Mastering Japanese Etiquette: From Bowing to Kanpai
Konnichiwa, fellow travelers! Are you a die-hard fan of Pikachu and ninjas, dreaming of immersing yourself in Japanese culture?
Well, before you pack your bags and head to the Land of the Rising Sun, it’s important to brush up on your Japanese etiquette.
From tipping to drinking alcohol, there are certain do’s and don’ts that you need to keep in mind to avoid being a cultural outcast. So, put down your Pokeballs and shurikens, and let’s dive into the fascinating world of Japanese customs and traditions!
Whether you’re a first-time traveler, a seasoned adventurer or business traveller, it’s always helpful to brush up on local customs and etiquette to ensure a smooth and respectful journey.
Don’t tip in Japan
Leave your extra cash at home, because tipping in Japan is not a thing. In fact, it could be seen as an insult to the service provider. So, save your money and just say “arigato” (thank you) instead.
Don’t eat while walking
In Japan, food is meant to be savored and enjoyed. Eating while walking is seen as disrespectful to the food and the people around you. So, take a moment to sit down and savor your meal.
Don’t talk loudly on public transport
In Japan, the train is a peaceful haven. So, save your loud conversations for another time and enjoy the tranquility of your commute. Silence is precious in Japan. Don’t make noise; pretend your voice is made of thin glass; don’t feed the usual cliche of loud and annoying gaijin.
Don’t wear shoes inside
Take a step back and leave your shoes at the door. It’s customary to remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or certain public places, like temples or traditional restaurants.
Don’t be late
In Japan, punctuality is key. Being late for an appointment or meeting is considered disrespectful, so set those alarms and arrive on time!
Don’t forget to bow
Bowing is an important part of Japanese culture, and is a way of showing respect and gratitude. So, don’t forget to bow appropriately to show your appreciation.
Don’t stick your chopsticks in your food
It may seem like a harmless habit, but sticking your chopsticks in your food is actually a funeral ritual in Japan. So, play it safe and keep your chopsticks to yourself.
Don’t blow your nose in public
Keep those tissues handy, because blowing your nose in public is considered impolite and unhygienic in Japan. Excuse yourself and use a restroom instead.
Don’t take pictures without permission
When in doubt, ask before you snap. It’s polite to ask for permission before taking pictures of people, especially in private or religious settings.
Don’t leave your trash anywhere
Japan is famous for its cleanliness, so be sure to dispose of your trash in designated areas. Littering is considered highly disrespectful.
Don’t talk on your phone in certain places: the Train is my dojo
Keep your phone conversations private and avoid talking on your phone in certain public areas, like trains or museums. Check for signs or announcements to be sure.
It is not considered impolite but a moral crime to be very loud on the phone.
I’ll never forget the first time I spoke on the phone on the train, and I was whispering.
The onlookers’ expressionless faces turned gray and their eyebrows furrowed, but no one said anything.
An indignant glare as sharp as a katana is the maximum punishment that can be inflicted on a Western scoundrel.
Sooner or later, the Japanese will invent the Noise Precrime and there will be trouble: we would all be incarcerated.
Don’t touch people without permission
In Japan, physical contact is generally avoided, especially with strangers. So, ask for permission before touching someone to avoid any awkward situations.
And, last but not least, the alcohol etiquette:
Don’t pour your own drink
Let someone else do the heavy lifting and pour your drink for you. And, in turn, pour drinks for others.
Don’t start drinking until everyone has been served
Cheers to everyone at the same time! It’s considered rude to start drinking before everyone has been served.
Don’t decline a drink
When offered a drink, it’s impolite to decline. Instead, take a small sip if you don’t want to drink too much.
Don’t refill your own glass
Wait for someone else to refill your glass. Refilling your own glass is considered impolite.
Don’t drink to the bottom of your glass
Show appreciation to the person who poured your drink by leaving a little bit in your glass.
Don’t get drunk
In Japan, getting drunk is frowned upon, especially in professional settings. So, drink in moderation and know your limits. If you get drunk, at least try to wash away your shame either by cutting your pinkie or by becoming a karaoke god.
Don’t forget to say “kanpai”
Before taking a sip, say “kanpai.
House of Cards
Let us conclude with one last piece of business etiquette advice.
When doing business in Japan, there are certain rules of etiquette that you should know to avoid any unintentional faux pas.
It’s not just a simple hand-off of contact information, it’s an opportunity to show respect and build a professional relationship.
When receiving a business card, make sure to bow slightly and hold the card with both hands, like you’re cradling a newborn kitten made of precious Murano glass.
Take a moment to read the card and show genuine interest, like you’re discovering a treasure map. It’s important to remember that the way you handle someone’s business card reflects your respect for them and their business.
So don’t just shove it in your pocket like a grocery list.
Place it on the table in front of you or in a business card holder, and don’t forget to follow up with a courteous email or call.
