However, over the last several years, there have been efforts to ban and restrict smoking around the country. As a result, the smoking rate has dropped to 19 percent, and continues to decline faster than any Western nation.

For smokers looking to go to Japan in the future, it is important to learn what the country’s smoking laws and regulations are before heading out, so as not to get yourself in trouble once you get there.

Buying cigarettes in Japan

You do not have to bring your own cigarettes on your vacation to Japan. All over the country, you can find convenience stores, department stores, tobacco shops, and grocery stores that sell a wide selection of domestic and foreign brands.

Some of the most popular local brands are Mevius, which was formerly known as Mild Seven, and Seven Stars, which come in different flavours that include special varieties like blueberry mint and, of course, the standard menthol. They are typically priced at 400 yen to 500 yen for one pack of 20.

International brands, such as Davidoff, Black Devil, Kool, and Marlboro, are also quite common, and they are available for sale starting at the price of around 500 yen.

When buying, you may be asked to present an ID, as the law only allows sale of cigarettes to those who are over 20 years old. At the cashier counter, you can show your passport, or maybe your driver’s license or residence card. You will then be asked to confirm that you are of age to make the purchase by pushing a button on the register screen.

Cigarette vending machines

You can also buy cigarettes from the several hundred thousand cigarette vending machines found around Japan. However, you will need to accomplish an extra step to make that possible — by signing up for a “taspo” card.

To stop underage smoking, Japan’s tobacco industry put in place the “taspo” initiative, which is a program that requires individuals to undergo a thorough age verification process to ensure that only those who are 20 years old or older are able to buy cigarettes from vending machines.

Once your age has been confirmed, you will receive an identification card that you just have to tap onto the vending machine readers every time you buy cigarettes.

Find out how you can apply for a “taspo” card, and learn more about it by visiting the “taspo” website.

Smoking areas

Many train stations, convenience stores, malls, department stores, hospitals, and parks have designated smoking areas usually just right outside. They typically have large signs with a cigarette drawing or picture on it. If you need a smoke break, you have to find one and do your thing there, and not just smoke anywhere or while walking, without care.

These designated smoking areas are equipped with ashtrays, and the enclosed ones even have air conditioning and air filters.

Smoking on trains and buses

Japan’s public transportation network generally does not allow smoking. At train stations, bus stations, and inside train cars and buses, posters and signs with notices and warnings regarding the smoking rules and regulations of that particular city or town are all over the walls and posts, that it is almost impossible to miss them.

On the Shinkansen or bullet train, smoking is not allowed on the majority of the lines. At the moment, only the Tokaido/Sanyo Shinkansen has smoking cars on its trains. The smoking cabins are designed with sufficient ventilation to not let smoke escape and get to the rest of the train.

Smoking in restaurants, bars, and cafes

If you want to smoke while feasting on some great-tasting Japanese cuisine, enjoying top quality local brews, or having a chill and relaxing day with a cup of coffee or tea, it fairly easy to locate an establishment that offers designated indoor smoking zones. You can find many restaurants, bars, and cafes in Japan that have indoor smoking areas. Even some fast food chains have enclosed smoking rooms for their smoking patrons.

There are many dining recommendation websites that readily provide information on whether a particular place is smoker-friendly or not. Do some advanced online research as you are planning your itinerary, especially if you have a list of specific dining places that you want to check out on your trip.

Smoking in hotels and other accommodations

Many business hotels, ryokan, hostels, and guesthouses in Japan have smoking rooms that you can book if you are a smoker, and they usually cost the same as non-smoking rooms.

To find one for your next visit to Japan, use online hotel reservation websites and make sure to check the “smoking room” box in the filter feature to get a list of results that have smoking rooms.

Penalties

Different Japanese cities have different sets of smoking rules and regulations and corresponding punishments for people who break them.

In Tokyo, for example, if you are caught smoking in non-smoking areas, you will be slapped with a fine that can range from 2,000 yen to 5,000 yen.

In Kyoto, smoking on sidewalks and streets are prohibited, and anyone who is caught will get fined 1,000 yen.

In Osaka, the government has put in place smoking zones and non-smoking zones. If you are caught smoking on footpaths and other areas in the non-smoking zones, you will be punished by paying a fine of 1,000 yen.

In Sapporo, the law states that cigarette packs and butts should be disposed of properly to not endanger the pedestrians and the environment. Smoking is only allowed in designated areas in parks, plazas, streets, and buildings. If you are caught breaking the law, you will be fined 1,000 yen.

In Nagoya, those caught smoking in non-smoking areas will be fined 2,000 yen.

The post Etiquette Series – Smoking Laws and Regulations in Japan appeared first on Japaniverse Travel Guide.

Greetings

You can get around Japan without any problems even if you do not know a single Japanese word. But, if you plan to make friends with the locals, it is recommended that you memorize a few basic Japanese words and phrases that you can use to break the ice.

The table below lists common Japanese greetings and their English meanings.

Before your trip, try to download some free Japanese dictionary apps like the ones enumerated below to help you quickly look up words and meanings wherever and whenever you need to:

• Google Translate – Download links: iOs (free) | Android (free)
• Imiwa? – Download link: iOS (free)
• Akebi – Download link: Android (free)
• Learn Japanese – Download link: iOS (free)
• Obenkyo – Download link: Android (free)
• Yomiwa – Download links: iOS (free) | Android (free)

Bowing

In a lot of countries, people usually shake hands when introduced to each other for the first time. In Japan, however, that is not as commonly done. Instead, people bow.

The act of bowing involves a number of rules and nuances. For instance, the back of the head and the slope of the back should always form a straight line, and both arms should be kept at the sides, as you bend at the waist. The deeper and longer the bow is, the more respect or gratitude is shown. Do not worry about these things so much, as foreign tourists are not really expected to master them. A quick bow is usually fine.

For example, if you are meeting your tour guide or your guesthouse host for the first time, introduce yourself and then take a small bow. It conveys that you are happy to see them, and that you are grateful for their time and hard work.

Bowing is also done in other situations, such as:

• When bidding someone goodbye
• While thanking someone
• When apologizing
• At the start and end of an event, ceremony, class, or business meeting
• When making an offering or praying at a Shinto shrine

Visiting a Japanese person’s home

If you have received an invitation to a Japanese person’s home, you should get a present or a gift for them. It can be snacks, food items, or souvenirs from your home country that cannot be found in Japan, if you were able to pack something like those. If not, it can be anything else that is nice and inexpensive that your hosts can enjoy and appreciate.

Make sure to arrive to their house at the agreed time. Double check with them that you have the correct address and directions to get there. It is rude and disrespectful to be late.

Once you go inside a Japanese home, you must take off and leave your shoes by the door, at an area called a genkan. You must then wear the slippers provided before you can enter the rooms. You only take these off when entering a room with tatami mats, where you can walk just wearing your socks, or when going to the bathroom or toilet, which typically have special slippers provided.

Eating and drinking

Eating and drinking are two highly recommended activities for socializing and interacting in Japan. Around the country, there are countless restaurants, diners, cafes, bars, and clubs where a lot of locals hang out with their friends and family after work or on their days off. While in Japan, do not be afraid to explore these types of places, as they open various possibilities when it comes to meeting new friends.

When dining and drinking, whether at a restaurant or at a Japanese person’s home, there is also a list of etiquettes to observe to avoid offending or disrespecting the local customs and culture.

First and foremost, wash your hands.

Once the food is served, say “itadaki-masu” before you start eating. It is equivalent to saying “bon appétit”. Then, take your chopsticks and make sure that you are holding them correctly. Before your trip, it is highly recommended that you watch videos on how to use them and practice a lot to get the hang of it. Do not stick your chopsticks into a bowl of rice, as that is very similar to a ritual done during funerals. After eating, say “gochiso-sama deshita”, which translates to “it was quite a feast”.

When drinking, it is customary to raise your glass and say “Kampai!” which is the Japanese equivalent of “Cheers!” Do not hesitate to let loose, engage everyone, and pour other people’s drinks. The Japanese love to drink, and they consider it a great way to get to know their schoolmates or co-workers better.

The post Etiquette Series – How To Behave When Meeting Japanese People appeared first on Japaniverse Travel Guide.

If it is your first time to travel to Japan, it is recommended that you learn some common Japanese public transportation etiquette. You do not want to be that ignorant foreigner who inconveniences and is rude to the other commuters around you.

Entering and exiting train stations

Have your ticket or IC card ready before heading to the ticket gates. Do not just stop right in front of a turnstile, and then start digging into your bag or purse searching for it. You are blocking the people behind you that may be in a hurry to catch the next departing train. Before reaching the ticket gates, keep your ticket or IC card in your hand or pocket for easy access.

Searching for the right platform

In Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and other big cities, train and bus stations can be quite confusing to navigate. Fortunately, there are signs with English translations everywhere that can point you to the correct train or bus track or platform.

If you need to stop and look at a map or your phone for directions, step aside, and stand close to a wall, column, or board. Do not stand in the middle of the road, pathways, or corridors, as doing so just disrupts the flow of human traffic on their way to the exits, or tracks and platforms.

Queuing

Japan has a major queuing culture.

At bus stations, check where the end of the line is and wait there. Do not cut the line. Do not even pretend to not be aware that there is a line. If you see people standing at a bus stop, they are very likely to be waiting for the bus to arrive. Once the bus pulls in, wait for everyone else who were there before you to board the bus. Learn to wait for your turn. Do not push or shove.

At train stations, do pretty much the same thing — fall in line, and wait like everybody else. Once the train arrives, give way to the passengers getting off the train. Do not try to squeeze your way through and on to the train even before every single one has disembarked. Let the people in front of you board first to not cause chaos.

During rush hours, crowds at the major subway and metro stations in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and other urban areas can be overwhelming. If you find yourself in this situation, remain calm and be patient. It also helps if you have a flexible schedule. These commuter trains often come and go every few minutes, so you can always hop on to the next train if you miss the last one due to it being already full and packed.

Finding a seat

Buses

City buses offer free-seating, so you can occupy any seat as long as it is not taken or not marked as a priority seat for elders, pregnant, and injured individuals. If all seats are already occupied, you can stand on the aisle and hold on to the handrails or handholds for support.

Highway buses, meanwhile, usually have reserved seating. Your seat number should be indicated on your ticket.

Metro, subway, and other commuter trains

Commuter trains in Japan operate within a city or its suburbs, and usually have bench-style seats along the walls and facing each other. If all seats are taken, you can just stand in the middle or by the doors and hold on to the poles or handholds. They also frequently have priority seating for the elderly, injured, and pregnant people.

Shinkansen

When travelling on the Shinkansen, check if your ticket is valid on a reserved car or a non-reserved car.

If you have a reserved ticket, find your correct seat by confirming the car number, seat row, and seat number printed on the stub. There are train employees that make the rounds once the train leaves, validating passenger tickets to ensure that everyone is seated where they are supposed to sit. If you accidentally occupied the wrong seat, you will be instructed to go to the right one. If you have a non-reserved ticket, you will be asked to transfer to the non-reserved car.

If you have a non-reserved ticket, make sure that you get on a non-reserved car and occupy an empty seat.

Storing your bags and luggage

Japanese commuter trains, buses, and Shinkansen commonly have overhead luggage racks where you can store your backpack and other bulky items. If you want quick access to your belongings while on transit, place them on your lap or the floor close to your feet instead. Do not place your bags and other possessions on a seat next to you, as it should be available for the other passengers to sit on.

Eating

Eating is a big no-no on the subway and metro trains, but is acceptable on the Shinkansen, highway buses, and other transports travelling longer distances. Make sure to dispose of your trash properly after eating. Do not just leave empty bottles, food wrappers, and other trash on your seat.

Making phone calls

Put your phone on silent or vibrate when commuting. Avoid making calls, if you can. On subways and buses, talking on the phone is frowned upon. Your fellow passengers will not enjoy having to listen to you chatter, especially that you are so close to each other in such a very small space that even the softest sounds can easily be heard.

On the Shinkansen, it is common practice to walk to the area by the train doors or toilets if you need to talk to the phone. That way, the other passengers are spared from the noise and get to enjoy a quiet trip.

Talking

Once you are on a train in Japan, you will notice that the Japanese generally do not engage in loud conversations. As a foreigner, it is advised to follow what the locals do, and wait until you get off the train to talk to your companions. If you really have to talk, keep your voice volumes to a minimum.

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Reasons to bathe in an onsen or hot spring

A place for relaxation after a long day

If you have not been to Japan before, be warned of how much walking you are going to do. While a lot of the tourist spots are easily accessible via public transportation, they are not all located right next to a train station or a bus stop. Many of them can be reached by walking 5 to 30 minutes more. Also, the major train stations in the big cities can be quite huge, and just getting from the entrance to the train platforms requires more walking than you have expected.

To take care of your sore feet, legs, ankles, knees, joints, and back at the end of the day, a soak in a hot spring is a must. The warm temperature of the waters and the minerals present in them provide a relaxing effect that nourish your body and relieve the pains and fatigue.

For improved circulation

While soaked in hot spring waters, your blood vessels are able to regulate more blood due to the water pressure. The veins in the different parts of your body, from your head to your lower extremities, become more active in the circulation process, thus improving your blood flow.

For smoother and better skin

Hot spring waters contain various minerals, such as sodium chloride, magnesium, and calcium, which help promote healthier skin. They are like moisturizers and facial care products that help get rid of wrinkles and acne, and slow down the effects of aging. Moreover, they are known to help treat a number of skin diseases, including heat rash, burns, abrasions, eczema, and dermatitis.

Dos and Don’ts in an onsen or hot spring

Bathing in a Japanese onsen or hot spring is a major part of Japan’s long history and culture. First-timers are advised to look up common onsen or hot spring etiquette in Japan to avoid coming across as ignorant, rude, and disrespectful. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Head to the changing room and remove all of your clothes — yes, including your underwear. Everyone is required to be naked in the baths. Place your clothes and other personal items in a basket or locker provided. Take your bath towel with you to the rinse area.
2. At the rinse area, clean your whole body with tap water and soap. Depending on the facility, you may use the soap and shampoo provided or bring your own. Dry yourself with your bath towel.
3. Proceed to the bathing area. Put your bath towel on your head or leave it somewhere dry before getting in. You should not wear it around your body while you bathe. You have to be naked the entire time as it is important to keep the water clean.
4. Because hot spring water temperatures typically fall between 40 and 44 degrees, which are considered to be very hot, it is best to slowly get in there with your feet first. Do not jump or dive into the water. Be careful not to splash water on the people around you.
5. Do not try to sneak in your camera phone or any photography devices. Photography is prohibited in hot spring or onsen facilities.
6. Try to not move around the bathing area so much, so as not to disturb the other people who are trying to unwind in peace. Stay in one place and enjoy the relaxing effects of the warm onsen waters.
7. After about an hour or so of soaking, slowly get out of the bathing area. Again, be mindful of the other people around you.
8. Do not forget to take your bath towel with you to the rinse area. Wash your body once again with tap water and soap, and then dry using the provided towel. Put the soap, shampoo, and sitting stool back in place for the next users.

Tattoos

In case you did not know, tattoos have a negative connotation in Japan, as it is associated with the yakuza or organized crime. Many hot spring resorts in Japan do not allow people with tattoos for this reason. If you have tattoos and really want to have a memorable onsen experience on your trip, it is best to get in touch with the facilities themselves to know what their rules are regarding tattoos.

There are some hot springs that are open to tattooed guests, as long as the tattoos are small and can be easily covered up with a plaster. There are also hot spring resorts with private baths that let you rent a bath for just yourself or with your trip companions, and these are perfect for those with sleeves or full body tattoos.

Some of Japan’s best hot spring resorts

Looking for excellent hot springs to check out on your next trip to Japan? Here is a list of some of the top rated onsen or hot spring towns in the country:

• Beppu Onsen – Home to hundreds of hot springs, located in Oita Prefecture
• Kusatsu Onsen – A scenic hot spring town abundant with natural onsen waters, located in Gunma Prefecture
• Hakone Onsen – A popular day trip from Tokyo, known not only for top notch hot spring waters but also for beautiful views of Mount Fuji
• Noboribetsu Onsen – The most popular hot spring town in Hokkaido, with stunning views of the mountains and valleys
• Arima Onsen – Easily accessible from Osaka or Kyoto, and has a good selection of public and private bathhouses
• Dogo Onsen – An old hot spring resort in Ehime Prefecture with a 3,000-long history, and a favourite of the Japanese Imperial Family
• Kinugawa Onsen – Situated close to the historical Tokugawa-related sites in Nikko, and offers various opportunities to be close to nature
• Kinosaki Onsen – One of Kansai region’s most popular hot spring towns, best known for its seven sotoyu, or public bath houses

The post Etiquette Series – Common Onsen and Hot Spring Etiquette in Japan appeared first on Japaniverse Travel Guide.

1. There are 3 types of toilets in Japan

Most Westerners are familiar with two types of toilets: the standard sitting toilet bowl, and the urinal which is available for men and boys. However, in Japan and most other Asian countries, there is a third type: the squatting toilet. Known in Japan as the “washiki” (和式) type, it consists of a ceramic hole in the floor, and the user squats over it to do their business. While most toilets in Japan are now the sitting type, known as “yoshiki” (洋式), the “washiki” type toilets can still be found in older buildings and homes.

2. Toilet slippers

When visiting someone’s home or a traditional restaurant where you take off your shoes to wine and dine in tatami rooms, there will be special slippers available for anyone who visits the loo. The Japanese believe that washrooms are dirty with lots of bacteria, so they encourage people to change into toilet-only slippers when using the washroom. Take note to change back once you’re done, it’s a major faux pas in Japan to walk around the rest of the house in toilet slippers!

3. Otohime

One of the coolest things about Japanese toilets is probably the “otohime” (音姫), translated literally as the “sound princess”. The name is derived from an underwater princess from a Japanese folktale, but is now ubiquitous in the modern washroom. The “otohime” is a small button, usually located in the washlet panel, that plays a soundtrack of running water. The Japanese think it impolite for others to hear the sound of you doing your business, so the “otohime” is used to hide those embarrassing noises. Try it out the next time you visit Japan!

4. A spa experience

This one’s for the ladies! In more upscale restaurants, stores, or salons, visiting the washroom on the premises will make you feel like a pampered princess. Washrooms in these places are usually stocked with everything you’ll need to freshen up. That includes items like cotton pads, cotton buds, and soft tissues if you’d like to touch up your make-up, as well as hand sanitizers, hand creams, and sometimes even small bottles of perfume, all free for use. All these are available because most Japanese women spend a few minutes after using the bathroom to reapply their make-up, so if you see them, don’t hesitate to doll yourself up before you head out to face the world again!

5. Washlet unit

The washlet unit is probably one of the best intriguing things to see when visiting a Japanese bathroom. Consisting of a washlet nozzle located inside the bowl and a control panel either next to the seat or installed on the cubicle wall, this washlet unit is used to clean your bits after you’ve finished your business. There are buttons to choose which areas you’d like to wash, how strong the nozzle sprays water, and even if you’d like the water to move in a pattern for a more thorough cleaning. A word of advice: remember to find out where the stop button is before trying the washlet out! The first time can be quite a bit of a shock, so it’s always good to know how to stop the spray of water if the experience is too much for you!

6. Heated seats

It can get quite chilly in Japan, especially during the winter months from January to February in the northern prefectures, and there is no worse way to start your day than bracing yourself to take a seat on the freezing toilet seat. But most modern toilets now come equipped with a heating unit. Just press a button and the automated unit will keep the toilet seat nice and toasty for you, 24/7. It certainly makes going to a washroom a much more comfortable experience.

7. AI toilets

Having talked about washlet units and heated seats, you may think that Japanese toilets are really high-tech. However, those technologies have been around for ages, and new wonders are always being developed and installed in toilets all over Japan. Some of the newest models of toilets have amazing features, such as a toilet lid that opens and closes automatically by sensing the presence of people who enter the cubicle, and toilets which flush by themselves once you get off the seat. There are even some toilets that speak to you, so don’t be surprised the next time you enter a toilet in Japan and are greeted by a pleasant voice welcoming you to take a dump!

Remember these to enjoy your trip to the washroom next time you visit Japan!

The post Etiquette Series – 7 Interesting Things about Japanese Toilets appeared first on Japaniverse Travel Guide.

NON-VERBAL CUES

Before we look at greeting phrases, let’s first look at some of the non-verbal cues that are just as important as the words.

1. Expression

It is usual for Japanese people to accompany greetings with a smile. However, an open-mouth smile that shows teeth can be seen as too forward, so you’ll notice that many Japanese people, especially the ladies, tend to smile with lips closed.
Of course, smiling may not be appropriate for all business situations. Thus, take note of the tone or atmosphere of the scene to decide if a smile will be appreciated.

2. Tone of voice

When greeting someone, do it in a cheerful tone! It is also important to speak in a clear voice so that the listener can understand you easily.

3. Gaze

Eye contact isn’t a big thing in Japan, where many people avert or lower their gaze as a sign of respect to the other party. However, it is always polite to meet the other person’s eyes when greeting them, just be careful not to continue staring too much!

4. Bowing

Bowing is the easiest way to show respect in Japan, and a Japanese person does it many many times during the day! When greeting someone casually, it is good manners to accompany that greeting with a slight bow of your head.
In business situations, bows are more complex, but you can usually get by with a 20-30 degrees bow from the waist.

CASUAL GREETINGS

Next, let us look at some casual greetings. Similar to in English, the phrases used are different depending on the time of day, your relationship to the person you are speaking to, and many other factors.

SAYING HELLO

Let’s look at some phrases which are used at different times of the day. These greetings are used as a start when you see that person for the first time that day.

• Good morning – “Ohayou gozaimasu.” (おはようございます。) – You can just use “Ohayou.” for a more casual greeting.
• Good afternoon – “Konnichiwa.” (こんにちは。) – It can also be used to mean ‘hello’,
• Good evening – “Konbanwa.” (こんばんは。)

If you are meeting someone for the very first time, the following phrase is used before you introduce yourself.

• Nice to meet you. My name is ~. – “Hajimemashite. Watashi wa ~ desu.” (はじめまして。私の名前は〜です。)

If you really want to impress the other person, you can add the following phrase after introducing your name.

• Pleased to make your acquaintance. – “Yoroshiku onegaishimasu.” (よろしくお願いします。) – You can just use “Yoroshiku.” in a more casual situation.

In the case when you haven’t seen the other person for a long time, we usually use this phrase instead of “konnichiwa”.

• Long time no see. – “Hisashiburi.” (久しぶり。)

SAYING GOODBYE

At the end of the conversation, there are a few ways to bid goodbye to the other person. Let’s look at some of them and the situations we use them in.

“Sayonara” is probably the most common goodbye phrase that many foreigners know of. However, it is actually very rarely used in day-to-day conversations in Japanese society. That’s because “sayonara” holds the meaning of a final goodbye. Therefore, if you are probably seeing the other person again someday, “sayonara” is not a greeting that you should use.

The most basic and common form of goodbye is “mata”, which can be translated to mean ‘see you’. There are many words that you can attach after “mata” to customize the greeting to each situation. Here’s a list of the most common forms.

• See you again. – “Mata ne.” (またね。)
• See you tomorrow. – “Mata ashita.” (また明日。)
• See you next week. – “Mata raishuu.” (また来週。)

Choosing the best reply depending on when you’ll meet the listener again is a great way to customize your greeting and make you sound more natural!

Of course, with the influence of Western culture, ‘bye bye’ (バイバイ) itself has also become a much-used greeting, especially among the younger generation.

TELEPHONE GREETINGS

When answering a phone call, there are a set of special greetings that are used.

• Hello – “Moshimoshi.” (もしもし。)
• Goodbye – “Shitsurei shimasu.” (失礼します。)

“Shitsurei shimasu” is a polite way to say ‘excuse me’, and is used to end phone conversations politely, indicating that you are sorry for taking up the other person’s time and attention by talking to them over the phone.

Try these phrases out the next time you speak with your Japanese friend! Keep practicing, and you can surely impress them with how natural you sound greeting them like a real Japanese person!

The post Etiquette Series – Basic greetings in Japanese appeared first on Japaniverse Travel Guide.

Shrine vs Temple: What’s the difference?

There are two major religions in Japan; the original Japanese Shinto, and Buddhism, which was brought over to the country from Korea in the 6^th century.

The place of worship for Shinto is the ‘jinja’, or shrine. These are easily recognizable by the torii gate, a wooden structure made out of rounded logs, erected at the entrance into the shrine’s grounds. A shrine has a god or deity which either resides inside the main building or visits it during important occasions.

On the other hand, ‘dera’ or temples are where Buddhism is practiced, and the buildings have architecture that’s more distinctive of Chinese culture with its elaborate arched roofs. Statues of the Buddha are enshrined within the main building, and services are conducted there daily by Buddhist monks who live on the compound.

Before entering

Before you enter the main building, look around the grounds for a little structure for washing, called the ‘temizuya’. Here, you’ll have to wash your hands and mouth of the dirt from outside before entering the sacred building. To complete the wash, simple observe a local Japanese doing so and copy, or follow the steps below:

1. Lift the wooden ladle with your right hand, fill it with water from the ‘temizuya’, and pour it over your left hand to wash it.
2. Switch hands and wash your right hand.
3. Switch again so that you’re holding the ladle using your right hand. Pour some water onto your left palm, and use it to rinse your mouth. If you don’t wish to rinse, just washing your lips with the water will do. Remember not to sip water directly from the ladle!
4. Wash your left hand again.
5. Tip the ladle upright so water runs down the handle, washing it. Return the ladle to its original spot and you’re ready to go!

How to worship

Once inside, head towards the main altar of worship, where you will see a bell hanging by a decorative rope over the offerings box. This bell is called the ‘suzu’, and you’ll have to ring it before commencing prayers.

Remember to get some coins ready before approaching the altar. The most common coin used is the 5yen coin (the small gold one with a hole in the middle). This is because 5yen is pronounced as ‘goen’ in Japanese, identical to the pronunciation for ‘destiny’ or ‘fate’.

Follow the steps below to make an offering and pray at the altar:

1. Toss your coin into the offerings box.
2. Grab the rope to ring the ‘suzu’ bell. This is to call the gods to listen to your prayer, so you can do it as loudly as you wish.
3. Bow twice before the altar to show respect to the gods.
4. Clap your hands twice before your chest. This serves the same function as the ‘suzu’ bell, which is to call the gods to hear your prayer.
5. Hold your hands together before your chest, close your eyes, and offer your prayer.
6. Bow once more to finish.

Do note that the clapping is only done at shrines. For temples, you can skip Step 4.

General rules in a shrine/temple

Before entering the shrine or temple’s grounds, stop for a moment before crossing the threshold. Beyond the threshold is god’s space, so many people adjust their clothing and give a slight bow before stepping over the threshold as a mark of respect.

If you have planned to visit a shrine or temple, take care not to dress too casually, or revealing too much skin by wearing sleeveless tops or mini-skirts. If you are wearing sunglasses, take them off before entering the grounds.

While walking towards the main building, avoid walking right in the middle of the path. That is where the god walks, so as humans, we avoid taking the same path. Worshippers are also advised to walk slowly, so as to calm the spirit and mentally preparing to offer prayers.

Therefore, remember to respect general rules at all places of worship, such as not making too much noise, or taking photos of the religious statues without permission.

When leaving the grounds, avoid walking in the middle as well. Before crossing the threshold to leave, turn back towards the main building and bow slightly.

With these tips in mind, you’re ready to enjoy a fruitful trip to a shrine or temple in Japan!

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History of Japanese Table Manners

While the Japanese might have adopted the chopsticks and spoon from ancient China, they have, over time, developed a unique way of eating, wherein the diner holds the chopsticks in one hand and the rice bowl in the other. In contrast, people in China hold chopsticks and a spoon, with the rice bowl resting on the table.

This practice came from monks in temples in the 13th century, based on the idea that dining should not be accompanied by the unpleasant sound of clinking utensils. In addition, the idea of bringing food up to the mouth, instead of vice versa, was considered good manners, since it was the opposite of how animals usually eat (snout in food bowl).

Utensil placement

Correct placement of utensils is essential in Japanese table manners, and is one of the first things a new waiter at a restaurant must learn. The basic rule is to lay the chopsticks horizontally on the serving tray, closest to the diner, with the head pointing to the right. The rice bowl is to be placed on the left, and the soup bowl on the right. In a set with udon or soba, this takes the place of the soup bowl on the right.

As mentioned above, hold the rice bowl in your left hand while eating. Place your thumb on the rim of the bowl, then use the remaining fingers to scoop the bowl up from the base and support it. This allows you to hold bowls easily, even when it contains hot liquids like miso soup. Exceptions can be made for heavy trays, bento boxes, or Chinese dishes such as noodles or ramen, where it is alright to leave the bowl on the table.

Many Japanese restaurants serve miso soup in a bowl with a lid. When lifting the lid off, make sure to hold it upside down so that no condensation on the lid falls onto the table. When finished with the soup, replace the lid back onto the bowl. While some people place the lid back on upside down, it is good etiquette to place it back on properly, to show respect for the artwork painted on the lid.

If eating a meal with different courses served on small dishes, remember not to gather all the dishes into a stack when you are done. Leave them as is on the tray.

Chopstick use

Chopsticks hold a special meaning in Japan. It is believed that each person should own their own pair, because a part of the user’s soul will move into and reside in the chopsticks. Therefore, the correct use of chopsticks is encouraged in all Japanese from a young age.

While most meals are to be eaten with chopsticks, it is no problem for foreigners to request for a fork and spoon instead. (Do note that some restaurants which serve food on expensive crockery may deny your request, for fear of damaging the artwork etched onto the bowls and plates.) Some foods, such as sushi or crab legs, can be eaten with bare hands.
In cheaper restaurants where wooden disposable chopsticks are provided, be sure not to break them apart over your food tray. Bring the chopsticks over onto your lap and break it quietly out of sight under the table. Should you drop your chopsticks or any other utensils during a meal, it is good manners to leave it and call for a waiter to get a new pair, rather than stooping over to retrieve it yourself.

As a foreigner, it is perfectly alright to use the chopsticks however you can to eat. The only thing to note is that using the chopsticks to stab at the food is a big no-no.

After the meal, return the chopsticks into the paper bag if it came in one, or leave them on the chopstick rest provided.

Basic dining rules

Here are some other simple rules you can follow to ensure that you display good table manners.

– For a course meal with many small dishes, make sure to finish one dish fully before moving on to the next. The Japanese believe that this allows the diner to enjoy the full flavor of each dish.
– Try as much as possible to finish all the food on the table. However, soup from ramen, udon or soba dishes need not be finished.
– When eating a ricebowl with toppings (tempura, teriyaki chicken, etc.), do not mix the rice with the other foods. Only foods such as curry and raw egg can be mixed in with the rice.
– It is alright to slurp noisily at miso soup or noodles.
– Aside from slurping, try to eat as noiselessly as possible. Avoid clinking utensils together or speaking too much when eating.
– If you’d like extra rice, remember to leave a single mouthful in your current bowl. This is a signal to the server that you’d like more. Emptying your bowl is a sign that you are full and finished with the meal.

With these rules, you’ll be dining like a true Japanese in no time.

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Tipping

Unlike many Western countries, Japan sees tipping as a strange custom. Even if you are very much happy with the services that you receive from a Japanese restaurant or hotel worker, and feel that you should tip them to show your appreciation, you should not give them any more than the amount indicated on the receipt.

If you leave them a tip and they realize that you paid them extra, they will run after you to hand you your change, or report to their employer about it. The Japanese believe that paying them more through tips is like you saying that you think they are not paid enough wages.

Cutting in line

Japan is one of the most populated countries in the world, but the Japanese do not have a major problem when it comes to falling in line at bus and train stops, concerts and shows, and ramen and sushi restaurants, to patiently wait for their turns.

In many train stations in Tokyo, for instance, the dense crowds of people waiting on the platforms can be overwhelming during rush hour. Finding where the backs of the lines are can be confusing, but they seem to be able to figure it out. And, once a train arrives, the commuters know that they should give way to people getting off the train first before they can get in.

As a tourist, learn to queue just like everybody else. Do not cut in line, even if you are in a hurry, as that is just rude and impolite.

Talking on the phone on the train or bus

The Japanese take privacy and personal space very seriously. If you are in public, such as on a train or a bus, you have to keep to yourself and not disturb the people around you. Refrain from talking on your phone. This rule is posted on signs and heard on public service announcements in many train lines all over the country.

If you are expecting an extremely important call, go someplace where there is no one trying to get some sleep or reading done. In Shinkansen lines, people who really have to talk on their phones usually use the areas by the train doors or toilets, which are at least far enough from the passenger seats and separated by doors that can muffle the sounds.

Also, avoid talking with your companions in loud voices while on a train or a bus. Okay, it is your first time in Japan and you are so excited about going to all of these attractions, but the people around you do not really care. They do not want to hear you gushing and raving. Save your chats for once you get off the public transportation.

Sticking your chopsticks into a bowl of food

The Japanese have some of the best tasting dishes in the world, and a trip to Japan is not complete without trying at least a couple of their mouth watering sushi, ramen, yakitori, and others. To have the best experience, it is essential that you learn some basic chopsticks etiquette to ensure that you are not offending the Japanese chef, servers, and the other local customers at the izakaya you are dining at.

Many foreigners that visit Japan are not familiar with chopsticks etiquette, and they frequently commit mistakes that, to a Japanese person, are considered bad behaviour. One of the most common is sticking their chopsticks vertically into a bowl, particularly a bowl of rice. Doing so is considered bad luck because it is similar to a custom relating to death, where a bowl of rice with two upright chopsticks stuck in the centre is prepared and left at funerals.

Not taking your shoes off when you enter someone’s home

The Japanese take their shoes off before entering their homes. This practice has been around for many centuries now, and it is one of those things that you also have to do as a guest to show respect to the homeowners and the Japanese culture.

Japanese houses have this area known as genkan, which is found right inside the entrance door, where you take your shoes off and leave them at. Then, there are usually slippers available to wear while you are inside the home, walking on hardwood, marble, or tiled floors. These slippers, however, have to be taken off too when stepping on carpeted flooring or tatami mats.

Leaving your trash anywhere

The Japanese follow strict trash and garbage rules and regulations. As a tourist, you are expected to abide by these and help maintain the cleanliness everywhere.

Remember to always have small plastic bags with you every time you are outside, so that you can keep all of the garbage that you collect throughout the day in there. Do not leave used Shinkansen tickets, sandwich wrappers, or empty mineral water bottles on a park bench or a temple step. Segregate your trash into biodegradable, non-biodegradable, and recyclable, and throw them into the appropriate bins.

A lot of tourists have observed how garbage cans are so difficult to find in Japan, but you should be able to come across some at train stations, near vending machines, and outside convenience stores.

Tardiness

The Japanese is known for their punctuality and discipline. The rail network across the country is probably the best in the world, and boasts of an average delay of only less than a minute. Events and shows very rarely start later than their advertised times. Museums, restaurants, shops, and other establishments also follow the same conduct. So, while in Japan, always be on time, if you do not want to miss your train, bus, tour group, or other activities you have included in your itinerary.

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Learning to hold a pair of chopsticks

For a beginner, chopsticks can be quite challenging to use. Using your dominant hand, hold one of the sticks like a pencil, and place the other one against your ring finger and the base of your thumb. Both sticks should be pointing towards the same direction. You can then use your middle, thumb, and index fingers to move the upper chopstick to pick up food, while the lower chopstick simply rests on your purlicue, which is that space between your thumb and index finger.

Important chopsticks etiquette to remember

When dining in Japan, whether at home or at a restaurant, it is important to observe the proper chopsticks etiquette. You will be considered rude or impolite by your Japanese friends, family, or colleagues, if you fail to observe good table manners. It is best that you learn and take into heart the following chopsticks etiquette:

1. Eating directly from common bowls, plates, and other dishes is a big no-no.

You cannot just take food from a shared bowl or plate in the middle of the table, and shove it straight into your mouth. In Japanese culture, that is seen as very bad-mannered and discourteous. The proper thing to do is to put any food you take from the common dishes on your own plate or bowl first, before eating it.

2. Do not stick your chopsticks upright into your bowl of rice.

Did you know that sticking chopsticks upright into a bowl of rice is a practice that is related to death in the Buddhism and the Shinto religions? That is how they prepare rice for individuals who are at their deathbeds, and also for offerings for home altars.

So, do not stick your chopsticks into the rice. If you are not using your chopsticks, place it in your chopsticks holder or over your bowl.

3. Do not lick your chopsticks.

It is seen as ill-mannered and disgusting to lick chopsticks. To prevent meat, rice, and other food bits from sticking into your chopsticks, you can begin your meal with liquid dishes. Food gets stuck to the chopsticks because the sticks are dry, and soupy foods can prevent that from happening.

4. Do not use your chopsticks to point at another person.

In many countries, pointing your finger at someone is viewed as rude. In Japan, pointing at someone with your chopsticks is viewed similarly.

5. Do not hover your chopsticks over the food on the table.

If your table is filled with a wide selection of dishes, that you are having a hard time making up your mind on which you would like to try first, you should put your chopsticks down while you are thinking, and not hover them over everything on the table.

6. Do not use your chopsticks as skewers.

Certain foods are hard to pick up using chopsticks. Boiled eggs, beans, and other slippery foods are some examples. So, what do you do?  Use a spoon or fork. You should not stab or skewer them with your chopsticks, as doing so is being impolite to the people who prepared the meal for you.

7. Place your chopsticks in their chopsticks holder when not in use.

When eating out at restaurants, your chopsticks should be placed on their chopsticks holder if you are not using them.  If not available, you may use your chopsticks wrapper as a temporary holder. You should never leave your chopsticks haphazardly scattered on the table, stuck upright into a bowl filled with food, or crossed.

8. Do not rest your chopsticks crossed on the table, over your bowl, etc.

When placing your chopsticks on the chopsticks holder or over your bowl, make sure that they are resting parallel next to each other. Do not leave them crossed, as this is something that is related to death and funerals in the Japanese culture.

9. Do not pass food around from one pair chopsticks to another.

In Japan, after a cremation is done, the bones are passed from one funeral staff to another until every piece is collected in the urn. Passing food from your chopsticks to another person’s chopsticks is eerily similar to this custom, so doing so should be avoided.

10. Do not let liquid drip from your chopsticks.

When eating food with soup or sauce, you should not let your chopsticks drip liquids anywhere — the table, your clothes, etc.  It is considered unacceptable behaviour, as the dripping liquid reminds people of tears and crying.

11. Do not bite your chopsticks.

Be careful about biting your chopsticks and leaving tooth marks on them. This is viewed as childish, unpleasant, and impolite. It is very important that you do not do it, especially if you are not using your own chopsticks.

12. Avoid using your chopsticks as drumsticks.

If you are not using your chopsticks, you should not be playing with them or using them to tap the table or plates. It creates noise and is annoying to the people around you who just want to enjoy their food in peace.

13. Do not dig for specific foods in shared dishes.

If you are a picky eater, and only want to eat a particular type of vegetable or meat, it is better if you just order your own food or go to a restaurant that caters to your preferences. Digging into bowls or plates using your chopsticks, looking for a specific ingredient, is extremely rude and classless, and very inconsiderate to the people who are sharing the table with you. Just take whatever is already on top.

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