Also, if you go to an Izakaya, you will most likely be served Tsukidashi, a small appetizer. It is basically a surcharge of about 300 to 500 yen each added to the bill. There is no option but to accept it. Important to know the additional charge.
Google translate does help a lot with restaurants that has only Japanese menu. Post covid, a lot of restaurants have qr code menu, and payment can also be limited to qr and card.
When I saw the thumbnail I was hyped, because I thought Sam was back, at least for one Video, but unfortunately it is just old footage. Great video anyways!
It's always a great time to see a new video from Japan Guide being updated as, even if it is a shorter videos like this one, the amount of information is amazing and so useful. Still a few things; how can we make a reservation and is there any etiquette when there is a queue? What are the eating hours in Japan and are there restaurants open all day long? Thank you!
As for reservations: best to ask your hotel receptionist to make a reservation for you. Queue: Wait in the queue? Often you will find a row of chairs just outside the restaurant, where you can rest while waiting. So if you see people sitting on chairs next to the entrance that's a queue.
I heard there was a no blowing nose etiquette in restaurants when dining in Japan. Is there anything else similar like if needing napkins/towels to wash hand or mouth during or after dining?
No worries, many people in Japan also have allergies. As long as you indicate it to the staff you will be OK. Some menus even feature which allergens are in each dish. If you are staying at a ryokan with meals included we recommend to contact them in advance to tell them about your allergies and they will change the menu accordingly. We hope you can have a stress-free trip to Japan someday!
