Culture Guide
Japanese Etiquette:
Do's and Don'ts
Japan is famous for its politeness. While foreigners are forgiven for small mistakes, knowing the basics shows respect and opens doors.
Updated: Essential
10 min read
Table of Contents
01. Bowing Basics
Bowing (Ojigi) is used for greetings, apologies, and gratitude.
- The Nod (Eshaku): 15 degrees. Casual greeting.
- The Respectful Bow (Keirei): 30 degrees. Business meetings, thanking someone.
- The Deep Bow (Saikeirei): 45 degrees. Deep apologies or high respect.
02. Chopstick Manners
NEVER Do These:
- ❌ Sticking chopsticks vertically in rice: This resembles a funeral ritual.
- ❌ Passing food chopstick-to-chopstick: Also a funeral ritual (handling bones).
- ❌ Rubbing chopsticks together: Implies they are cheap/splintery.
03. Train Etiquette
Trains are quiet zones.
- Set phone to silent mode (Manner Mode).
- Do not talk on the phone.
- Do not eat or drink (except on Shinkansen/Green Cars).
- Give up priority seats to elderly, pregnant women, or disabled passengers.
04. Shrines & Temples
Shrines (Shinto): Bow at the Torii gate. Wash hands. Bow twice, clap twice, pray, bow once.
Temples (Buddhist): Bow at the gate. Wash hands. Burn incense (waft smoke towards you). Pray silently (do NOT clap).
05. Onsen Rules
- 1. Wash thoroughly before entering the bath.
- 2. No swimsuits. You must be naked.
- 3. Keep your towel out of the water. Put it on your head.
- 4. No tattoos (usually). Check ahead if you have ink.
06. Tipping
NO TIPPING!
Tipping is not practiced in Japan. It can even be considered rude or confusing. Good service is standard.
Travel with Respect
When in Rome... do as the Romans do.