Japan is known for its deep-rooted traditions and unique etiquette. Many aspects of Japanese culture are based on respect, harmony, and politeness. Some daily habits may seem surprising to foreign visitors. In this article, we explore ten unique Japanese customs and why they are so fascinating. The unique Japanese culture is truly intriguing.
- Main Features
- 1. Bowing in Japan
- 2. Taking Off Shoes Indoors
- 3. Saying “Sumimasen” for Many Situations
- 4. Silence on Public Transport
- 5. Children Travel Alone
- 6. Organized Train Lines
- 7. High-Quality Convenience Stores
- 8. Unique Hand Gestures
- 9. Leaving Valuables Unattended
- 10. Holding Bowls While Eating
- 11. The “Circle” and “Cross” Hand Signs
- Where to Experience Japanese Etiquette
Main Features
1. Bowing in Japan
In Japan, people bow to greet others, show appreciation, and apologize. This is a key part of the unique Japanese culture.
Unlike in many Western countries where people shake hands or hug, bowing is the standard way to show respect. Interestingly, many Japanese people even bow while talking on the phone!
2. Taking Off Shoes Indoors
Japanese people remove their shoes when entering homes, schools, traditional restaurants, and even some offices.
This unique aspect of Japanese culture keeps the indoors clean. In many Western countries, people keep their shoes on inside, so this habit surprises many visitors.
3. Saying “Sumimasen” for Many Situations
The Japanese word “Sumimasen” or “Suimasen” means “I’m sorry,” “Excuse me,” and sometimes even “Thank you.” People use it not only to apologize but also to get someone’s attention or express gratitude.
Foreigners may wonder, “Why do Japanese people apologize so much?” but in reality, “sumimasen” is a very flexible word reflecting the unique Japanese culture!
4. Silence on Public Transport
Japanese trains and buses are very quiet. Talking loudly or making phone calls is considered rude. This rule helps create a peaceful and comfortable environment for everyone as part of the unique Japanese culture.
Visitors from other countries, where public transport is often noisy, find this very unusual.
5. Children Travel Alone
It is common to see young children riding the train or walking to school alone in Japan. This is possible because Japan is one of the safest countries in the world.
The local community also helps watch over children, making it normal for kids to travel independently, another aspect of unique Japanese culture.
6. Organized Train Lines
Japanese train stations are very crowded, but people always line up in an orderly manner. In many other countries, people rush onto trains without forming a line.
Visitors are often surprised by the unique Japanese culture’s politeness and organization.
7. High-Quality Convenience Stores
Japanese convenience stores, called “konbini,” offer delicious and fresh food, such as onigiri (rice balls), bento (lunch boxes), and even gourmet desserts.
Unlike convenience stores in other countries, Japanese konbini are clean, well-stocked, and provide excellent service.
8. Unique Hand Gestures
Japanese hand gestures are different from those in Western countries. For example, when calling someone over, Japanese people face their palm down and wave their fingers. In the U.S., the palm is usually up. Also, the gesture for “go away” looks like the American gesture for “come here,” which can be confusing for visitors!
9. Leaving Valuables Unattended
In Japan, people often leave their wallets or phones on a café table while ordering food. Unlike in many other countries, theft is rare.
Many visitors are amazed at the unique Japanese culture and how much people trust each other.
10. Holding Bowls While Eating
In Japan, it is polite to hold your rice or soup bowl close to your mouth while eating. In many Western countries, people keep plates on the table and eat with only one hand.
Some cultures even see lifting bowls as bad manners. This is another unique part of Japanese dining etiquette.
11. The “Circle” and “Cross” Hand Signs
In Japan, people use a circle (⭕) with their hands or fingers to mean “OK” or “correct.” On the other hand, crossing their arms in front of their chest (❌) means “no” or “not allowed.”
This is different from Western countries, where saying “OK” and shaking the head for “no” are common. Of course, Japanese people also use these gestures, but it’s good to remember that when someone makes an “❌” with their arms, it strongly means “no” or “not allowed.”
Where to Experience Japanese Etiquette
Visitors can experience Japanese etiquette everywhere in Japan! However, here are some great places to observe these customs:
- Traditional Ryokan Inns – Enjoy Japanese hospitality, remove your shoes, and bow to the staff.
- Public Transport – Ride a quiet train and see how people line up politely.
- Konbini (Convenience Stores) – Try high-quality Japanese convenience store food.
- Local Restaurants – Observe how people hold their bowls and use chopsticks properly.