Differences in Manners and Rules Between Japan and Other Countries Part4

🗣️ Story G: I Thought I Was Being Rude…

When I met Luca, an Italian backpacker traveling solo across Japan, he shared something that made me laugh.

Luca

I was in a ramen shop in Tokyo. Everyone around me was slurping like crazy. At first, I thought they were just really hungry… but then I realized it was normal! I tried slurping too, just to fit in. It felt so wrong — but also kind of fun.

In many countries, making noise while eating is considered bad manners. But in Japan, slurping noodles like soba or ramen is completely acceptable, even encouraged. Some people say it helps cool down the noodles or enhances the flavor by mixing in air.

That said, this doesn’t mean any eating noise is OK. Chewing loudly with your mouth open — the so-called smacking or chomping — is still frowned upon in Japan. So while slurping ramen is part of the local culture, there’s a line not to cross.

💡 Travel tip: If you’re unsure, just watch what locals do in the restaurant. And when in doubt — try slurping! You might enjoy the experience more than you expect.

💸 Story H: “Why Won’t They Take My Tip!?”

Sophie, a traveler from Canada, told me this over coffee in Kyoto.

Sophie

I left a few coins on the table after breakfast as a tip. The staff came running after me — I thought I forgot something! But they handed me back the money with a smile and a bow.

Japan is one of the few countries in the world where tipping is not part of the culture. You don’t tip at restaurants, in taxis, or even at hotels. Excellent service is considered a part of the job, not something to be rewarded with extra money.

This often surprises visitors from places like the U.S. or Canada, where tipping is a standard part of daily life. In Japan, leaving money behind can actually cause confusion or even embarrassment for the staff.

Some upscale restaurants or hotels may include a service charge, but that’s already built into the bill — no action needed on your part.

💡 Travel tip: If you really want to show appreciation, a polite “Arigatou gozaimasu” and a smile go a long way. Or consider giving a small gift or souvenir from your home country — that’s often more appreciated than cash.

Conclusion

From slurping noodles to skipping tips, Japan has its own unique approach to manners and hospitality. What may seem strange at first often has deeper cultural meaning behind it.

When you visit, try to embrace these differences. You might end up with great stories to tell — just like Luca and Sophie.

P.S.

I will end this subject here and write another article. If you want to see or learn more, please leave a comment!
Maybe next time I’ll go back to the article about greetings.

またね(Matane)!