Japan Other Essentials
Electricity
Voltage
100V
Frequency
50/60Hz
Plug
Flat blade attachment plug or two flat blades with one round grounding pin.
Local Traditions
To get by in Japan without causing offence its wise to bear some basic etiquette rules in mind. The most important perhaps is never to enter a house with your shoes on. If slippers are provided for the toilet, use them instead of the one for the rest of the house. You will notice that some shops, cafes or stores provide plastic covers for umbrellas – please grab one before entering. Avoid blowing your nose in front of other people and you should not eat while standing or walking in the street, however exceptions are made for eating at a counter (e.g. ramen) or for eating an ice-cream in the street.
Do not point your finger, feet or chopsticks at people as this is considered rude, instead wave your fingers with the palm downwards. Also avoid expressing your opinion too directly as the Japanese have what they call "honne" (real opinion) and "tatemae" (public opinion) with the latter used in most situations so as not to disturb the group harmony. Do not stare at people in the eyes, use a mobile phone on trains unless it is clearly allowed to do so and if giving money do so in an envelope (for example a tip at the end of a tour).
If chopsticks are places in a bowl it resembles a funerary offering and is therefore always to be avoided. You should refill the glasses of people around you when they are empty, and they should do the same for you. If you want to refill you glass, start by serving other people. If you do not want a refill, do not empty you glass. Also it is polite to say "itadakimasu" before eating or drinking, and "gochisousama deshita" to your host or to the restaurant's staff after eating or when leaving the venue. Although it seems strange noodles can be and indeed should be slurped and likewise, bowls or plates should be brought up the mouth rather than bending one's head toward it.
Bathing is an integral part of Japanese culture. The Japanese wash themselves before entering the bath, as bath water is usually shared - true as much for public baths (sento) as for thermal spring (onsen). Do not, therefore empty the bath after using it.
As you would expect (in public baths), do not mistake men and women's changing rooms, as it is extremely impolite: the men's room are usually on the left, and normally has a blue curtain; the women's room is usually on the right, with a red curtain. Note that tattoos are not allowed in most public baths – consult staff at reception beforehand if you have one.
