Ignoring rules and stereotypes about Asians: 14 mistakes tourists make in Tokyo
The culture of each country differs, and European and Asian cultures are radically different. Therefore, it's essential to familiarize yourself with local customs before traveling to avoid standing out. If you're planning a trip to the capital of Japan, Tokyo, don't make these mistakes. The Huffington Post outlines what they are.
Don't use public transportation
"Tokyo has an extensive and incredible public transportation system of subways and trains. Don't be afraid to take the subway. Get a subway card, such as Suica or Pasmo. Google Maps will tell you which routes to take and where to transfer if necessary! Keep in mind that Japanese people are usually quiet on the subway, and don't eat or drink while riding!" - Danny Tain, founder of the Japanese snack subscription service Bokksu.
Don't assume that everyone speaks English
While English is an international language and many people speak it, not everyone in Tokyo does. Try to learn a few simple phrases in Japanese or use translation apps to overcome the language barrier and show respect. Learning a simple "hello" or "thank you" can help!
Decide where you want to visit so you don't get lost in the city
Decide in advance which places you want to visit, and then find out how to get there from your accommodation. There are 142 Japanese Railways (JR) stations and 286 subway stations in Tokyo! There is no need to study the entire city map. Even locals don't know the entire transportation system. When travelers focus on the places they want to visit, planning a trip becomes much easier.
Activate your JR Pass
The JR Pass is a ticket that allows unlimited travel on Japanese railways. Why hesitate? Apply for it immediately upon arrival. It's better to activate it before traveling a long distance, especially considering the constant rise in prices.
Book a hotel that is conveniently located for you
"For example, staying in Shinjuku would be a great idea if you're interested in Harajuku (only five minutes by JR Yamanote Line!) and Shibuya (seven minutes by Yamanote, it's that easy), but not Asakusa and Tokyo Skytree. You'll need to change trains in a complex web of connections, which can cause you to get lost and end up bewildered in front of a map. Even staying in a 5-star luxury hotel can be exhausting if it's booked in the wrong neighborhood for you" - advises Kozue Mitani, founder of Tokyo Direct Guide.
Don't be afraid to explore Japanese cuisine
Japanese cuisine is not only about sushi and ramen. Don't be afraid to try something new and surprise your taste buds! In Japanese cuisine, the use of spices is limited. Instead, the emphasis is on preserving the freshness and flavor of the ingredients. Local cuisine has a distinct seasonal character - what is eaten in Japan in summer is unlikely to be eaten in winter. We especially recommend trying shabu-shabu, various noodle dishes, kaiseki, unagi, and okonomiyaki.
Everything you've eaten before is not real Japanese sushi
If you are a beginner, booking a high-end sushi restaurant will be in vain, as you are unlikely to have developed the proper taste for it yet. Any sushi restaurant in Japan is likely to be much better than anything you've eaten before. Only in Japan is real sushi prepared and served.
Eating traditions
"When I went to Tokyo with my Italian friend, we went to a local soba noodle shop and ordered cold zaru soba noodles, which are very popular. When we started eating, my Italian friend poured sauce on the noodles! Zaru soba is served on a bamboo colander. We made a mess with sauce on our table. We apologized to the restaurant staff, but were told that this happens often. For Japanese people, dipping noodles in soy sauce can be incomprehensible" - Hisashi Tsumura from the Tokyo Tourist Office.
Do not miss the opportunity to try unique Japanese products
Japan has a rich and vibrant snack culture. Try interesting flavors such as red bean, black sesame, yuzu, and kinako. Also, try Japanese ice cream from Baskin Robbins. It comes in unique flavors like matcha, sakura, sweet potato, or black sesame.
There is no tradition of tipping here
"Tipping is not customary in Japan. In fact, it can be considered rude and offensive, so don't try to leave tips in restaurants," says marketer Akiko Tanaka.
Each Asian country has different etiquette rules
In Japan, people greet each other with bows, which differ from Thai bows. In Thailand, you bow with your hands on your chest, while in Japan, you apologize in this way. It all depends on the social status of the person you are greeting. For example, if you are greeting a respected person, you need to make your bow deeper and longer. As a rule, most foreigners limit themselves to a slight tilt of the head, and the vast majority of Japanese do not expect tourists to know the rules of etiquette in detail. So just nod your head. Handshakes are not customary here. Of course, you can shake hands if the Japanese person wants to greet you, but do not be the first to extend your hand.
Rules for visiting establishments
Everywhere, visitors must remove their shoes before entering certain places, so pay attention to the rules and customs when visiting traditional restaurants, temples, houses, etc. Sometimes slippers will be provided for visitors, but not always. Wear or bring your own slippers or socks.
Take a shower before bathing in an onsen
Onsen are Japanese hot springs. This is a special part of Japanese culture. Unfortunately, foreign travelers do not always follow the rules. Probably the biggest one is that people don't shower or wash before entering an onsen. This is a huge mistake.
Visiting only the most popular tourist sites
"The biggest mistake tourists make is that they visit places where others have already been. Shibuya, Shinjuku, Harajuku, and Asakusa are flooding social media. Everyone knows them. But what about Kichijoji, Kiyosumi-Shirakawa, and Nihonbashi? (Of course, there are many more.) Few people have heard of them. Go and experience new emotions. Luckily, they are easily accessible by train!" - said Rohan Gillett, founder of Tokyo in Pics.
