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Living Information
【Manners in Japan】
In Japan, there is a strong emphasis on “consideration for others”.Here are some manners and customs that might help you live comfortably in Japan.
Garbage Disposal
- Generally, garbage is not collected at each individual home. Instead, there are designated garbage disposal area in your neighborhood. You must take your garbage to these area for disposal (collection methods may differ depending on the city).
- In apartment buildings, there is usually a designated garbage disposal area for residents.
- Garbage must be separately disposed of according to type.
- The types of garbage you can dispose of at the garbage disposal area are: “burnable garbage,” “non-burnable garbage,” and “recyclable garbage.” Other items, such as very large garbage and home appliances, must be disposed of separately.
- Each type of garbage (“burnable,” “non-burnable,” “recyclable”) has designated days and times for disposal. In most areas, you should put out your garbage by around 8 a.m. on the designated day.
- In most cities and towns, it is prohibited to throw out garbage on the road or in public places. Please take your garbage home or put it in a proper trash bin if any are available.
Housing
- In apartment buildings, please be careful not to make loud noises that may disturb your neighbors.
Examples: loud talking, loud TV or music, parties - Pay special attention during early mornings and late nights.
Trains & Buses
In public places, it is considered good manners to behave quietly, not to disturb others.
Here are some typical rules related to noises:
Here are some typical rules related to noises:
- Speak quietly on trains and buses.
- Do not talk on your mobile phone while riding; wait until you get off.
- When listening to music, make sure sound does not leak from your earphones.
- When boarding trains and buses, line up and let people get off before you get on.
- In trains and buses, hold your bag in your hand or place it on the overhead rack, rather than carrying it on your back.
- When coughing or sneezing, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or handkerchief to prevent viruses spreading to others.
Restroom (Toilets)
Japanese restrooms are known worldwide for their cleanliness.
Clean usage of the restroom is a Japanese way to show consideration for the next person using the restrooms.
Clean usage of the restroom is a Japanese way to show consideration for the next person using the restrooms.
- Flush used toilet paper down the toilet.
- Keep the toilet clean for the next person.
Hot Springs(Onsen) & Public Baths
Since many people use hot springs and public baths, please follow the rules to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.
Most facilities display their rules, but here are some common ones:
Most facilities display their rules, but here are some common ones:
- Wash your body before entering the bathtub.
- Do not wash your body or hair inside the bathtub.
- Do not put towels in the bathtub.
Cars & Bicycles
- While driving a car or riding a bicycle, it is prohibited to talk on your mobile phone or look at the screen (except when stopped).
- Driving a car or a bicycle under the influence of alcohol is strictly prohibited.
Smoking
In Japan, smoking is prohibited in many places.
- Smoke only in designated smoking rooms or areas.
- If there is no ashtray, use a portable ashtray and take your cigarette butts home.
For more details, please refer to the “Living & Working Guidebook.”
Multilingual versions are available.
If you experience any difficulties in your daily life (such as medical care or child-rearing) while living in Kanagawa, please contact the “Multilingual Support Center Kanagawa.”
