The golden rule: don't disturb others
Japanese politeness rests on not causing trouble for those around you. Most of the rules follow from this.
In public spaces
- On trains and the metro, quiet - phone on silent, conversations hushed.
- Eating „on the go” is generally avoided; you eat next to the shop or vending machine.
- You often carry your rubbish with you - bins are scarce, yet everything stays spotless.
- Stand on the right side of the escalator (on the left in Tokyo, on the right in Osaka).
Shoes, homes and temples
In a ryokan, many restaurants and temples you take off your shoes. Watch for a threshold and a raised floor - that's the signal „take them off here”. There are sometimes separate toilet slippers (and remember to take them off on the way out!).
Money and gestures
- Money and cards are handed over on a tray at the till, not directly into the hand.
- A slight bow instead of a handshake is a safe default gesture.
- There's no tipping - an attempt to give one can cause embarrassment.
Temples and shrines
At Shintō shrines there's a water-purification ritual at the entrance; at Buddhist temples keep quiet and don't take photos where it's prohibited.
💡 No one expects perfection from a guest - the effort and attentiveness alone are received very warmly.