Japan is a country celebrated for its rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and deep-rooted traditions. My first visit to Japan was an incredible experience, but I’ll admit, I learned some of these etiquette tips the hard way! From accidentally standing on the wrong side of an escalator to unknowingly breaking silence on a train, I quickly realized how important it is to adapt to local customs. Whether you’re wandering the serene streets of Kyoto, riding the Shinkansen, or exploring Tokyo’s bustling districts, understanding Japanese etiquette will not only enrich your experience but also help you show respect to locals. Here are the top five courtesies every traveler should know when visiting Japan, especially in public spaces, walkways, and on public transportation.
1. Stay Quiet on Public Transportation
Public transportation in Japan is almost eerily quiet compared to what many tourists might be used to. Whether you’re on a train, bus, or subway, it’s important to keep your voice down. Phone calls are considered impolite, and many commuters opt to use headphones or simply enjoy the quiet time. If you need to chat with your travel companions, keep the conversation hushed.
Pro Tip: You’ll notice signs reminding passengers to set their phones to “manner mode” (silent mode). Be sure to follow this custom to avoid disturbing others.
2. Stand on the Correct Side of Escalators
In most parts of Japan, there’s an unspoken rule about how to stand on escalators: stand on one side and leave the other side open for people in a rush. In Tokyo and eastern Japan, you stand on the left and walk on the right. However, in Osaka and much of western Japan, it’s the opposite—stand on the right and walk on the left.
Pro Tip: Watch the locals around you and follow their lead if you’re unsure. Consistency keeps things running smoothly and avoids confusion.
3. Don’t Eat or Drink While Walking
While street food is delicious and often tempting to eat immediately, it’s considered bad manners to eat or drink while walking in Japan. Locals believe it’s disrespectful and messy. Instead, find a designated area like a park bench or a standing table near a food stall to enjoy your snack.
Pro Tip: Vending machines are everywhere, but people often step aside and finish their drinks near the machine instead of walking away with them.
4. Mind Your Trash and Recycling
You’ll quickly notice that public trash cans are rare in Japan. This is because there’s a strong culture of taking your trash home. If you do find a trash can, it will often be separated into categories: burnable, non-burnable, and recyclables. Make sure to sort your waste accordingly.
Pro Tip: Carry a small plastic bag with you to store any trash until you find the appropriate place to dispose of it.
5. Respect Personal Space and Keep Walkways Clear
In crowded cities like Tokyo, the sidewalks and walkways can get very busy. It’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and avoid blocking foot traffic. Walk on the correct side of the sidewalk and avoid stopping suddenly, as it might inconvenience others.
Pro Tip: When waiting for public transportation, line up in an orderly fashion at the marked spots on the platform. Allow passengers to exit first before boarding.