Japanese Phrasebook

Japanese society values harmony (Wa) above all else. This is directly reflected in the way people express themselves.

The power of "Sumimasen" : More than a simple "excuse me", Sumimasen is the Swiss Army knife of Japanese politeness. It is used to apologize, to get a waiter's attention at a restaurant, or even to thank someone for going out of their way for you (a form of "sorry for the trouble").
Aizuchi (active listening) : In Japan, listening in silence is perceived as a lack of attention. During a conversation, you should punctuate your interlocutor's sentences with small reactions (Aizuchi) such as Sou desu ne (That's right), Naruhodo (I see), or Hee! (Oh!).
Honne and Tatemae (Refusing without saying No) : Saying a categorical "No" (Iie) is considered blunt. Japanese people prefer nuance (Tatemae = the social facade). If you are invited somewhere and cannot go, use phrases from our guide such as Sore wa chotto... (That's a bit...) or Kangaete okimasu (I'll think about it) to politely decline.

The customer experience in Japan is world-renowned for its excellence (Omotenashi). To enjoy it fully, a few rules apply:

Zero tipping : In Japan, service is always included. Leaving a tip on the table will cause confusion, and the server will probably chase you down the street to return your change! Always pay at the register (Reji), not at the table.
Izakaya etiquette : In these traditional Japanese tapas pubs, you will often be served a small dish as soon as you arrive. This is Otoshi, a paid appetizer that serves as a table charge. It is also where you can enjoy Nomihoudai (all-you-can-drink for a limited time).
The speed of Combini : In 24-hour convenience stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson), cashiers will ask you questions at breakneck speed. Thanks to our guide, you will know how to respond when asked if you want your bento heated (Obentou wa atatamemasu ka?) or if you need a plastic bag.

Getting around and staying in Japan requires adopting very specific new habits.

Silence on trains : Whether on the Tokyo metro or aboard the Shinkansen, it is very frowned upon to talk on the phone or speak loudly. Public space is a space of calm. It is also recommended to use the Takkyubin system (hotel-to-hotel luggage delivery) rather than cluttering trains with large suitcases.
Ryokan and house rules : If you stay in a traditional inn (Ryokan) or an Airbnb, you must remove your shoes at the entrance (Genkan). You will then use provided slippers indoors, and sometimes specific slippers only for going to the toilet!
Onsen etiquette (hot springs) : Bathing in an Onsen is an unforgettable experience, but highly codified. You must wash your body thoroughly before entering the hot water. Note: tattoos (Tatuu) are still very often prohibited, even though rules are gradually relaxing.

If you have the chance to make Japanese friends or be invited into someone's home, these codes will save the day:

Uchi and Soto (Inside and outside) : Japanese makes a strict distinction between one's inner circle (Uchi) and others (Soto). That is why, in our guide, you will notice that different words are used to talk about your own mother (Haha) and someone else's mother (Okaasan, with a respectful particle).
Gift culture (Omiyage) : You never visit someone empty-handed. Offering an Omiyage (a small souvenir, ideally edible and individually wrapped, from your region) is the best way to break the ice.
Crossing the threshold : When entering your host's home, do not forget the customary phrase: Ojama shimasu (literally: "Sorry for disturbing you").

Phrasebook
Japanese