10 Unique Japanese Eating Etiquette Rules - Nomiya Japanese Restaurant | Edmonton, AB | Ramen | Tapas | Sushi (2024)

FAQs

What is the etiquette for eating in Japan? ›

Never cup your hand to catch falling food, as this is considered bad manners. Ideally, food should always be eaten in one bite, so try not to bite food into smaller bits. You should also refrain from raising your food above your mouth.

Hara hachi bu is a Japanese term meaning “Eat until you're 80% full.” It originated in the city of Okinawa, where people use this advice as a way to control their eating habits. Interestingly, they have one of the lowest rates of illness from heart disease, cancer and stroke, and a fairly long life expectancy.

Never point at someone using your chopsticks, and never pass food from chopsticks to chopsticks. Both of these behaviors are considered rude.

First things first: slurping your noodles loudly in Japan is not considered bad table manners. However, contrary to what Remitly's study suggests, just because it's not rude doesn't mean it's a cordial way of saying 'thank you'. So we're here to set the record straight.

People who live in Okinawa, Japan have a wise strategy when it comes to maintaining a healthy weight. They call it “hara hachi bu”, which means to stop eating when you are 80% full. Studies show that cutting back on calories can lead to better heart health, longevity, and weight loss.

A Meal Should Include All Five Preparations: Japan counts five different ways food can be prepared, these being fried, simmered, steamed, roasted/grilled, and raw.

Blowing your nose at the table, burping and audible munching are considered bad manners in Japan. On the other hand, it is considered good style to empty your dishes to the last grain of rice.

It is rude to say no to food being offered to you in general, not just in Japan. If you want to say no because you don't like the dish, you should still accept it but you are not obligated to eat. Similarly, if you are offered a drink you decide you don't like, simply leave your glass and don't empty it.

What is not polite in Japan? ›

Refrain from blowing your nose in front of other people and only use paper tissues for the purpose. If you cannot help having a blow or need to sneeze turn your back on your Japanese counterpart. When face to face a dainty dab or wipe is not considered rude.

The answer to this is quite simple… not often. It is not usual in Japan to use swear words or bad language in public. Of course, you certainly shouldn't say any of the following swear words in Japanese or phrases to anyone higher up than you, as Japanese is a very respectful language and culture.

“Irasshaimase!” (いらっしゃいませ）is what you would normally hear the staff yell as you enter a Japanese restaurant. It means, “welcome!” Most Japanese would put their palms together as if praying and say “itadakimasu” (頂きます) before eating.

Combine vegetables, fruits, milk products, beans and fish in your diet. Avoid too much salt and fat. Maintain a healthy body weight and balance the calories you eat with physical activity.

Which healthy eating behaviours are part of traditional Japanese culture? Traditionally, the Japanese tend to have a healthy attitude to food and eating. They have a saying, “hara hachi bu”, which means to eat until you are 80% full, and it's not uncommon to teach children this philosophy from a young age.

Cell Phones

Please refrain from speaking on the cell phone during your meal as it's considered disrespectful. For urgent matters, please take the call at the entrance area or outside the restaurant. Please do not play games on your phone.