Japanese Politeness: Why Manners Matter and How to Navigate

When traveling to Japan, you’ll quickly notice that politeness is more than just a formality—it’s a deeply ingrained part of daily life. While it might seem like extra effort at first, understanding and respecting Japanese manners will not only make your trip smoother but also help you better connect with the people around you. But why do manners matter so much in Japan? And what should you watch out for as a traveler? Let’s break it down.

Respect for Others: The Heart of Politeness

In Japan, one of the main reasons politeness is so important is the emphasis on showing respect for others. Whether it’s in a casual setting or a business environment, being considerate of other people’s feelings and space is a top priority.

For example, on public transportation, people avoid talking on their phones or speaking loudly to not disturb others. In busy places like Tokyo, where space is often tight, being mindful of how your actions affect others is key.

Tip for travelers: Keep your voice low in public, especially in places like trains and restaurants. You don’t need to be completely silent, but being mindful of the noise around you will help you fit in more naturally.

Small Gestures Mean a Lot

You don’t need to memorize an entire set of etiquette rules to be polite in Japan. Often, it’s the small gestures that make a big difference. Saying “sumimasen” (excuse me) when you bump into someone or “arigatou” (thank you) when someone helps you is enough to show that you’re making an effort.

In fact, you’ll probably hear “sumimasen” a lot during your trip. It’s a versatile word that can be used to apologize, to thank someone, or even to get someone’s attention. In many cases, people will appreciate that you’re trying to be polite, even if you don’t get everything exactly right.

Tip for travelers: Don’t be afraid to use simple phrases like “sumimasen” or “arigatou.” They’ll go a long way in showing that you respect the local customs.

Eating and Drinking Etiquette

Japan has a few unique rules when it comes to eating and drinking, and it’s worth paying attention to these during your trip. For example, eating while walking is generally frowned upon unless you’re in a designated area, like a festival or a food stall area. In restaurants, it’s common to call out “sumimasen” to get the server’s attention, rather than making eye contact or waiting for them to come over. This may feel strange at first, but it’s perfectly acceptable and often expected.

Tip for travelers: If you’re eating street food, find a nearby bench or stand by the food stall to finish your meal. And don’t be shy about calling out for the server with a polite “sumimasen” when you need something! See also below!!

Dining Etiquette in Japan: A Guide to Polite Eating

Bowing: Simple and Effective

Bowing is a key part of Japanese culture, but as a foreigner, you don’t have to worry too much about mastering it. A small nod of the head is usually enough in casual settings. The deeper the bow, the more formal the occasion, but you’ll mainly see this in professional or very formal environments.

Tip for travelers: If someone bows to you, a polite nod back will usually suffice. It’s a simple gesture that shows you’re acknowledging the cultural norm.

Trash and Cleanliness: Keep it Tidy

You might notice that Japan has very few public trash cans, yet the streets are incredibly clean. This is because people typically take their trash home with them or find a convenience store or designated area to dispose of it. Keeping public spaces tidy is a collective responsibility, and you won’t see people littering or leaving their trash behind.

Tip for travelers: Carry a small bag with you to hold any trash until you find a place to dispose of it. It’s common to keep wrappers, empty bottles, and other waste with you until you return to your hotel or find a trash bin in a convenience store.

Public Transportation Etiquette

Japan’s public transportation system is efficient and widely used, but it comes with its own set of unspoken rules. As mentioned earlier, talking on the phone is a big no-no, and conversations should be kept at a low volume. Additionally, it’s considered impolite to take up too much space—whether it’s with large bags or by spreading out on seats.

Tip for travelers: If you’re carrying luggage, try to avoid peak commuting hours and store your bags in designated areas on trains. Also, if you’re sitting and a train gets crowded, be mindful of those standing and make space when necessary.

Gifts and Thoughtfulness

Japan has a culture of gift-giving, and while you won’t be expected to give gifts as a tourist, it’s helpful to understand the custom. Small, thoughtful gifts (called omiyage) are often given to show appreciation or respect. If you’re visiting a friend or meeting someone for the first time, bringing a small token from your home country can be a great way to make a positive impression.

Tip for travelers: While not required, bringing a small gift or souvenir from your home country for a local host can go a long way in showing appreciation.

Conclusion: Embrace the Culture, Enjoy the Journey

Politeness in Japan is less about following a strict set of rules and more about showing consideration for others. By being mindful of your actions and making small efforts to respect the local customs, you’ll find that people in Japan are incredibly welcoming and accommodating to foreigners.

So, while you might not need to bow perfectly or understand every nuance of Japanese manners, a little bit of thoughtfulness will take you a long way in enjoying the culture and making your trip to Japan even more memorable.