Must-Know Japanese Izakaya Etiquette for Foreigners

Visiting Japan isn’t just about shrines, sushi, and sakura. To truly get a taste of everyday life, you’ll want to experience a night out at an izakaya, Japan’s version of a casual gastropub. These lively spots are where salarymen, students, and friends gather after hours for drinks, shared dishes, and conversation. But before you pull up a chair and order a round, there are a few important rules of etiquette to know — especially if you want to avoid awkward stares or unintentional disrespect.

Here’s your guide to must-know izakaya etiquette for foreigners, covering everything from entering the place to paying the bill.

1. Understanding What an Izakaya Is

An izakaya (居酒屋) is not just a bar or a restaurant — it’s a cozy hybrid of the two. The name literally translates to “stay-drink-place,” meaning a spot where people settle in for a while to drink and eat. Food is served in small plates, tapas-style, meant for sharing. They range from chain establishments like Torikizoku and Watami, to local hole-in-the-wall joints tucked down narrow alleyways (yokocho).

2. Entering the Izakaya

Upon entering, a host or server will usually greet you with a cheerful “Irasshaimase!” (Welcome!). You don’t need to respond — just a polite nod or smile is fine.

If there’s a host stand, let them know how many people are in your party by holding up your fingers and saying "hitori" (one), "futari" (two), and so on. You’ll then be guided to a table, booth, or the counter.

You’ll often be asked to remove your shoes if you're seated in a zashiki area (tatami floor seating). Keep socks clean and avoid bare feet if possible.

3. The Otōshi (Table Charge)

Once seated, you’ll likely be served a small appetizer dish known as an otōshi (お通し) or tsukidashi, which appears before you even order. This isn't complimentary — it’s essentially a table charge (usually around 300–500 yen per person). It's part of the experience, so don’t be surprised when it shows up on your bill.

4. Ordering Etiquette

Menus at izakaya may be in Japanese only, but many larger or chain places now include English or picture menus. Don’t hesitate to ask: “Eigo no menyuu arimasu ka?” (Do you have an English menu?)

• Drinks are often ordered first, usually beer (biru) or highball.

• To order, you can say: “Sumimasen!” (Excuse me!) to call over a server.

• Pointing at the menu is totally acceptable.

• It’s common to order a few dishes to start and continue ordering as the night progresses.

Pro tip: At many izakayas, you’ll find a call button on the table that alerts staff when you’re ready to order.

5. Drinking Rituals

Before anyone takes a sip, it’s polite to wait until everyone’s drink has arrived and toast together with a “Kanpai!” (Cheers!). Make eye contact with your group while saying it, and gently clink glasses — but avoid crossing arms during the toast, which is considered bad luck.

If you're drinking with Japanese colleagues or acquaintances, pouring each other’s drinks (especially for beer and sake) is customary. It’s a sign of attentiveness and respect:

• Pour for others, especially someone more senior than you.

• When someone pours for you, hold your glass with both hands as a sign of gratitude.

6. Sharing Food Respectfully

Since izakaya dishes are made for sharing, avoid digging in with your personal chopsticks. Instead:

• Use the communal serving chopsticks (often provided).

• If none are provided, flip your chopsticks around and use the clean end to serve yourself.

• It’s good manners to serve others before serving yourself.

Also, try to take only your portion — don’t overfill your plate, and don’t hoard.

7. Pacing Yourself

Drinking and eating at an izakaya is a slow, social experience. Food and drinks are brought out as they’re ready, not all at once. Relax, go with the flow, and enjoy the casual atmosphere. Don’t rush to finish everything quickly. Chat, laugh, order another drink.

8. Handling Smoking

While Japan has tightened rules around indoor smoking, some smaller izakayas still allow it — especially in less touristy neighborhoods. If you're sensitive to smoke, consider choosing chain izakayas, which often have designated non-smoking areas or better ventilation.

9. Paying the Bill

Unlike Western restaurants where checks are usually split per person, in Japan the entire bill is presented to the group — even if people arrived or left at different times. It’s expected that one person takes the bill and then the group sorts it out themselves.

You can say:

• “Okaikei onegaishimasu” (Check, please).

Payment is typically made at the register near the entrance, not at the table. If you’re splitting the bill, tell the cashier:

• “Betsu-betsu de” (Split, please) — although not all izakaya accept this, especially small ones.

• In a group, the norm is even splitting or one person covering the cost and others reimbursing later.

Tipping is not expected in Japan, and can even be considered rude. The best way to show appreciation is with polite words and gratitude.

10. Leaving the Izakaya

As you leave, it’s customary to say:

• “Gochisousama deshita” — a polite phrase meaning “Thank you for the meal.”

Even a simple “Arigatou gozaimasu” with a bow is appreciated.

11. Bonus: Useful Japanese Phrases for the Izakaya

Final Thoughts

Visiting an izakaya is one of the most enjoyable ways to connect with Japanese culture — it's informal, flavorful, and social. While many izakaya are used to hosting foreigners, showing some basic knowledge of etiquette can go a long way in making a good impression and fully enjoying the experience.

Don’t worry about being perfect — the key is to be respectful, open-minded, and a little adventurous. Whether you’re clinking glasses over yakitori or bonding with locals over shared dishes, you’re in for an unforgettable night.

So next time you’re in Japan, take the plunge and slide into a booth at a local izakaya. Kanpai!