Things All Americans Should Know Before Visiting Japan
Japan has been steadily growing as a popular tourist destination. In 2018 alone over 30 million tourists decided to visit. One of the main reasons why Americans love to travel to Japan is that their culture is the polar opposite of ours. That can make for a fun and unique experience, but the cultural gap that causes tourists to make mistakes.
Some mistakes are small and forgivable but others can land you in trouble. You can get arrested for taking an undesired photo if you don't know the rules. Read on to be sure you don't make these common mistakes in Japan.
Waiters Don't Come Over To Your Table
If you're from a Western country, you're probably used to waiters walking up to your table, taking your order, and then dropping by frequently to make sure that your water is refilled and that you're doing okay. This isn't the case in Japan. Waiters don't check in with customers because they don't want to be rude or interrupt your conversation.
To grab your server's attention, you'll have to call for them. Do this by saying "sumimasen," which means "excuse me" in Japanese.
There's A Stigma Around Tattoos
Tattoos aren't as accepted in Japan as they are in Western countries. While Japan has many rich subcultures and many Japanese people have tattoos, sometimes having visible tattoos is not allowed in certain areas. You may be required to cover up a small tattoo, or, if you're heavily tattooed, you may just not be allowed in some places.
According to CNN, some public swimming pools, beaches, hot springs, and some gyms in Japan won't let you in if you have tattoos.
Don't Point
It's considered quite rude to point in Japan, and basically, nobody there does it unless they're in a heated argument. If you point while traveling in Japan, you might be seen as being accusatory.
Here's the thing though. It's only considered rude to point with your index finger. You can still point somebody in the direction of the nearest bank or restaurant with your pinky finger, thumb, ring finger, or middle finger. It's not what we're used to, but it's what works over there.
There Isn't Any Paper Towel In The Washrooms
Japan has made the ecofriendly decision not to stock their public washrooms with paper towel. Most Japanese people carry around their own personal hand towels if they want to dry their hands after using a public washroom.
Some newer restrooms in Japan have air dryers but don't count on there being an air dryer in ever public washroom you visit in Japan. If you want to have dry hands, keep a small towel in your bag.
Be Prepared For A Complete Lack Of English
Some people travel to another country and expect everybody in that country (at least the people working in service industries) to speak some English. While that may be true in several European countries, in Japan, that isn't the case. If you know zero Japanese, it's going to be hard to get by.
Learn a few Japanese phrases before you go to Japan, and download a translator app to help your understand street signs and menus.
You're Going To Be Expected To Take Your Shoes Off
With long days of walking ahead of them, many travelers will lace-up running shoes or boots for Japan. The problem is that they'll often have to take them off. Many Asian countries have deeply entrenched rules about removing shoes indoors, and Japan is no exception. Wearing shoes inside some areas is considered dirty and rude.
Prepare to remove your shoes in Japanese rooms and inns. If you see slippers at the entrance, that's a signal to remove your shoes. Most bathrooms offer slippers, and some restrooms do as well. To keep your feet clean, you may want to carry shoe liners or socks with you.
Slurping Noodles Is A-Okay
It's safe to say that visiting Japan will be one of the few opportunities you'll have to actually slurp your food. If you're from a western country, your mom and grandma would probably give you a long lecture about table manners and how slurping your food is considered rude. Well, in Japan, it is considered to be a compliment to the chef!
To the Japanese, the louder you slurp up soup or noodles, the more you are enjoying your meal. So, go on and slurp away because once you get home people are just going to start giving you odd looks!
The Rooms Are Small
Don't expect a hotel room in Japan to match a hotel room in America. In Japanese cities, space is a commodity. Many tourists expect their rooms to be...well, roomy. Later, they come home and complain about the tiny room. Don't be this kind of tourist.
Since the rooms are small, it's imperative to keep the volume down. Most people in Japan don't speak loudly. As quiet speakers, the Japanese don't appreciate loud people. Lower your voice in your hotel room and on public transport.
Learn How To Bow
If you're from a Western country, you've probably never bowed to another person in your life. Bowing is a very important part of Japanese culture. There are different types of bows that are performed on different occasions.
Be sure to keep your back and neck straight while bowing, almost like you're bending forward with your hips. If you forget the correct way to bow, you could always just nod your head as a gesture of respect if somebody bows to you.
Tipping Is Not Customary
It is not customary to tip servers in Japan. In fact, it's considered a rude practice. If you do leave a tip on your table in a restaurant in Japan, your server will likely chase you down as you leave the restaurant in an attempt to return your money to you. Don't tip as a tourist. It puts everybody in an uncomfortable position.
You also shouldn't tip cab drivers or hotel staff. In most restaurants, you pay for your meal before you sit down to eat anyway.
Organization and Storage Hacks are Essential
In major urban areas of Japan, space is limited. The average size of an apartment in Tokyo is just 1,310 square feet. Residents have adopted various hacks for storing and organizing their belongings in a neat and tidy way that helps save on space.
This soda can tab hack comes in handy if you're having to work with a small closet, as you would in most Japanese apartments. By looping the tab through the top of a close hanger, you can hook another one on it, creating double the storage space.
Don't Jaywalk
No one knows the roots of the jaywalking law, but it is definitely illegal for a reason -- it's dangerous! If a pedestrian sees one person walking while the light is still red, they might follow suit, resulting in one huge accident in Japan's busy streets.
It's better to stand on the sidewalk and wait for the light to change with everyone else. Honestly, this is true for a lot of places, so it might even be muscle memory for you at this point!
There Aren't Many Public Trash Cans
You shouldn't expect to see a trash can on every block in Japan. There aren't many garbage cans left in most Japanese cities. That doesn't mean that the streets are dirty, though. People usually just carry their trash with them until they can find an acceptable place to throw it away.
While you're out, carry a "trash bag" with you to store your wrappers and bottles. Whatever you do, don't litter. There's a pretty hefty fine for littering in Japan.
Don't Speak Too Loud On The Subway
Japanese culture is grounded in respect and consideration for others, making it a big no-no to speak loudly or answer the phone on any form of public transportation. This also means no playing loud music, or having the volume up high while playing a game on your phone. Crying babies are even taken to secluded areas on trains so others don't have to hear.
You might think this is silly. It is public transportation, after all. Well, the Japanese people actually have a good reason when it comes to being quiet. It's so commuters who work long hours are able to catch a few z's before returning home.
There's A Right Way And A Wrong Way To Use Chopsticks
Some tourists don't realize that chopsticks come with their own etiquette standards. Most notably, you shouldn't stick your chopsticks upright in your food. Don't share your food using chopsticks or cross them while resting them on the table. All of these actions resemble customs from Buddhist funerals.
If you want to seem like a clean eater, follow these next rules. Rest your chopsticks on the holder, not your plate. Don't dig through the food to pick a piece you like. Also, don't eat directly from the shared dishes. Bring a piece to your plate, and eat from there.
Dress For Success
Usually, when you're on vacation, you wear your most comfortable, most touristy clothes. If you're going to Japan, though, you might want to trade in those band tees and comfy sweats for something a bit more conservative and sophisticated.
There are a lot of religious areas in Japan. People are often expected to have their shoulders and knees covered. People tend to dress up in public, even if they're just running to the corner store.
Sit Down To Eat
In Japan, there are more vending machines than there are people in Chicago and Los Angeles combined. However, it's considered rude to eat while walking around. Many tourists make this mistake only to be met with stares. Eating and drinking on local trains is also frowned upon.
So what can you do? Some people enjoy their beverages next to the vending machine. Many areas provide recycling bins next to their vending machines. You can also carry the snack with you until you sit down to eat. Some long-distance express trains allow people to eat while riding.
Be Careful About Photos
Yes, photos are an important aspect of traveling. But many tourists rudely snap pictures even when authorities tell them not to. In Japan, many people are wary of being caught in a photo. You can only photograph strangers when they're indistinguishable in a crowd. It isn't just etiquette; it's Japanese law.
If someone reports your inappropriate pictures, you could end up in the police station. Most public areas have clear signs (with pictures) indicating that you should not photograph there. Sensitive areas include shrines and temples, certain stores, students and schools, and public transportation. Most restaurants will let you photograph your food, though.
Bring Your Own Soap
Soap is a staple in the restroom, right? Not in Japan. In many areas, public restrooms do not provide soap. They have a sink, but no hand soap. If this grosses you out, stock up on hand sanitizer or even a small bottle of hand soap.
To make matters worse, some older restrooms don't even offer toilet paper. Fortunately, many include toilet paper dispensers. If you spot one of those, stock up before you do your business. Don't expect public bathrooms to come fully stocked.
Get A JR Pass
It's a mistake not to get a JR Pass. A Japan Rail Pass is used to ride the trains, similar to a bus pass. They'll save you money on tickets, and they're easy to use. Since JR Passes are cheaper outside of the country, get yours online before you leave.
That said, JR Passes may not be worth it if your visit is short or limited to one city. These passes cover any time up to three weeks, depending on which package you get. Compare your price options ahead of time. Don't wait until you're already off the plane.
Eat Your Food How The Chef Prepares It
Many tourists are used to requesting special substitutions for their meals. But in a Japanese restaurant, this is a mistake. Most Japanese services don't cater to special requests, except for listed dishes such as ramen. If you're a picky eater, you might struggle to navigate Japanese menus.
If you have a dietary restriction, don't fret. Restaurants in major cities, such as Kyoto and Tokyo, usually offer vegan and gluten-free options. Like Western menus, you can locate these dishes with an icon. But don't expect anything when you ask for no mushrooms.
Don't Blow Your Nose In Public
It's considered extremely rude to blow your nose in public in Japan. It would be like somebody going to the bathroom in public in America. The same rule applies to spitting and burping. If you feel the need to blow your nose, you should do so discreetly.
Find a private place such as a washroom or a private room, blow your nose, and throw away the tissue. Never use a handkerchief (not that you would).
The Crowds Are Intense
If you're visiting a Japanese city, you will run into crowds. Busy subways, trains, and tourist attractions are impossible to avoid. If you obsess over avoiding crowds, you may miss some of the city's highlights. Don't make this mistake.
If crowds make you nervous, look up less-crowded spots as you plan your trip. Even popular spots like Harajuku have less-dense streets. Also, you may want to consider visiting outside of the peak seasons. Popular times include the New Year holidays, summer months, and Golden Week (the end of April through the beginning of May).
Check Out International Airports
According to The Tokyo Chapter, most people fly into Narita International Airport because it offers the most flight options. But Narita is 1.5 hours away from central Tokyo, which is most peoples' destination. When searching for flights, look into several different airports. It'll save you about 20,000 yen ($183) in taxi fees.
International airports to consider are Kansai Airport in Osaka, Haneda Airport in Tokyo, and Fukuoka Airport, and Central Japan Airport in Nagoya. For the cheapest airfare, use low-cost carriers such as Jetstar and AirAsia. Indirect flights are longer, but they cost less overall.
You'll Need More Cash
Since Japan is known for its advanced technology, many tourists assume that they can get by on their credit and debit cards. Unfortunately for these people, a surprising number of stores and restaurants are cash-only. Even worse, cooperating ATMs are hard to find.
In Japan, many ATMs do not accept foreign cards. If you need more cash, your best bets are a post office, airport, or 7-Eleven. Some train stations and convenience stores have ATMs that accept cards, but just in case, get your cash before you land in Japan.
Bring A Wifi Pocket
Some travelers assume that Japan's stores and restaurants offer public Wifi. Don't make that mistake. Public Wifi is hard to come by in Japan. When outside of their hotel, most tourists rely on their data plans. This quickly adds up, especially including international costs.
Save yourself the struggle by buying a Wifi pocket. Although the cost of Wifi pockets can add up, they'll be well worth the investment. If you're the type of person who likes to update Instagram on the fly, you'll need one in Japan.
Research Transportation Schedules
This is good practice no matter where you're traveling, but more so if it's a foreign country that speaks a different language. When visiting Japan be sure to look up the public transportation schedule prior to your plane landing. You don't want to be stuck at the airport at three in the morning!
Be aware that the trains in Japan stop running at midnight. So, if you don't get in until after midnight you might have to pay money for a taxi ride. Either that or you'll be waiting around until the trains start back up at five in the morning!
Leave The Local Animals Alone
Tourists sometimes forget that wild animals, even in a foreign place, are still wild. Don't be fooled by the cute, furry face, these animals will pack a punch if they're annoyed. In Nara, Japan, there have been a number of deer-related injuries due to tourists luring the animals in with food and not following through.
Remember that you'd be annoyed, too, if someone was promising food and then took it away. These animals are wild and should be respected from a distance. If you want to feed them, buy some deer food from a local vendor and be mindful when approaching.
Be Mindful Of Where You Are
A huge tourist destination is Arashiyama in Kyoto, Japan, to see the giant emerald-green bamboo groves. Walking through the stalks of bamboo seems to transport you into another world. Unfortunately, tourists have been known to deface this natural beauty, carving their names into over 100 of the stems. A similar sentiment as leaving a love lock on a Parisian bridge.
Contrary to popular belief, etching your name isn't romantic, but a form of vandalism. Since each of the stems are rooted, if one bamboo stalk is harmed it can potentially harm them all. Be sure to admire the bamboo from a distance! There is no reason to touch.
Use Two Hands To Take Someone's Business Card
Although you should be mindful of accepting things with two hands at all times, it is especially important to do so when accepting a business card. Believe it or not, business cards are considered to be an extension of the person who is giving it to you. So, to be respectful, you should accept the card with two hands and give a polite nod.
Be sure to study the card thoughtfully before placing it down and don't automatically shove it into your pocket or wallet. It is just another small show of respect that goes a long way!
Try The Food At Convenience Stores
As odd as it sounds, do try some of the foods at the convenience stores! You won't be disappointed. The stereotype is that convenience store foods are dry, stale, tasteless things that people only spend money on during long road trips. This couldn't be further from the truth in Japan!
Unlike western stores, Japanese convenience stores will have hot pork steam buns, karaage chicken nuggets, and even hot stews and noodles. One of the common stores around Japan, Lawson, prides themselves in introducing new foods and beverage every week or so just to mix things up a bit!
Book Your Accommodation In Advance
Honestly, there is no reason to add on to the stress of traveling by not booking accommodations ahead of arriving. That being said, in recent years, we recommend not using Airbnb in Japan due to a new law that was passed in 2018.
This law cracked down on areas that were hosting illegal Airbnbs. So, now, hosts have to be in a legal zone and have a "minpaku" license. The crackdown cost Airbnb a supposed $100 million. Considering you're on vacation, there's no need to stress over legal verse illegal zones. Book a hotel before you get there. Maybe you'll get lucky and find a room at the Suiran!
Keep Your Phone On Silent
Japan is a country full of culture and religious monuments. Be mindful of what volume setting your phone is one whenever you visit a place of worship. It is impolite to have your phone ringing or making notification sounds while you're in a temple or at a shrine.
Aside from being a bit disrespectful, people are there to enjoy the tranquil peace that comes with a place of worship. You don't want to be the reason their prayers are being disrupted! Besides, these temples are too gorgeous not to receive your undivided attention.
Don't Wear Clothes In The Onsen
Onsens, or traditional Japanese spas, are a big part of Japanese culture, with thousands located around the country. The spas are usually built around natural hot springs and can either have indoor or outdoor baths. The plot twist to this spa is that no clothes should be worn inside, not even a bathing suit.
Before entering the onsen, you are given two towels -- a small one to wrap around your head while you're soaking in the spring and a larger one for when you get out. The water is meant to be a sort of therapy to cleanse oneself.
Look Right When Crossing The Street
If you come from a country where they drive on the left side of the road, then you're already used to this! For those who are used to seeing cars on the right-hand side, beware of oncoming traffic!
Be wary that traffic is coming from the right-hand side of the street and that you're going to want to look both ways multiple times before crossing. The good news is that there is a way to avoid getting hit by a stray car or bicyclist! Follow the locals and use all of the main crosswalks whenever you need to get to the other side of the road.
Don't Wipe Your Face With A Hot Towel
Although we usually don't think twice about putting a nice hot towel on our faces, try to resist when you're at a Japanese restaurant. Whenever you're handed a hot towel, know that it is strictly for your hands and not your face.
It is meant to be a cleaning agent for your hands before eating. It's usually not a huge deal if a tourist is seen using the towel to pat their face, but keep in mind that you're not in a spa and it is frowned upon. Trust us when we say the warm towel feels just as good on your hands!
Guests Don't Pay
Even though western people tend to joke about paying for one another, it is a very real concept in Japan. If you invite someone to dinner you are paying for their meal. If you try and pay for your own meal, the person who invited you might be insulted.
Even though you mean nothing by saying you can pay for your own meal, the implication is that whoever invited you is unable to pay for both meals. You don't want to unintentionally disrespect someone's profession, so let go of your pride and allow them to pay for your meal.
Don't Be Late!
Unlike some of the other big cities around the world, Japan likes to run on time. This means that all of their public transportation is more than likely going to be on schedule, meaning you should be, too.
Japan is big on respect and saving face, so when something or someone is running behind schedule, it is a form of embarrassment. Being punctual is part of Japanese culture, something that you, as a tourist, should try and acknowledge and mimic. When in Japan, do as the Japanese do!
Mind Your Manners In Train Stations
While you might be used to people pushing each other to get on or off a train, it is the opposite in Japan. Here, you want to wait in line to board a train. Also, when people are getting off the train, it is typical for everyone in front of them to get off, let the people pass, and then re-board.
The system is very well-mannered in the eyes of western countries! But, in all honesty, it is probably a way more efficient system than boxing out the guy standing next to you.
Try The Unique Cuisine
If you don't know what you are eating or what is on a menu, don't worry about it! Part of the experience of traveling to Japan is enjoying all of the unique cuisines the country has to offer. A good rule to live by is that if it looks good or interesting, then try it! Who knows the next time you'll be able to.
Also, if you're in a restaurant, the wait staff is more than willing to help you pair together each of the various foods you've ordered. Even with the language barrier, food is a universal language! That being said, try all of the street food you can.
Travel To Cities Other Than Tokyo
Don't get us wrong, definitely visit Toyko! But make sure it isn't your only stop in Japan. There are so many other wonderful cities and rural areas to visit, it would be a shame to stick to the main hub. And if you have a JR pass, it is fairly cheap to go explore other parts of the country.
Depending on what you're interested in, Japan has landscapes ranging from beaches and islands to mountains and forests. You can visit the deer in Nara or even the infamous bamboo forests in Kyoto, or even Himeji Castle in the springtime when the flowers are in bloom. The options are endless!
