Japan is welcoming and forgiving towards travellers. Still, these six habits help you move politely and at ease everywhere – and steer clear of the odd faux pas.
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No tipping チップ
Tipping is not customary in restaurants, in taxis or for porters. It can even come across as an affront, so it is best left out.
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Bow instead of shaking hands お辞儀
People bow to greet and to say goodbye rather than offering a hand – especially in the countryside a handshake can be confusing. As a guest in a restaurant, hotel or shop, a smile or a small nod is plenty.
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Take off your shoes 靴を脱ぐ
In inns, temples and shrines you take off your shoes; slippers are sometimes provided. Watch out for toilets in shoe-free areas: they have dedicated toilet slippers that, for hygiene, must never leave the room. Don't forget to swap back when you leave!
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Taxi doors タクシーのドア
Japanese taxis have automatic doors the driver opens by button. Opening it yourself is not only frowned upon but also dangerous. Please wait for the driver to open it – when getting out, too.
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Keep the harmony 和
Open confrontation is considered unpleasant; harmony often counts for more than the plain truth. Showing irritation or personal feelings openly, let alone voicing them, is seen as ill-mannered.
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Chopsticks 箸
When pausing, never stand your chopsticks upright in the rice bowl – it reminds Japanese people of a funeral, where alone it belongs. Instead, rest them flat across the rim of the bowl or on a chopstick rest.