You’ll feel different when you visit Japan. You can feel like a ‘gaijin,’ the sole foreigner in a large crowd. Or you can be the only person in a tiny town. You should therefore learn some basic Japanese etiquette.
Japanese culture is characterized by a strict etiquette, and there are many unwritten rules. You can step over these easily if you behave as you would at home. You’re given a “gaijin’s pass” so that you don’t have to be aware of these rules. However, they will still look oddly at you if you do.
They may still be impressed by your knowledge.
It was certainly the case when I visited Japan. Even my most pathetic attempts to speak the language or ‘fit in’ were met by warmth and encouragement.
Japanese Etiquette tips to follow
I’ve got a few tips on how to act Japanese even if you aren’t.
1. Sit down while you’re eating
It may be common to eat on the go or grab your coffee and bagel for a walk in Japan, but it could get you some attention. Most people eat where there is a seat. So when I and my companions ate prawn Tempura while standing up, without any empty seats to be seen, it might have attracted attention as well as my strange hair color. This is not rude at all, but it’s simply not acceptable.
It’s also not acceptable to eat on the seat of a bus or subway. Only Japan Rail trains seem to allow eating while in transit (book your Japan Rail Pass here), where you can get a bento in the station, and then eat at a table during your trip.
You will enjoy the food more if you take your time. Now is the perfect time to travel!
2. Begin your meal with “Itedakimasu!”
Itedakimasu literally translates to “I humblely receive”. It’s an expression of gratitude to those who contributed to the preparation and creation of the meal , from the cultivation to the cooking. It is important to observe this Japanese tradition.
When you receive chopsticks with a single use, you should say “Itedakimasu!” as you separate them. Be careful of the splinters. Gochiosama deshita – Thank you for the good meal, finishes off. If you want to let the chef know that you liked the meal, “Oishi Desu Yo!” – “It is delicious!” – will always be well received.
3. Chopsticks can be used for eating. Period.
When you read about the etiquette of using chopsticks in Japan, this can be a little intimidating.
Here is the easiest way: Eat only with chopsticks.
Put them to one side when you are not eating. Do not use them as a pointer, stab in food or rice. Do not play or rub with them. You should be fine if you just eat them with and then put them away when not in use.
Your new Japanese friends will be very impressed if you can use chopsticks to eat.
4. Fill up your friend’s cup
Japanese never let their cup empty. That’s why the occasional guy with a crumpled-up suit will be passed out in a late night subway.
Japanese custom dictates that you should always fill your drinking partner’s cup with tea, sake, or beer. So, if he or she is running out, it’s perfectly acceptable to top him up. But be warned. You will be treated the same way, as sake isn’t for beginners.
You can stop getting a drink if you are drunk. Just put your hand on the glass or flip your cup. If you do this, then be prepared to get some ribs. But at least it will keep you from being the man on the platform.
5. This word is a good one to learn: “Sumimasen”
It’s easy for Canadians and possibly the British to say “Sumimasen” instead of saying “Sorry”.
“Sumimasen” means ‘excuse my’ and it is a great word for navigating any Japanese situation.
People in the train? ‘Sumimasen‘. You don’t even know what you are going to do? ‘Sumimasen. English? Want to order something? Sumimasen… It works even with Japanese tourists in foreign countries. It’s brilliant.
It is rare that you will not need to be able to use a phrase like’sorry,’ or even ‘excuse’. I have found it to help diffuse situations and open doors.
The Japanese are a very polite society, and their etiquette is no exception. In Japan, it is important to show politeness at all times.