NorthWest WaEtiquette & shopping in Japan
Nobody expects visitors to be perfect. A little effort goes a long way.
- Shoes: take them off when you see a raised entryway (genkan), and use the toilet slippers only in the toilet.
- Trains: keep phone calls off, speak quietly and queue at the marked lines.
- Chopsticks: don't stand them upright in rice or pass food chopstick to chopstick — both are associated with funerals.
- Tipping: not expected. Great service is the norm.
- Trash: public bins are rare, so carry a small bag.
- Bathing: see the bathing guide.
Shopping
Shopping in Japan is calm and orderly: prices are as marked, there's no haggling, and you pay by placing cash or your card on the little tray by the till.
Tax-free (from Nov 1, 2026)
You now pay tax at the till and get it back when you leave. Keep purchases and receipts together and arrive early to use the airport tax-free kiosk.
100-yen shops
Daiso, Seria and Can★Do are treasure troves of cheap, clever household goods — great for practical souvenirs.
Omiyage
Boxed regional sweets for coworkers and friends back home. Every train station has them.
Shop manners
- Don't eat or drink while browsing, and ask before taking photos inside small shops.
- Bags are often offered for a small fee; carrying a foldable tote helps.
- Staff will greet you with irasshaimase. No reply is needed; a small nod is plenty.
Plan it on paper
Want a place to list your omiyage and tax-free receipts? Our 15-page printable Japan Trip Planner (CA$8) has checklists, daily itineraries, a yen budget tracker, handy phrases and an omiyage list.
Get the planner on EtsyMore Japan guides
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