15 things you need to know before traveling to Japan

Do you intend to travel to Japan but don’t know much about its culture and customs? In this article, we will share 15 things you need to know before traveling to Japan.

These tips will help you behave in the land of the rising sun and avoid common mistakes that tourists often make in this exotic country.

Respect and education in Japan

1) Bowing is nothing less than a form of art 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. It is not common to shake hands or hug, so be careful with how you intend to greet someone.

2) In addition to bowing, addressing someone correctly is essential. Japanese people use the suffix “san” at the end of people’s names to show respect, as if it were a kind of mister. Never forget to use these 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 phone on public transport like trains and buses or apologizing when bumping into or passing through people. Remember not to blow your nose in public or eat while walking.

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 special footwear to access these places, which usually have tatami flooring.

5) Sterilized masks, like the ones you see in the emergency room, are commonly used by Japanese people to protect others from their germs. If you catch a cold, be sure to wear these masks.

Japan tends to live collectively, unlike the West, which is quite individualistic. The respect and concern for others make the country organized, safe, and clean.

THINGS RELATED TO FOOD

6) If you are at a dinner and receive drinks, wait before drinking. Everyone will be served, and someone will take the lead, make a speech, raise their drink, and shout “Kampai!” (Cheers). Additionally, you will receive 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 wipe any part of your face.

7) Making noise while eating noodle soup is not rude; it is a sign that you are enjoying the food and that it is very tasty. Just before you start eating, whether at dinner or sampling in a supermarket, it is 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 are not very adept at using chopsticks, try to learn before going through immigration. Practice a lot before traveling, and you will manage.

Be aware that in Japan you will not only 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 PEOPLE

9) Tipping is not done in any situation in Japan, such as in taxis, restaurants, and hotels. Some consider receiving a tip an insult; the services you requested are covered by the set price, and you do not need to give any gratuity to anyone.

10) Japan is famous for its hot springs; there are public baths scattered throughout the country, just be aware that you will need to be nude in the baths that are separated by gender. Unlike Western cultures, the Japanese bath is taken after you wash and rinse yourself.

11 ) Japanese people generally believe that any tourist speaks English. School groups or even individuals 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, their command of the language 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 while waiting for the next train or small children walking alone to school. This means you do not need to be afraid of walking around with valuables or money on the street.

In Japan, you will find vending machines scattered everywhere. Thirst will never be a problem in Japan.

TIPS FOR ENJOYING YOUR TRIP

13) Don’t forget to buy the JR PASS if you plan to travel to various distant cities using trains. With this pass, you can travel unlimited 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 spread throughout Japan. In these stores, you can find absolutely everything for just 100 yen. You will probably fill a suitcase just with things bought from these wonderful stores. One of the most famous is called Daiso.

15) Always have the Google Maps app in your hands; it will help you find amazing places, catch trains, and inform you if some places are open or closed. Prepare well for your trip; unforeseen events can happen.