The Japanese label would cover many items. And there is an appropriate way to behave in the bath and onsen, when traveling by train or when eating with chopsticks. We have discussed some of these in different Japonism articles. But here we focus on basic rules of etiquette that you cannot forget when traveling to Japan Restaurant.
Japan is a country where formality is deeply rooted, especially in personal relationships. Therefore, it is important to know certain rules or customs so as not to make too many mistakes on certain occasions.
Of course, don’t worry too much if one day, while you are in Japan, you forget any of these “rules.” In the end, the Japanese are clear that we are foreigners and that we do not have to know absolutely all their social codes. But, as we always say, knowing the country you are going to visit beforehand helps you integrate better. And in the end that will make you enjoy the trip much more.
If you prefer to listen instead of reading, we have an episode of our Japan In Depth podcast just about it.
- Socks without holes and clean feet
As we have already talked about in Japonismo, the custom of taking off one’s shoes is deeply rooted in Japan. Whether when entering homes, schools and institutes or when entering the main halls of some temples or even in some restaurants. Additionally, in traditional or ryokan style hotels you must also take off your shoes before entering the room.
This is because traditionally houses had tatami floors , a type of straw mat. Any footwear would stain and ruin this mat. Nowadays, even though many Japanese houses have Western-style floors, you have to take off your shoes. To do this, the houses have a space called genkan at the entrance where you take off your shoes and leave your shoes.
- You enter the bathtub completely clean
We have also talked in detail in Japonismo about the bathing culture in Japan. And bathing is one of the most important activities in Japanese society . It is precisely so important that there are a series of very well structured rules of behavior. It doesn’t matter if it’s time to take a bath in an ofuro (private home), in a sento (community bath) or in an onsen (thermal bath). - Exercise your neck and back for bows
Bowing ( ojigi ) is another basis of social behavior in Japan . In the linked article you have many more details to know what type of reverence is appropriate at all times. But keep in mind that the ojigi is not a humiliation or submission, as some want to understand, but a sign of trust.
All of this comes from a time when samurai carried sharp swords. So, offering your neck as a sign of greeting was a great sign of trust and dedication. Nowadays, it is a basic gesture in Japan that is used to greet, apologize, say thank you, say goodbye… come on, for everything.
Bowing, used in both formal and informal settings, will vary in degree, but always allows respect for personal space in a culture that is not very open to physical contact in public. Plus, it was perfect in times of coronavirus.
- Save your snot and don’t blow your nose
In Japan it is rude to blow your nose in public , especially if you make a lot of noise or make very noticeable gestures. If necessary, you can gently dry your nose with a tissue, giving small touches, but nothing more.
Yes, it is very common among the Japanese to absorb mucus if necessary. That is, vacuuming the snot even if you make that characteristic and loud noise that, outside of Japan, is usually seen as rude. It may surprise you, but in Japan it happens just the opposite. Slurping snot is perfect.
- Don’t forget the gift…!
We have also talked about the importance of gifts in Japan . And the truth is that whether you live in Japan or if you visit and interact with Japanese people, you always have to keep this in mind.
If you live in Japan you will have many occasions to experience this. For example, if you go on vacation, you will have to come back with a small omiyage . That is precisely why there are so many stores in train stations and airports with boxes already wrapped with sweets and typical products from the place you are.
But if you go for a visit or tourism you won’t be spared either. If you meet Japanese friends there, you will have to bring them a small gift. And they will also give you something, saying that it is a monkey tsumaranai . That is, “something unimportant.” But that small gift, however, is very important for social relationships to flow perfectly.