8 Must-Know Rules Before Your Trip to Japan

Japan is a highly popular tourist destination, attracting millions of travelers each year. To ensure a smooth journey in this land of cherry blossoms, there are some important things to keep in mind beforehand to avoid unnecessary hassle!

1. Escalator Etiquette and Cautions

When using escalators, remember to stand on the left and move to the right if you wish to pass quickly. Japanese adhere to this rule quite strictly as they see it as a polite gesture to those around them. Be sure to follow these rules and take your time!

2. Smoking Allowed Anywhere

If you're a smoker, Japan allows smoking almost anywhere, which is quite different from countries like Singapore. Interestingly, despite respecting personal space, Japanese have a habit of smoking everywhere, even in upscale restaurants. So if you're sensitive to the smell of cigarettes, ask restaurant staff for a non-smoking area or learn a bit of Japanese to politely request nearby smokers to extinguish their cigarettes.

3. No Biking Allowed in Parks

In Japan, you can bike almost anywhere except in parks. Just take a few spins in a Japanese park and you'll be promptly honked at and asked to leave. Therefore, the serene cherry blossom-lined paths in Japanese parks are strictly reserved for pedestrians.

4. Japanese Never Accept 'Tips' from Customers

Never immediately offer tips to a well-serving staff member, as tipping in Japan can be seen as offensive. So, never leave any loose change with the bill like in other countries' restaurants.

5. No Garbage Bins on the Streets

It's hard to spot a garbage bin on most streets in Japan. Japanese streets are kept clean, although public garbage bins are rare. If you need to dispose of something, instead of searching for a bin, wrap it up and wait to dispose of it at your hotel.

6. Convenient Payment Methods

In Tokyo, it's customary not to hand money directly to restaurant or clothing store staff but to place it in the small tray beside them. If you still want to hand it directly, especially when using a credit card, use both hands and nod gently to show respect.

7. Eating and Drinking on Trains

Eating and drinking on trains is generally acceptable in this bustling country. However, never talk loudly on the phone or cause disturbance on the train. Most Japanese keep their phones on silent mode when using this mode of public transport.

8. No Pushing with Hands

Japanese people have a very orderly queuing habit and avoid pushing or shoving. When the train is overcrowded, if you have to push, you should only do so lightly with your shoulder or back, never with your hands. And in this case, don't forget to say 'Sumimasen' (excuse me) to show respect.

As per Fodors

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Reference: Travel Guide by Mytour