Cuisine
Japanese cuisine is simply mouthwatering. From Osaka’s (nicknamed Tenka no daidokoro or the nation’s kitchen) savoury pancakes, Udon noodles and Takoyaki and Kanazawa’s traditional seafood fare, through to well known staples of Japanese cuisine such as sushi, f Miso soup, tempura vegetables and fish - which is served raw such as in Sashimi/Sushi and often grilled such as Saba Shioyaki. Try to learn how to use chopsticks!
Etiquette
There is no tipping - at all - in Japan. When addressing someone it is courteous to bow - tourists can get away with a simple inclination of the head - but do remember to show respect at all times.
Take off your shoes at the entrance to all homes and most hotels and businesses too. If you see a shoe rack at the entrance then assume that you must change into guest slippers. Try not to draw attention to yourself - even if that means not blowing your nose in public - as drawing attention to yourself is avoided as Japan is very much a society focused on the group - rather than the individual.
A thought
It is best to have a stopover in Hong Kong to make value for your money and time, a pit stop at Macau is worth considering. A thought on stopping for about four days in South Korea is worth an attempt.
