If you’re traveling to Japan, it can be extremely helpful to learn at least a few key points when it comes to Japanese etiquette (and taboos).

Japanese people are extremely polite and welcoming (one of the best things about visiting Japan), but many travelers worry about accidentally offending them by saying or doing the wrong thing.

While it’s natural to have this concern, an important thing to keep in mind is that Japanese people don’t expect you, as a traveler, to know all of their customs and manners.

As long as you act kindly and with respect, you’ll fit right in – even if you do make an etiquette mistake (or two) once in a while!

That being said, making a little effort can go a long way, and Japanese people are extremely appreciative when travelers make the effort to learn their customs.
We hope the etiquette tips below help you get more out of your trip to Japan – and by following them, you’ll be sure to impress Japanese people along the way!

Originally written in 2014, this post was updated and republished on August 13, 2020.

For a fascinating up-close look at Japanese manners in action, we recommend Terrace House: Boys & Girls in the City, a Japanese television show on Netflix.

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