These are the Top 5 Things You Should Know Before Visiting Japan

So you just booked your flight to Japan! Yay! Now that you got that over with, it's time for you to do some research. There are a couple of things you should keep in mind prior to the trip, as Japanese culture is quite different and very unique.

In this post, I will be introducing you to some basic Japanese etiquette/manners/norms that might seem different or unusual to a foreigner visiting Japan. These are things you should definitely know before the trip, so you can plan your visit better and without hassle.

1. NO NEED TO TIP!

Japan is known for its five-star service, but you never have to tip anywhere, ever! In fact, tipping may be seen as a rude gesture to some people, and you will most definitely get returned money if you insist on tipping. So keep your extra coins for a drink or a snack!

2. NO TRASHCANS AROUND THE CITY

Japan, especially Tokyo, is known to be one of the cleanest cities in the world, but there are rarely any trashcans around the city! Ironic, right? So make sure to hold on to your garbage until you actually find one.

Tip: garbage cans & recycling bins are usually grouped together in a public space, like stations, parks, etc.

3. WEARING SURGICAL MASKS IN PUBLIC IS NORMAL!

In Japan, people wear surgical masks all the time, especially during winter. This is very normal for the Japanese people so don't be weirded out.

People wear them because they are either: (1) sick and want to protect others from catching their cold, or (2) they just do not want to get sick. Remember, Japan is all about respecting others. Plus, their corporate culture is so intense that people just can't afford to get sick... sad, but true.

4. MAKE SURE TO BRING A HANDKERCHIEF!

In Japan, public bathrooms won't often provide you with paper towels & hand dryers. This is why people carry around their handkerchiefs everywhere (they call it 手拭（てぬぐ）い = teh-noo-goo-ii) – because what is more embarrassing than having to wipe off your wet hands with your pants in public?

There are so many variations of handkerchiefs you can buy in Japan if you don’t have one though (starting from a dollar at the $1 store, like DAISO and CAN-DO... more about them here), so don’t worry if you don't have one!

5. BRING CASH, NOT CARD!

In Japan, everyone pays in cash. Some major department stores and restaurants may take credit cards, but many places do not – so have some cash on you at all times, just to be safe!

Lastly...

To sum it up: always have cash ready (but never use them to tip); always have a handkerchief ready; keep trash with you until you (eventually) find a garbage can; and don't freak out if you're ever approached by a swarm of people wearing masks.

Hope these tips helped. Have a great time in Japan :)