Osaka Japan Travel Tips

Traveling to Osaka, Japan? Don’t Forget These Essential Etiquette Tips!

Osaka, a city known for its vibrant atmosphere, delicious food, and rich cultural heritage. To make the most of your trip, it’s essential to understand and respect local customs and traditions. Here are some key travel and cultural etiquette tips to help you navigate Osaka like a pro:

Before You Arrive

1. Learn Basic Japanese Phrases

  • Konnichiwa (): Hello
  • Arigatou gozaimasu (): Thank you
  • Sumimasen (): Excuse me / Sorry
  • O genki desu ka? (?): How are you?

2. Understand Japan’s Gift-Giving Culture (Omiyage)

  • Bring a small gift, such as snacks or souvenirs from your hometown
  • Avoid giving expensive or extravagant gifts

At the Airport/Station

3. Remove Your Shoes

  • In many Japanese homes and some traditional restaurants, it’s customary to remove your shoes before entering
  • You’ll often see shoe racks or slippers provided

4. Be Prepared for Crowded Trains

  • Give up your seat to elderly or disabled passengers
  • Avoid eating on the train, except for water and small snacks
  • Keep your phone on silent mode and avoid loud conversations

Dining Etiquette

5. Table Manners

  • Wait for the host to start eating before you begin
  • Try a little of each dish to show appreciation
  • Don’t leave your chopsticks standing upright in your rice bowl (it’s considered rude)

6. Respect Food Culture

  • Finish your meal completely, as leaving food uneaten can be impolite
  • Don’t tip at restaurants, as it’s not customary in Japan

Temple and Shrine Etiquette

7. Dress Modestly

  • Avoid revealing clothing when visiting temples or shrines
  • Remove your hat and sunglasses when entering a shrine or temple

8. Follow Temple/Shrine Rules

  • Don’t take photos inside temples or shrines, unless permitted
  • Respect purification rituals, such as washing your hands before approaching a shrine

On the Streets

9. Bowing Etiquette

  • A bow is a sign of respect in Japan; the deeper and longer you bow, the more respect you show
  • When bowing, keep your back straight and your hands at your sides

10. Respect for the Elderly

  • Give up your seat to elderly passengers on public transportation
  • Show respect to older individuals by using polite language and bowing

Additional Tips

11. Learn Some Japanese Characters (Kanji)

  • Recognize basic characters, such as those for “toilet” () or “exit” ()

12. Carry Cash

  • Many small shops and restaurants may not accept credit cards
  • Have some ¥1,000 notes handy for vending machines and small purchases

By following these essential etiquette tips, you’ll be well on your way to having a respectful and enjoyable trip in Osaka, Japan!