Great service but no tipping allowed – Foreign media compiles '10 things not to do in Japan'

▲ Japanese people value etiquette. Whether you like it or not, adapting to local customs is a basic form of courtesy. (Photo / Darzee / Illustration)

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

Japan is a fascinating country, and just one visit can make you realize there are many unspoken rules here. Whether you like it or not, adapting to local customs is a basic form of courtesy.Foreign mediahave compiled a list of 10 things to be mindful of when visiting Japan—see if you've ever unknowingly stepped on any cultural landmines.

1. Chopstick Etiquette
Like in other cultures, don't stick your chopsticks upright into a bowl of rice or use them to pass food directly from one pair of chopsticks to another—both actions are considered highly impolite.

2. Change into Indoor Slippers Indoors
When visiting someone’s home in Japan, always remember to take off your shoes at the entrance, place them neatly, and then change into indoor slippers. This rule applies to most places like guesthouses, temples, schools, and hospitals.

3. Queue Up Properly
The orderly nature of Japanese society is one of its hallmarks. Whether at bus stops or train platforms, passengers are expected to queue up neatly within designated waiting lines.

4. Don’t Eat or Drink in Public Casually
Japanese people generally avoid eating or drinking casually in public spaces unless it’s at small food stalls selling street snacks. Eating is also prohibited on public transportation, though long-distance trains are an exception.

▲ There are many rules for onsen (hot springs) in Japan—you don’t wear swimsuits, must tie up your hair, and avoid letting your towel touch the water. (Photo / Reporter Cai Wenjun)

5. Onsen (Hot Spring) Culture
Before entering the bath, make sure to thoroughly clean your body. There are more rules in the hot spring itself: no swimsuits, hair must be tied up, and towels shouldn’t touch the water. Also, people with tattoos are usually not allowed in the baths.

6. Don’t Blow Your Nose in Public
If you have a cold, blow your nose in the restroom or a private space, and wear a mask to avoid spreading germs to others.

▲ Unlike in the U.S. where tipping is customary, Japan offers excellent service but has no tipping culture—leaving even a small amount of money may be seen as offensive. (Photo / Darzee / Illustration)

7. Don’t Leave a Tip
Unlike in the U.S. where tipping is customary, Japan offers excellent service but has no tipping culture—leaving even a small amount of money may be seen as offensive.

8. Keep Your Phone on Silent in Public
Japanese people are quiet and orderly. When riding subways or other forms of public transport, keep your phone on silent and avoid speaking loudly.

9. Don’t Point at People or Objects
Pointing at people or objects with your finger is considered rude. If you must indicate something, use a subtle gesture instead of waving your finger around.

10. Receive Items with Both Hands
Whether you’re being handed a business card or anything else, try to receive it with both hands as a sign of respect. In shops or cafés, it’s common to place your payment on the small tray near the cashier rather than handing it directly to them.