Please read this guide, including the extra links, before your visit to Japan. You may also find it helpful to reread while you are in Japan as needed.
1. Japanese Customs & Etiquette
- Bowing – A common way to greet and show respect.
- Shoes Off Indoors – Required in many places, including temples, traditional restaurants, and some hotels.
- Cash Culture – While credit cards are accepted in big cities, many small shops and restaurants still prefer cash.
- No Tipping – Tipping is not expected and can even be considered rude.
2. Transportation & Navigation
- IC Cards (Suica/Pasmo) – Essential for trains, subways, and even convenience stores. You can buy a physical card at the airport before boarding the train. If you prefer using an app, check out Apple Wallet
- Buses & Taxis – Some buses require boarding from the back and paying upon exit. Taxis have automatic doors—let the driver open them for you!
3. Dining & Food Culture
Food Allergies & Dietary Restrictions – Japan is still adapting to food allergies and dietary restrictions, as these concepts are more common in the U.S. than in Japan. Many dishes use fish stock (dashi), even in vegetable-based meals.
⚠️ Most traditional restaurants cater only to those who appreciate their food as it is, so they may not accommodate special requests. However, with the rise of tourism, some places are becoming more flexible. If you have dietary restrictions, it’s best to research ahead and plan accordingly.
4. Cultural Experiences & Sightseeing
- Temples & Shrines – Follow proper etiquette, such as cleansing your hands at the entrance and avoiding photos in restricted areas. More details: Shrine & Temple Etiquette
- Onsen (Hot Springs) Rules – Shower before entering the communal bath, and note that tattoos may not be allowed in some places. Also, be sure to remove your slippers and place them in the designated shoe shelves before stepping into the changing area. More details: Onsen Etiquette
- Ryokan (Traditional Inn) Rules – Staying in a ryokan is a unique experience with specific customs. Read this guide to understand proper etiquette: Ryokan Etiquette
- Toilet Slippers – Many traditional homes, ryokan, and some restaurants provide special slippers for the toilet area. You are expected to change into these when using the toilet, as the floor is considered unclean. Be sure to switch back to regular slippers after leaving!
5. Practical Tips
- Pocket WiFi/SIM Cards – Public WiFi can be unreliable or slow. Renting a pocket WiFi or getting a SIM card is useful, though I personally don’t use one.
- Trash & Recycling – Trash bins are rare in public spaces, so you may need to carry your trash with you until you find a proper disposal area.
- Plugs & Voltage – Japan uses Type A plugs (same as the U.S.), but the voltage is 100V, which may affect some devices.