Dining Like a Local in Japan: Essential Tips
- Fluent Japanese
- Aug 21
- 2 min read
Updated: Oct 30
Key Restaurant Manners in Japan
When dining in Japan, knowing the right manners can enhance your experience. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind.
1. How to Politely Call the Staff
In Japan, you don’t wait and wave. Just say “Sumimasen!” to get the staff’s attention. If there’s a call button on the table, pressing it works too.
日本（にほん）では、手（て）をあげてまつより、「すみません！」といってスタッフをよびます。テーブルにボタンがあるおみせもあります。そのときは、ボタンをおすとスタッフが来（き）ます。
2. Seating & “How Many People?” Question
When you arrive, staff will ask “Nan-mei sama desu ka?” (How many people?). Just answer with the number of people in your group:
Two people → “Futari desu”
Three people → “San-nin desu”
レストランにはいると、スタッフが「なんめいさまですか？」といいます。これは「なんにんですか？」といういみです。かんたんにこたえましょう。
2人 → 「ふたりです」
3人 → 「さんにんです」
3. Paying at the Counter (Not at the Table)
In Japan, restaurants often expect you to bring your bill to the register near the entrance. But depending on the place, sometimes you can also pay at the table—just check what others are doing.
日本（にほん）では、多（おお）くのおみせで、でんぴょうをもっていりぐちのレジでお金（かね）をはらいます。 でも、おみせによっては、テーブルでお金（かね）をはらうこともあります。まわりのおきゃくさんを見（み）て、まねするといいです。
Ordering Food: Tips for Success
Ordering food in Japan can be a delightful experience. Here are some tips to help you navigate the menu with ease.
Understanding the Menu
Menus in Japan often include pictures, making it easier to choose your meal. If you're unsure, don’t hesitate to ask the staff for recommendations. They are usually happy to help!
Asking About Vegetarian Options
If you follow a vegetarian diet, it’s important to ask about options. You can say, “Bejitarian no menu wa arimasu ka?” (Do you have a vegetarian menu?). This will help you find suitable dishes.
Enhancing Your Dining Experience
These are just a few small tips that can make your restaurant experience smoother. But what about ordering food, asking about vegetarian dishes, or explaining allergies? That’s where many travelers struggle.
To help, I created my Travel Essentials for Restaurant Guide eBook. Inside, you’ll find:
Easy phrases in English and Japanese
Audio
Sample dialogues
👉 Get the eBook and dine in Japan confidently!
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