JAPAN:

SEATING:

• Most restaurants have western styled tables and chairs.
• Although some have low floor seating where you sit on the floor.
• If the seating is on the floor it is polite to take off your shoes at the door.
• Some restaurants have both options and the waiter will ask which you prefer.
• It is rare for people to be able to seat themselves.

FOOD:

• Some restaurants have plastic or wax replicas of their food on display.
• The menus can either be pictures or just Japanese and the replicas help.
• When you are ready to order you can say "sumimasen" (excuse me) to alert the waitress.
• Most meals are served with water or fresh tea and chopsticks are normally set already.
• At some places it is expected to order as a group a bunch of dishes and split the total.

PAYING

• At most places it is uncommon to pay at the table.
• Most restaurants have you pay up front with your receipt.
• However at Ramen and gyudon restaurants you get a meal ticket and bring it to the workers who then make it.
• It is not appreciated to leave tips. Most employees will chase you down to give the money back.
• The receipt will normally be given to you as you get your meal or after you're done eating.

DINING ETIQUETTE

• When using chopsticks, don't point them at other people or wave them around.
• A hot towel will be placed for you, use it to wash off your hands before eating.
• Gulping down drinks is rude, but gulping down food is alright.
• Slurping noodles isn't considered bad manners, just don't let the noodles fall back into the bowl.
• When drinking tea, do not ask for sugar or cream.