The Japanese love a drink—beer, whiskey, and sake are just a few favourites. But like most countries, Japan has a few drinking customs that are polite to follow.
Getting drunk in formal restaurants is considered poor manners, as you’d expect anywhere in the world. However, if you’re in an izakaya or street café and not bothering anyone, no one really cares. Just remember to pace yourself, you don’t want to wake up regretting last night’s choices. If you do plan to drink heavily, keep in mind that you’re in a different country, where traffic, language, signs, local rules, and people are all unfamiliar. It’s much safer (though maybe not as fun) to stay at least somewhat sober. It’s not uncommon to see drunken office workers late at night, trying to decide whether to head home to the family or crash at a capsule hotel after a few more beers.
If you’re drinking with others, wait until everyone has their drink before taking a sip. Then comes the toast—everyone raises their glass, and someone will call out “Kampai!” (the traditional Japanese toast). You might have your own toast, but avoid “Chin Chin”, while it’s a common toast in some cultures, in Japan, chin chin is a slang word for a man’s rude bits. That might not go down too well.
If you’re pouring from a bottle, never fill your own glass first, it’s considered rude. Instead, pour for your friend first, and they will return the favour. Also, don’t let their glass run dry—top it up before it’s empty. If their drink is getting low, finish yours quickly, then refill theirs first, followed by your own.
Also on Happy Jappy
Izakaya Bars
Tachinomi (Standing) Bars
The Hub, British Pub
