Official Travel Guide of Japan

Cultural Highlights

Essential customs every traveler should know before visiting Japan.

Traditional temple culture in Japan

Temple & Shrine Etiquette

Bow at torii gates, cleanse hands at purification fountains, and keep noise low in sacred areas.

Traditional Japanese street and architecture

Respectful Public Behavior

Queue patiently, avoid loud conversations on transit, and prioritize collective comfort in shared spaces.

Japanese seasonal celebration

Seasonal Festivals

From Hanami in spring to summer matsuri, festivals connect communities through tradition and celebration.

Traditional Japanese cuisine dining

Dining Manners

Say “Itadakimasu” before meals, avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice, and respect shared table norms.

Popular Sports in Japan

Japan blends ancient martial traditions with globally loved modern sports.

Sumo wrestling in Japan

Sumo Wrestling

Japan’s national sport with deep Shinto roots, ceremonial rituals, and major annual tournaments.

Baseball stadium and game

Baseball

Extremely popular nationwide, from school tournaments like Koshien to professional NPB leagues.

Martial arts practice in dojo

Martial Arts

Judo, Karate, Kendo, and Aikido emphasize discipline, respect, and physical-mental balance.

Football and modern sports culture

Football & Winter Sports

Football grows rapidly through J-League clubs, while Hokkaido and Nagano are top ski destinations.