Japanese customs and etiquette
Japanese etiquette is less a rulebook than a way of showing consideration for others. These guides explain the customs visitors meet most often — and the reasons behind them.
BowingojigiA greeting, a thank-you and an apology in a single gestureGift-givingzōtōSmall gifts that keep relationships in balanceOnsen etiquetteonsenWash first, soak second: the logic of the shared bathTable mannersshokuji no manāGratitude, chopsticks and looking after the person next to youGenkan and shoesgenkanOne step up: where the outside world endsTippingchippuService is included – and so is the pride in doing it wellPublic etiquettekōkyō manāMeiwaku: the art of not being a botherVisiting shrines and templessanpaiTwo bows, two claps, one bow – and no clapping at the templeKimono and yukatakimonoLeft over right: the garment and its occasions