Traveling to a foreign country can be very exciting. However, learning about the culture before heading out on a journey is highly recommended. That way, you won't offend anyone by doing something you would consider the norm.
So, today I thought I would give some examples of what you should know when traveling and dining out in restaurants while on your stay in Okinawa.
When you go to a restaurant, don't grab a seat unless the server allows you. Usually, the server takes you to a table, so wait until the server comes out to you. The exception to this is if there is a sign out that states to seat yourself.
Do not take out any food or drinks brought from outside to the table as you are supposed to consume what is served in the restaurant. This may sound like nonsense to some, but I have actually witnessed a lot of tourists doing just this.
You can call out for any server from the table by saying "sumimasen!" as there isn't a specific server assigned to any single table. However, if there's a button or bell at the table, you can use it to call a server instead.
When you're finished eating and ready to pay, take the check to the cashier and pay there as they won't charge at the table.
You may need to ring a bell if nobody is at the counter.
And pay what is due there.
In Japan, tips are not required so don’t feel bad for not leaving one; simply pay whatever is stated on the bill.
Although some people think that tipping in Japan might be rude, it is not. It’s merely us trying to work hard for the paycheck and not for the tip. We even think it is rude for us to take it, so don’t worry about it!
We would love you to learn more about our Okinawan culture so that everyone can be comfortable, and, happy travels!
So, today I thought I would give some examples of what you should know when traveling and dining out in restaurants while on your stay in Okinawa.
When you go to a restaurant, don't grab a seat unless the server allows you. Usually, the server takes you to a table, so wait until the server comes out to you. The exception to this is if there is a sign out that states to seat yourself.
Do not take out any food or drinks brought from outside to the table as you are supposed to consume what is served in the restaurant. This may sound like nonsense to some, but I have actually witnessed a lot of tourists doing just this.
You can call out for any server from the table by saying "sumimasen!" as there isn't a specific server assigned to any single table. However, if there's a button or bell at the table, you can use it to call a server instead.
When you're finished eating and ready to pay, take the check to the cashier and pay there as they won't charge at the table.
You may need to ring a bell if nobody is at the counter.
And pay what is due there.
In Japan, tips are not required so don’t feel bad for not leaving one; simply pay whatever is stated on the bill.
Although some people think that tipping in Japan might be rude, it is not. It’s merely us trying to work hard for the paycheck and not for the tip. We even think it is rude for us to take it, so don’t worry about it!
We would love you to learn more about our Okinawan culture so that everyone can be comfortable, and, happy travels!
The views expressed on this page by users and staff are their own, not those of Okinawa.Org.
