平和の海

things you should never do in Japan

Overall, Japan’s legal system is built on principles of order, respect for individual rights, and social harmony. While Japan has a reputation for having strict laws, the country also places high importance on social welfare and environmental protection.

When visiting or living in Japan, there are certain cultural norms and behaviors that are considered disrespectful or inappropriate. Understanding these social taboos is important to ensure you show respect and avoid offending locals. Here’s a list of things you should never do in Japan:

1. Don’t Tip

• Why: Tipping is not a part of Japanese culture and can be seen as rude or confusing. In fact, excellent service is considered part of the job, and workers are paid to provide great service without expecting extra compensation.
• What to do instead: Simply pay the amount on your bill and thank the staff.

2. Don’t Point

• Why: Pointing at people or things can be considered rude in Japan. It’s seen as impolite and invasive of personal space.
• What to do instead: Use your hand to gesture gently toward something or, when appropriate, point with your entire hand held out (without a direct point).

3. Don’t Stick Chopsticks Upright into Rice

• Why: This is a common sight at funerals, as it resembles the act of incense being placed in an urn, and thus is associated with death. It’s considered highly disrespectful.
• What to do instead: Place your chopsticks horizontally across your plate or bowl when not in use.

4. Don’t Engage in Public Displays of Affection

• Why: Public displays of affection, like kissing or hugging, are generally considered inappropriate and uncomfortable in public spaces. It’s seen as an invasion of personal space.
• What to do instead: Be more reserved and private about romantic gestures, keeping them to more intimate settings.

5. Don’t Talk on the Phone in Public Places

• Why: Speaking loudly on the phone in public spaces such as trains, buses, or restaurants is considered disrespectful and inconsiderate of others.
• What to do instead: Keep phone conversations brief and quiet or, if necessary, step into a designated area, like a phone booth.

6. Don’t Point at Your Feet or Walk Around Barefoot Indoors

• Why: Japanese culture places high importance on cleanliness, and feet are considered dirty. It is customary to remove shoes before entering homes, temples, and some traditional places.
• What to do instead: Always remove your shoes when entering homes, certain public buildings, or temples. Wear socks or indoor slippers where provided.

7. Don’t Blow Your Nose in Public

• Why: Blowing your nose in public is seen as unhygienic and impolite. It’s considered more acceptable to sniff or discreetly wipe your nose with a tissue.
• What to do instead: If you need to blow your nose, do so in a private place like a bathroom. Carry a tissue if necessary.

8. Don’t Overly Compliment People

• Why: Excessive compliments can make people uncomfortable or seem insincere in Japan. People are often modest and do not expect praise for everyday actions.
• What to do instead: Be sincere and respectful when speaking to others without going overboard with praise.

9. Don’t Point Out People’s Mistakes Publicly

• Why: Publicly calling out or embarrassing someone is considered rude in Japanese culture. Preserving face and harmony is important in Japan.
• What to do instead: If you need to correct someone, do so privately and with tact.

10. Don’t Engage in Loud or Disruptive Behavior

• Why: Japanese society values calmness, peace, and consideration for others. Loud talking, laughing, or disruptions in public places are seen as inconsiderate.
• What to do instead: Maintain a calm demeanor and be mindful of noise, especially in enclosed public spaces like trains or buses.

11. Don’t Pass Food Directly from One Person’s Chopsticks to Another’s

• Why: This resembles a funeral custom where the bones of a deceased person are passed between family members using chopsticks. It’s seen as disrespectful and morbid.
• What to do instead: If you need to share food, place it on a plate first, or offer it directly to the person without passing it between chopsticks.

12. Don’t Point Out the "Obvious"

• Why: In Japan, it’s considered impolite to point out something obvious or to comment on a person’s appearance directly.
• What to do instead: Avoid pointing out physical features or making comments about someone's looks, as it could be embarrassing.

13. Don’t Engage in Political or Religious Discussions with Strangers

• Why: Japan tends to be conservative when it comes to politics and religion, and these topics are best avoided with unfamiliar people. Engaging in debates can cause discomfort.
• What to do instead: Keep conversations light, neutral, and culturally sensitive.

14. Don’t Bring Food or Drink into Temples and Shrines

• Why: Temples and shrines are sacred spaces in Japan, and eating or drinking in these areas is considered disrespectful.
• What to do instead: Visit temples and shrines with reverence, leaving food and drink outside the sacred grounds.

15. Don’t Forget to Bow

• Why: Bowing is an important part of Japanese etiquette, especially when greeting others or showing gratitude. Not bowing can be seen as a sign of disrespect.
• What to do instead: When meeting someone, show respect by bowing slightly. The depth of the bow varies depending on the level of respect or formality required.

16. Don’t Refuse a Gift

• Why: Refusing a gift can be seen as impolite or ungrateful. Japanese culture places great importance on gift-giving as a way to show respect.
• What to do instead: Always accept gifts graciously, even if you don’t need or want them. You can express your gratitude and appreciation in a polite manner.

17. Don’t Take Pictures Without Permission

• Why: Taking photographs of people without asking is considered rude, especially in private or sacred settings.
• What to do instead: Always ask for permission before photographing others, and respect signs or requests that prohibit photography.

18. Don’t Leave Food Behind

• Why: Leaving food on your plate is considered wasteful and disrespectful to the cook or host. In Japan, finishing all of your food is seen as a sign of respect.
• What to do instead: Try to take small portions if unsure about your appetite, and aim to finish everything served.

Being aware of these social norms and customs can help ensure you have a smooth, respectful experience while in Japan. Japanese culture places high value on manners, politeness, and respect for others, so adhering to these guidelines will help you avoid misunderstandings and build good relationships.