Naturally there are more forms of etiquette. For example, it is considered rude to pour your own beverage, one is expected to pour them for the person sitting next to you. The glass is held in both hands and offered to the appropriate person. The same applies to visiting cards, they are offered in both hands.

When eating with chopsticks, it is very rude to place the chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice. It can be traced back to a Buddhist ceremony at cremations and brings up unpleasant associations.

Etiquette rules regarding hygiene also apply. Using a handkerchief to blow one’s nose (then placing the handkerchief in one’s pocket) is considered vulgar. Shoes must also be removed when entering the house and Japanese usually wash their hands immediately upon returning home.

Our museum shop has chopsticks and beautifully decorated mugs to help you practice Japanese etiquette.