Tokyo

1. Greetings and Introductions

• 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 is sufficient for casual interactions, while a deeper bow is used for formal occasions.
  • Tip: If someone bows to you, it’s polite to bow back. Avoid overdoing it; a simple, respectful bow is enough.
• Handshakes: While bowing is the norm, handshakes are becoming more common in business or when interacting with foreigners. If you do shake hands, keep it light and avoid prolonged eye contact.
• Exchanging Business Cards: If you’re in a professional setting, exchanging business cards (meishi) is a formal ritual. Use both hands to present and receive cards, and take a moment to examine the card you receive before putting it away respectfully.

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2. Dining Etiquette

• Chopstick Use:
  • Never stick chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice, as this resembles a funeral ritual.
  • Avoid passing food from one pair of chopsticks to another, as this also mimics a funeral custom.
  • Use the opposite end of your chopsticks (the clean end) to take food from shared dishes.
• Slurping: It’s acceptable and even encouraged to slurp noodles (like ramen or soba) as it’s seen as a sign of enjoyment.
• Saying Thanks: Before eating, say “Itadakimasu” (I humbly receive) to show gratitude for the meal. After finishing, say “Gochisousama deshita” (Thank you for the meal).
• Paying the Bill: In most restaurants, you’ll pay at the register rather than at the table. Splitting the bill is uncommon, so one person usually pays, and others reimburse them later.
• Tipping: Tipping is not customary in Japan and can even be considered rude. Excellent service is the standard, and no extra payment is expected.

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3. Public Transportation Behavior

• Quietness: Public transportation in Tokyo is remarkably quiet. Avoid talking loudly, and set your phone to silent mode (known as “manner mode”).
• Priority Seats: Priority seats are reserved for the elderly, pregnant women, people with disabilities, and those with small children. Even if the train is crowded, avoid sitting in these seats unless you qualify.
• Queuing: When boarding trains, form orderly lines at the designated spots on the platform. Allow passengers to exit before entering.
• Eating and Drinking: Eating and drinking on trains are generally frowned upon, except on long-distance trains like the Shinkansen (bullet train).
• Personal Space: Tokyo trains can be extremely crowded, especially during rush hours. Be mindful of personal space and avoid pushing or shoving.

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4. Taboos and Things to Avoid

• Pointing: Pointing at people or objects with your finger is considered impolite. Instead, gesture with your whole hand or nod in the direction of the object.
• Shoes Indoors: Always remove your shoes when entering someone’s home, traditional accommodations (like ryokan), or certain restaurants. Slippers are often provided.
• Blowing Your Nose in Public: This is considered rude. If you need to blow your nose, do so discreetly in a restroom or private area.
• Touching: Physical contact, such as hugging or patting someone on the back, is uncommon in Japan, especially with strangers or acquaintances.
• Trash Disposal: Public trash bins are rare in Tokyo, so carry a small bag for your trash and dispose of it at home or in designated areas.

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5. Shopping and Payment Customs

• Handling Money: When paying, place your money or credit card on the small tray provided at the register instead of handing it directly to the cashier.
• Gift-Giving: If you’re giving a gift, present it with both hands. Avoid giving gifts in sets of four, as the number four (shi) is associated with death.

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6. General Cultural Norms

• Punctuality: Being on time is highly valued in Japan. Whether it’s a social meeting or a business appointment, aim to arrive a few minutes early.
• Respect for Rules: Tokyo is a city of rules, and people generally follow them. For example, don’t jaywalk, and always wait for the pedestrian light to turn green.
• Photography: Be mindful when taking photos. Avoid photographing people without their permission, and respect signs that prohibit photography, especially in temples, shrines, and certain shops.
• Queuing: Whether at a train station, a store, or an elevator, always queue in an orderly fashion. Cutting in line is considered very rude.

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7. Visiting Temples and Shrines

• Purification Ritual: At Shinto shrines, you’ll often find a purification fountain. Use the ladle to pour water over your hands and rinse your mouth (spit the water out discreetly, not into the fountain).
• Praying: At a shrine, bow twice, clap your hands twice, and bow once more after making your wish or prayer.
• Shoes: Remove your shoes when entering temple buildings or certain shrine areas.

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8. Practical Tips for Adapting

• Learn Basic Phrases: While many people in Tokyo speak some English, learning a few basic Japanese phrases can go a long way. For example:
  • “Arigatou gozaimasu” (Thank you very much)
  • “Sumimasen” (Excuse me/I’m sorry)
  • “Eigo o hanasemasu ka?” (Do you speak English?)
• Carry Cash: While credit cards are increasingly accepted, many smaller establishments still prefer cash. ATMs in convenience stores like 7-Eleven are foreigner-friendly.
• Be Patient: Tokyo is a bustling city, but people are generally polite and patient. If you’re unsure about something, don’t hesitate to ask for help.

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By following these guidelines, you’ll not only avoid common faux pas but also show respect for Japanese culture, which will be greatly appreciated by locals. Enjoy your trip to Tokyo!