Etiquette & Basic Customs in Japan (Travelers’ Essentials)

Why it matters

Japan is one of the safest and most orderly destinations in the world, but this harmony depends on a set of shared, unspoken rules. These customs may seem small, yet ignoring them can cause discomfort, especially in more traditional areas like Kyoto. Understanding the “why” behind these rules not only makes your trip smoother, but also shows respect, which locals deeply appreciate.

In Public Transport: Silence Is Golden

• No loud conversations: Trains and subways are quiet spaces. People are often reading, working, or even napping. Speaking loudly disrupts this calm, so travelers are expected to keep voices low.
• Phones on silent: Always switch to manner mode. Phone calls are considered disruptive, so step outside or wait until you leave the train.
• Priority seating: Reserved seats are not just courtesy—they can be essential for elderly, disabled, pregnant women, or parents with children. Even if they are empty, avoid sitting there unless truly needed.
• Luggage etiquette: Japan’s trains are crowded. Bags should be stored in racks or kept between your legs, never blocking aisles.

Trash & Cleanliness

• Few public bins: After the 1995 Tokyo subway incident, most trash cans were removed. Japanese people usually carry their garbage home.
• Tourist strategy: Use bins at konbini (convenience stores), often divided into burnable, plastic, and cans.
• Never litter: Cleanliness is social pride; leaving trash is seen as disrespectful.

Umbrella Etiquette

• Wet umbrella stations: Shops and restaurants provide stands or plastic sleeves. Using them avoids dripping water on floors—small action, big respect.
• Don’t shake indoors: Flicking water off indoors is unhygienic and inconsiderate. Step outside first.
• Borrowed space: In restaurants or stores, fold your umbrella neatly and leave it near the entrance.

Money & Payments

• Cash is still king: Credit cards are growing, but many small shops and shrines still accept only yen. Carry some cash to avoid awkward refusals.
• Use the tray: At checkouts, place money on the tray provided. This avoids direct hand-to-hand exchange, considered too casual in business.
• Respectful exchange: Always use both hands when giving or receiving change and receipts. It’s a tiny detail, but it communicates humility and gratitude.

Dining Do’s and Don’ts

• No tipping: Service charges are included, and tipping can confuse or even insult staff.
• Oshibori (wet towel): Provided at restaurants to clean your hands—never use it on your face.
• Chopsticks rules: Don’t stick chopsticks upright in rice (it resembles a funeral offering). Also, never pass food chopstick-to-chopstick.
• Eating while walking: Except at festivals, eating on the go is frowned upon. Finish meals at the shop or in designated areas.

In Streets and Traditional Areas (Kyoto, Gion)

• Respect private alleys: Many geisha districts are also residential. “No entry” signs should always be obeyed.
• No paparazzi: Geisha and maiko are not tourist attractions. Unauthorized photography has been banned in parts of Kyoto due to disrespectful behavior.
• Keep to the side: Narrow alleys require making space for locals, bicycles, and delivery workers.

Shoes & Indoor Behavior

Removing shoes (when it’s required): You do not take off your shoes to walk around temple or shrine grounds. Remove them only when entering indoor areas such as temple halls, tea rooms, some shrine buildings, private homes, ryokan guest rooms, and certain traditional restaurants.

Quick how-to tell:

1. A raised entrance step (genkan) you step up onto
2. Tatami mats visible inside
3. Shoe racks/cubbyholes or plastic bags for carrying shoes
4. A clear sign like “Please take off your shoes”
   If none of these appear, keep your shoes on.

Slippers system: If slippers are provided, use them for corridors and wooden floors. Bathrooms often have separate toilet slippers—switch to them and switch back when you exit.

Tatami rules: Never step on tatami with shoes or slippers; only socks or bare feet are acceptable.

Castles/museums note: Some historical buildings may ask you to remove shoes or wear provided shoe covers to protect floors—follow staff instructions.

Comfort tip: Wear easy on/off shoes and carry a clean pair of socks (no holes). If you have mobility issues, ask staff—shoe covers are often available.

Everyday Courtesy

• Greetings: A light bow or nod communicates respect better than words. Even a simple “arigatō” with a bow shows sincerity.
• Queuing discipline: Always line up for trains, buses, and elevators. Cutting in line is one of the quickest ways to draw frowns.
• Personal space: Despite crowds, Japanese people avoid unnecessary physical contact. Respecting distance shows awareness of others.

Final Thoughts on Etiquette in Japan Learning Japan’s golden rules of etiquette is not about following strict codes — it’s about showing awareness and respect. Locals will forgive small mistakes, but they deeply appreciate when travelers make the effort to adapt. A quiet train ride, returning trash properly, or simply receiving change with both hands communicates that you value their culture. In return, you’ll find doors opening more easily, from a smile at the konbini counter to warmer welcomes in traditional neighborhoods. Respect in Japan is not just politeness — it’s the key that unlocks authentic experiences.