🍱 Dining & Drinking

• The "Sumimasen" Shout: In many local restaurants, servers won't come to your table unless called. Raise your hand and say "Sumimasen!" (Excuse me) to get their attention.

• Split the Bill: If the group wants to pay separately, ask "Betsu-betsu de onegaishimasu" (Separately, please). Note that some small "Mom & Pop" shops may prefer one single payment.

• Wet Towels (Oshibori): You’ll often be given a wet towel at the start of a meal. Use it for your hands only, then fold it neatly on the table. It’s not meant for your face!

• Pour for Others: If you're sharing large bottles of beer or sake, it is polite to pour for your friends rather than yourself. They will then return the favor.

🚈 Moving Around

• The "Silent" Commute: Trains are incredibly quiet. If the group needs to talk, keep it to a "library whisper." Phone calls on trains are a major faux pas.

• Queue Culture: There are markings on the floor for where to stand. Wait for everyone to exit the train before stepping on.

• Stair Etiquette: Always follow the arrows on the ground for stairs and hallways. Japanese foot traffic is highly organized—don't "swim against the current."

• No Smoking on Streets: In most major city wards (especially Shinjuku and Shibuya), smoking while walking is illegal and carries a fine. Look for designated glass-walled smoking rooms.

🧼 Public Spaces & Onsen

• The "Pocket Trash" Rule: Public bins are rare. Keep a small plastic bag in your daypack to hold your trash until you get back to your hotel or find a bin at a convenience store (Konbini).

• Tattoo Protocol: If you have ink, check the "Tattoo Friendly" status of an onsen beforehand. If your tattoo is small, you can buy "Foundation Tape" or waterproof patches at Don Quijote to cover it.

• Wash Before the Soak: In public baths, you must scrub your entire body at the sit-down shower stations beforeentering the communal pool.