Japan Social Guidance dos and don'ts For Indians

Japan is a country known for its deep-rooted traditions, harmonious social values, and emphasis on mutual respect. While it offers an enriching experience for visitors, students, and professionals alike, it can feel culturally different for those arriving from India. Understanding and respecting Japanese customs not only eases integration but also builds stronger personal and professional relationships.

Social Dos & Dos'ts

Dos

Greet with a Bow

Be Punctual

Use Both Hands to Give/Receive

Respect Personal Space

Follow Queue Discipline

Remove Shoes Indoors

Say “Itadakimasu” and “Gochisousama”

Respect Hierarchy and Use Honorifics

Don’ts

Avoid Loud Talking and Gesturing

No Unsolicited Touching or Hugging

Don’t Blow Your Nose in Public

Avoid Pointing

Don’t Eat While Walking

Avoid Tipping

Don’t Criticize Publicly

Avoid Chopstick Taboos

Professional Etiquette

Dos

Carry Business Cards and Exchange Properly

Dress Conservatively

Speak Respectfully and Acknowledge Rank

Engage in Consensus Building

Don’ts

Don’t Be Blunt or Overly Direct

Avoid Breaking Hierarchical Norms

Public Transport Manners

Dos

Maintain Silence

Queue Patiently

Offer Seats to Priority Passengers

Don’ts

No Phone Conversations

Avoid Eating/Drinking

Don’t Wear Strong Perfumes

Shopping & Payment Etiquette

Dos

Carry Cash

Use the Payment Tray

Don’ts

No Bargaining

Don’t Hand Over Money Directly

Religious & Cultural Sites

Dos

Purify Yourself at Shrine Entrances

Follow Traditional Bowing Rituals

Don’ts

Don’t Photograph in Prohibited Areas

Avoid Walking Through the Center of Torii Gates

Practical Tips for Indians

Limited Vegetarian Options – Learn a few phrases to explain your needs.

Basic Japanese Helps – English is not widely spoken.

Garbage Sorting is Strict – Learn the system and follow local rules.

Gift Culture Matters – Bring and present small, wrapped gifts appropriately.

Silence is Golden – Especially in shared spaces like trains and elevators.

Quick Reference: Cheat Sheet

Area	Do This	Don’t Do This
Greetings	Bow, use titles with "-san"	Don’t hug or initiate physical contact
Time	Be early or on time	Don’t be late
Eating	Follow mealtime rituals	Don’t eat while walking or misuse chopsticks
Work	Follow hierarchy, use formal speech	Don’t speak out of turn or dress casually
Transport	Stay quiet, queue properly	Don’t talk on phone or eat on public transport
Shopping	Use trays, carry cash	Don’t tip or bargain
Shrines	Bow and follow rituals	Don’t take photos where forbidden

Respecting cultural differences is key to building meaningful connections and creating a positive impression while in Japan. For Indians, adapting to Japan’s emphasis on humility, harmony, cleanliness, and quietness can take a little practice, but the effort is deeply appreciated by locals.This guide is designed for Indians traveling, studying, or relocating to Japan. It highlights important Dos and Don’ts across social behavior, workplace etiquette, public conduct, and everyday life to help ensure a respectful and successful experience.