Japanese Culture & Tips
Japan is one of the most rewarding countries on earth to experience by motorcycle. Beyond the roads, what makes Japan truly special is the culture: precision, courtesy, incredible food, and traditions that still shape daily life. This page covers Japanese culture and practical travel etiquette for motorcycle riders—so you feel confident, respectful, and immersed from day one.
Looking for the logistics (airports, getting to your tour start point, SIM/eSIM, IC cards, JR Pass)? Head to our Travel Info page.
11 Essential Travel Tips
You’ll find English in major areas, but a handful of phrases makes everyday interactions smoother—especially in small restaurants, rural areas, and traditional accommodation. Start with:
Hello: こんにちは (konnichiwa)
Thank you: ありがとう (arigatō)
Excuse me / sorry: すみません (sumimasen)
Please: お願いします (onegaishimasu)
Tip: A smile and a polite tone go further than perfect pronunciation.
Japan runs on courtesy. Lining up patiently, keeping your voice down, and being mindful of shared spaces will earn you goodwill instantly. Bowing is common, but you don’t need to overthink it—simple, respectful behaviour is what matters.
Removing shoes is common in homes, some restaurants, temples, and many traditional inns. Look for a step up at the entrance, shoe racks, or provided slippers.
Rider tip: as much as you can wear clean socks each day—traditional spaces often mean shoes off.
Even if you’re on a riding trip, you’ll use trains occasionally - even to get from the airport to your hotel or bike pickup location. Keep phone conversations off trains, avoid loud calls, and generally match the quiet, calm vibe. Japan’s public spaces are shared spaces—people take that seriously.
Japan is increasingly card-friendly, but cash is still common in smaller venues and rural areas. Keep a mix of notes and coins—useful for vending machines, small cafés, and quick stops. Japan is generally safe, but carry cash sensibly like you would anywhere.
Konbini (7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart) are everywhere and genuinely useful: toilets, hot coffee, snacks, hydration, and quick meals. They’re also great regroup points on a riding day.
Be considerate when parking—don’t block entrances or walkways.
Japan is a food country—lean into it. A few small etiquette points help:
- If you’re unsure what to order, ask for an おすすめ (osusume) (recommendation).
- Many places expect you to pay at the register, not at the table.
- Quiet appreciation is normal; loud complaints or rushing staff is not.
Rider tip: regional specialties are part of the experience—try what the area is known for.
Onsen are one of Japan’s great pleasures after a long day in the saddle. Expect nude bathing, washing thoroughly before entering, and a quiet, respectful atmosphere. If you have tattoos, some onsen restrict entry—check ahead or seek tattoo-friendly options.
Even a short stop at a shrine or temple can be memorable. Move quietly, follow signage, and treat these places as living cultural sites—not just photo backdrops. This small respect is part of “doing Japan properly.”
Japan’s seasons are distinct, and conditions can shift fast once you’re riding at elevation. Pack and plan with flexibility, particularly in shoulder seasons. Spring and autumn are popular for a reason—book ahead if you’re travelling at peak times.
Japan is safe, but accidents and surprises happen everywhere and you don't want to be stuck trying to deal with a bad situation entirely on your own. Make sure your travel insurance explicitly covers motorcycle riding (this is the detail that often matters most). Keep a digital copy of your policy and key documents.
