Tokyo, Japan Travel Tips

Title: Essential Travel and Cultural Etiquette Tips for Visiting Tokyo, Japan

Dress Code

  • Tokyo is a modern city with a mix of traditional and contemporary styles. Dress smartly and conservatively when visiting temples or shrines. Avoid shorts, sleeveless tops, and revealing clothing.

Greeting

  • Japanese people usually bow when greeting each other. However, as a tourist, a handshake is generally acceptable, especially in business settings.

Removing Shoes

  • Many houses, hotels, and public places like bathhouses have separate areas for removing shoes. Be mindful of signs and follow the local customs.

Tipping

  • Unlike many Western countries, Japan does not have a tipping culture. In fact, leaving a tip might be seen as an insult. Exception is made for taxi drivers, where rounding up to the nearest 10 yen is acceptable.

Eating and Drinking

  • Chopsticks etiquette: Never stick chopsticks vertically into your rice bowl as it resembles incense sticks used at funerals. Don’t pass food from one pair of chopsticks to another; use the spare set provided on the table.
  • Slurping soup or noodles is accepted and even appreciated, as it shows enjoyment of the food.

Public Behavior

  • Queueing is a big part of Japanese culture. Always wait your turn in lines, whether at stores, restaurants, or public transportation.
  • Talking loudly on the phone or playing loud music through headphones is considered rude and inconsiderate.
  • Smoking is prohibited in many public places; look for designated smoking areas.

Gift Giving

  • When giving gifts, use both hands to present the gift, with the recipient opening it after you’ve left. Avoid wrapping gifts in white or black paper, as these colors are associated with funerals.

Temple and Shrine Etiquette

  • Remove your shoes before entering a temple or shrine.
  • Bow slightly when entering and exiting temples or shrines, and bow deeply at the altar.
  • Do not touch any religious objects or statues unless specifically allowed.
  • Follow any signs or instructions provided regarding how to pray, such as clapping hands twice before bowing.