If you have plans to visit Japan, there are some things you need to know. Familiarizing yourself with some basic Japanese cultural practices will go a long way in making your trip there enjoyable. Also, you are not likely to get into trouble. Here are things you should not do based on Japan culture.

1. Do not enter a house wearing your shoes

Are you used to walking around in your house in your shoes? Well, you might get yourself in trouble if you do that in Japan. There is a special place where you should keep your shoes before entering the house. Also, there are slippers for guests when entering a room.

2. Do not shout on the train

Trains are very common in Japan. However, people do not make noise while in trains. They are always silent. If you have to speak to someone, do it in a low tone. Use your ears if you have to listen to some music.

3. Do not use your phone on trains

As indicated earlier, Japanese do not like any noise in the trains. You will rarely find someone using his phone to make a call in the train. If you have to use your phone, send a message or talk in a low tone so as not to distract other people.

4. Do not eat on trains

Japanese do not eat when traveling on commuter trains. Drinking is okay without the train is too crowded. However, in long distance trains, eating and drinking are allowed. Food and beverages are also sold in such trains.

5. Do not forget to remove toilet slippers

Once you get to Japan, you will notice that there are slippers only used when going to the toilet. These slippers are easily noticeable since they have particular words or pictures. Always remember to remove them when entering your house or walking on the streets.

6. Do not tip anyone

While it is common to tip anyone after an excellent service in many cultures, Japan is an exception. No matter how satisfied you are with their service, they never accept tips. In fact, someone will come running after you, returning the tip!

7. Do not ignore someone you are speaking with

If you are talking with a Japanese person, always stay calm and attentive. You may sound impolite and rude by just failing to show that you have understood a point. Whenever speaking, show your attentiveness by talking back.

8. Do not photograph everything

Since Japan is a beautiful country, you are not allowed to take photos everywhere. It is advisable to always ask someone before taking photos. You must be granted permission to take pictures in museums, temples, and shrines.

9. Do not hug anyone you meet

Hugging is common in western countries. However, in Japan, it is not. You do not hug someone you come across in Tokyo streets. Most of the older folks do not like the habit. If you want to hug someone, then it's best to know their age group and whether they are comfortable with it.

10. Do not eat or drink when walking

It is uncommon to find Japanese eating or drinking while they are walking. Even on the streets with food stalls they always find a place to sit. Now you know how to speak when you are on Japanese streets so you do not look foreign.

11. Do not receive a present with one hand

Whenever receiving a gift or a visiting card from a Japanese, use your two hands and bow. Then tell him thank you. On receipt of a gift, do not open it until the person who has given it to you has left.

12. Do not throw away trash haphazardly

Another thing you might find hard to get used to is how to handle your trash. In most cities around the world, there are a lot of trash cans however, Japanese cities are different. People are encouraged to carry their trash until they find a place to dispose of it.

13. Do not fail to say "thank you"

The verb "thank you" is highly valued in Japan. Learn to say after after being served in a hotel or store. Familiarize yourself with how bowing is done in Japan. You must always bow and say thank you when you meet with elders.

14. Do not write down a person's name in red ink

In Japan, it is OK to write "goodbye" in red ink but not a person's name. The Japanese consider it to be disobedient. Therefore, if you have to write down your Japanese friend's name, you know which color to avoid.

15. Do not be shy

It is common for tourists to ask for help from locals. When you get to Japan, do not be shy or afraid of asking for anything. They are very friendly and helpful. Even when you accidently forget something somewhere, go back as no one is going to take it away.