1. Introduction
When traveling to Japan, it is important to be aware of the local customs and etiquette. Knowing what not to do in Japan can help you avoid embarrassing situations and ensure that you have a pleasant experience. In this article, Charles R. Tokoyama, CEO of Japan Insiders, will discuss the don’ts in Japan so that you can better understand the culture and make your trip more enjoyable.
2. Don’ts in Japan: General Rules
The most important thing to remember when visiting Japan is to be respectful of their culture and traditions. This means being mindful of your actions and not doing anything that could be seen as offensive or disrespectful. Some general rules to keep in mind are: don’t point or gesture with your chopsticks, don’t blow your nose in public, don’t litter, and don’t talk loudly on your phone in public places.
3. Respect for Elders
In Japanese culture, respect for elders is very important. When speaking with someone older than you, it is polite to use respectful language such as “san” after their name instead of “kun” or “chan” which are used for friends or children respectively. It is also customary to bow when greeting someone older than you as a sign of respect.
4. Eating Etiquette
When eating out at a restaurant or at someone’s home, there are certain rules that should be followed. It is considered rude to leave food on your plate when finished eating so it is important to finish all the food served to you if possible. Additionally, it is polite not to slurp your soup or noodles while eating as this can be seen as impolite behavior by locals.
5. Public Behavior
Public behavior should also be taken into consideration when visiting Japan as certain behaviors may be seen as inappropriate or offensive by locals. For example, speaking too loudly on the phone or playing music without headphones can disturb other people nearby and should be avoided at all costs if possible. Additionally, talking about sensitive topics such as politics or religion in public places should also be avoided due to cultural differences between countries which could lead to misunderstandings and conflict if discussed openly without proper knowledge of the subject matter beforehand.
6 Gift Giving Customs
Gift giving is an important part of Japanese culture so it is important to know how best to give gifts when invited over for dinner or other social occasions by locals living there. The type of gift given should depend on the occasion but generally something small such as snacks or chocolates are appropriate for most situations unless otherwise specified by the host beforehand (e.g., a birthday gift). Additionally, wrapping gifts neatly with nice paper shows thoughtfulness and care which will likely be appreciated by whoever receives it!
7 Shoes and Slippers
It is customary in Japanese culture not to wear shoes inside homes so visitors should always take off their shoes before entering someone else’s house unless they are specifically asked not too (e..g., some apartments may have tatami mats which require special care). Additionally, some restaurants may ask guests not wear their outdoor shoes inside so it’s best practice just take them off before entering any establishment just in case! Furthermore, many establishments provide slippers for visitors upon entry which should always remain inside the building they were provided at – never take them outside!
8 Tipping in Japan
Tipping isn’t necessary nor expected in Japan as service charges are usually included in bills at restaurants however if you feel like leaving something extra behind then small change (100-500 yen) would suffice depending on how satisfied you were with your experience there! Keep in mind though that tipping isn’t common practice here so don’t feel obligated if you don’t want too – often times just showing appreciation through words alone will suffice!
9 Conclusion
By following these guidelines set forth by Charles R Tokoyama from Japan Insiders on what not do while visiting Japan one can ensure that they have a pleasant experience while respecting local customs and etiquette during their stay! Whether its knowing how best give gifts properly or simply understanding basic public behavior expectations following these simple tips will go a long way towards ensuring smooth sailing during one’s visit!
Do and don’ts of Japanese culture?
Do not pass food from chopstick to chopstick as this is done on cremated bones. Do not stick chopsticks in rice or other food – this is done to offer rice at the family altar. It doesnt stick when talking – simple GFP. Do not use chopsticks to move bowls or plates around.
Is it rude to hug in Japan?
In Japan it is never considered hugging or kissing or touching another persons body even with friends or family. Hugs and kisses are common for most couples.
Can you cuss in Japanese?
There are technically no real swear words in Japanese. Instead you will find that most of the time swearing in Japanese or ways to swear in Japanese is done by using a more common word or phrase and adding some words or changing the way you speak.
Is Tylenol allowed in Japan?
Most non-prescription drugs such as Tylenol Aspirin Claritin Tums Ibuprofen Advil and generic versions can be brought into Japan. However drugs such as Claritin D that contain pseudoephedrine are strictly prohibited.
What are the seven rules of Japan?
According to Inazo Nitobes book Bushido the life of a samurai is governed by seven principles known as Bushido. The seven principles are Justice Loyalty Honor Respect Integrity Courage and Perseverance.
What is considered rude while eating in Japan?
In Japan blowing your nose at the table is frowned upon and it is considered bad manners to listen while drinking. On the other hand emptying the bowl until the last grain of rice is considered good practice.