Tokyo Japan: Cultural Tips
Whenever you’re visiting a foreign country, it’s always good to research some cultural norms before going. Being respectful and courteous of that country’s values is essential to presenting yourself and your own country well. Going to Japan, this is especially important because they are a peaceful and serene society with many unique cultural norms. Here’s a list of a few cultural tips to keep in mind before your visit to Japan:
1. Volume is key: One of the most interesting things about Japan is that you’ll be in a bustling metro station or busy interchange and it’s quiet, like everyone is whispering. It’s not silent by any means, but it’s as though everyone is collectively speaking in a low murmur which makes for some eerie metro rides. Everyone talks in a hushed tone and there is definitely no shouting. This is a good time to point out that voice volume is definitely something that us Americans have to be cognizant of. Even if you think you’re talking quietly, your volume might even be too loud. This just requires you to make an extra effort to being courteous and conscious of your volume.
2. No tipping: In Japan, they do not tip. Some people might actually get offended if you leave extra money behind on the table. So even if you have an amazing experience and your server goes above and beyond—you must resist the urge to tip! Once the server returns with your change, be sure to collect all your coins! We felt a little weird at first by not leaving a tip but tried to make ourselves feel better by saying thank you a thousand times at every restaurant.
3. Know a few Japanese phrases: Japanese is a hard language to master and the best I could do was learn a few phrases beforehand, and if all else failed, I pulled up google translate. In my experience, it’s good to know a few key phrases to be polite or help start conversation. In my opinion, it’s always good to make an effort to learn some of the country’s language in order to show you are at least trying. Here are a few phrases that we used A LOT while in Japan:
· Konnichiwa – Hello
· Arigatou Gozaimasu – Thank you (or for short: Arigatou)
· Doumo – Thanks / Okay (We also said this a lot when leaving restaurants)
· Douzo – Please
· Gomen Nasai – I’m sorry
4. Don’t eat and walk: Japan is a very clean city and there is absolutely no littering. On that note, it is very uncommon to eat while walking through the streets. When you’re eating food, it implies that you will have trash and there are not many trashcans on the streets, so it’s not typical to take your food on the go. While there weren’t any signs on the streets that stated it was against the law, these were just norms and things we learned and noticed while being here.
5. Follow all signs and traffic laws: While this one might be an obvious one rule, I still find it’s important to stress. In Japan, they are a very respecting culture, therefore they are very much a rule following society.
During our time in Tokyo, everyone was patiently waiting in lines and would not cross the street unless told. For example, at short-cross walks, people would be patiently waiting even when there wasn’t a car in sight. As Americans, we would definitely just walk across the short crossing especially if there wasn’t a car anywhere. So, it was pleasantly surprisingly—and surreal, to see so many people waiting patiently before crossing the mere 5 feet gap to the other side.
This is by no stretch an entire field guide on Japanese culture. Like many cultures and norms they are complex and nuanced but if you are a foreigner and try your best to be kind and courteous you will be just fine. These were just a few things we encountered during our visit and helped us be more culturally sensitive. I think that knowing these cultural norms can help make your trip as easy-going and seamless as possible.
