Kobe

1. Greetings and Social Interactions

In Japan, including Kobe, greetings are an important part of social etiquette. Here’s what you need to know:

Bowing

• Bowing is the standard way to greet someone in Japan. The depth and duration of the bow depend on the level of respect you wish to convey.
  • A slight bow (about 15 degrees) is common for casual greetings.
  • A deeper bow (30-45 degrees) is used for formal situations or to show respect.
• Handshakes are less common but may be used when interacting with foreigners. If a handshake occurs, it is usually light and brief.

Polite Language

• Use polite phrases when greeting:
  • "Ohayou gozaimasu" (おはようございます) – Good morning (formal).
  • "Konnichiwa" (こんにちは) – Good afternoon.
  • "Konbanwa" (こんばんは) – Good evening.
  • "Arigatou gozaimasu" (ありがとうございます) – Thank you (formal).
• Avoid addressing people by their first name unless invited to do so. Use their last name followed by -san (e.g., Tanaka-san) as a sign of respect.

Practical Tips

• If you’re unsure about bowing, follow the lead of the person you’re greeting.
• Avoid overly casual or loud greetings, as they may come across as disrespectful.

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2. Dining Etiquette

Dining in Kobe is a delightful experience, especially with its world-famous Kobe beef and local delicacies. However, there are specific customs to follow:

Before the Meal

• Say "Itadakimasu" (いただきます) before eating. This phrase expresses gratitude for the food.
• If dining at a traditional restaurant, you may be given a hot towel (oshibori) to clean your hands before the meal.

During the Meal

• Use chopsticks properly:
  • Do not stick chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice, as this resembles a funeral ritual.
  • Avoid passing food from chopstick to chopstick, as this also mimics a funeral custom.
  • Rest your chopsticks on the provided holder (hashioki) when not in use.
• Slurping noodles (e.g., ramen or soba) is acceptable and even seen as a sign of enjoyment.
• Sharing dishes is common in group settings. Use the opposite end of your chopsticks (the end you don’t eat with) to take food from shared plates.

After the Meal

• Say "Gochisousama deshita" (ごちそうさまでした) to thank the host or staff for the meal.
• Tipping is not customary in Japan. Instead, show your appreciation by saying thank you.

Practical Tips

• Kobe beef meals can range from ¥5,000 to ¥20,000 or more, depending on the restaurant. Budget accordingly.
• Many restaurants in Kobe have English menus, but learning a few food-related Japanese phrases can be helpful.

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3. Public Behavior

Japanese society places a high value on harmony and consideration for others. Here are some key points to keep in mind when in public:

Quietness and Respect

• Keep your voice low in public spaces, such as trains, buses, and restaurants.
• Avoid talking on your phone in public transportation. If you must take a call, step outside or find a private area.

Queuing

• Form orderly lines when waiting for trains, buses, or at stores. Look for marked areas on train platforms indicating where to stand.

Trash Disposal

• Public trash bins are rare in Japan. Carry a small bag with you to store your trash until you find a proper disposal area.
• Recycling is taken seriously. Separate your trash into categories (e.g., burnable, non-burnable, plastic).

Practical Tips

• Public transportation in Kobe is efficient and punctual. A one-way train ride within the city typically costs ¥200-¥400.
• Consider purchasing an IC card (e.g., ICOCA) for convenient travel on trains and buses.

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4. Visiting Local Sites

Kobe is home to many cultural and historical attractions, such as the Kobe Port Tower, Kitano Ijinkan (Western-style houses), and the Arima Onsen hot springs. Here’s how to navigate these sites respectfully:

Temples and Shrines

• When visiting shrines, bow once before entering the torii gate.
• At the purification fountain, rinse your hands and mouth using the ladle provided. Do not drink directly from the ladle.
• When praying, toss a coin into the offering box, bow twice, clap twice, and bow once more.

Onsen (Hot Springs)

• Wash your body thoroughly before entering the communal bath.
• Do not bring towels or soap into the bath itself.
• Tattoos may not be allowed in some onsen. Check the rules beforehand or look for tattoo-friendly establishments.

Photography

• Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or private property.
• Photography may be restricted in certain areas, such as inside temples or museums. Look for signs indicating whether it’s allowed.

Practical Tips

• Entrance fees for temples and museums in Kobe typically range from ¥300 to ¥1,000.
• Wear comfortable shoes, as you may need to remove them when entering traditional buildings.

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5. Additional Considerations

• Gift-Giving: If you’re invited to someone’s home, bring a small gift, such as sweets or a souvenir from your home country. Present it with both hands and say, "Tsumaranai mono desu ga" (つまらないものですが)", which humbly means, “This is just a small gift.”
• Seasonal Events: Kobe hosts several festivals, such as the Kobe Luminarie in December and the Kobe Jazz Street in October. These events are great opportunities to experience local culture but can be crowded, so plan ahead.

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Summary of Practical Tips

• Language: Learn basic Japanese phrases to show respect.
• Costs: Budget for meals, transportation, and entrance fees (¥200-¥20,000 depending on the activity).
• Behavior: Be quiet, polite, and mindful of local customs.
• Transportation: Use an IC card for convenience and follow queuing etiquette.
• Dining: Follow chopstick etiquette and avoid tipping.

By following these guidelines, you’ll not only show respect for Kobe’s culture but also enhance your experience in this beautiful city. Enjoy your visit!