Getting used to the way Japanese businesses and restaurants work can be an interesting adventure. We've gathered some of the most common head scratchers below to make life a little easier!
While most etiquette rules in Japan are common sense, as they are in many countries, some actions can be somewhat puzzling for first time visitors. However, some of these rules, like being sure to make loud slurping noises when eating noodles, can be quite fun! For more information on dos and don'ts, please visit the Japan Guide page on Japanese table manners.
Many restaurants, especially those of decent size, install a wireless call button at each table that the customer can use to call the waiter at any time. Pushing the button sends a signal to the staff, letting them know which table is in need of assistance.
While this feature is incredibly useful, many first-time visitors don't realize that the button is there and instead try to catch the waiter's attention by making eye contact or using a gesture. Although these methods can be affective, most Japanese waiters don't make rounds like those in other countries, meaning your chances of getting their attention are limited. By all means, use the button!!
Japan is known throughout the world for their supposedly superior service. However, many first time visitors are surprised at what appear to be inattentive wait staff. What gives?
Unlike in many western countries, most wait staff in Japan do not make multiple visits to each table during a meal. Generally, you will only see the waiter twice: when he or she takes your order, and when he or she brings your food. If you need the waiter, use the tabletop call button or simply call out "Sumimasen!(excuse me)" and they will be happy to help.
Many pubs and restaurants serve their guests a "free" appetizer when they sit down called otoshi. The otoshi works somewhat like a table charge, and is automatically included in the customer's bill. Unfortunately, in most cases the otoshi can not be turned down or removed from the bill. Instead, think of it as a chance to try something you may have never ordered otherwise!
At most restaurants, the bill is clipped to a clipboard and placed face down on the table after the customer's order has been served. The customer is expected to bring the bill with them to the register at the front of the restaurant when he or she is ready to pay. If there is no bill on the table, simply walk to the register and make payment there.
Japan is a largely cash society, and restaurants and small businesses are no exception. Credit card usage is usually limited to large shopping malls and major gas stations. Keep an eye out for credit card logos either at the entrance to a restaurant or near the cash register. If you don't see any logos, you should probably assume that you will need to pay in cash.
Japan is a tip-free society, as the amount that Western waiters would normally receive as gratuity is already factored into the price of the food. Whether you are at a restaurant, staying at a hotel, or riding in a taxi, there is no need to tip. In fact, doing so can be seen as rude!
In comparison with many Western countries, relatively few Japanese people suffer from any serious form of food allergy. While this situation is changing and more and more product labels include allergy specific information, awareness of the danger of allergic reactions remains relatively limited.
If you suffer from a serious food allergy, it is highly recommended that you carry a bilingual "allergy card" that states very clearly the nature and extent of your allergy. Several companies offer these cards for a minor fee, including Select Wisely.
In most cases, staff will let you know when you have to take off your shoes. If there is no one around to help, take a look and see if there are piles of shoes in the entryway or next to individual tables. If so, follow suit and take off your shoes before entering!
Another good rule of thumb is to look out for tatami (straw mats) and sudden changes in the height of the floor. Shoes should always be removed before stepping on tatami, and having to step up into the area where you are to walk or sit is usually a sign that shoes are not allowed.
Many newcomers to Japan have trouble getting used to constantly taking off and putting on their shoes. This can be particularly challenging after a few drinks, even for the natives!
Thankfully, the majority of restaurants that require you to remove your shoes also provide slippers to use when going to the bathroom or stepping out to take a phone call. They are for everyone's use and can usually be distinguished by their uniformity or the restaurant's name printed on the slipper.
Quite possibly one of the finest Japanese inventions to date, the daiko taxi system ensures that everyone in your group can go out for dinner and drinks, have a good time, and still get home safely.
A daiko is essentially a taxi cab with two drivers. When the taxi picks you up, you and your friends can pile in one car, and one of the taxi driver's drives your car home for you. No more having to pick a designated driver or go out of your way to get your car the next day!
The best part about the daiko system is that strict drunk driving laws in Japan have created overwhelming demand, meaning that in most cases using a daiko is actually cheaper than a regular taxi!
Japan has a VERY STRICT no tolerance policy regarding drunk driving. The legal limit in Japan is a miniscule 0.03%, compared with 0.08% in many areas of the United States. If you drink, DO NOT DRIVE! Use other options such as public transportation, taxis, or the daiko system.
More information on drunk driving in Japan can be found here.
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