Kankan Kankou

General Information - General Etiquette

  1. Bow when greeting another person.
  2. Do not hand your money or credit card directly to cashiers. Place it on the provided tray on the counter.
  3. Do not speak loudly in public.
  4. Only smoke in the designated smoking areas.
  5. Refrain from hugging, kissing, and other public displays of affection.
  6. Do not photograph employees who are outside promoting their restaurant or café.
  7. Photography is inside shrines and temples unless otherwise noted.


Below are a few things to keep in mind before and during your trip:

  1. Japan is largely cash-based. Be sure to carry some with you at all times.
  2. Many shops and restaurants in Japan close before 8PM, so plan accordingly.
  3. Vending machines are very prominent in Japan, and offer items ranging from drinks and pizza, to beer and clothing.
  4. You do not need to open taxi doors. They are automatic.
  5. Many public bathrooms do not have soap and towels available, so prepare accordingly.
  6. When visitng a shrine, stop at the purification fountain and cleanse your hands using one of the provided ladles. Rinse your left hand, then your right. Mouth rinsing is optional. Pour any remaining water outside the fountain and return the ladle.
  7. Japanese crane machines require a lot of skill and may take multiple tries if you do not understand how they work.
  8. To make an offering at a shrine, ring the bell (if applicable), toss a coin into the offering box, bow twice, clap twice, pray, and then bow again.