Many tourists venture to Japan to go on a food trip in its different cities. From ramen and sushi to matcha and mochi, there is much to taste and discover in the country.
However, there are a couple of things that tourists should keep in mind when eating in Japan to have a mindful, stress-free trip. Here are some things that you must do and some that you have to avoid doing.
When Dining In
Have a Smartphone with Internet That's QR-Friendly
These days, many dining establishments in Japan will ask guests to scan a QR code not just to view the menu but also to place an order. This makes having a smartphone that has internet and can scan QR codes essential.
Many establishments offer free Wi-Fi, but it's not always the case, so make sure to have an e-sim or a pocket Wi-Fi in hand.
Keep an Eye Out for Queues, Both Physical and Digital
Some food establishments, such as Ichiran and I'm Donut, are so popular, you have to line up. Avoid being a rude tourist by making sure first that there's no queue waiting for their turn.
There are also those that do their queues online, which means you have to scan a QR code and do the lining up digitally. Again, make sure to have a smartphone that has internet and can scan QR codes if you want to eat in such establishments.
CLAYGO and Segregate Your Trash
Clean-as-you-go is a common practice in Japanese food establishments. There are properly marked areas where you can leave trays, plates, and utensils.
You will also need to segregate your trash, which means you'll have to separate food leftovers from plastics, combustibles, and others.
Related Article: 5 Less Known Cities in Japan That Should Be in Your Bucket List
When Ordering Food to Go
Extra Charge for Containers and Utensils
Take away. Take out. To-go. In comes in many terms, but it's essentially when you order food that you don't plan to eat in the premises of a cafe, restaurant, bakery, what-have-you.
Should you do this, keep in mind that it's normal for you to be charged for takeout containers, utensils, and even paper bags to put your food in.
Differences in Prices for Dine in and Takeout
While this is not always the case, don't be caught off-guard if you realize that you're paying differently for food eaten when you dine in versus food that you're buying to take out.
When Eating at Street Food Stalls
Eat at Designated Areas Only
Eating while walking is considered improper in Japan even if you bought from a street food stall. So where do you eat your newly bought food?
There are typically designated areas where you can eat your food. This can be within the premises of the establishment you brought from or an area right next to it. Staff will tell you where to eat or the area will have the appropriate signs to help you locate it.
Do Not Throw Trash in Other Establishments
Let's say you bought yakitori or skewers from one establishment, and then you head to a shop selling rice cakes. You've now finished eating your skewers, and you want to throw away the sticks and container. Some shops won't let you throw other shops' trash in their bins.
Going back to the example, if the rice cake shop says you can't throw your yakitori-related trash there, just head back where you bought them.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
