1. Introduction
When you leave a restaurant in Japan, you will likely hear a phrase from the waiter or waitress. This phrase is usually a polite way of saying goodbye and thanking you for your patronage. In this article, we will explore what do Japanese waiters say when you leave, the origin of this tradition, and how to properly respond to their farewell message.
2. Common Phrases used by Japanese Waiters
The most common phrase used by Japanese waiters when you leave is “Gochisousama deshita” (ごちそうさまでした). This phrase literally translates to “it was a feast” and is used as a polite way of expressing appreciation for the meal that was enjoyed. It can also be used to thank someone for their hospitality, such as when they host a dinner party in their home.
Other phrases that may be heard include “Arigatou gozaimasu” (ありがとうございます), which translates to “thank you very much” and is often used in more formal settings; “Otsukaresama desu” (お疲れ様です), which translates to “thank you for your hard work” and is usually said after an employee has worked long hours; and “Sayonara” (さようなら), which means “goodbye” in Japanese.
3. Origin of the Greeting and Farewell Traditions in Japan
Greeting and farewell traditions have been around since ancient times in Japan, with some customs dating back hundreds of years. For example, it was customary for people to bow when greeting each other as a sign of respect. The use of polite language has also been an important part of Japanese culture since ancient times, with phrases like “Gochisousama deshita” being used by people from all walks of life.
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4. Significance of Saying Goodbye to Guests
Saying goodbye to guests is an important part of hospitality in Japan, as it shows appreciation for their patronage and lets them know that their presence was appreciated. It also serves as a reminder to be polite and courteous when leaving someone’s home or place of business, as this can make all the difference in how they remember your visit or stay with them.
5. Different Types of Goodbyes in Japan
In addition to the common phrases mentioned above, there are several other types of goodbyes that are commonly used in Japan depending on the situation or context:
• Otsukare-san (お疲れさん): This phrase literally translates to “you must be tired” and is typically used when someone has worked long hours or done something difficult or strenuous;
• Ja mata ne (じゃまたね): This phrase means “see you later” and can be used casually among friends;
• Mata ashita (また明日): This phrase means “see you tomorrow” and can be used if someone intends on seeing the same person again soon;
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• Sayonara (さようなら): This phrase means “goodbye” but can also be interpreted as “farewell” depending on the context;
• Shitsurei shimasu (失礼します): This phrase literally translates to “I apologize for my rudeness” but is commonly used as a polite way to say goodbye before leaving someone’s home or place of business;
• Oyasuminasai (お休みなさい): This phrase literally translates to “good night” but can also be interpreted as “take care”.
6. The Meaning Behind Different Types of Goodbyes in Japan
Each type of goodbye has its own meaning behind it depending on who is saying it and why they are saying it:
• Otsukare-san: This type of goodbye conveys appreciation for someone’s hard work or effort;
• Ja mata ne: This type conveys familiarity between two people who plan on seeing each other soon;
• Mata ashita: This type conveys anticipation for another meeting between two people who plan on seeing each other soon;
• Sayonara: This type conveys finality between two people who may not see each other again soon;
• Shitsurei shimasu: This type conveys politeness before leaving someone’s home or place of business;
• Oyasuminasai:This type conveys well wishes before parting ways with someone else at night time or during sleep hours.
7 How To Respond To A Japanese Waiter’s Farewell Message?
When responding to a waiter’s farewell message, it is best practice to respond with one last polite expression such as arigatou gozaimasu (“thank you very much”) or otsukaresama desu (“thank you for your hard work”). These expressions should always come after thanking them for the meal itself by saying Gochisousama desu (“it was a feast”). Responding with these expressions will let them know that their hospitality was appreciated while still being respectful towards them at the same time.
8 Conclusion
When leaving a restaurant in Japan, one should expect to hear some sort of polite expression from the waiter such as Gochisousama desu (“it was a feast”) or Arigatou gozaimasu (“thank you very much”). These expressions are rooted deeply within Japanese culture due its significance placed upon politeness towards others regardless if they are strangers or acquaintances alike. When responding back these expressions should always come after thanking them first followed by one last polite expression such as arigatou gozaimasu (“thank you very much”) or otsukaresama desu (“thank you for your hard work”). Doing so will show appreciation while still being respectful towards them at the same time!
9 Sources https://www.japaninsidersguidebookblog/what-do-japanese-waiters-say-when-you-leave/
What do Japanese waiters say?
Upon entering the restaurant customers are greeted by Erassheimase with the phrase Please come in.
What do Japanese say at the end of a meal?
After the meal people once again express their gratitude for the meal by saying Kochiso sama deshita (Gochiso sama deshita).
What do they yell at Izakaya?
Irashaimase and yokoso are greetings used to greet guests as they enter. Youll hear it when you enter almost any shop other than an izakaya but it can be confusing the first time you hear it! It feels like theyre yelling at you when you walk in but its really welcoming.
What do you say when leaving ramen shop?
Gochisousama deshita
When youre exiting a ramen restaurant (or any restaurant in Japan), say Gochisousama deshita to the staff. It basically means thank you for the meal. Use it when you exit!
How do you say goodbye in Japanese restaurant?
Mata ne (hello) ja ne (too much) or the more common bye bye (yes Japanese bye bye) are your best bets. If you know when you want to meet again then select Mata Plus Date (Ashita for tomorrow or Raishu for next week etc).
Do you thank waiters in Japan?
The Japanese believe that you are already paying for good service so there is no need to overcharge. Some even see tipping as a rude gesture so follow this good rule of thumb: Dont do it in Japan no matter how awkward it is. Be polite and thank your waiter or waitress for their service.
