Culture shock is common for westerners visiting Japan, and perhaps made more intimidating by the fact that English is not the first language there. The transition can be eased, however, by making efforts to understand some of the most common, everyday cultural differences before traveling. These pointers – ranging from how to pay for things to what to expect in public restrooms – will save the traveler stress and embarrassment on some of the aspects most commonly problematic for foreign tourists. You may even impress the locals with your knowledge of etiquette!
1. Japan is a cash country.
Credit cards and checks are rarely used in Japan, and in many places are not accepted. Even somewhere as urban as Tokyo, when it comes to purchases, eating out, and other necessary expenses, cash (in yen) will always be the safer bet. Of course be cautious when carrying large amounts of money, but know also that Japan has relatively low crime rates; it is not uncommon for people to carry the equivalent of one to three hundred dollars in their wallets. Also, it is good to research current exchange rates prior to traveling; this can assist in trip preparations or setting a spending limit.
2. Convenience stores live up to their name.
Convenience stores, or konbini, are fantastic resources for travelers on the go, and in Japan they are everywhere. The breads, rice balls, and bento available make for cheap, fast, and easy meals, and most konbini also have ATMs capable of international transactions. For those who do not feel comfortable carrying generous amounts of cash, this makes yen easy to withdraw on a by-the-need basis. Popular chains include Family Mart, 7 Eleven, Sunkiss, and AM/PM.
3. Shoes are for outside wear only.
It is Japanese custom to remove one’s shoes when entering homes, schools, and certain traditional places, including many restaurants, inns, and temples. (It’s best to bring at least one pair of shoes that are easy to slip in and out of.) Whether you are staying with a native Japanese host, at a hotel or a hostel, there will almost certainly be a place near the entrance of the building or a respective room for you to remove your shoes (and sometimes for changing into indoor slippers). When in doubt, look around to see what others are doing.
4. The train is a sacred space.
In Japan, riding the train is treated somewhat like watching a film in the theater. As a passenger, you are expected both to silence your cell phone and refrain from answering it; to do so is considered rude, as is being overly loud when conversing with friends. Texting and conversation are okay, but should be kept to a polite volume. Also, be sure to observe and honor priority seats (which are conveniently marked in English) for the elderly, the disabled, the injured and parents with small children.
5. Toilets range from high-tech to just plain low.
Approach the restrooms in Japan with caution. On the high-tech end, you might encounter western-style toilets which may include functions for seat-warming, bidet rinsing, and in the woman’s case, ambient flushing noises. (Apparently women in Japan are more self-conscious about using the restroom.) Sometimes these functions are easy to confuse with the actual flush button; if you're uncertain, refer to icons accompanying each button, which provide a hint as to what it will do.
On the low-tech end of the spectrum – or rather, just the low – is the traditional squat toilet. These are found more often in older buildings and rural settings, and consist of a porcelain capsule-tank embedded in the floor. For men and those traveling in more urban areas, encounters with these likely won’t be an issue. Otherwise, be prepared!
