go a long way.
Hello: “Konnichiwa”
Thank you: “Arigatou gozaimasu”
Excuse me/Sorry: “Sumimasen”
Goodbye: “Sayonara”
Understanding and practicing these customs and etiquettes will help you navigate social situations in Japan gracefully and show respect for Japanese culture.