Planning a trip to Japan does not just involve packing your suitcase and booking your flight. It also means learning the basic Japanese customs. After all, Japan is a country with a very rich and interesting culture. Indeed, to enjoy your vacation better, you’ll want to keep these basic customs in mind.

One of the simplest yet most important customs in Japan is to bow when in front of someone or when you are talking to someone. Bows vary depending on the situation and the person in front of you. However, just keep in mind that the more superior the person in front of you is, the deeper and longer the bow should be. Bows also tend to be long and deep when apologizing.

Also, when talking to someone, make sure you use his or her last name, along with the suffix -san or -sama (if you want to be more respectful), since first names are only reserved for close friends and family members. It is also important to greet others sincerely, if not, energetically, such as saying good morning (ohayo gozaimasu), good day (konnichiwa), good evening (konbanwa) or good night (oyasuminasai). Remember to say goodbye (sayounara or jyaa ne) before parting ways with someone, as well.

Removing your shoes upon entering a home or most business establishments is also one of the most popular Japanese customs. After taking them off, place them on the rack provided or beside the others with the toe facing the door. House slippers are usually provided so wear these, but remember to take them off before stepping onto a tatami mat.

If you don’t know how to use chopsticks yet, this is something you must learn before your trip to Japan, not only since some Japanese restaurants do not provide spoons and forks even upon request, but more importantly because it is the best way to enjoy Japanese food. In fact, it is how Japanese food was meant to be enjoyed. Learning how to pick up food and put them in your mouth using chopsticks is not enough, though. You also have to know that you should never stick your chopsticks into your bowl of rice, rub them together unnecessarily or use them to pass food to someone else.

Other ways to show respect at the table include saying ‘itadakimasu’ first before eating. If someone gives you an oshibori or rolled wet towel – a common practice in Japanese restaurants – use this to wipe your hands only then set it aside. Never use it to wash your face and never mistake it for a napkin. Remember to clear your plate, as well. As for eating noodles, slurping is acceptable, and is, in fact, one of the most unique Japanese customs.

On the other hand, tipping is not acceptable and is even considered insulting so just pay the price without leaving any extra. This doesn’t just apply to restaurants, but also to hotels, cabs and most business establishments and services. When paying, put your cash on the tray provided instead of handing it over to the waitress or the cashier.

Japanese customs apply to bathing, too. When bathing, the Japanese usually use the same tub with the same water, bathing in order from the oldest to the youngest. Technically, they do not use the water to bathe, though. Rather, they wash and rinse beside the tub then just soak in it afterwards. The same is true with public baths like onsens or thermal springs. Therefore, if you happen to relax in an onsen during your trip to Japan, make sure you wash and rinse first, then be careful not to dirty the water in any way.

Isabella Olsen is a travel writer who has toured major destinations worldwide, including many European countries by car. To book a car rental Scotland, or learn more about car hire worldwide, visit www.zencarhire.com. If you are traveling to the US,  many familes enjoy a Disney Vacation. They are great fun for the entire family from children to seniors.