Ito

Ito Station area

Convenient for trains; ryokan and hotels within walking distance.

Coast south of the station

Quieter, most rooms face the sea; a 10–15 min walk or taxi.

Etiquette

• Greeting: A small bow; a handshake if the other person offers; avoid: Hugs, back slaps, loud greetings
• Names: Family name plus -san; avoid: First names unless invited; adding -san to your own name
• Paying: Put money in the tray at the register; avoid: Tipping, or leaving loose cash for staff
• Trains: Queue at the floor marks, phone on silent, ask before reclining on the Shinkansen; avoid: Phone calls, eating on crowded commuter trains, blocking doors with bags
• Escalators: Stand on the side locals use — left in Tokyo, right in Osaka; stations now ask people to stand still on both; avoid: Stopping at the top or bottom
• Shoes: Off at the step-up entrance; toilet slippers only inside the toilet; avoid: Stepping on tatami in shoes or slippers
• Shrines: Rinse hands at the basin; bow twice, clap twice, bow once; avoid: Walking down the centre of the approach, which is for the deity
• Gifts: Offer and receive with both hands; bring a small omiyage for hosts; avoid: Sets of four; cash outside an envelope

Scams and watch-outs

• Onsen etiquette: no towels in the bath, no swimming; rinse before entering.
• Ryokan often include dinner and breakfast; check if meals are included in the price.
• Limited express Odoriko runs only a few times a day; check the timetable.