Bowing Respectfully: Greet people with a bow as a sign of respect. A nod is suitable for casual encounters, while a deeper bow is appropriate for more formal situations.
Shoe-Off Tradition: Remove your shoes when entering homes, traditional inns (ryokan), and some restaurants. Utilize the indoor slippers provided.
"Sumimasen" Courtesy: Use "sumimasen" to get someone's attention, ask for help, or apologize. It's a versatile phrase that demonstrates politeness.
Chopsticks Etiquette: Avoid sticking chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice, as it resembles a funeral ritual. Place them on a chopstick rest.
"Itadakimasu" and "Gochisousama deshita" Expressions: Before and after meals, use "itadakimasu" to express gratitude for the food and "gochisousama deshita" to thank the host or cook.
Quiet in Cultural Spaces: Maintain a quiet demeanor in museums, galleries, and cultural venues to appreciate exhibits and respect others' experiences.
Public Transport Courtesy: Keep conversations hushed and be respectful of other passengers while using public transportation like trains and buses.
Respectful Photography: When photographing people, especially in public areas, ask for permission to capture moments with consideration.
Temple and Shrine Etiquette: Observe purification rituals before entering temples or shrines and be aware of the sacred nature of the space.
Responsible Trash Disposal: Dispose of trash properly in designated bins and carry a small bag to collect waste until you locate a bin.