Respect for the Aged Day

📣 Traveler notes

Japan is an East Asian nation with a complex culture that emphasizes balance, tranquility, and natural beauty. This societal focus often contrasts with the pace of life in its dense urban areas.

• New Year (Oshōgatsu) causes massive travel congestion from late December through early January.
• Hanami (cherry blossom viewing) is popular in March/April, leading to high crowds, especially near April 1st.
• Golden Week (late April to early May) involves multiple holidays, resulting in extremely crowded travel and elevated prices.
• Summer features local festivals (matsuri) and fireworks (hanabi), including Tanabata in early August.
• Use chopsticks (箸 hashi) for most food, but spoons are typical for soups or curry rice. Avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice or passing food from one set to another person. Service includes a hot towel (o-shibori) upon seating. Wait to be acknowledged by staff; use 'sumimasen' (excuse me) when needing attention. Tipping is not customary; pay at the counter. Leaving some food uneaten is acceptable.