You’ve just hopped off the Shinkansen after a full day exploring Tokyo’s neon-lit streets. You’re jet-lagged, bags in hand, and itching to check into your station-side stay. But then a question pops up: should you tip your taxi driver or remove your shoes in the lobby? When you travel in Japan, following Tokyo hotel etiquette rules will keep you out of awkward spots. In this ultimate guide, you’ll learn how to breeze through your stay with local lodging customs, from check-in to check-out. Whether you’re budget-conscious and eyeing budget hostels near Tokyo stations or a sleek business hotel by the tracks, these tips will help you show respect and enjoy your trip.
Understand tipping customs
In Tokyo, tipping feels odd if you come from a tipping culture. Exceptional service is already built into the price. According to Japan Travel, gratuities at bars, cafes, restaurants, taxis, and hotels are not expected. A simple “thank you” and a bow do the trick.
Keep in mind:
- Bars and cafes: no cash tip needed.
- Taxis: hand over the metered fare, nothing extra.
- Housekeeping: leave a thank-you note rather than money.
- Exceptional service: slip a small gift or cash into a kokorozuke envelope on departure.
Ever felt awkward leaving cash? You’re not alone. Simply smile and say “arigato gozaimashita” to show your appreciation.
Follow check-in protocols
Japanese hotels value timing and clarity. You’ll often see strict check-in and check-out hours that help keep operations smooth.
Observe timing rules
Most hotels set check-in around mid-afternoon and check-out by late morning. For example, Hotel Villa Fontaine Grand Tokyo Shiodome opens at 15:00 and asks guests to depart by 11:00. Arriving early? Stow your bags at reception and explore nearby neighborhoods until your room’s ready.
Provide passport information
By law, every foreign guest must present a passport copy when registering (PiQtour). Have your passport and any required visa details at the desk to speed things up.
Confirm payment and policies
Japanese lodgings often require prepayment or a deposit at booking. Always double-check cancellation fees and payment methods during booking or at arrival. For a deep dive on smooth arrivals, see our guide on check-in process.
Handle keys and passes
Unlike many Western hotels, some Tokyo properties still use metal keys rather than cards. You may need to return the key or key fob each time you leave the building.
Key tips:
- Always tuck the key into your pocket or room pouch.
- Hand it to the front desk staff when you step out.
- If you accidentally walk off with it, pop back quickly to avoid lock-out fees.
Remove shoes inside
Many hotels—especially traditional inns—ask you to remove shoes at the entrance or before stepping onto tatami straw mats. Slippers are usually provided in the lobby and in your room.
Where to kick off your shoes:
- Lobby entrances and guest corridors.
- Doorways leading into tatami-floored areas.
- Any spot marked with a no-shoe sign.
Staying in a traditional ryokan? You’ll find cloth or wooden slippers by the genkan, the entryway. Keep your socks hole-free, or you might find yourself tiptoeing barefoot.
Keep common areas quiet
Quiet zones matter in Japanese hotels. Lounges, reading rooms, and corridor spaces exist for calm relaxation.
Simple guidelines:
- Lower your voice when chatting in hallways or lobbies.
- Avoid phone calls in shared zones.
- Use headphones if you’re streaming music on a long train ride stopover.
Think of it like a library on the go—you’ll earn smiles from staff and fellow guests.
Honor room layout
Japanese designers plan rooms with efficiency in mind. Moving heavy furniture or rerouting the TV stand can disrupt service routines and housekeeping.
Best practice:
- Keep chairs, tables, and bedding where you found them.
- Use wall hooks and luggage racks rather than piling bags on the floor.
- If you need extra hangers or a luggage rack, call reception rather than improvise.
Following the layout helps hotel staff clean quickly and keeps your space tidy.
Follow bathing rituals
Communal baths and on-site spas are highlights at many Tokyo stays, from capsule hotel experiences to luxury onsen facilities.
Bathing steps (Walk Japan):
- Rinse and wash thoroughly at the side shower before entering the tub.
- Keep long hair tied up to avoid stray strands in the water.
- Soak quietly for relaxation, but don’t wash inside the shared bath.
- Use your small towel for modesty, but leave it outside the tub.
Visitors with tattoos may face restrictions in some public baths. Some spots offer private time slots or separate areas, so ask at reception.
Use dining manners
If your stay includes a breakfast buffet or set meal, knowing basic table etiquette helps you blend in.
Before eating say “Itadakimasu” (I humbly receive) and after you’re done add “Gochiso sama deshita” (thank you for the meal). A few chopstick rules:
- Never stick chopsticks vertically into rice.
- Don’t pass food directly from stick to stick.
- Rest chopsticks on the holder when you pause.
Eating while walking is frowned upon on local streets, though it’s OK on long-distance trains like the Shinkansen. In hotel lounges, always move to a seated area before snacking.
For more meal ideas at your stay see our guide to breakfast options.
Express gratitude
Saying thanks goes a long way. At check-out, a simple bow and “Arigato gozaimashita” leaves a positive impression.
Other small gestures:
- Write a quick note about a staff member who went above and beyond.
- Leave a tiny souvenir from your hometown.
- Give a firm nod and smile if someone helps with your bags.
You’ll often find staff returning your kindness with a polite send-off. It feels good on both sides.
Key etiquette takeaways
- Skip tipping and use polite bows instead.
- Arrive within check-in hours, and have your passport ready.
- Return metal keys each time you leave.
- Remove shoes at genkan entrances and near tatami.
- Keep voices low in shared spaces.
- Honor room layouts and ask before moving furniture.
- Wash before soaking in public baths, and respect tattoo rules.
- Say “Itadakimasu” and “Gochiso sama deshita” for meals.
- Always express gratitude with a bow or note.
Try one tip on your next Tokyo stay and let us know in the comments below how it went.
Common Tokyo hotel questions
Do I need to tip at a Tokyo hotel?
No, tipping isn’t part of local customs. A polite bow and “thank you” suffice for most services.
Can I keep my shoes on in the lobby?
Most properties ask you to remove shoes at the entrance or before stepping onto tatami. Look for signs or follow the lead of other guests.
Will my tattoos block me from public baths?
Many spots restrict tattoos due to traditional rules. Some hotels offer private bathing times or small private baths—just ask at reception.
What if I arrive late for check-in?
Contact the hotel in advance if you expect a late arrival. They’ll hold your room or arrange key pickup through the front desk.
How do I handle English language barriers?
Front desk English ability can vary. Keep reservation details handy in Japanese, use simple phrases, and rely on translation apps in a pinch.
