How to Behave in Japan: A Traveler’s Guide to Local Etiquette

Japan is a country known for its beautiful culture, advanced technology, and deep traditions. When you visit, you will see how clean, polite, and orderly things are. But with all this beauty comes a strong set of manners and social rules. These rules help people get along and show respect to one another. If you're planning to travel to Japan, it’s important to understand how to behave properly so you don’t offend anyone by accident.

This guide will help you learn the most important things to know about Japanese etiquette. It will help you enjoy your trip and make a good impression on the locals.

Greeting People in Japan

When you meet someone in Japan, the most common way to greet them is by bowing. Bowing is a sign of respect and good manners. It’s used when saying hello, thank you, sorry, or goodbye.

As a tourist, you don’t need to worry about doing it perfectly. A small bow with a smile is enough. People will appreciate your effort. Shaking hands is not very common in Japan, though some people may do it with foreigners. Hugs are also uncommon unless you’re close to someone.

It’s also a nice gesture to use a few Japanese words when greeting people. You’ll find a helpful list of simple phrases at the end of this guide.

Removing Your Shoes Indoors

Taking off your shoes before going indoors is a very important custom in Japan. It is a way to keep the inside of buildings clean and show respect. You will be expected to remove your shoes in many places, such as:

• Private homes

• Traditional inns (called ryokan)

• Some restaurants, especially those with tatami mats

• Temples and shrines

• Some schools and clinics

At the entrance of these places, you will usually see a small step or a special area with a shelf or shoe rack. This is where you should take off your shoes. You might also see slippers provided for you to wear indoors. These slippers are only for indoor use and should not be worn outside.

If you are entering a room with tatami mats (straw mats), you must remove both your shoes and your slippers. Tatami is soft and clean, and it can be damaged or dirtied easily.

Staying Clean and Respectful in Public

Cleanliness is a big part of everyday life in Japan. People care a lot about keeping streets, buildings, and public areas clean. You will rarely see trash on the ground, and most places look very tidy. As a visitor, it’s important to follow this example and help keep Japan clean and pleasant for everyone.

Here are some easy ways to stay clean and respectful:

• Do not throw trash on the ground. If you can’t find a trash bin right away, keep your trash in a bag or pocket until you find one.

• Sort your trash properly. In Japan, garbage is divided into different types such as burnable, non-burnable, paper, plastic bottles (PET), cans, and glass. If you are not sure, try to watch what others do or look for signs.

• Do not eat or drink in places where it is not allowed. Eating while walking is not common in Japan. People usually eat in one place and clean up after themselves.

• When you sneeze or cough, cover your mouth and nose. It is polite to use a tissue or your elbow to stop germs from spreading. Many people in Japan wear masks if they have a cold.

• Wash your hands often and use hand sanitizer. This is especially important before eating or after using public transportation.

Table Manners and Eating Habits

Eating Behavior

• Say “Itadakimasu” before eating – it means you’re thankful for the food.

• Say “Gochisousama deshita” after eating – it shows respect to the cook or host.

• Slurping noodles is okay – it shows appreciation.

• Don’t speak with your mouth full.

• Eat quietly – loud talking is not polite.

• Avoid eating while walking.

Paying at Restaurants

• Most restaurants ask you to pay at the front counter.

• Use both hands to give or receive money.

• Use the small tray at the counter to place your money.

• Tipping is not common. Good service is expected and already included in the price.

Proper Behavior on Public Transportation

Public transport in Japan is clean, quiet, and used by many people every day. To show respect and not disturb others, follow these basic rules:

• Do not talk on your phone. It is considered rude. Set your phone to silent mode.

• Speak quietly if you need to talk. Avoid loud conversations.

• Always wait in line at bus stops and train platforms. Let people get off before you get on.

• In crowded trains, take off your backpacks and hold them in front of you to save space.

• Do not take up extra seats with bags or legs. Keep your things close.

• Do not sit on the floor as it is considered very rude. 

• Priority seats are for the elderly, people with disabilities, pregnant women, and parents with small children. Give up your seat if someone needs it.

• Do not eat or drink on local trains and buses. On long-distance trains, like the Shinkansen, eating is okay.

How to Act at Temples and Shrines

Temples and shrines are religious and quiet places in Japan. They are used for prayer and reflection. When visiting, follow these simple rules:

Purification Process at a Shrine

Before entering a Shinto shrine, visitors clean themselves at a small water station. This is how to do it:

1. Pick up the ladle with your right hand.

2. Pour water over your left hand.

3. Switch hands and pour water over your right hand.

4. Pour water into your left hand, then rinse your mouth with it. Do not touch the ladle to your mouth.

5. Spit the water into the drain, not back into the basin.

6. Rinse your left hand again.

7. Let the rest of the water run down the handle to clean it, then put the ladle back.

How to Offer a Prayer

At a shrine, you can make a simple offering and pray. Usually, it goes like this:

1. Throw a small coin (usually 5 yen) into the offering box.

2. Bow deeply twice.

3. Clap your hands twice.

4. Make your wish or prayer silently.

5. Bow once more.

What to Know About Onsen and Public Baths

Onsens (natural hot springs) and sento (public baths) are common in Japan. They are places to relax and clean your body. The rules are strict to keep the bath clean for everyone.

Before entering the bath:

• You are expected to bathe nude in most onsens, which is a normal and culturally respected practice in Japan.

• Use the shower area to wash your body well. Use soap and shampoo. Rinse off completely.

• Make sure your body is clean before going into the bath.

• If you have long hair, tie it up so it does not touch the water.

In the bath area:

• Do not bring your towel into the water. Leave it on the side or place it on your head.

• Do not splash, swim, or move around too much. Just sit and relax.

• Be quiet. Speak softly if needed.

• Do not stare at others. Respect everyone’s privacy.

Tattoos: Some baths do not allow people with tattoos. This is because tattoos are linked to gangs in Japan. If you have a tattoo, check the rules before you go. Some places offer private baths or allow tattoos with a cover sticker.

 Smartphone and Social Media Etiquette

Happy tourist walking in the traditional market

In recent years, there has been growing concern in Japan about tourists filming content in a way that disrupts others. While it’s natural to want to capture your experience, it’s important to be mindful of your surroundings:

• Do not block pathways, stairs, entrances, or streets while filming or taking photos.

• Avoid using loud music, sound effects, or voices when filming content, especially in public places like trains, shrines, shops, or restaurants.

• Never film or photograph people without their permission, especially in residential areas, small businesses, or private settings.

• Do not act out or draw attention to yourself in a way that causes discomfort to those around you.

• Always follow local signs and rules about photography or filming, and remember that not all content creation is welcome in every location.

Recently, Japanese news outlets and local governments have raised concerns about “social media tourists” disturbing daily life for residents. Being respectful when filming helps preserve the harmony that makes Japan so special to visit.

Respecting Other People’s Space and Privacy

In Japan, people value personal space and quiet behavior, even in crowded places like trains and stations. Here are the key things to remember:

• Do not touch strangers. Shaking hands or hugging is not common.

• Keep a small distance when standing in line or talking to others.

• Do not stare at people or point at them. It is seen as rude.

• Keep your voice low when speaking in public places.

• Do not block walkways or stand in groups that block others.

These small actions help everyone feel comfortable in public spaces.

Staying in Hotels and Traditional Inns

Kaneyoshi Ryokan

Hotels in Japan are usually clean, quiet, and well-organized. Western-style hotels work like hotels in other countries. You check in at the front desk, get your key, and go to your room. You may have to pay when you check in or out. Staff are very polite and helpful, so ask if you need anything.

Traditional Japanese inns are called ryokan. They give a special cultural experience, but the rules are different from regular hotels.

Here is what to expect at a ryokan:

• Take off your shoes at the entrance. You will get indoor slippers.

• Slippers are for walking around inside, but not on tatami mats. Take them off before entering your room.

• Rooms usually have tatami mats and a low table. You sit on the floor, not chairs.

• You sleep on a futon, which is a soft mattress laid on the tatami floor. Staff may set it up for you in the evening.

• Baths and toilets may be shared with other guests. There are rules for using the bath area, so follow the signs.

• Meals may be served in your room or in a dining area. Breakfast and dinner are often included in the price.

Be polite, follow staff instructions, and enjoy the quiet, calm experience. Ryokan stays are a great way to learn about Japanese culture.

Shopping and Paying in Stores

Hiroshima Food Tour

In Japan, shopping is usually quiet and polite. Staff are very helpful and respectful. Here are some things to know:

• Many stores prefer cash, especially small shops and restaurants. Always carry Japanese yen.

• Credit cards are accepted in large stores and hotels, but not everywhere.

• Use ATMs at convenience stores like 7-Eleven, Lawson, or FamilyMart. These usually accept international cards.

• At the cashier, place your money in the small tray on the counter. Do not hand it directly to the cashier unless no tray is provided.

• When receiving change, take it from the tray, not directly from the cashier's hand.

• Prices already include tax, so you pay the amount shown.

• Keep your receipt. In some stores, it is important to show it at the exit.

Manners for Business Visitors

Business culture in Japan is formal and respectful. If you are visiting Japan for work, here are important things to know:

• Bring enough business cards (meishi). You will exchange them often, so keep them clean and ready.

• Give and receive cards using both hands. Hold the card so the other person can read it easily. Bow slightly when giving or receiving a card.

• Do not write on or fold the business card. Treat it with care. Place it on the table during the meeting, not in your pocket right away.

• Arrive on time. Being late is seen as disrespectful. Aim to be early.

• Dress conservatively. A dark suit and tie are standard for men. Women should wear professional clothing.

• Use polite language and behavior. Avoid loud speaking or joking until you know the setting is informal.

Simple Japanese Words That Are Helpful

Knowing a few Japanese words can make your trip smoother. People will appreciate your effort, even if your pronunciation is not perfect. Here are some easy and useful Japanese phrases.

Final Tips for Enjoying Japan Respectfully

Japan is a country where manners and respect are very important. People value quiet behavior, cleanliness, and being polite to others. If you follow these customs, your trip will be smoother and more enjoyable.

Even if you are not perfect, people will appreciate your effort to follow local rules. Simple actions like removing your shoes, speaking softly, or saying thank you in Japanese can go a long way.

Try to observe what others are doing and follow their example. This will help you avoid mistakes and show that you care about Japanese culture.