Japan Travel Mistakes to Avoid – What Not to Do

Japan is straight-up awesome—cool city vibes, unreal food, and a culture that’s just next-level. But if you don’t want to stick out like a total tourist (or worse, accidentally offend someone), there are a few things you should know. Here’s your ultimate cheat sheet of what NOT to do in Japan so you can vibe like a local and keep your trip smooth.

Also read: 8 Japan Travel Tips Every Filipino Should Know in 2025

1. Keep the volume down

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Japan is all about that chill, quiet energy in public spaces. Trains, buses, and even cafés can be eerily silent compared to what you’re used to. Keep convos low-key, and don’t be that person blasting TikToks on speaker.

2. Always queue properly

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Cutting in line? Hard no. Whether you're waiting for food, a train, or even an elevator, Japan takes queuing seriously. Just go with the flow, and no one gets mad.

3. Don’t tip

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Service in Japan is already top-tier, and tipping isn’t a thing. In fact, leaving extra cash can actually confuse or even offend the staff. Just say “arigato gozaimasu” (thank you very much), and that’s more than enough.

4. Master your chopstick game

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Chopsticks aren’t just utensils—they come with rules. Never stab them upright in your rice (that’s a funeral thing), don’t pass food from chopstick to chopstick (another funeral thing), and definitely don’t use them as drumsticks. Just eat and enjoy.

5. Tone down the PDA

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Hand-holding? Cool. Full-on makeout session in public? Not so much. Japan leans towards a more low-key approach when it comes to affection, so maybe save it for when you’re not in a crowded train.

6. No loud phone calls on trains

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Trains in Japan = quiet time. If you really need to take a call, keep it short and whisper. Otherwise, just text like the rest of us.

7. Give up your seat when needed

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There are priority seats for a reason. If you see someone elderly, pregnant, or struggling, just offer your seat. It’s good karma.

8. Don’t walk and eat

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Street food in Japan is fire, but locals usually eat it standing near the stall instead of walking around. It’s a respect thing—plus, you don’t want to accidentally spill takoyaki on someone.

9. Take off your shoes when needed

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If you see a pile of shoes at the entrance of a home, temple, or some restaurants, that’s your cue to take yours off too. Pro tip: Wear socks without holes unless you want to be exposed.

10. Be ready to carry your trash

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Public bins? Super rare in Japan. Most people carry their trash until they find a proper disposal spot. Also, Japan takes recycling seriously, so sort your waste properly.

11. Show respect at temples and shrines

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These aren’t just tourist spots—they’re sacred places. Dress modestly, wash your hands at the purification fountain, and always check if photos are allowed before snapping.

12. Personal space = sacred

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Japan isn’t big on random physical contact. Hugging strangers or touching people casually can be awkward. A small bow or nod is way more appreciated.

13. Slurp your noodles like a pro

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Surprise! Slurping your ramen or soba is actually polite in Japan. It shows you’re loving the meal and even enhances the flavour. Just don’t go overboard and make it a full-on ASMR moment.

14. Don’t rely too much on cards

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Japan is high-tech, but some places are still cash-only. Always carry some yen with you, especially when hitting up small shops or restaurants.

15. No pointing at people

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Pointing with your finger can come off as rude. If you need to gesture, use your whole hand or a subtle nod.

16. Avoid public nose-blowing

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Blowing your nose loudly in public? Yikes. If you need to, step aside and do it discreetly. Sniffling is actually seen as less rude.

17. Respect people’s personal bubble

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Even in crowded places, people in Japan maintain personal space. No unnecessary bumping or leaning on strangers, please.

18. Don’t pour your own drink

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If you’re out for drinks with locals, pouring drinks for others (instead of yourself) is the move. If someone pours for you, return the favour—it’s all about the good vibes.

19. No eating or drinking on city transport

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Eating or drinking on local trains and buses is a no-go. The exception? Long-distance bullet trains, where bento boxes are actually part of the experience.

20. Don’t cancel plans last-minute

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Also read: Hidden Cherry Blossoms in Japan for a Crowd-Free Escape

If you book a restaurant or make plans with locals, last-minute cancellations aren’t cool. Many places prep ingredients in advance, so be mindful and cancel early if you really have to.

Stick to these tips, and you won’t just avoid awkward moments—you’ll also show respect for Japan’s culture. It’s all about blending in, enjoying the experience, and making your trip one for the books!