Essential Kyoto Etiquette Tips for Tourists

START THE DAY HERE

Early voting turnout strong in North Carolina. What Hamas leader’s death may mean for war in Gaza. Investigation into Liam Payne’s fatal fall continues.

Travel

Kyoto’s Etiquette Guides for Tourists

Published 6:33 PM EDT, Sun August 30, 2015

Kyoto has also released a separate toilet guide to teach travelers the proper way to use a Japanese-style (left) and Western-style (right) toilet.
Kyoto has also released a separate toilet guide to teach travelers the proper way to use a Japanese-style (left) and Western-style (right) toilet.
To encourage good manners in their city, Kyoto officials have issued an etiquette guide for foreign visitors highlighting various "a ki ma hen" ("don'ts") for visitors.
‘Don’t do this!’ — To encourage good manners in their city, Kyoto officials have issued an etiquette guide for foreign visitors highlighting various “a ki ma hen” (“don’ts”) for visitors.
Each improper behavior is rated with unhappy emoticons. This is the second "Kyoto Insider Guide" the city has issued in collaboration with TripAdvisor. The first focuses on facts and tips about the city.
Each improper behavior is rated with unhappy emoticons. This is the second “Kyoto Insider Guide” the city has issued in collaboration with TripAdvisor. The first focuses on facts and tips about the city.
Causing the mildest level of distress among Kyotoites are tipping tourists. Just "say 'okini' instead of tipping," says the guide. The guide also reminds travelers that they need to allow space for taxi doors to be opened remotely by drivers.
Causing the mildest level of distress among Kyotoites are tipping tourists. Just “say ‘okini’ instead of tipping,” says the guide. The guide also reminds travelers that they need to allow space for taxi doors to be opened remotely by drivers.

In conclusion, understanding local customs and etiquette is crucial when visiting Kyoto. Travelers can enhance their experience by following these guidelines, which emphasize respect and awareness of local traditions. Therefore, make sure to familiarize yourself with these tips before your trip to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit.

Back To Top