Japan travel etiquette: essential rules to know before your trip

Polite behavior, social norms, and what not to do in Japan. Locals won’t tell you, but they’ll notice 😅

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1. Keep your voice down in quiet places
In Japan, public spaces like trains, buses, and quiet restaurants are expected to be quiet. Try to keep your voice low in these places. But don’t worry — lively places like izakayas and bars are the exception!

2. Absolutely no phone calls on public transport — it’s considered very rude. And even if you’re just listening to music with headphones, be mindful of the volume. Yes, it’s that quiet — people can actually hear music from someone’s headphones if it’s too loud!

3. Line up like your life depends on it (seriously, no cutting lines in Japan!)
Queuing is taken very seriously in Japan. Whether it’s at a train station, restaurant, store, or even an escalator, make sure to get in line and wait your turn. Cutting in line is one of the quickest ways to annoy locals.

4. Don’t litter
Japan is very clean, and part of the reason is because everyone takes their trash home or disposes of it properly.

5. No smoking in public places
Smoking is banned in public spaces, even while walking outside. Use the designated smoking areas — they’re clearly marked and have proper ashtrays.

6. Keep your phone on silent mode in public spaces
Set your phone to silent (called "manner mode" in Japan). Even message notifications can feel loud in quiet environments like trains, buses, and waiting areas.

7. In crowded places, take off your backpack
On packed trains or in busy areas, it’s polite to carry your backpack in your hands or hang it in front of you to avoid bumping into others. It really helps keep things flowing smoothly.

8. Don’t block the escalator
Stand on one side of the escalator and leave the other side open for people in a hurry. It keeps the flow moving!

9. Take off your shoes when required
Always check for signs at temples, traditional accommodations, or certain restaurants — if you see a shoe rack, it’s time to take them off. Simple rule: when in doubt, look around!

10. Watch out for toilet slippers
In many homes, some ryokans, and even a few restaurants, you’ll find special slippers for the toilet area. Don’t forget to change back to your regular slippers after you’re done — I’ll admit, it took me a couple of years living in Japan to finally stop accidentally walking out in toilet slippers 😅

11. Don’t linger in fast-paced restaurants
In high-turnover places like ramen shops or busy lunch spots, it’s polite to leave soon after you finish eating. These places rely on fast customer flow, so lingering can hold up the line.

12. Never stick your chopsticks upright in your rice
This resembles a funeral ritual in Japan, so it’s considered very bad manners. Always rest your chopsticks on the holder or across your bowl.

13. Don’t pass food from chopsticks to chopsticks
This also mirrors a funeral practice, so instead of passing food directly with chopsticks, place it on a plate for the other person to pick up.

14. Learn a few basic Japanese phrases
Even simple words like arigatou-gozaimasu (thank you very much) or sumimasen (excuse me / sorry) are very appreciated. Locals will notice and respect the effort!

15. Don’t hesitate to ask for help — with a smile
Japanese people are often too polite to approach you first, but if you ask for help, they’re usually very kind and will often go out of their way to assist. Just smile and don’t be shy — but also be mindful not to be too pushy if the person seems busy.

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