Mistakes to avoid when traveling to Japan

Japan is becoming an increasingly popular tourist destination for foreign visitors. However, this influx of travelers is sometimes accompanied by uncivilized, even intolerable, behavior towards the Japanese population. So, what should you be aware of to respect Japanese customs and rules of etiquette?

Desired behaviors:

• Removing your shoes is common practice when entering a temple, castle, or ryokan. Wear shoes that are easy to take off.

• Wear clothing that adequately covers your body, even in summer: modest attire is more appreciated when visiting a place of worship. Low-cut tops and shorts should be avoided.

• Speak quietly : especially on public transport. Talking on the phone is also prohibited there.

• Passing through train gates smoothly : make sure you always have enough money on your prepaid travel card or the correct ticket to insert into the slot.

• Queuing : to get on a train, in an elevator, or to wait outside a restaurant.

• Giving up your seat on the train : offer your seat to an elderly person, young children, or a pregnant woman. Japanese people don't automatically ask for a seat.

• Slip in a few words in Japanese like “konnichiwa” or “arigatô”, the Japanese appreciate it!

• Follow local rules : wash yourself before entering public baths (onsen) for example!

Things not to do in Japan:

• Do not take anyone's picture without permission, especially in traditional neighborhoods, and especially if they are children.

• Do not touch tree branches to take photos (such as cherry trees during “hanami” season), nor enter areas closed to the public.

• Be careful not to obstruct passage in the street or on the train, especially with a suitcase or backpack. Do not open your suitcase in the street or at the entrance to a train station.

• Do not sit on the steps in front of buildings or on bus stop benches, which are reserved for users only.

• Do not tip : the Japanese do not have this culture and will assume you are overpaying by mistake.

• Don't waste the food you order, especially if you're eating at an all-you-can-eat restaurant.

• Do not eat on the train , except on the Shinkansen.

• Do not open the taxi door yourself : these are usually equipped with an automatic opening system.

• Do not throw your rubbish just anywhere , or in a bin that is already full. It is common to keep rubbish all day to throw it away at home.

• Avoid large hugs and intimate gestures in the street with your travel companions. The same applies to any Japanese people you encounter.

• Don't smoke just anywhere , especially while walking in the street. Most cities have designated smoking areas. Some convenience stores (konbini) have ashtrays by the entrance. Smoking indoors is permitted in Japan, but be sure to check that the establishment allows it.

• Don't get angry or raise your voice, even if there's a problem. It's better to talk things through to find a solution.

Some behaviors are even illegal , such as carving bamboo in tourist areas or writing on torii gates, the iconic red gates of shrines. Generally speaking, use common sense : respect the rules of etiquette and be mindful of the people and places around you. The Japanese generally don't make disapproving comments, but they will be happy to advise you if you ask whether your actions are appropriate and respectful, allowing you to fully enjoy your trip.