25 Japanese Rules That Will Confuse Foreigners

3. Bowing

Bowing is a common gesture in Japan, and it is used to show respect, gratitude, or apology. There are different types of bows depending on the situation, ranging from a casual nod of the head to a deep bow at a 90-degree angle.

4. Eating etiquette

In Japan, there are many rules when it comes to eating. For example, it is considered impolite to eat or drink while walking, and slurping noodles is actually a sign of enjoying the food. Also, it is customary to say “itadakimasu” (I humbly receive) before starting a meal and “gochisousama deshita” (thank you for the meal) after finishing it.

5. No blowing your nose in public

Blowing your nose in public is considered impolite in Japan. Instead, people use handkerchiefs or tissues to wipe their nose discreetly.

6. No talking on the phone on public transport

Talking on the phone on public transport, such as trains or buses, is frowned upon in Japan. This is to avoid disturbing other passengers, and it is considered more polite to use text messaging or email.

7. No eating or drinking on the street

In Japan, it is not common to eat or drink while walking on the street. This is to avoid littering and maintain cleanliness.

8. Chopstick etiquette

Using chopsticks in Japan requires some skill and knowledge of etiquette. For example, it is considered rude to point chopsticks at someone, pass food from chopstick to chopstick, or leave them sticking upright in a bowl of rice.

9. No blowing out candles

Blowing out candles on a birthday cake is not a common practice in Japan. Instead, it is customary to clap hands or sing “Happy Birthday” together.

10. No public displays of affection

Public displays of affection, such as hugging or kissing, are not common in Japan. This is because Japanese culture values modesty and privacy.

11. No littering

Littering is considered a serious offense in Japan, and there are strict laws and fines for it. Japanese people take pride in keeping their streets and public spaces clean.

12. No taking pictures of certain places

Some places in Japan, such as temples or shrines, prohibit photography. This is to respect the religious and cultural significance of these sites.

13. No wearing shoes in certain areas

In addition to removing shoes inside homes and certain restaurants, there are also places in Japan where shoes are not allowed, such as traditional Japanese inns or hot springs.

14. No using mobile phones in certain places

In some places, such as theaters or concert halls, the use of mobile phones is not allowed. This is to avoid disturbing other people’s enjoyment of the performance.

15. No smoking on the street

Smoking on the street is not allowed in many parts of Japan. Instead, there are designated smoking areas where people can smoke without disturbing others or littering.

16. No wearing shoes on tatami mats

Tatami mats are a traditional Japanese flooring made of woven straw. It is considered impolite to walk on them with shoes on, as it can damage the delicate surface.

17. No eating on the train

Eating on the train is not common in Japan, especially during rush hour. This is to avoid spilling food or disturbing other passengers.

18. No honking

Honking is considered impolite in Japan, and drivers rarely use their horns unless it is an emergency. This is to avoid disturbing the peace and causing unnecessary noise pollution.

19. No jaywalking

Jaywalking, or crossing the street outside of designated pedestrian crossings, is strictly enforced in Japan. This is to ensure the safety of pedestrians and drivers.

20. No wearing shoes in dressing rooms

In Japanese clothing stores, there are usually separate dressing rooms where customers are expected to remove their shoes before trying on clothes. This is to keep the dressing room clean and hygienic.

21. No pointing

Pointing at someone or something with your finger is considered impolite in Japan. Instead, it is common to use hand gestures or verbal cues to indicate something.

22. No haggling

Haggling over prices is not common in Japan, especially in retail stores. Prices are usually fixed, and attempting to negotiate can be seen as rude or disrespectful.

23. No touching produce in supermarkets

In many Japanese supermarkets, customers are not allowed to touch or pick up produce with their hands. Instead, they use plastic gloves or tongs to select the items they want to buy. This is to maintain the freshness and cleanliness of the food.

24. No taking a bath without washing first

In Japanese hot springs, or onsen, it is customary to wash your body thoroughly before entering the communal bath. This is to maintain cleanliness and hygiene, as the water is shared by many people.

25. No interrupting

Interrupting someone while they are speaking is considered impolite in Japan. It is important to listen patiently and wait for your turn to speak.

Conclusion

Japan’s culture and traditions are unique and fascinating, but they can also be difficult to understand for outsiders. These 25 rules may not make sense to foreigners, but they are an integral part of Japanese society and should be respected. By learning and following these customs, visitors can gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of Japan’s rich heritage.