Heard “Irashaimase!” at a Japanese restaurant? That warm welcome is just the beginning. Let’s see what makes dining in Japan so special!
“Irashaimase” (いらっしゃいませ) is a traditional Japanese greeting used by staff to welcome customers into their establishment. It roughly translates to “Welcome!” or “Please come in!” The phrase embodies the spirit of hospitality, known as omotenashi, which is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture.
Omotenashi is all about providing an exceptional experience for guests, anticipating their needs, and delivering service with sincerity and care. In Japanese restaurants, this means everything from the warm greeting at the door to the meticulous presentation of each dish.
It’s about making every customer feel valued and appreciated.
Here are a few other fascinating aspects of dining in Japan:
Hot towels (Oshibori): Upon being seated, you’ll often receive a hot towel to cleanse your hands. This small gesture is a way to refresh and prepare for your meal.
Chopstick etiquette: Using chopsticks has its own set of rules. Avoid pointing them at others, standing them upright in rice, or passing food directly between chopsticks. If you’re curious about why, check out our article “Fun Facts About Japanese Cuisine”!
No tipping: In Japan, tipping is not customary and can even be considered rude. Excellent service is expected as part of the dining experience.
Expressing gratitude: Before eating, it’s polite to say “Itadakimasu” (いただきます), which means “I humbly receive.” After finishing your meal, saying “Gochisousama deshita” (ごちそうさまでした), meaning “Thank you for the meal,” shows your appreciation.
Did you know about these dining customs? Have you experienced the heartfelt welcome of “Irashaimase”? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below! 🌸🍣
