Japan may be one of the most welcoming and peaceful countries on earth, but that doesn’t mean anything goes. Behind the country’s dazzling technology, efficient trains, and Michelin-starred ramen shops lies a deeply rooted culture of etiquette, respect, and social harmony. And while many visitors assume their intentions are enough, unknowingly violating these unspoken rules can earn you silent judgment—or worse, cold shoulders.
Unlike in some destinations where tourist missteps are brushed off as harmless, Japan places enormous value on subtlety and behavior. What might seem normal back home—like talking loudly on the phone or tipping your waiter—can come across as rude or disrespectful. The challenge? Locals will rarely call you out. Instead, you’ll simply be ignored, avoided, or met with a tight-lipped smile that hides quiet disapproval.
This guide lays out 22 common mistakes that foreigners make in Japan, especially first-timers. If you want to explore the country respectfully—and avoid being labeled as just another “clueless tourist”—this is your cheat sheet to doing it right. And it’s not just about avoiding offense—it’s about unlocking authentic connections that many travelers miss entirely.
Read here Things to know before visiting Japan and how to spend 36 Hours in Tokyo
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Quick Easy Tips
Always remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or certain restaurants. If slippers are provided, wear them.
Don’t talk loudly on public transport—or talk on your phone at all. Silence is golden in Japan.
Never stick your chopsticks upright in rice—it’s a funeral ritual. Rest them sideways on your chopstick holder.
Avoid tipping. It’s not just unnecessary—it can be seen as insulting.
Learn how to bow properly. A small nod can show enormous respect.
Respect personal space. Don’t hug or touch strangers casually, especially service workers.
Always line up in queues—whether for trains, escalators, or elevators.
Don’t eat while walking in the streets. It’s seen as sloppy and disrespectful.
Many tourists assume that Japan’s hospitality means their behavior will be forgiven or excused. But Japan’s cultural politeness often masks deep-rooted discomfort. Locals may not openly correct tourists, but that doesn’t mean misbehavior goes unnoticed. In fact, many Japanese people believe that tourists should make the effort to adapt—even if they are only visiting briefly.
Another widely misunderstood aspect is Japan’s obsession with cleanliness and quiet. In countries like the US, eating on the go or chatting loudly isn’t just accepted—it’s encouraged. But in Japan, those same actions are associated with a lack of self-discipline. This disconnect leads many Western tourists to unintentionally act in ways that clash with local expectations—and create resentment over time.
There’s also a growing sentiment among younger Japanese generations that tourism is becoming too intrusive. Over-tourism in places like Kyoto, for example, has led to quiet backlash—where locals avoid popular streets or set up rules specifically aimed at foreigners. Respect isn’t just a nice gesture in Japan—it’s a requirement for being welcomed as more than just a visitor.
Things not to do in Japan
1. Don’t Tip in Restaurants or Hotels
Why: Tipping is not customary in Japan and can even be seen as rude.
Tip: Instead, show appreciation by saying “Arigato gozaimasu” (Thank you very much). The service charge is typically included, so no tip is necessary.
2. Don’t Talk Loudly on Public Transportation
Why: Japanese public transportation is known for being quiet, with an emphasis on respecting others’ space.
Tip: Keep conversations at a low volume or wait until you’re off the train. Avoid making phone calls, as this is considered disruptive.
3. Don’t Wear Shoes Indoors
Why: In Japanese culture, it’s essential to remove shoes before entering someone’s home, certain temples, traditional inns, and some restaurants.
Tip: Look for cues like a row of slippers near the entrance or signage. It’s also a good idea to wear clean, hole-free socks.
4. Don’t Point or Gesture Directly with Your Finger
Why: Pointing is considered impolite in Japan, as it can come across as overly assertive.
Tip: Instead, gently wave your hand or nod in the direction you’re indicating. If you need to point to yourself, touch your nose rather than using your finger.
5. Don’t Eat or Drink While Walking
Why: Eating on the go is generally frowned upon in Japan, as they prefer eating mindfully and respectfully in designated areas.
Tip: If you buy street food, find a spot to stand or sit to enjoy it before continuing. Drinking water on the go is more acceptable, but avoid eating full meals while walking.
6. Don’t Blow Your Nose in Public
Why: Blowing your nose in public is considered impolite, and sniffing is generally preferred.
Tip: If necessary, discreetly step aside or into a restroom to blow your nose. You’ll notice many people wear face masks in public when they’re unwell to prevent spreading germs.
7. Don’t Leave Chopsticks Upright in Food
Why: Sticking chopsticks upright in a bowl resembles a funeral ritual and is seen as disrespectful.
Tip: When you’re not using chopsticks, rest them on the provided chopstick holder or on the side of a dish. Avoid passing food directly from one person’s chopsticks to another’s, as this also resembles a funeral ritual.
8. Don’t Open Your Own Taxi Door
Why: Japanese taxis have automatic doors that the driver operates for you, so it’s unnecessary and unexpected for passengers to open or close the doors themselves.
Tip: Wait for the driver to open the door when getting in and out. It’s part of the service.
9. Don’t Pour Your Own Drink When Socializing
Why: In Japan, it’s customary to pour drinks for others as a gesture of hospitality and politeness.
Tip: Pour drinks for others, and they’ll pour for you. Hold your glass up slightly when someone pours for you, and reciprocate the gesture.
10. Don’t Overuse “Sumimasen” (Excuse Me)
Why: While “sumimasen” is commonly used for “excuse me” or “sorry,” overuse can make your interactions seem hesitant or overly apologetic.
Tip: Use “sumimasen” when appropriate, but remember it’s okay to ask questions confidently. Also, “Arigato gozaimasu” (Thank you very much) can often replace it in casual situations.
11. Don’t Leave Trash Lying Around
Why: Japan is known for its clean public spaces, and littering is strongly frowned upon.
Tip: Trash cans are rare in public places, so carry a small bag for trash and dispose of it when you find a trash bin. Take recycling and waste disposal seriously, as Japan has strict guidelines.
12. Don’t Enter Hot Springs (Onsen) Without Washing First
Why: Cleanliness is a priority in Japanese bathing culture, and it’s essential to shower before entering an onsen or public bath.
Tip: Use the provided stools and handheld showers to thoroughly wash your body before soaking. Always enter the hot spring clean to respect others and the facility.
13. Don’t Hand Cash Directly to Cashiers
Why: When paying in stores or restaurants, handing cash directly can seem abrupt.
Tip: Place your cash on the small tray provided at the register. The cashier will then pick it up from the tray, and any change will be returned there as well.
14. Don’t Tip for Services
Why: Tipping isn’t part of Japanese culture and can sometimes be seen as confusing or offensive.
Tip: Instead, express gratitude verbally. Exceptional service is expected in Japan and doesn’t require an additional tip.
15. Don’t Be Late
Why: Punctuality is highly valued in Japan, and being late is seen as disrespectful.
Tip: Plan to arrive a few minutes early for meetings, reservations, or appointments. If you’re running late, try to inform the person waiting for you.
16. Don’t Point Feet at People or Objects
Why: In Japan, feet are considered the lowest part of the body, and pointing them at people or sacred objects is seen as disrespectful.
Tip: Sit with your feet flat on the floor, and avoid pointing them at others, especially in formal settings.
17. Don’t Wear Strong Perfumes or Fragrances
Why: Strong scents are uncommon in Japan and can be considered intrusive in close or shared spaces.
Tip: Opt for mild or no fragrance, especially if you’re in enclosed spaces like public transport, where sensitivity to smell is high.
18. Don’t Skip Queueing Etiquette
Why: Japanese people take queuing very seriously, and cutting in line is seen as disrespectful.
Tip: Follow the line, especially on escalators, where people stand on one side (usually left) and let others pass on the other.
19. Don’t Touch or Photograph Everything at Temples or Shrines
Why: Many items at temples and shrines are sacred, and photographing or touching them can be seen as disrespectful.
Tip: Look for signs or follow what locals are doing. Some areas prohibit photography, and it’s best to refrain from touching sacred objects unless permitted.
20. Don’t Blow Off Saying Goodbye Properly
Why: Proper farewells are important in Japanese culture and show respect for others’ time and company.
Tip: When leaving, give a polite bow and say “Arigato gozaimasu” (Thank you very much) or “Sayonara” (Goodbye). In business settings, a respectful exit is especially appreciated.
21. Don’t Walk on Tatami Mats in Shoes or Slippers
Why: Tatami mats are traditional Japanese flooring and must be kept clean, as they’re delicate and expensive to replace.
Tip: Always remove your shoes and, if applicable, indoor slippers before stepping onto tatami mats. Wear only socks or bare feet.
22. Don’t Publicly Display Affection
Why: Public displays of affection are rare in Japan and can make others uncomfortable.
Tip: Avoid hugs, kisses, and other forms of physical affection in public spaces. Holding hands is generally acceptable but modest displays are preferred.
Final Thoughts
Japan isn’t difficult to navigate—it just requires awareness. Learning and respecting local customs doesn’t take much time, but it makes a huge difference in how your experience unfolds. The more you blend in, the more you’ll be invited into the quiet magic of Japanese life.
Tourism shouldn’t be about acting like you own the place—it should be about appreciating that you’re a guest in someone else’s home. Japan is rich in traditions that reward respect with unforgettable moments, from silent temples to sushi bars where chefs serve you like family.
If you want more than a surface-level visit—if you want a truly immersive trip—start by not doing what most tourists do. That’s the real key to unlocking Japan’s hidden hospitality.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.
Andoryu
Monday 14th of April 2025
As someone who’s lived in Japan for 26 years, I’d like to add a bit of perspective.
#5 about not eating or drinking while walking seems to be one of those “rules” that gets exaggerated and recycled online. In reality, plenty of locals eat while walking, especially when it comes to things like convenience store snacks, coffee, or street food in festival areas. It's true that meals are usually eaten while seated, but grabbing a snack or drink on the go? Totally normal, especially in busy cities like Tokyo or Osaka. Ironically, it's often foreigners who follow this one to the letter because they've read it online.
As for #6 — allergy season is very real here, and you’ll see folks sniffing constantly during spring. Blowing your nose loudly on a crowded train might turn heads (except during allergy season), but stepping aside to use a tissue? No one bats an eye. It's more about discretion and awareness than a strict “no.”
Thanks for putting together the list — just wanted to clarify a couple things for those planning a visit.