Japanese Etiquette and Cultural Norms

As the saying goes, ‘When in Rome, do as the Romans do.’ Welcome to the fascinating world of Japanese culture! Japan is a place where ancient traditions seamlessly blend with the modern world. It’s known for its unique customs and manners, and understanding these cultural norms isn’t just interesting; it’s essential for anyone planning to visit or work in Japan. In this article, we’ll explore the basics of Japanese etiquette and how they shape daily life in this beautiful country. 

A Quick Jump To…

• Respect and Politeness
• Public Behaviour
• Visiting Someone’s Home
• Business Etiquette
• Dining Etiquette
• Onsen Etiquette
• Useful Japanese

Respect and Politeness

Central to Japanese culture is 敬語 keigo, or “respectful language,” which is integral to communication and reflects the societal emphasis on hierarchy and respect.

Keigo is divided into three main categories: 丁寧語 Teineigo, or polite language, used commonly to show general politeness through polite verb endings; 尊敬語 Sonkeigo, or respectful language, which elevates the status of the listener or a third person and is often used in professional settings through special respectful verbs; and 謙譲語 Kenjougo, or humble language, where the speaker lowers themselves to show respect, especially used when referring to one’s own actions or those of someone in one’s group to someone in a higher position. 

Understanding and correctly using these forms of keigo can be challenging, but mastering them is seen as a sign of cultural fluency and respect in Japan. 

Alongside the verbal expressions of respect, physical gestures like bowing play a significant role. The depth and duration of a bow vary depending on the situation, ranging from a casual nod to a deep bow in more formal or sincere settings.

Some examples of useful phrases for mastering Japanese interaction:

1. こんにちは Konnichiwa – This is a polite way to say “hello” or “good afternoon” when meeting someone.
2. ご挨拶申し上げます Goaisatsu moushiagemasu – This is a formal expression used to offer greetings or give your regards.
3. お疲れ様でした Otsukaresama deshita – This is often used to thank someone for their hard work or to acknowledge their efforts.
4. 失礼いたします (失礼致します) Shitsurei itashimasu – This phrase is used before leaving a meeting or someone’s presence to politely excuse oneself.
5. お願い申し上げます Onegai moushiagemasu – This is a respectful way to make a request or ask for a favor.

Public Behaviour

Japan is known for its serene and orderly public life. Silence is golden in public transportation, and it’s common to see people speaking quietly on their phones or refraining from phone calls altogether. Also, unlike many Western cultures, eating or drinking while walking is generally frowned upon, as it is seen as a distraction from the respectful enjoyment of food.

Visiting Someone’s Home

When entering a Japanese home, it’s customary to remove your shoes, symbolising leaving the outside world behind. 

Upon entering, you can express your gratitude and respect by saying お邪魔します Ojamashimasu, which directly translates to “I hope I’m not bothering you,” but carries the same meaning as “Thank you for having me.” This phrase reflects the Japanese value of humility and appreciation for the warm welcome extended to guests.

When presented with a gift during your visit, it’s polite to receive it with both hands and express your thanks. However, it’s considered impolite to open the gift in front of the giver. Instead, wait until later to open and enjoy it. 

Additionally, during your visit, you’ll likely be offered tea or a small snack. It’s customary to accept these offerings as a sign of politeness and to engage in light conversation with your host. Showing respect, gratitude, and humility are key aspects of Japanese social customs when visiting someone’s home.

Business Etiquette

In Japan, business cards, or 名刺 Meishi, are exchanged with great reverence. When receiving a card, use both hands and take a moment to read it before carefully storing it away. 

In addition to these nuances of card exchange, punctuality is of the utmost importance in Japanese business etiquette. Being late is not considered a minor inconvenience but rather a sign of disrespect that can have a significant negative impact on professional relationships. Understanding and adhering to these practices is crucial for fostering successful business relationships in Japan. Punctuality is paramount in business – being late is considered disrespectful and can harm professional relationships.

Dining Etiquette

Chopstick etiquette is crucial in Japan. Avoid actions like sticking chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice, as this resembles a funeral ritual. Before starting a meal, it’s customary to say いただきます itadakimasu (I humbly receive) and to thank the host or chef with ごちそうさまでした gochisousama (thank you for the feast) after eating.

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Onsen Etiquette

Japanese onsens (hot springs) are a haven of tranquillity. Before entering the bath, thoroughly wash and rinse your body. Remember, the water in the bath is for soaking, not for washing. While enjoying the onsen, maintain a peaceful environment and respect others’ space.

Onsen Etiquette and Tattoo-Friendly Options

A common concern among visitors to Japan is the acceptance of tattoos in onsens. Traditionally, many onsens have policies against tattoos, but this is changing. At some onsens, everyone is welcome, regardless of whether they have tattoos. The hot springs are tattoo-friendly, ensuring that all guests can enjoy a relaxing experience.

To accommodate guests with tattoos, many onsens provide options for covering them. You can use bandages or tattoo seals (タトゥー隠しシール) to conceal your tattoos while enjoying the onsen.

While soaking in the onsen, it’s crucial to maintain a peaceful environment and respect others’ space. Be mindful of noise levels and avoid disturbing fellow bathers. By adhering to these practices, you can fully immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere of Japanese onsens, ensuring a relaxing experience for everyone.

If you’re exploring Japan and looking for tattoo-friendly onsen options, consider visiting other welcoming locations. Several onsens across Japan are open to guests with tattoos, allowing everyone to partake in this quintessential Japanese experience. For a broader exploration of Japan during your stay, you can find more suggestions and information on tattoo-friendly onsens.

You might also wanted to know: 

Honorific (尊敬語):

• いらっしゃる irassharu – to come (used for the listener)
• おっしゃる ossharu – to say (used for the listener)
• なさいます nasaimase – to do (used for the listener)
• なさる nasaru – to do (used for the listener)
• ご利用になる go riyō ni naru – to use (used for the listener)

Humble (謙譲語):

• 伺う ukagau – to go (used for the speaker)
• 申し上げる mōshiageru – to say (used for the speaker)
• 差し上げる sashiageru – to give (used for the speaker)
• ご案内する go annai suru – to guide (used for the speaker)
• ご多忙の折 go tabō no ori – when you are busy (used for the listener)

Polite (丁寧語):

• です desu – auxiliary verb indicating politeness
• ます masu – auxiliary verb indicating politeness
• ございます gozaimasu – auxiliary verb indicating politeness
• させていただきます sasete imorai masu – to do (polite and humble form)
• いただきたい itadakitai – to receive (polite form)

Example Sentences:

• かしこまりました。本日はどうぞよろしくお願いいたします。Kashikomarimashita. Honjitsu wa dōzo yoroshikuonegaītashimasu. – Understood. Thank you for your time today.
• 先生はいつもお忙しいところ、お時間をいただきありがとうございます。Sensei wa itsumo o isogashī tokoro, o jikan o itadaki arigatōgozaimasu. – I know you’re always busy, but thank you for taking the time to meet with me.
• こちらの商品は、おいくらになりますか。Kochira no shōhin wa, o ikura ni narimasu ka. – How much does this item cost?
• 明日、お電話を差し上げます。Ashita, o denwa o sashiagemasu. – I will call you tomorrow.
• ご意見をいただき、ありがとうございます。Go iken o itadaki, arigatōgozaimasu. – Thank you for your feedback.

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