Do you want to travel to Japan but don't know its culture and customs very well? In this article, we are going to share 15 things you need to know before traveling to Japan.
These tips will help you to behave in the land of the rising sun and not make some common mistake that tourists end up making in this exotic country.
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Respect and politeness in Japan
1) Bowing is nothing less than an art form in Japan. Respect is taught by parents from childhood. For tourists, a simple nod of the head or an attempt at a bow is enough to greet someone. Handshakes and hugs are not common, so be careful how you greet someone.
2) In addition to bowing, addressing someone correctly is critical. The Japanese use the suffix "san" at the end of people's names to show respect, as if you were a kind of lord. Never forget to use these treatment honorifics, remembering that in Japan we use the person's surname when we are not intimate.
3 ) There are etiquette rules such as not answering your cell phone on public transport such as trains and buses or apologize when bumping into or passing through people. Remember not to blow your nose in public or eat in traffic.
4) The most important thing is to remember to take off your shoes when entering homes, hotels and some public places. Most of the time you will find your own footwear to access these places that are usually tatami flooring.
5) Sterile masks, like the ones you see in the emergency room, are commonly used by the Japanese to protect others from their germs. If you catch any flu, be sure to wear these masks.
Japan tends to live collectively, unlike the West, which is very individualistic. Respect and concern for others makes the country organized, safe and clean.
THINGS RELATED TO FOOD
6) If you are at a dinner party and receive drinks, please wait before drinking. Everyone will be served, and someone will take the lead, make a speech, raise their drink, and shout "Kampai!" (Health). Also, you will get a small wet cloth in most Japanese restaurants. Use it to clean your hands before eating, and then carefully fold it and place it on the table. Do not use it as a napkin, or to clean any part of your face.
7) Making noises while eating noodle soup is not impolite, it is a sign that you are enjoying the food and that it is very tasty. Just before you start eating, whether it's dinner or a sample at a supermarket, it's polite to say "itadakimasu” (I will receive).
8) Depending on the restaurant you choose, you may be required to use the famous Japanese chopsticks, known as Hashi. If for some reason you're not a big fan of chopsticks, try to learn before going through immigration. Practice as much before traveling as you can.
Be aware that in Japan you won't just eat sushi, there are thousands of foods that make Japanese cuisine one of the richest in the world. In Japan you eat a lot of rice, pasta, noodles, sweets and foods that you are used to, of foreign origin like pizza and sandwiches. The only thing you won't find easily is beans.
SOCIALIZING WITH JAPANESE
9) There is no tipping in any situation in Japan, such as taxis, restaurants and hotels. Some consider tipping to be insulting, the services you've requested are covered for the given price and you don't have to treat anyone.
10) Japan is famous for its hot springs, there are public baths all over the country, just be aware that you will need to be naked in the hot springs that are separated by sex. Unlike Western cultures, Japanese bathing is done after you have washed and rinsed yourself.
11 ) Japanese people generally believe that any tourist speaks English. School groups or even people alone on the street will greet you in English and ask where you are from. Many Japanese will insist on using their ability to speak English, however, language proficiency is usually limited for conversing with foreigners.
12 ) The crime rate in Japan is very low. It is relatively common to see executives sleeping on a park bench to wait for the next train or small children walking alone to school. This means that you don't have to be afraid of walking with valuables or money on the street.
In Japan you find vending machines scattered everywhere. Thirst you will never pass in Japan.
The article is still halfway through, but we recommend also reading:
TIPS TO ENJOY YOUR TRIP
13) Don't forget to buy the JR PASS if you plan to travel in several distant cities using trains. With this pass you can travel unlimitedly for a number of days, paying only an amount that can be much cheaper than buying individual tickets.
14) Don't forget to visit one of the 100 yen stores that are scattered throughout Japan. In these stores you can find absolutely everything for just 100 yen. You will probably fill a suitcase just with things bought in these wonderful stores. One of the most famous is called Daiso.
15) Always have the Google Maps app at your fingertips, it will help you find amazing places, catch trains and let you know if some places are open or closed. Prepare well for your trip, unforeseen can happen.
I hope you enjoyed the tips in this article. There are thousands of others facts you need to know about Japan, but I decided to write only 15 in this article so people don't get too lazy to read. don't forget your visa, accommodation and places you want to visit and have a nice trip! If you liked it share and leave your comments.
