- Bow or nod lightly when greeting, entering/leaving places, thanking, or apologizing
- Use basic Japanese phrases like "Arigatou gozaimasu" (thank you) and "Sumimasen" (excuse me/sorry)
- Handshakes can occur with those accustomed to Western norms, but bowing is most appreciated
- Dress modestly in public, covering shoulders and avoiding overly tight clothing—especially if pregnant or visiting religious/cultural sites
- Speak quietly in public spaces (trains, buses, shops)
- Keep phones on silent or "manner mode"
- Join queues in an orderly fashion—common for trains, elevators, restaurants, shops
- Wait for passengers to exit before boarding a train or bus
- Dispose of trash properly, sorting into burnable/non-burnable/plastic/cans when designated
- Carry a small bag to hold trash until finding an appropriate bin
- Arrive early (5–15 minutes) for appointments, reservations, or tours
- Notify others if running late
- Wear a mask if coughing, sneezing, or showing cold-like symptoms
- Follow local mask norms for allergies or illness prevention
- Smoke only in designated areas or smoking rooms
- Carry a portable ashtray if smoking outside is permitted
- Carry enough cash in small bills; many shops, restaurants, and temples only accept cash
- Place money on the provided tray at cash registers
- Say "Arigatou gozaimasu" for good service
- Explore traditional experiences like capsule hotels, onsen, or local coffee/tea shops to immerse in culture
| - Overdo the bow or combine bowing with a handshake simultaneously
- Initiate physical contact (e.g., hugs, casual kisses) unless you know it's appropriate
- Wear revealing outfits in places expecting conservative attire (temples, rural areas, formal events)
- Talk loudly on trains or buses, play music/videos without headphones, or make non-urgent phone calls
- Cut in line, ignore queue markers, or rush the doorway before people exit
- Litter in streets or assume trash cans will be readily available
- Show up late or unannounced without apologizing or giving notice
- Cough or sneeze openly without a mask in crowded areas
- Smoke while walking or in non-smoking zones
- Discard cigarette butts on the ground
- Assume all places accept credit cards
- Publicly count change in a way that suggests mistrust of vendors
- Tip in the usual Western manner or insist if staff refuse
- Overly rely on global chains like Starbucks when local equivalents offer rich experiences
| Foreigners aren't expected to master bowing depth/duration, but a simple bow or nod shows respect. Physical contact is far less common than in some Western cultures. |
