Japanese Culture and Etiquette Guide
About TabelogFAQJapanese Culture and Etiquette Guide
Japanese Culture and Etiquette Guide

Japanese Culture and Etiquette Guide

Created: December 15, 2025

Welcome to the world of Japanese food! From the delicate technique of sushi and seasonal beauty evoked by kaiseki, to the thrill of grilling yakiniku and heartwarming bowls of ramen, Japanese cuisine has captured the attention of gourmets across the globe.

To enjoy these fantastic dining experiences to the fullest, it's best to have a solid understanding of the rules and customs surrounding them. While it might not be obvious how to handle many of the new situations that come up in Japanese restaurants, this guide will help you make the most of them.

The manners and etiquette presented in this guide are more than just rules; behind each lies the spirit of consideration for others, respect for nature, and essential pleasures of enjoying a meal that have been passed down through generations of Japanese people. If you understand the cultural significance and practice each of these important rules, you'll enjoy your meals on an even deeper level. Whether visiting casual restaurants or fine dining, let these key points guide the way!

Beginning and Ending the Meal

The most important rule in Japanese food culture: What to say before and after a meal

"Itadakimasu"

"Itadakimasu" is what diners say at the start of the meal. It's said before the first bite, but means more than "I'm going to eat now". Itadakimasu conveys gratitude for the living things that become our food, the people that prepared it, and the people that make it possible. "Itadakimasu!" is an important word that holds deep meaning in Japanese culture.

"Gochisousama deshita"

"Gochisousama deshita" is what you say when you've finished eating. Just like "itadakimasu," this phrase conveys gratitude for being served an excellent meal.

Essential Table Manners

Basic rules to keep in mind at the table

Pick up small dishes

Pick up small bowls containing dishes like soup or rice and bring them close to your mouth to eat them. Soups are sipped directly from the cup or bowl, without a spoon. This is the correct way to eat, allowing you to enjoy your food gracefully, without spilling.

Slurp your noodles

When eating noodle dishes like ramen, soba or udon, it's perfectly fine and even encouraged to make slurping sounds. It's seen as a sign that you are enjoying your meal, can help cool off piping hot noodles, and is even said to enhance their flavor!

Serving alcohol

In a group setting, it's important to be mindful and refill the glasses of other diners. Even beer is often served in large bottles for sharing into smaller glasses. Pouring your own refills is considered rude, especially in situations where you might be sharing a meal with more senior guests, such as employers or business partners.

Chopstick (hashi) manners

Proper chopstick etiquette is an especially important part of Japanese table manners. When there is a "hashioki" (chopstick rest) provided, lay the tip of the chopsticks on the rest while you take a break from eating. The pictures below illustrate some common chopstick faux pas to avoid -- many of them are related to funeral rituals!

  • Tatebashi
    Sticking chopsticks straight up.
  • Hiroibashi
    Passing food directly between chopsticks.
  • Yosebashi
    Pulling dishes closer using chopsticks.
  • Sashibashi
    Stabbing food with your chopsticks.
  • Mayoibashi
    Hovering chopsticks over food.

Restaurant Etiquette

Making the experience enjoyable for all guests

Noise levels / Perfumes and Colognes

Especially in high end and quiet settings, refrain from conversing loudly or raising your voice. It's best to speak quietly enough other parties won't hear your conversation.

The delicate fragrance of Japanese food is one of its charms. However, other smells can easily compete with the scent of Japanese cuisine. To respect the chef's artwork, it's best not to wear colognes or perfume, so you and your fellow diners can enjoy the meal with all five senses.

Punctuality

Posted reservation and start times are taken seriously in Japan. It's best to arrive for your reserved time about ten minutes early, especially in the case of course and high-end dining. There are many restaurants where the meal can only begin once all diners are seated, so tardiness is not taken lightly.

Photography

It's generally ok to take photos of the restaurant and your food, but make sure to get approval from the staff first. Refrain from using flash or disturbing other customers with shutter noises, or taking photos of people outside your own party.

Personal Hygeine

Blowing your nose, clearing your throat, and other personal hygiene matters should be taken care of privately in the bathroom out of respect for your other diners. Avoid wiping your nose or face with the provided oshibori (wet towel).

Other recommended articles