There are so many reasons to return to Japan, from its majestic royal palace to its ancient temples and sacred shrines to its sandy beaches to its breathtaking national parks.

When it comes to Japan, it is a very traditional country with an extremely strict set of social rules; if you’re planning to visit for the first time and want to avoid getting into trouble, check out our list of Japan’s most interesting facts.

Make sure you’re wearing the right shoes.

Be careful to take off your “outside” shoes before entering a temple or someone else’s house, where you will be able to change into “interior” shoes. There are no exceptions to the rule. Remove the tatami mats before stepping on them to prevent damage (often in temples and traditional houses).

Using the toilet in a public place, such as a restaurant or temple, requires you to take off your shoes and put on the supplied slippers first. As you visit japan you can get the best bit there.

Time your vacation to coincide with the blooming of the cherry trees

You may be surprised to learn that the beautiful cherry blossoms you see on postcards and tourist brochures from all around Japan are only in bloom during the sakura (cherry blossom) season, not all year round.

From the end of March to the beginning of May, it is the most expensive time to visit Japan. To be sure, Japan is especially vibrant and intriguing during this time of year.

The cherry blossom, also known as sakura in Japan, prompted the coining of the term hanami, which translates as “flower watching.” Many hanami events are held in the parks, where picnics are held under the trees for thousands of people.

There is absolutely no need for you to leave a gratuity

If you don’t, a waiter who thinks you’ve dropped your change may follow you about, accusing you of being rude for failing to tip. If you’re going on a tour or taking a culinary class, you may want to bring a token of your appreciation from home to show your appreciation.

The fourth rule is to be kind to others

In Japan, answering your phone is considered impolite, and the volume of your music should be kept as low as possible. Be conscious of Japan’s reputation for foreigners being loud and rowdy on public transportation. In Japan, blowing your nose in public is regarded ruder than sniffing, and eating while walking is seen as a form of disrespect.

Ride the bullet train to work (shinkansen)

One of Japan’s high-speed bullet trains is an experience in itself. In terms of getting about, these trains are the best option because of their speed, smoothness of movement, and ability to stick to their timetables.

Conclusion

In order to ride on all of Japan’s trains, purchase a Japan Rail Pass in advance. You should be aware that, unlike the majority of passengers, you will be obliged to wait at the ticket gates for a station employee to inspect your pass before you may board the train.