Though other cultures consider sniffling rude, it’s the opposite in Japan. Blowing your nose in public is seen as totally disgusting and the height of rudeness. Locals will sniffle until they find somewhere private to blow their nose, and you should do the same.

Always ask the chef if you’re allowed to take a photo of your food beforehand. Also, don’t use the flash as it’s seen as disrespectful to other diners.

Called onsen, it’s a big no no to go in a public bath with your bathers on. Separated by female and male baths, you’re expected to bathe in your birthday suit. You can find private onsens where you can have it all to yourself and avoid being naked in front of total strangers.

When you’re eating sushi, don’t drown it in soy sauce. Just a little dip will suffice. If you like wasabi, you should place a dab on the fish rather than mixing it into the soy sauce. Eat the whole piece in no more than two bites.

Eat everything in silence except ramen or noodles for which slurping is encouraged. It’s actually considered polite as you’re showing enjoyment for the dish.

Leaving a tip is not accepted and if you leave money on the table, someone from the restaurant will come running after you to give it back. Instead of money, learn a Japanese phrase to say at the end of the meal to express your gratitude like ‘gochisosama’ (thank you for the delicious food).

Almost all Japanese people will set their smartphone on silent on the train or bus, and never, ever take calls or speak loudly. When travelling in Japan, treat your commute as one on a silent carriage.

Don’t be surprised if you need to take your shoes off in a restaurant, onsen or at someone’s home. There’s usually another set of slippers to change into and use exclusively in the toilet. These are often made of rubber and provided so your normal indoor slippers don’t get wet or dirty. They also double up as a signal that someone is using the restroom.