Japan Restaurant Call Staff: Don't Wait for a Waiter
In most table-service restaurants in Japan, staff don't keep checking on you. Say sumimasen (excuse me) or press the call button, expect water to be usually free, and take your bill to the register near the exit when you finish.
The 24-second video, with Hako. Open on YouTube
The 3 things to know
Say sumimasen or press the call button
Say 'sumimasen' (excuse me) or press the call button if your table has one. Traditional izakaya may have no call button.
Water is usually free
Tap water is usually free, either brought automatically or from a self-service station. If none comes, ask.
Take the bill to the register
When you finish, take the bill (often placed face down) to the cashier near the exit. Paying at the table is not common, although tablet or QR payment at the table is spreading.
Quick answers
How do I ask for water?
If none is brought, ask: 'omizu o kudasai' (water, please). Water is usually free, and some places are self-service.
Is water free everywhere?
Usually, but not always. Some bars and special venues may charge for water (not verified).
Do I pay at the table?
Not usually. Take the bill to the cashier near the exit. Shops with ticket machines are the exception, since you pay up front there.
Read the video transcript
Waiting for a waiter in Japan? Staff won't keep checking on you. Three tips.
One. Say sumimasen, meaning excuse me, or press the call button.
Two. Water is usually free. Some places are self-service.
Three. Done? Take the bill to the register by the exit.
Leaving? Say gochisousama deshita. It means thanks for the meal.
Sources & how we checked
The tips on this page were checked against these official pages:
- japan.travelJNTO: Drinking water in Japan
- japan-guide.comJapan Guide: Dining out
- japan-guide.comJapan Guide: Izakaya
- Updated
- Video
- 24 seconds, made by Ready in Japan
- Good to know
- Rules can vary by place. Follow local signs and staff.
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