JAPAN IN
ONE MINUTE 
~Japanese Dining Etiquette Explained: Slurping, Speaking, and Staying Polite~
There are other important dining manners as well.
Tell me, tell me! I want to know more!
In Japan, it is generally considered to be bad manners to speak loudly in restaurants.
That’s right. But in Japan, it’s not just in restaurants, being noisy in public places like trains, buses,
or stores is generally considered inappropriate.
Yes. Especially when drinking alcohol, even some Japanese people feel good and speak loudly,
but those around them are not in a good mood.
And of course, it is not good to talk while chewing food.
It’s better to finish chewing before you speak.
In some countries, it is considered bad etiquette to make noise while eating.
That’s similar to my country!
But here’s something that surprised me.
Making noise while eating noodles or drinking soup is actually okay in Japan, right?
Really? I’m a little bit confused…
Ramen is one of the most famous foods in Japan,
and there is no problem with noisily slurping ramen as well.
Slurping noodles and miso soup is not considered rude. In fact, slurping ramen is completely normal.
It’s a way to enjoy hot foods quickly and can even show that you’re enjoying your meal.
Wow…but I don’t know how to slurp.
I can’t do it either.
I’ve been practicing, but I still can’t get it right.
You don’t have to force yourself to slurp.
If it feels unnatural, it’s totally fine to eat quietly.
What’s important is enjoying your food respectfully.
There’s another traditional idea I want to share, “Hara Hachi Bunme”.
But this is getting a bit long, so I’ll tell you more about it next time!
Yes! Teach me more next time! I’m going to become a well-mannered cat!
Summary
It’s important to stay quiet in restaurants and wait until you’ve finished chewing before speaking. Uniquely, slurping ramen or other noodles are not considered rude and is even seen as a way to enjoy the meal.
