Etiquette guide: How to act like an Osakan
Osaka has its own set of customs, quirks, and conventions. Here’s how to fit in in Japan’s second city
Do: relax
Osaka is generally louder, rowdier, and more laid-back than Tokyo. People are friendlier, less fussy about manners, and much more likely to strike up a conversation with total strangers. That’s not to say there aren’t some social faux pas that you should avoid…
Don’t: be afraid to gesticulate
Osakans talk as much with their hands as with their mouths, using hand gestures that tend to be far more flamboyant than in buttoned-up Tokyo. Some useful gestures to know are that thumping a closed fist into the opposite palm means “I agree,” crossing index fingers in an “X” symbol means “Can I have the bill?”; and, counterintuitively to Westerners, a downward wave means “Come here” rather than “Go away.” Pointing of any kind is considered rude.
Do: stand on the right
In a place where trains leave to the second, metro escalator etiquette is a very big deal indeed, and blocking other travelers by standing where you are supposed to walk is a major no-no. Unlike in Tokyo, where you stand on the left, walk on the right, in Osaka it is reversed: right for standing still, left for go, go, go.
Don’t: miss the local dishes
Osakans are very proud of their local eats, and you should prepare to fall in love yourself. Must-tries include oshizushi, vinegared sushi rice and toppings placed in a mold and pressed together into a tight stack, and konamon (flour-based foods) including takoyaki (battered balls of octopus), okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), and udon noodles.
Do: shout at waiters
Well, maybe shouting is a bit much, but you’ll certainly need to raise your voice to call over someone to take your order. In Osaka, service staff don’t like to intrude and rarely approach a table unless beckoned over, so let them know if you want something.
In a country where trains leave to the second, metro escalator etiquette is a very big deal indeed
Don’t: double dip
There’s one big no-no while you’re eating out: if you’re having kushikatsu (deep-fried meat, fish, or vegetable skewers) remember never to dip them more than once in the thick, brown sauce provided. There’s even a giant statue of a snarling, stick-wielding chef, known as the Daruma Minister, in the Dotonbori area to remind people they only have one chance to sauce up.
Do: talk Tigers
Want to make a fast friend in Osaka? Talk to them about the local baseball team, the Hanshin Tigers (this is particularly true of taxi drivers). Want to get run out of town? Don a Tokyo Giants baseball jersey or cap. The rivalry between the two sides is deep-rooted, and Osakans won’t hold back if you are seen as supporting the “wrong” side.
Don’t: forget to smile
Osaka is Japan’s comedy capital and being funny is one of the most treasured traits a local can possess. A good sense of humor can go a long way in interactions, even in a business setting. If you’re being told a story, prepare for the kicker, or ochi. The teller will be expecting a big reaction when it comes.