Local Customs & Etiquette in Himeji, Hyōgo, Japan

1. Himeji Castle Etiquette

Respect the centuries-old Himeji Castle by wearing appropriate attire and maintaining silence within its premises.

Silence: Ensure quietness to preserve the historical ambiance
Appropriate Attire: Dress modestly and avoid revealing clothing
Guidebooks: Follow the provided guidebooks for proper etiquette inside the castle

Experience traditional Japanese tea ceremony with a twist in Himeji's Shomen-nomi style.

No Host: Unlike regular tea ceremonies, there is no host; guests serve themselves.
Unique Teaware: Specific teaware sets are used for Shomen-nomi, differentiating it from other tea ceremonies
Group Experience: Shomen-nomi is often experienced in a group setting, promoting camaraderie among participants

Offer rice cakes to the deities at Himeji's temples and shrines during spring festivals.

Spring Festivals: Custom is typically observed during festivals like Setsubun and Hatsumode
Rice Cakes: Offer rice cakes, a symbol of prosperity and happiness.
Deities' Appreciation: The deities are believed to bless those who participate in this custom

Navigate the bustling Himeji Bazaar and savor local delicacies while respecting food vendors and their customs.

Food Sampling: It's customary to try a small sample before buying a full portion
Mindful Eating: Eat slowly and mindfully, showing respect for the food and its preparation.
Cash Only: Most vendors only accept cash; bring adequate change

Relax in Himeji's onsens while adhering to the local bathing customs and etiquette.

Bathing Order: Women bathe first, followed by men; some onsens are gender-segregated.
No Soap Rule: Soap is not allowed in the bath; rinse off before entering.
Modesty: Cover any tattoos, as they are often associated with the yakuza in Japan.

Enjoy the conveyor-belt sushi experience at Himeji's kaitenzushi restaurants.

Color-coded Plates: Each plate represents a different price and type of sushi.
Grabbing Sushi: Pick the sushi you want from the conveyor belt as it approaches your table.
Bill Settlement: Your bill is calculated based on the colored plates piled up at your table

Participate in the spiritual practice of temple gong ringing at some Himeji temples.

Gong Placement: Find the designated gong and stand on a marked mat before striking it.
Ringing Technique: Use both hands to strike the gong in a rhythmic manner, creating a harmonious sound.
Spiritual Significance: The sound of the gong is believed to cleanse and bring peace.

Immerse yourself in Himeji's vibrant night market, respecting local customs and etiquette.

Bargaining: It is customary to bargain for prices at the night market stalls.
Patience: Stalls may have long lines, so be patient and polite while waiting.
Cash Only: Most vendors only accept cash; bring adequate change

Draw a fortune from Himeji's shrines to gain insight into your future.

Fortune Drawing: Shake the omikuji box and draw out a paper fortune.
Translation: Translate the fortune using online tools or ask a local for help.
Tie and Pray: If your fortune is bad, tie it to a tree in the shrine and pray for improvement

Experience Himeji's geisha district while respecting the customs and etiquette surrounding this traditional art.

Respectful Attire: Dress appropriately when visiting geisha districts to show respect.
Appropriate Behavior: Avoid taking photos without permission, especially when the geishas are working.
Patience: Geisha encounters may require patience; be prepared for potential wait times

Visit Himeji's beautiful Kado no Mori Park and respect the local customs for a harmonious experience.

Silence in Gardens: Maintain silence while exploring the park's peaceful gardens.
Picturesque Moments: Capture memorable moments without disrupting other visitors' experiences.
Respect for Flora and Fauna: Admire the park's beauty while respecting its flora and fauna

Navigate Himeji's bustling shopping streets while respecting local customs and etiquette.

Patience: Streets can be crowded, so be patient and polite when navigating.
Bargaining: It is customary to bargain for prices at the shopping street stalls.
Respectful Attire: Dress appropriately when visiting shopping streets to show respect.

Participate in Himeji's vibrant festivals while adhering to local customs and etiquette.

Respect for Traditions: Respect the rich history and traditions of Himeji's festivals.
Participation: Join in the festivities, but be mindful not to disrupt the flow or disrespect local customs.
Cultural Sensitivity: Maintain cultural sensitivity during festival participation

Enjoy traditional Japanese tea at a teahouse in Himeji while demonstrating appropriate manners.

Silence: Maintain silence during the tea ceremony to appreciate its peaceful ambiance.
Respectful Attire: Dress modestly and avoid revealing clothing when attending a teahouse.
Patience: Tea ceremonies require patience and mindfulness, allowing you to savor the experience

Relax in Himeji's hot springs while adhering to the local customs and etiquette.

Bathing Order: Women bathe first, followed by men; some hot springs are gender-segregated.
No Soap Rule: Soap is not allowed in the bath; rinse off before entering.
Modesty: Cover any tattoos, as they are often associated with the yakuza in Japan.