5 Common Mistakes Tourists Make in Japan — And How to Avoid Them Respectfully

🗾 5 Common Mistakes Tourists Make in Japan — And How to Avoid Them Respectfully 🇯🇵

Traveling to Japan soon? Whether you're planning your first trip or you're a long-time admirer of Japanese culture, understanding local etiquette is essential. Japan is a country where manners matter deeply, and even small cultural missteps can unintentionally come off as rude.

To help you travel smarter and more respectfully, we’ve compiled 5 of the most common mistakes tourists make in Japan — plus exactly how to avoid them.

1. ❌ Wearing a Kimono or Yukata Incorrectly

The Mistake: Wrapping the kimono or yukata right-over-left — a practice reserved only for dressing the deceased in Japan.

Why It Matters: Clothing in Japan is symbolic. Wearing it incorrectly, especially something as traditional as a kimono, can be unintentionally offensive.

✅ How to Avoid It:

・Always wrap left-over-right (left side on top).

・Rent your kimono or yukata from trusted local shops — they’ll help dress you properly.

・Respect the garment and the culture it represents.

Bonus Tip: Yukata are common at onsen (hot spring inns) and summer festivals. Wearing them the right way shows cultural appreciation and awareness.

 

2. ❌ Speaking Loudly or Using Phones on Public Transportation

The Mistake: Talking loudly or making phone calls on trains, buses — and especially in trains and elevators, where silence is expected.

Why It Matters: In Japan, quietness in shared spaces is a key sign of respect. Loud voices or ringing phones can disturb others and are seen as inconsiderate.

✅ How to Avoid It:

・Keep conversations quiet and respectful, especially in trains and elevators.

・Never make or take phone calls on public transportation — use messaging apps or wait until you're off the train.

・Set your phone to “manner mode” (マナーモード) to avoid disturbing others.

Travel Pro Tip: Embrace the calm — it’s a chance to recharge, reflect, and blend in with local customs.

 

3. ❌ Not Removing Shoes Indoors

The Mistake: Walking into homes, temples, or certain restaurants with shoes on.

Why It Matters: Cleanliness is a major part of Japanese culture. Bringing dirt indoors is considered disrespectful.

✅ How to Avoid It:

・Look for a genkan (entryway) or shoe rack at the entrance.

・Change into the slippers provided.

・When in doubt, follow locals or politely ask.

Extra Tip: Wear clean socks — holes can be embarrassing in places where you'll be removing your shoes often.

 

4. ❌ Tipping in Japan

The Mistake: Leaving a tip at restaurants, in taxis, or at hotels.

Why It Matters: Tipping is not part of Japanese culture and may actually make someone feel uncomfortable.

✅ How to Avoid It:

・Just pay the total amount — service is included.

・Say "Arigatou gozaimasu" (thank you very much) with a smile.

FYI: Some high-end restaurants may charge a service fee — but cash tips are never expected.

 

5. ❌ Improper Chopstick Etiquette

The Mistake:

・Sticking chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice

・Passing food from chopsticks to chopsticks

Why It Matters: Both actions are closely tied to Japanese funeral rituals and are highly inappropriate during meals.

✅ How to Avoid It:

・Rest your chopsticks on the holder when not using them.

・Use the back of your chopsticks or serving utensils when sharing food.

Also Avoid:

・Pointing with chopsticks

・Rubbing disposable chopsticks together

・Playing with them at the table