What to Expect at Restaurants in Japan
Limited English Support
In Japan, English is not widely spoken, especially at small local restaurants.
However, basic English may be available at tourist areas and chain restaurants.
Different Ordering Styles
There are several types of restaurant systems in Japan:
- Table service (standard restaurants)
- Ticket machine system (common at ramen shops)
- Touchscreen ordering (family restaurants and sushi chains)
Even if you don’t speak Japanese, many places are easy to use.
No Tipping Culture
Tipping is not required in Japan.
You only pay the amount shown on the bill.
Free Water or Tea
Most restaurants provide water or tea for free.
How to Choose a Restaurant (Without Japanese)
① Use Google Maps (Highly Recommended)
This is the easiest and most reliable way.
Check:
- Ratings (4.0+ is a good sign)
- Photos (food and atmosphere)
- Reviews (English reviews are helpful)
Search using keywords like “ramen,” “sushi,” or “near me”
② Choose Places with Food Displays or Photos
Look for:
- Plastic food displays outside
- Picture menus
You can simply point at what you want.
③ Ticket Machine Restaurants
Common in ramen shops:
- Buy a ticket from a machine usually located near the entrance.
- Give it to the staff
Many machines now support English.
④ Use NAVITIME
It’s not just for trains—you can also:
- Find nearby restaurants
- Check opening hours
- Get detailed information
⑤ Chain Restaurants Are Easy
Examples:
- Fast food rice bowl chains
- Family restaurants
- Conveyor belt sushi
Many have English menus or touchscreens.
Useful English Phrases
- “Table for one/two, please.”
- “Can I see the menu?”
- “This one, please.” (pointing)
- “Do you have an English menu?”
These are usually enough. If you can, try using a little Japanese like below!
Useful Japanese Phrases for travellers
- Konnichiwa (Hello)
- Sumimasen (Excuse me!)
- Eigo daijyobu desuka？(Do you speak English？)
- Nama kudasai (A draft beer, please.)
- Arigatou (Thank you) Gozaimasu (very much)
- Oishii desu (It’s delicious!)
- Gochisou sama deshita (Thank you for the wonderful meal)
- Kawaii (Cute)
- Kirei (Beautiful)
- Subarashii/Sugoi (Amazing)
Things to Keep in Mind
- Popular restaurants often have long lines
- Some small places are cash-only
- A PIN is required for credit card payments.
- Opening hours can be short or irregular
Final Tips
Even if you don’t speak Japanese, eating out in Japan is not difficult.
The best combination is:
Google Maps + photo menus + pointing
You’ll be able to enjoy amazing food without stress.
To secure a reservation, book in advance!!
Some restaurants in Japan require reservations.
We recommend booking in advance here
Table Check
Open table
Klook
Auto reserve
