Rules & Etiquette
Most of it is common sense. A few things aren't obvious — those are worth knowing.
Japan isn't strict in the way people expect. Nobody will lecture you. But breaking unwritten rules creates friction — and following them makes your trip noticeably smoother.
This isn't an exhaustive list. It's the things that actually come up.
Trains & public transport
Stay quiet
No phone calls. Keep music inaudible. Conversations in a low voice. It's not a rule — it's just what everyone does.
Priority seats
Pink seats near the doors are for elderly, pregnant, or disabled passengers. Sit elsewhere if possible. On crowded trains, give them up without being asked.
Don't eat on local trains
Fine on Shinkansen. On city subways and local trains, it's frowned upon. Drinks in closed containers are usually acceptable.
Backpacks go on the shelf or in front
Take your backpack off and hold it in front of you or place it on the overhead shelf. It takes up space and hits people otherwise.
Queue at the marked spots
Platforms have painted lines showing where to stand. Everyone lines up. Join the queue, don't push through.
Temples & shrines
Purify your hands at the entrance
Use the water basin (temizuya) at shrine entrances. Scoop water with the ladle, rinse both hands, then your mouth. Not mandatory, but respectful.
Bow slightly when entering a shrine gate
A small, natural bow at the torii. Nobody expects deep formality from tourists, but the gesture is noticed.
Be quiet inside
Temples are active religious spaces, not just photo backdrops. Lower your voice. Put the phone down for a moment.
Photography restrictions vary
Many interiors prohibit photos. Look for signs or follow what other visitors do. When in doubt, ask.
Onsens
Shower before entering the bath
This is the central rule. Sit at the shower station, wash thoroughly, rinse off completely. Only then get in the communal bath.
No towels in the water
Small towels are for modesty and drying only. Fold them on your head or set them aside. They don't go in the bath.
No swimwear in traditional onsens
Traditional onsen baths are nude. This is non-negotiable in most places. Some tourist facilities offer swimwear options — check in advance.
Tattoo policies vary
Many onsens prohibit visible tattoos. Some tourist-facing facilities now allow them. Check before you go if this applies to you.
Keep the noise down
Onsens are for relaxation. Loud conversations, splashing, or running aren't welcome.
Eating & drinking
Don't eat while walking
Eating on the street is uncommon and mildly frowned upon — except at festivals or in specific food market areas. Eat at a bench or inside the shop.
Say "itadakimasu" before eating
Optional for tourists, but appreciated. It's a brief acknowledgment before a meal. Just a small moment.
Don't tip
Tipping is not done in Japan. Leaving money on the table can confuse or embarrass staff. Good service is the standard — no additional payment expected.
Slurping noodles is fine
Unlike in most Western countries, slurping ramen or soba is normal and even signals enjoyment.
Chopstick basics
Don't stick chopsticks upright in rice (funeral connotation) and don't pass food chopstick-to-chopstick (same reason). Use the serving end to take from shared dishes.
General behaviour
Trash goes with you
Public bins are rare. You're expected to carry your rubbish and dispose of it at your accommodation or a convenience store bin.
Walk on the left
Escalators: stand on the left, walk on the right (except in Osaka where it's reversed). Sidewalks: keep left.
Take off shoes when asked
At many traditional restaurants, ryokans, temples, and some homes, shoes come off at the entrance. A step up in the floor usually signals this.
Queuing is taken seriously
Lines form and are respected — at stations, restaurants, convenience stores, everywhere. Don't cut.