A quick cheat-sheet for things that surprise visitors.
🚶 Out & about
🥿 Take your shoes off
At homes, ryokan and some restaurants or temples, remove shoes at the entrance.
🗑 Carry your trash
Public bins can be limited. Carry your waste in a small bag until you find a clearly marked bin, or ask your accommodation staff where to dispose of it.
🍢 Avoid eating while walking
Some places frown on it. Eat near the shop where you bought it.
🚬 Smoke only in marked areas
Many streets ban smoking while walking. Smoke only at a marked smoking spot or room — this includes heated tobacco.
🚃 Trains
🤫 Keep quiet on trains
Avoid phone calls; set your phone to silent (“manner mode”).
💳 IC cards are handy
Tap Suica or PASMO for gates, buses and shopping.
🚶♂️ Line up and wait
Queue on platforms and at registers. Don’t cut in.
💴 Money
🪙 Keep some cash
Small shops may be cash-only. Withdraw at a convenience-store ATM.
🙅 No tipping
Tipping isn’t customary in Japan. No need to leave extra.
🧾 Pay on the tray
Place your money on the little tray at the register.
♨️ Bath & onsen
🚿 Wash before the bath
Rinse and wash before soaking. Don’t put your towel in the water.
🎨 Mind tattoos
Some baths refuse tattoos. Check ahead or book a private bath.
🍜 Dining
🍜 Slurping is OK
It’s fine to slurp ramen or soba — it isn’t rude.
🙏 “Itadakimasu”
Say “itadakimasu” before eating and “gochisousama” after.