What should i know about proper japanese/american etiquitte ?

Question

i am going to a busy authentic japanese restaurant tonight, although i am sure they are used to rude americans i would like to be as respectful as possible is there anything i should know...also any suggestions on what to order would be appreciated

Answer 1

use your basic manners

don't spit our their food, talk very loud, say their food is a pile of !@#$, eat with your hands, burp, f**t... that stuff

Answer 2

Even authentic, busy Japanese restaurants are more catered to the American people and the workers, chefs and waiters are likely used to the American culture. Don't fret it so much.

You may have to remove your shoes before entering the restaurant. This is a custom in Japan, but I've not seen it in even authentic restaurants. Who knows, but make sure you be prepared (make sure your socks don't have holes and stuff).

First off, if you are skilled in using chopsticks, NEVER stick your chopsticks in a bowl of rice with them standing straight up. It's rude and disrespectful to them. When you eat, put the chopsticks next to the bowl when not in use.  

Do not put soysauce in your white rice. This is also seen as really tacky though a lot of Americans do this and it's no problem for Japanese that much.

If you are entertaining Japanese people in your table, it is always customary to pour your guests' wine before yours. If no Japanese guests are dining with you, don't worry about it then.

Other than those two simple rules, follow your basic manners as you would here in the USA. When waiters bring you food or drinks, just nod your head once and smile. Or say "arigato gozaimasu" which is Japanese for thank you.

Right before you eat, hold the chopsticks (not separated yet) in both our hands flat and bow then say "Itadakimasu" (ee-tah-dah-kee-mah-soo). You won't be expected to do this but it adds a touch and shows that you're somewhat educated in Japanese culture. But in your average Japanese restaurant, not a lot of people do this even in Japan.

Don't sweat it. No matter how authentic it is, this is still the USA and likely they've conformed to our culture. Even in Japan, there's not a whole lot of etiquitte to follow other than what I described. Some people there even talk with thier mouths full.