Quick etiquette tips and dos/don’ts for Japanese hotels
Here are quick etiquette tips and dos/don’ts for Japanese hotels:
Dos
- Respect check-in and check-out times; punctuality is highly valued. Japanese hotels often have strict schedules to allow thorough cleaning and preparation between guests.
- Remove shoes when required, usually at the entrance or in rooms with tatami mats. Use the provided slippers indoors. This helps maintain cleanliness and shows respect for traditional flooring.
- Be mindful of noise; speak softly and avoid loud sounds as hotel walls are often thin. Japanese culture places great importance on harmony and consideration for others.
- Use hotel amenities thoughtfully and avoid taking items home unless explicitly allowed. Many hotels provide small toiletries for single use, but items like towels or yukata should stay in the hotel.
- Express gratitude politely to hotel staff, for example by saying “Arigatou gozaimasu” (thank you). A simple, sincere expression of thanks goes a long way in Japanese culture.
- When staying at a ryokan, follow specific customs such as wearing yukata properly (left side over right), showering before using communal baths, and enjoying meals at a proper pace. These customs preserve tradition and respect communal harmony.
- Keep shared spaces tidy and quiet. This applies especially to waiting areas, corridors, and communal baths.
- Communicate clearly and politely with staff if you have special requests. Using basic Japanese phrases or polite gestures enhances mutual understanding.
- Thank staff when leaving, using phrases like “Osewa ni narimashita” (thank you for taking care of me). This acknowledges their effort and fosters goodwill.
- Close slippers should be changed to toilet slippers when entering the restroom and changed back afterward. This practice maintains hygiene and shows attention to detail.
Additional Dos for a Polished Stay
- Place your luggage neatly and avoid blocking entrances or walkways.
- Use provided shoe boxes or cubbies to store your shoes when removing them at the entrance.
- If using an onsen or public bath, tie up long hair and avoid bringing towels into the water.
- Follow hotel policies on smoking strictly; smoking areas are often designated and clearly marked.
- Try to learn a few polite Japanese words and phrases related to hotel stays before your trip — this effort is appreciated.
Don’ts
- Don’t wear shoes inside hotel rooms, especially on tatami mats. Tatami is delicate and easily damaged by footwear.
- Don’t make loud noises that might disturb other guests. This includes loud phone conversations, slamming doors, or stomping.
- Don’t take hotel-provided items such as toiletries, towels, slippers, or yukata outside the hotel unless allowed. Doing so can be seen as theft and is socially frowned upon.
- Don’t skip meals or show disrespect to the meal preparation in ryokans. Meals are usually carefully prepared with seasonal and local ingredients, and eating respectfully honors the chef’s work.
- Don’t wear swimwear in onsen (hot springs) baths; they require thorough washing beforehand. Bathing suits are considered unclean and can pollute the water.
- Don’t move furniture unnecessarily in rooms. Room layouts are designed for comfort and tradition.
- Don’t tip staff; tipping is not customary in Japan and can sometimes cause confusion or discomfort.
- Don’t wear toilet slippers outside the restroom area. These slippers are meant only for hygiene in the toilet and should be left there.
- Avoid talking loudly or using phones in communal areas such as lobbies or baths.
- Refrain from eating or drinking in places where it is prohibited. Many ryokans have designated dining areas.
Common Mistakes and Misconceptions
Many foreign travelers mistakenly wear their outdoor shoes indoors or forget to switch slippers when entering restrooms. These small lapses can be more noticeable in Japan due to its cultural emphasis on cleanliness and respect. Also, tipping can cause embarrassment, as Japanese service staff pride themselves on providing excellent service without extra rewards.
Another frequent mistake is misunderstanding communal bath etiquette. Some guests fail to wash thoroughly before entering the onsen or bring towels into the water, which is considered unhygienic. Learning these details ensures a more authentic and respectful experience.
Step-by-Step Guidance for Using a Ryokan Onsen
- Upon arrival, remove shoes at the entrance and wear yukata offered by the ryokan.
- Before entering the onsen, use the washing stations to clean your body thoroughly. Soap and shampoo are usually provided.
- Rinse off all soap and dirt before stepping into the hot spring pool.
- Do not wear swimwear or towels inside the onsen pools; small towels can be used to cover modesty outside the water but must not enter the water.
- Relax quietly and avoid splashing or loud conversations.
- After bathing, dry off thoroughly before returning to your room or communal areas.
- Change from onsen slippers back to regular slippers when leaving the bathing area.
FAQ
Q: Can I wear slippers outside the ryokan or hotel?
No, slippers provided are meant for indoor use only. Wearing them outdoors is considered improper and unhygienic.
Q: Is it okay to take photos inside the ryokan?
Photography is usually allowed in public areas but should be respectful of other guests’ privacy, especially in communal baths or dining rooms.
Q: What if I don’t speak Japanese well?
Using simple polite phrases and non-verbal gestures can help. Many hotels have staff who understand some English, but patience and respect go far.
Q: Are there gender-specific rules in onsens?
Most onsens have separate areas for men and women. Some may have mixed-gender options but require special attire or times. Always check rules beforehand.
Following these rules will help ensure a respectful, smooth, and memorable stay in Japanese hotels or traditional inns (ryokans) and is greatly appreciated by the staff and other guests. 1, 8, 10, 14