Japanese Etiquette You Should Know（Daily Life and Business）

Japan has many customs that are unique compared to other countries. If you're visiting Japan for travel, you don't need to know the details of these customs. However, if you are living and working in Japan, knowing these customs can be very helpful.
This article introduces Japanese etiquette.

[Daily Life] Unique Japanese Etiquette

First, let's introduce some Japanese etiquette related to daily life. Customs and manners regarding living and eating can vary from country to country. If you are living in Japan, you will likely have many opportunities to eat with Japanese people. Knowing and following these customs will help ensure everyone has a pleasant time.

Holding the Bowl While Eating

In Japan, it is common to hold certain dishes while eating. Not all dishes, but only the round bowls called "wan(碗)" that can be held by hand.

"Wan" is used for rice and miso soup. In many countries, people do not hold their dishes while eating, but in Japan, not holding your bowl is considered "bad manners."
If you're unsure which dishes to hold and which not to, observe and imitate the people around you.

Try Not to Leave Food Uneaten

In Japan, it is considered good manners to not leave food uneaten. When eating from a shared dish, only take as much as you can eat. Although Japanese restaurant portions are generally smaller compared to foreign dishes, some restaurants serve large portions. To avoid leaving food uneaten, it’s better to order a smaller portion in advance.

Keep Quiet on Public Transportation

When using public transportation like trains, buses, and airplanes, try to keep quiet. Conversations are not banned, but talking loudly is not good. It is better to speak in a low voice. Talking continuously on the phone is also not good.
Additionally, on short-distance buses and trains, try to avoid eating and drinking. It is acceptable to eat bento on long-distance trains like the Shinkansen or on tourist buses, but avoid strong-smelling foods.

Take off Your Shoes When Entering a House

In Japan, you must take off your shoes at the entrance when entering a house.
While you can enter stores, workplaces, or hotels with your shoes on, there are places where you need to take off your shoes. In some places, entering barefoot is not good. Especially when entering someone's house, be sure to wear socks.

[Business] 5 Unique Japanese Etiquette Tips

Be Early (5 Minutes Early)

In Japan, starting on time is expected. So, always be punctual for work. Although "being early" is a bit vague, try to act 5 minutes early. For example, if you have an appointment at 10:00 AM, be at the meeting place by 9:55 AM. For work, arrive at the company in time to start working at the start of the working hours.
If you are going to be late for an appointment, inform them as soon as possible.

No Body Touching or Handshakes

In Japan, body touching is rare in business settings. Body touching can make the other person uncomfortable and may even be considered harassment, so it is better not to do it. For handshakes, respond if the other person offers a handshake.

Business Card Exchange

Business card exchange is the act of giving a business card to introduce yourself to someone you meet for the first time in business. A business card includes your name, phone number, email address, and position.
There is a specific flow to business card exchange:

1. Always exchange business cards with both hands.
2. Greet and state your name, then hand over your card at a lower height than the other person's card.
3. When receiving a card, say "Choudai shimasu" (Thank you/I'll take it).
4. Place the received card on the upper left side of the table from your perspective, on top of your "meishi-ire" (business card holder).
5. After the meeting, place the card in your "meishi-ire" and take it with you.

Seating Etiquette (Upper Seat and Lower Seat)

In Japan, there is etiquette for seating positions.

• Upper seat (kamiza): The seat farthest from the entrance.
• Lower seat (shimoza): The seat closest to the entrance.

The higher the person's status, the higher seat they take.

In the case of a car, the seat behind the driver's seat is the upper seat, and the front passenger seat is the lower seat. Since this is unique to Japan, if you're unsure, just ask, "Where should I sit?".

Summary

Etiquette is in place to ensure everyone present can have a pleasant time. Just as every country has its own etiquette, Japan has its own customs and manners.
By understanding these, you can build good relationships both in daily life and at work. It's also recommended to use books or websites about Japanese customs and manners written in your native language.