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E X P E R I E N C E S I S S U E 2 3
DINING ETIQUETTE
If you are eating out in Japan—
and we certainly recommend you
try the local cuisine—there are
certain customs to adhere to.
Try not to use your chopsticks to
point or to pass food. Ensure they
rest on the chopstick rest
provided, not next to your plate
or bowl. Clean your hands with
the towel provided before you
eat. Wait until everyone has
received their beverage before
you take a sip.
BRING SHOES YOU CAN
EASILY SLIP ON AND OFF,
AND WEAR WITH SOCKS.
Because you will probably be
doing quite a bit of walking,
comfortable shoes are necessary.
When you visit traditional or
religious sites, and even some
restaurants, it is customary to
remove your shoes or slip into
communal slippers. Many
travellers like to wear socks
with slip on shoes to easily
navigate this.
TRY NOT TO EAT WHILE WALKING
Considered particularly rude, you won't find many people in Japan who eat while walking. Sometimes you will
see someone consume a drink from next to the vending machine or a snack just outside the convenience store,
but eating on the go is definitely something to avoid.
LANGUAGE
It is helpful to have a few local phrases up your sleeve before you visit.
Konnichiwa – hello, Sayonara - goodbye, Arigatou gaozaimasu – thank you,
Sumimasen – excuse me, Kanpai - cheers.
