rules & Norms
- Footwear: A lot of internal spaces do not allow shoes. Make sure to take off your shoes and use slippers where provided. We suggest you bring shoes which are easy to slip in and out of for this reason.
- Clothing: Despite the heat, Japanese clothing is generally modest - revealing clothes may be considered indecent. Tattoos are also looked down upon, and in many situations are better off kept covered, if possible.
- Trains: Trains are quiet and clean spaces. Phone calls, food/drink and general noise are discouraged.
- Noise: Japan is generally quiet compared to many countries - be conscious of your noise level when out and about. Expect that people speak at a lower volume than you.
- Personal space: What is considered 'personal space' may differ to how it is perceived in your own country. This will also differ depending on the setting.
- Showering & Bathing: In 'onsens' (hot springs) and communal baths, the tubs are there only for soaking - shower beforehand and rinse off any soap or hair products before entering any tubs. Soaps, body or hair products, towels, swimwear etc. should not enter tubs. As in any other situation, do not be noisy or disrespectful. Most public 'onsens' do not admit people with tattoos.
- Trash: There are few trashcans around - any trash should be carried back to your venue and separated accordingly. Trash separation and recycling rules are very strict in some locations of Japan.
- Tipping: In Japan, tipping is not commonplace - insisting on tipping may be perceived as rude. Service fees are included in the bill.
- Being polite and respectful is key - be aware of the fact that your actions reflect on the entirety of HLAB.
helpful phrases:
Ohayou gozaimasu - Good morning! (Polite) / Ohayou - Good morning! (Casual)
Konnichiwa - Good day/afternoon, or Hello
Konbanwa - Good evening
Oyasuminasai - Good night (Polite) / Oyasumi - Good night (Casual)
Arigatou gozaimasu - Thank you (Polite) / Arigatou - Thank you (Casual)
Onegaishimasu - Please
Sumimasen - Excuse me/I'm sorry
Itadakimasu - Thank you for the meal (used before eating)
Gochisou sama deshita - Thank you for the meal (used after eating)
Konnichiwa - Good day/afternoon, or Hello
Konbanwa - Good evening
Oyasuminasai - Good night (Polite) / Oyasumi - Good night (Casual)
Arigatou gozaimasu - Thank you (Polite) / Arigatou - Thank you (Casual)
Onegaishimasu - Please
Sumimasen - Excuse me/I'm sorry
Itadakimasu - Thank you for the meal (used before eating)
Gochisou sama deshita - Thank you for the meal (used after eating)
