What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Tokyo?

"One time on the weekend of thanksgiving I was on a train with some friends. They handed me a beer, and I thought yeah sure I'm on vacation I'll have a beer on the train. It felt kind of wrong or something but I don't think it was illegal, just maybe culturally wrong. So I went to take a sip of my Kirin tallboy and watched in terror as it spilled and rolled across the floor of the moving train. 30 people instantly turned and stared at me, and I sheepishly tried to sop up the beer with some napkins. Really embarrassing," mentioned another expat when asked about moving to Tokyo, Japan.

"In Tokyo, it is important to observe good manners, and there are several faux pas that should be avoided. Being punctual is expected in many Japanese contexts, so one should make sure to arrive on time for activities or appointments. It is also important to remove one's shoes before entering a home or certain restaurants, as it is considered polite. As a sign of respect and politeness, bowing is the expected greeting in Japan. When eating, it is rude to make noise and chewing with one's mouth open is also frowned upon. Public displays of affection should also be avoided, as this is typically not well-received. Finally, it is important to avoid talking on one's phone in public spaces, such as public transit or temples," commented one expat who made the move to Tokyo, Japan.

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