USI

Japan has its own unique set of customs.

One of the most prominent of these is the custom of removing your shoes before entering the home. While observing the customs of another culture may feel uncomfortable at times, it is all part of the overseas travel experience. In keeping with the saying "When in Rome, do as the Romans do," please try to observe Japanese customs during your time in Japan.
See it as an opportunity to improve yourself and gain new perspective on your home country by learning about another culture. Since ancient times, the Japanese people have welcomed visitors with great hospitality. As a visitor, you can make your trip to Japan more enjoyable and memorable by respecting the customs of your hosts.

WHAT TO DO AND NOT TO DO

Take your shoes off at the front door or before stepping into a room.

Bow when greeting somebody especially if its the first time you meet.

Make way for those in a hurry by standing to the left on escalators.

Refrain from using your mobile phone on trains or buses.

Do not speak loudly in public places.

Do not smoke while walking.

Smoke only in designated smoking areas. Note that smoking while walking is an offence for which you may be fined in some parts of Japan.

Join the end of the line, even if you are in a hurry to reach your destination. Jump the queue only in emergencies.

When crossing the road, look both ways and cross at the lights or pedestrian crossing.
Note that cars travel on the left-hand side of the road in Japan.

Stand behind the yellow line when waiting for a train.
Once the train arrives, allow passengers to disembark before boarding.

Give your seat on the train to elderly passengers without a seat by standing up and saying the word 'Douzo.' (please)

Lift your bowl off the table when eating.

Use both hands to serve alcohol when drinking with somebody you' re meeting for the first time.

Never use the oshibori to clean your facem just the hands !

If you do not know how to use well chopsticks ask for a spoon, in case of sushi you can eat with your fingers if you are with friends

Never put the chopsticks standing in the rice bowl ! it is something horrible that japanese reserve only for the offers to the dead.

Never scratch nor blow your nose in public, go to the toilet to do it !

Wash well and make sure that you are clean before getting into a public bath (hot spring) and do not put your towel in the bath.

Some hotel room amenities may be taken home and others may not.
Please check with the hotel staff.

There is no need to tip at hotels or restaurants in Japan