Our Essential Guide to Izakaya Etiquette for First-Timers in Japan

Ready for a culinary adventure in Japanese Izakaya? Let’s master the Izakaya Etiquette! You have to go to an Izakaya at least one night while you’re in Japan. These traditional Japanese pubs offer a unique dining experience that combines delightful food, drinks, and a warm, sociable atmosphere. But, to truly enjoy the Izakaya experience, it’s essential to understand the etiquette that comes with it. This guide is tailored for first-timers, ensuring your Izakaya visit is both enjoyable and respectful of Japanese customs.

What is an Izakaya?

Before diving into Izakaya etiquette, let’s define what an Izakaya is. Originating from sake shops that allowed customers to drink on the premises, Izakaya has evolved into a casual places where people can enjoy drinks, share small plates of food, and unwind. We have been to many, many izakaya in Japan from upscale izakaya bordering on fine dining to hole-in-the-wall izakaya with six seats. We enjoy both but love the intimacy of those small hole-in-the-wall izakaya. They have provided some of our best memories of Japan. You can see the complete list of izakaya we have visited on our izakaya page.

Our Etiquette Tips for Izakaya Dining

1. Entering the Izakaya

• Greeting: Upon entering, you’ll be greeted with a hearty “Irasshaimase!” (Welcome!). It’s polite to nod or give a slight bow in response.
• Shoes: In some traditional Izakayas, you might need to remove your shoes. If you see a shoe rack or others taking off their shoes, follow suit.

2. Seating Arrangements

• Seating: Wait to be seated. Some Izakaya have tatami seating areas where you sit on the floor. If you’re uncomfortable with this, ask for a table with chairs.
• Respect for Space: Izakaya can be cozy. Be mindful of your space and try not to disturb other guests.

3. Ordering Food and Drinks

• Starting with a Drink: It’s customary in Izakaya to order a drink first. A popular choice among locals is a cold beer to start with, but there are plenty of alcoholic and non-alcoholic options as well.
• Understanding ‘Oto-shi’: As you order your first drink, you might be served an ‘Oto-shi’ or ‘Tsukidashi’ – a small appetizer that is automatically brought to your table. This is not free; it’s a seating charge that includes a light dish, a common practice in many Izakaya. Think of it as a cover charge for the experience and the appetizer.
• Sharing is Caring: Izakaya dishes are designed to be shared. Order a variety of small plates for the whole table to enjoy a range of flavors. Please visit our article, A Food Lover’s Guide to Izakaya Menus, to find the list of the Must-Try Dishes and Drinks in Izakaya.
• Ordering Etiquette: To get your server’s attention, use the call button on the table or raise your hand and say “Sumimasen” (Excuse me). Avoid shouting or waving excessively.

4. Enjoying Your Meal

• Eating Etiquette: Use the chopsticks provided and avoid pointing them at others. It’s okay to pick up small plates or bowls to eat from them directly.
• Savor the Flavors: Eat slowly and appreciate the variety of dishes.

5. Drinking Etiquette

• Pouring for Others: In Japanese culture, it’s polite to pour drinks for others before filling your own glass.
• Cheers: Join in the traditional “Kanpai” (Cheers) before starting to drink.

6. Paying the Bill

• Splitting the Bill: It’s common to split the bill equally among everyone, regardless of what each person ordered.
• Payment: Some places take care of your payment at the table, but you may have to pay at the register counter when you leave. Tipping is not customary in Japan.

7. Leaving the Izakaya

• Saying Goodbye: A polite “Arigatou gozaimasu” (Thank you) or “Ogochisousama” (Great meal) to the staff as you leave is appreciated. Please refer to our Japanese Language Resources page for more conversational Japanese.

Conclusion

Visiting an Izakaya is more than just a dining experience; it’s a dive into the heart of Japanese social culture. By following these etiquette tips, you’ll enjoy delicious food and drinks while respecting the traditions that make Izakaya dining special. So relax, soak in the atmosphere, and enjoy your Izakaya adventure in Japan!