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12 · During your stay
Etiquette & Cultural Tips
Unwritten rules rooted in consideration — a little awareness goes a long way.
🔇 Keep quiet on trains The big one
Public transport is a shared quiet space — phone on silent, no calls, low conversation. Same applies in restaurants and most public spaces.
🚮 Carry your trash
Bins are rare but streets are spotless — people hold onto rubbish until home. Find bins at convenience stores, vending machines, and stations.
🚶 Don't eat while walking
Eating on the move is impolite — eat near where you bought it. Exception: Shinkansen bullet trains, where bento boxes are normal.
💴 No tipping — really
Not customary anywhere; staff may chase you down thinking you forgot it. A polite "gochisousama deshita" when leaving is the right gesture.
🥢 Two chopstick rules
Never stick chopsticks upright in rice, and never pass food chopstick-to-chopstick — both echo funeral rites and unsettle people. Otherwise, use the rest and clean ends for sharing.
🍜 Slurping is good
Slurping noodles (ramen, udon, soba) is normal and even a compliment. Don't slurp non-noodle foods, though.
👟 Shoes off indoors
Homes, ryokan, temples — look for a row of shoes or a step-up at the entrance. Wear easy-off shoes and clean socks; switch to toilet slippers in the bathroom and back again.
🚦 Don't jaywalk
Can carry a fine. Locals wait at empty crossings for the green light — follow suit.
🛗 Escalator side varies
Stand left in Tokyo, right in Osaka. When unsure, follow the person ahead. (Some places now ask you not to walk at all.)
🚆 Priority & women-only cars
Give up priority seats for those who need them (watch for the Help Mark). Men should avoid women-only cars (pink signs) during rush hour.
📸 Don't harass geisha
Kyoto especially — geisha and maiko are working women, not attractions. Chasing photos is genuinely disrespectful. Admire from a distance, or rent a kimono yourself.
♨️ Onsen basics
Hot springs — wash thoroughly before entering, go fully nude (towel stays out of water), tie up long hair. Tattoos may be restricted — check ahead. 男 = men, 女 = women.