Welcome to Japan Royal Service.
With Japan’s borders about to reopen to foreign tourists, we’re sharing what you should know before traveling, touring, and sightseeing in Japan.
Train etiquette (Japan travel guide)
Most travelers use trains to get around, though depending on the destination you may choose a taxi. Japanese public transportation—both trains and taxis—is known for punctuality and exceptional service.
In Japan, there are also manners to be aware of when riding the train. Here are three key points.
1. Women-only cars
The women-only cars were introduced a few years ago to provide a safe space for women commuters.
They were created because there used to be many incidents of groping on trains. It was difficult to identify who did it, making it hard for women to speak up.
Women-only cars are for women only during peak rush hours, so please be careful when boarding.
2. Be quiet on the train
In Japan, it is considered good manners not to talk on the train.
You should also avoid talking on the phone.
If you truly need to speak, keep your voice low so you don’t disturb others. It’s not that speaking is absolutely forbidden—what matters is consideration for the people around you.
3. Line up to board the train
Train schedules in Japan are accurate unless there is a special problem.
So even if you can’t board one train, the next one will arrive in three to five minutes—there’s no need to rush.
No tipping in Japan
Compared to other countries, Japan does not have a tipping culture.
In many cases, service charges are already included in accommodation and food prices.
If you have a tattoo, you can’t use some hot springs
Basically, if you have a tattoo, you may not be able to enter Japanese hot springs (onsen).
However, not all facilities prohibit tattoos—some hot springs can be used even if you have tattoos. In other places, tattoos may be allowed if they are covered.
Japan does not discriminate against tattoos, but many people still have a negative impression of them. Among younger generations, tattoos are also seen as fashion, and prejudice is gradually easing.
Not many Wi‑Fi spots
Japan is often said to have fewer Wi‑Fi spots than other countries.
For that reason, we recommend renting a mobile router when traveling in Japan—especially if you’re heading to rural areas away from city centers, where Wi‑Fi can be scarce.
Cash payments
Credit cards and electronic money are accepted in many places in Japan, but compared with other countries, availability can be limited.
We recommend carrying cash during your trip, so you won’t have to worry about payment methods.
In closing
How was it?
This article introduced key points to keep in mind in Japan. There are rules and manners you may not find in other countries, and knowing them can make your trip more comfortable.
That said, problems are unlikely even if you don’t follow every rule perfectly. Most important of all is to enjoy your trip to Japan.
See you again.
Related article: If you’d like to learn more about Japan, click here.
