DOS AND DON'TS IN JAPAN

Japan is one of those countries with long and intriguing history, Japanese people welcomes travellers, but if you’re a first time visitor with a different cultural background, you may find yourself in a uncomfortable position when you don’t know whether you should do something or not. To not be considered a rude traveller, here are some etiquettes you need to equip to help you out the situation.

DOS:

Bow. Bow politely when you meet someone, thank them or say goodbye. Don’t worry, if you forget to do it from time to time, Japanese people won’t consider you’re rude, but if you can do it perfectly, you will definitely leave a good impression to people.

Shoes off. You may stay in a host’s house or Japanese friend’s home, and you’re quite likely to notice that the space in the entrance is one step lower than the actual floor, this is called a Genkan, and it’s a clear sign that you MUST take your shoes off before entering the house.

A traditional Genkan by Nisekoprojects
Slurp. Yes, this is a funny one, in most western country, making noise while eating is a big no-no. However, here in Japan, slurping while eating NOODLES is considered showing your appreciation to the cook, the louder you slurp, the more appreciation you show.

Ramen by Matthew Hamilton
DON’TS:

Cut into queues. Japanese people has the instinct of obeying social disciplines. Queuing is one of them, wherever you go you will see people line up orderly, as please do as romans do.

Queuing for the train by Matt Murphy
Talk on public transport. Keep quiet when you’re on a train or a bus, 80 percent of the Japanese commute by public transports, and you hardly see anyone talks or makes call while traveling, you should also take part in maintaining this urban solitude.

Japan Train by Ed
Tip. If you try to tip a staff by leaving money on the table, it’s very likely to end up the staff chasing after you out of the restaurant. Tipping is not a custom in Japan, offering tips will only confusing the staff and normally get rejected.

Posted by Joe

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