Osaka

1. Polite Conduct in Public Places

Osaka is known for its lively and outgoing culture, but there are still important rules of conduct to follow in public spaces:

General Behavior

• Be mindful of personal space: While Osaka locals are more relaxed and friendly compared to other parts of Japan, it’s still important to respect personal space, especially in crowded areas like trains or shopping streets.
• Keep noise levels low: Avoid speaking loudly on public transportation or in quiet areas. Talking on the phone on trains is considered rude.
• Queueing: Always line up in an orderly fashion when waiting for trains, buses, or at stores. Look for marked lines on the ground at train platforms.
• Escalator etiquette: In Osaka, people stand on the right side of the escalator and walk on the left (this is opposite to Tokyo, where people stand on the left).

Trash and Recycling

• Carry your trash: Public trash bins are rare in Japan, so carry a small bag to store your trash until you find a proper disposal area.
• Sort your waste: Recycling is taken seriously. Learn the local rules for separating burnable, non-burnable, and recyclable items.

Public Transportation

• Priority seating: Reserved seats on trains and buses are for the elderly, pregnant women, people with disabilities, and those with small children. Avoid sitting in these seats unless you qualify.
• No eating or drinking: Eating on public transportation is generally frowned upon, though it’s acceptable on long-distance trains like the Shinkansen.

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2. Dining Etiquette

Osaka is often referred to as "Japan's Kitchen" (天下の台所, Tenka no Daidokoro) due to its rich food culture. Dining out is a major part of life here, and there are specific customs to follow:

Before Eating

• Say "Itadakimasu": This phrase means "I humbly receive" and is said before starting a meal as a sign of gratitude.
• Remove your shoes: If dining in a traditional restaurant with tatami mats, you’ll need to remove your shoes before entering.

During the Meal

• Chopstick etiquette: Never stick chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice, as this resembles a funeral ritual. Avoid passing food directly from one pair of chopsticks to another, as this also mimics a funeral custom.
• Slurping noodles: It’s perfectly acceptable (and even encouraged) to slurp noodles loudly, as it shows appreciation for the food.
• Sharing dishes: If sharing food, use the opposite end of your chopsticks (the end you don’t eat with) to pick up food from communal plates.

After Eating

• Say "Gochisousama deshita": This phrase means "Thank you for the meal" and is said after finishing your meal.
• Tipping: Tipping is not customary in Japan and can even be considered rude. Excellent service is expected as part of the dining experience.

Costs

• Dining out in Osaka can range from affordable street food (¥500–¥1,000 for takoyaki or okonomiyaki) to high-end restaurants (¥5,000–¥10,000+ per person). Budget-friendly options like conveyor-belt sushi (kaitenzushi) or izakayas (Japanese pubs) are great for experiencing local cuisine without overspending.

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3. Cultural Norms for Greetings

Osaka locals are known for their warmth and humor, but traditional Japanese politeness still applies:

Bowing

• Bowing is the standard greeting in Japan. A slight bow is sufficient for casual interactions, while a deeper bow shows respect in formal situations.
• Handshakes are rare but may be accepted in business settings, especially with foreigners.

Greetings

• "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).
• "Sumimasen" (すみません): Excuse me or sorry; also used to get someone’s attention.

Osaka Dialect (Osaka-ben)

• Locals in Osaka often speak in a regional dialect called Osaka-ben, which has a friendly and casual tone. For example:
  • "Ookini" (おおきに): Thank you.
  • "Nandeyanen" (なんでやねん): A humorous way of saying "What are you talking about?" or "No way!"

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4. Local Traditions and Festivals

Osaka has a rich cultural heritage, and participating in local events is a great way to connect with the community:

Key Festivals

• Tenjin Matsuri (天神祭): Held in late July, this is one of Japan’s most famous festivals, featuring boat processions, fireworks, and traditional performances. Admission is free, but food and souvenirs can cost ¥500–¥2,000.
• Osaka Castle Cherry Blossom Viewing: In spring, locals gather to enjoy hanami (flower viewing) under the cherry blossoms. Bring your own food and drinks for a picnic.
• Shinsekai Summer Festival: A lively street festival in the Shinsekai district with food stalls, games, and performances.

Costs

• Many festivals are free to attend, but you may want to budget for food, drinks, and small purchases (¥1,000–¥3,000 per event).

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5. Recommendations for Practicing Customs

To better understand and practice Osaka’s customs, consider visiting the following places:

Cultural Sites

• Osaka Castle: Learn about the city’s history and samurai culture.
• Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine: A beautiful Shinto shrine where you can observe traditional rituals.
• Osaka Museum of Housing and Living: A recreated Edo-period town where you can experience traditional Japanese life.

Community Spaces

• Kuromon Ichiba Market: Practice polite shopping etiquette while sampling local delicacies.
• Dotonbori District: A lively area to experience Osaka’s food culture and interact with locals.
• Local Izakayas: These casual pubs are great for mingling with locals and practicing Osaka-ben.

Workshops and Classes

• Tea Ceremony Classes: Learn the art of Japanese tea ceremonies, which emphasize respect and mindfulness.
• Cooking Classes: Take a class to learn how to make takoyaki or okonomiyaki, two of Osaka’s signature dishes.

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6. Final Tips

• Be open and friendly: Osaka locals are known for their humor and warmth, so don’t be afraid to engage in lighthearted conversations.
• Learn a few phrases in Osaka-ben: This will endear you to locals and show your interest in their culture.
• Respect traditions: Even though Osaka is more relaxed than other parts of Japan, traditional Japanese values like respect, cleanliness, and politeness are still deeply ingrained.

By following these guidelines, you’ll not only navigate Osaka with ease but also build meaningful connections with its people and culture. Enjoy your time in this incredible city!