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Every traveler visiting Japan should pay attention to the following cultural taboos to ensure a smoother and more comfortable travel experience in the land of the rising sun.
8 Cultural Taboos You Must Respect When Traveling in Japan
1. Walking on the Right Side
Although Tokyo is known as a bustling metropolis with a dense population, people here are very orderly. Pedestrians adhere to an unwritten rule of always walking on the left side. This also applies when using escalators in Japan. People typically stand on the right side, leaving the left side free for those in a hurry or with urgent matters.
2. Refraining from Mentioning Genitalia
Referring to genitalia, especially that of women, is a taboo that Japanese people never engage in. When traveling in Japan, it's best not to use the term 'Manko' (a vulgar Japanese term for genitalia). Instead, a Japanese person would refer to the 'lower part' by saying 'asoko,' meaning 'there,' accompanied by a subtle wink, and it's generally understood by everyone.
3. Physical Contact
If you think physical contact is one of the best ways to connect with people in Japan, you might be mistaken. This action could lead you to be seen as a 'hentai' (pervert).
Instead, when traveling in Japan, it's best to bow as a form of greeting, especially towards older individuals or those of higher status. Unlike Westerners, Japanese people don't shake hands, and certainly, there are no cheek kisses!
4. Leaving 'Tip Money'
Leaving tips in Japan only creates confusion. Whether it's after using a taxi service, dining in a restaurant, or receiving care from others, even if you 'accidentally' leave a few coins on the table, don't be surprised if you're chased down to return it, assuming you forgot your change.
5. Public Nose Blowing
If you're suffering from a cold or fever, it's considered impolite not to wear a mask when out and about. Blowing your nose in public is also frowned upon. It's best to excuse yourself to a restroom for such matters. Japanese people dislike witnessing nose blowing in public, or worse, seeing someone do it right in front of them.
6. Pouring Soy Sauce on White Rice
Even if you don't enjoy eating plain white rice, refrain from doing this in public or in front of chefs/restaurant owners... as they'll find it quite irritating. Of course, there's another workaround in this situation: you can pour soy sauce on other items like pickles (completely acceptable), eat them, and then have the rice.
7. Sitting Cross-Legged
In Japan, avoid sitting cross-legged even though it's considered normal and stylish. Instead, opt for 'seiza' style, a traditional sitting posture of the Japanese (originally invented to torture foreigners) for a proper demeanor. This involves sitting on your heels, and Japanese people appreciate this sitting style.
8. Eating on the Streets/Subway
While eating on the streets/subway may seem convenient, in Japan, it can be seen as disrespectful to the food and the people who prepare it. Generally, you're obligated to respect your food when traveling in Japan. Even if you're indulging in street food, you should eat it on the spot or take it home.
According to Matadornetwork.com
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Reference: Travel guide from Mytour
MytourJanuary 7th, 2016
