Tokyo culture & etiquette

Tokyo is seismically active. Save the NHK World or Yurekuru earthquake-alert app, know your building's safe spots, and don't rush outside during shaking — drop, cover and hold.

Japan is still surprisingly cash-heavy — many small restaurants and shops are cash-only. Get a Suica or Pasmo IC card on day one for trains, buses and convenience-store payments; you can now add Suica to your phone.

No phone calls on trains, queue on the platform markings, stand on the left of Tokyo escalators (it's the right in Osaka), and don't eat on commuter trains. Trains are silent and punctual to the minute.

Remove your shoes at homes, ryokan, some restaurants and clinic/fitting rooms — watch for the raised step (genkan) that marks the line. Wear decent socks.

Tipping isn't customary and can confuse or even offend; service is impeccable without it. Leaving cash on the table just means staff will chase you down to return it.

Keep your voice down on trains and in public, avoid eating while walking, and learn the strict trash separation (burnable, plastic, cans) — getting it wrong is a real faux pas in Tokyo.