Just as there are language and cultural differences, there are also many cultural differences when it comes to eating.

If you are thinking of traveling to Japan or would like to know how table manners differ from those in other countries, be sure to read this article for reference.

Say hello before and after eating

In Japan, it is common to say "itadakimasu" before starting a meal and "gochisousama deshita" at the end of a meal.
It is considered bad manners to start eating without saying anything.

The reason for greeting is to express the feeling of "receiving" the lives of the vegetables, cows, pigs, and chickens that are the ingredients of the meal being served, and gratitude to the producers.

In Japan, it is a culture that is deeply rooted in most people, regardless of religion.

Etiquette for using chopsticks when eating

Chopsticks can be very difficult to use the first time you pick them up, but there are many manners to follow when using them.

A typical example is:
・There is a basic way to hold chopsticks, and if you don't follow this, you will be seen as holding them strangely. ・Do not point at others with your chopsticks. ・It is bad manners to put food back on the plate after picking it up with your chopsticks. ・Do not stick your chopsticks into rice.

etc.

It may be difficult to hold it the first time, so it may be a good idea to practice holding it beforehand using a straw or something similar.

Hold the plate and eat

It is common to lift a bowl containing rice or miso soup with your hand and drink from it by putting it to your mouth.
While in many countries lifting dishes is considered bad manners, in Japan it is not a problem.

On the other hand, be careful not to drop your food on the floor or bring your mouth too close to your plate, as this will be considered bad manners.

Use special chopsticks when eating from a large plate

When taking your own portion of food from a shared platter, use chopsticks or a spoon that are only for taking food that no one else is eating.

Please be careful not to use your own chopsticks to pick up food, as this is called "jikabashi" and is considered bad manners.
However, there are cases where family and friends are okay with using chopsticks, so it's a good idea to check before eating.

It's okay to slurp soup and noodles when eating

The culture of slurping noodles is said to have originated as a way to enjoy the aroma of soba, and in Japanese meals it is customary to slurp while drinking in order to enjoy the aroma.

In some countries, it is considered bad manners not to make noise when eating, but in Japan, many people slurp their food when eating ramen or pasta.

However, making too much noise or splashing the juice can be a nuisance to those around you, so please enjoy it in moderation.

How to call the store clerk

In countries outside of Japan, it is common to make eye contact and have someone come if your eye meets them, but in Japan it is common to say "Excuse me" and raise your hand to call someone over.

However, in high-end Italian or French restaurants, you won't hear people calling out loudly.
It's a good idea to call out to them in a busy izakaya or yakiniku restaurant.

Don't leave any food behind

In some countries it is considered good manners to leave food on your plate, but in Japan it is considered best to eat everything without leaving any leftovers.

If you are absolutely full, some restaurants will allow you to take home leftovers, but not all restaurants allow this, so make sure you order only as much as you can finish.

Summary of differences in table manners between Japan and other countries

Many people may be surprised to learn that there are so many manners to follow.
Although you don't necessarily have to follow them, it is important to know Japanese table manners beforehand so that you can eat without any trouble.

However, Japanese people also understand that there are many differences in table manners compared to other countries, so they are unlikely to immediately complain if someone does something different.
If you don't know how to do it, try practicing by observing the Japanese people around you.

I hope you have a wonderful trip to Japan!