5 Dining Mistakes To Avoid In Japan

Japanese food always looks tempting even to foreigners. The dishes seem to fit perfectly on the tongue and easily become a favourite meal while dining out. Katsudon, sushi, sashimi, tempura, tonkatsu, udon, ramen, and many more. I bet you have your favourite one among the food I mentioned there.

But, did you know? Just like any other culture, Japan also has its own set of customs and unwritten norms when it comes to eating. Before you enjoy your meals in Japan, it's crucial to understand their dining etiquette and avoid doing anything disrespectful, especially since some of the cultures are tied to funeral customs.

So, it's not a bad idea to brush up your knowledge on Japanese eating etiquette. In this article, we will discuss ‘5 Dining Mistakes To Avoid In Japan’ to get you blunder-free when having dinner or lunch with your Japanese friends!

Let’s jump into the first point: the itadakimasu phrases.

1. Don't forget to say “itadakimasu”

Since Japanese people constantly prepare food in the finest possible way, from proper cooking processes to the appealing displays, expressing thanks for the meal received has become a culture for them. Itadakimasu (いただきます) is usually said before they eat the meal that has been served, it literally means “I humbly receive”, but overall Itadakimasu means you emphasise respect for all living beings, which has deep roots in Japan. Thanks to the animals, plants, farmers, chefs, and everything else that went into the meal.

It is highly recommended for you to follow this culture when you eat your meal with your Japanese friends. While still being appreciative of the food you are also allowed to praise the existing food by nodding your head and saying “oishii” (美味しい) which means “delicious”. After that, you have to finish the food you took, and make sure you clean up the bowl by leaving no food behind!

Lastly, after you finish your meal, you have to say “Gochisousamadesu” (ごちそうさまです) which means “thanks for the meal”.

2. Don't use oshibori to wipe your body other than your hand.

Hand towels, also known as oshibori (おしぼり), are widely used to clean your hands before beginning to eat your meal. Oshibori is usually given by the restaurant's staff, these hand towels are disposable and sometimes served warm. The rule is not using oshibori to wipe your body other than your hand whether it's your neck, face, or anything else. Oshibori is used to keep your fingers clean while you’re eating.

3. Don't Give Or Accept Food From Chopstick To Chopstick

Although spoons and forks are acceptable, chopsticks are the most often used cutlery in Japan. When eating miso soup, even Japanese people use chopsticks. But did you know that there are several restrictions on the use of these chopsticks? One of them is that it is taboo to transfer food from chopsticks to chopsticks, also known as hiroi bashi (拾い箸) in Japanese. This action can be very offensive to Japanese people because this manner reminds the Japanese of a funeral ceremony.

The other don'ts that you have to avoid are: don’t stab the food with chopsticks, don’t point at someone or something else with chopsticks, don’t put your chopstick vertically on the bowl, and many more. These are only a few examples. You have to be aware of whatever you're doing with your chopsticks.

4. Don't drink until everyone has their drink

When it comes to drinking, you should never be too hasty. You have to wait for all your friends to hold their own drinks before you drink yours. Whether this is something soft or alcoholic. This is related to the Japanese custom of toasting and saying "kanpai" (乾杯 (かんぱい)) before they start drinking.

Pouring a drink for yourself is also regarded as poor table manners since it might be seen as disrespectful. While it will be more appropriate if you pour drinks for your dining partner and then wait for them to do the same for you. As a result, you have to beware of their glasses and pour more drink when it becomes empty.

5. Don't give any tip

Japan, unlike many other countries, does not have a tipping culture. All pricing in Japan is set in stone, including hotel room rates, taxi fares, and restaurant menu prices. So, if you're eating in a Japanese restaurant, don't leave a tip. This can make the staff there confused or even chase you to get your money back. Instead, just say "arigato" (ありがとう) which means "thank you" to express your gratitude for the service provided. Sometimes, you will be served an otoshi (おおとし), which is a seat charge or cover tax that serves as a tip replacement.

That’s pretty much about the 5 dining mistakes you should avoid when you’re in Japan or simply having a meal with your Japanese friends. In fact, there are many other cultures related to dining in Japan that we can't get into here; but, knowing other cultures is a sign of respect, and it never hurts to learn about them. Isn’t it?

So, have a good meal Minna-san!