Japan

Japanese etiquette runs on precise small rituals — presenting a business card with both hands, never planting chopsticks upright in rice, removing your shoes at the genkan — each one a compact signal of respect that's easy to miss if you don't know to look for it.

12 rules.

Exchange business cards with two hands

Never stand chopsticks upright in rice

Don't tip

Slurping noodles is polite, not rude

Avoid gift sets of four or nine

Bring back omiyage after any trip

Wrapping matters as much as the gift

Take your shoes off indoors

Stand on the correct escalator side

Don't take phone calls on trains or buses

Wash before soaking, and keep your towel out of the water

Check tattoo policy before visiting an onsen