Staying in a vacation rental in Tokyo, like KAGURA HOUSE, offers a unique way to experience Japan. Understanding a few key Japanese etiquette rules can make your stay more enjoyable and respectful, helping you connect with the local culture. Here’s a guide to essential Japanese etiquette tips for your Tokyo vacation!
1. Greetings and Bowing
What to Know: Bowing is a fundamental part of Japanese culture, symbolizing respect. While a small nod is acceptable for travelers, understanding the significance of bowing can go a long way.
Tips: If someone bows to you, a slight bow in return shows respect. A handshake may be appropriate in business settings but isn’t as common in everyday interactions.
2. Shoes On and Off
What to Know: Japanese homes, traditional accommodations, temples, some restaurants, and even store changing rooms require you to remove your shoes.
Tips: Look for a rack or storage area at entrances, and use the provided slippers if available. In changing rooms, be mindful of the area designated for shoes and avoid stepping onto the main space with them on. This attention to detail shows respect for cleanliness and local customs.
3. Public Transportation Etiquette
What to Know: Japanese trains are known for their quiet, orderly environment, but crowded spaces can make managing luggage challenging, especially for foreign travelers.
Tips: If you have a large suitcase, consider using a courier service like Kuro Neko YAMATO to send it ahead to your next destination—this can make your travels much easier and more enjoyable. For those using the bullet train (shinkansen), try to reserve seats that offer extra space behind them for luggage storage. Additionally, keep conversations low, avoid phone calls, and be mindful of reserved seating areas, particularly for elderly or disabled passengers.
4. Dining Manners
What to Know: In Japan, certain dining customs are important to follow, such as not sticking chopsticks upright in rice (considered disrespectful).
Tips: Use the end of your chopsticks when taking food from shared dishes. Additionally, slurping noodles is common and shows appreciation! When drinking with others, it’s customary to wait for everyone’s glass to be filled and then say “kanpai!” (cheers) together before taking your first sip.
5. No Tipping Culture
What to Know: Tipping is not a part of Japanese culture, and attempting to tip may even cause confusion or embarrassment.
Tips: You can expect exceptional service wherever you go without the need for a tip. Instead, show appreciation by saying Gochisousama deshita (Thank you for the meal) to the staff after a meal, a phrase expressing gratitude for the food and service. This simple gesture is highly valued in Japan and resonates more than a standard “thank you.”
6. Politeness with Language
What to Know: Japanese people highly value polite language, even in casual interactions.
Tips: Simple phrases like “Arigato” (Thank you) and “Sumimasen” (Excuse me / Sorry) are greatly appreciated. Adding a polite “gozaimasu” to “arigato” can elevate your respect.
7. Respecting Personal Space
What to Know: Japan’s busy city life doesn’t mean closeness in personal space; people tend to maintain distance.
Tips: Avoid physical contact like hugs or touches unless initiated. In public places, respect people’s space by keeping an arm’s length where possible.
8. Taking Photos Respectfully
What to Know: Photography is generally welcomed in Tokyo, but always be cautious about taking photos of people or inside temples and shrines.
Tips: If in doubt, ask politely with a simple “Shashin wo totte mo ii desu ka?” (May I take a photo?). Avoid photography where “no photos” signs are displayed.
Respecting these etiquette tips will help make your stay at KAGURA HOUSE, a Tokyo vacation rental, more enjoyable. By showing understanding and respect for local customs, you’ll enrich your experience and leave a positive impression on those you meet along the way.
