The water situation at Japanese restaurants! A must-see guide for tourists

Knowing about water conditions at Japanese restaurants is useful information for tourists.
Many tourists visiting Japan are often surprised about the service and water provided at Japanese restaurants.
In this article, I will explain the manners, culture, and points you should know about water in Japanese restaurants.
Water is provided free of charge at Japanese restaurants
Water (or tea) is provided free of charge at many restaurants in Japan.
When you enter a restaurant or cafe, the clerk usually brings water first.
This is done as part of welcoming customers in Japanese food and drink culture.
You don't need to make any special requests when ordering water.
The quality of water in Japan
Tap water in Japan is of very high quality and can be drunk as is.
This is because strict water quality standards have been put in place.
Therefore, you can drink the water provided at restaurants without worry.
Many restaurants in Japan often serve tap water as is.
Water refill
Refills of water are also offered free of charge at Japanese restaurants.
You can ask a clerk or pick up water from a water dispenser yourself at a self-service eatery.
In particular, ramen shops and family restaurants often have self-service water.
special water services
Some high-end restaurants and cafes may also provide mineral water or special water for a fee.
These waters often contain special mineral components and are selected to match dishes and drinks.
If it's listed on the menu, it's a good idea to check the prices and choose the one that suits your preferences.
What is the all-you-can-drink dinner plan?
Japanese restaurants have “all-you-can-drink plans,” which usually cover alcoholic beverages.
However, some all-you-can-drink plans also include soft drinks, and water or carbonated water may also be included in them.
For tourists, by using such plans, they can enjoy drinks with peace of mind.
Health-conscious water
In recent years, various types of healthy water, such as alkaline water and hydrogen water, have attracted attention due to heightened health consciousness in Japan.
Some restaurants and cafes also offer these special waters.
It is good for health-conscious tourists to know that there are such options.
Water at places other than restaurants
In Japan, you can easily buy mineral water at vending machines and convenience stores.
It's also convenient to buy water at these places if you get thirsty while sightseeing.
It is important to stay hydrated frequently, especially during the hot summer months.
About manners at restaurants
As a rule of manners when drinking water at Japanese restaurants, there is basically no problem drinking water while eating, but be careful not to make noise.
Also, if you spill water, it's a good idea to let the clerk know right away.
Japanese clerks are very kind and quick to respond.
Lastly
Providing water at Japanese restaurants is an important factor in supporting a comfortable dining experience for tourists.
Please enjoy a wonderful dining experience while feeling the Japanese culture of hospitality, such as providing high-quality water and free refill services.
Ginza/ “Mani Nail Care Ginza Store”
Open at 9 a.m.! A 5-minute walk from Ginza Station, this is a popular nail care salon where you can get rid of nail problems.
Hand and foot nails can be performed simultaneously. For those who are concerned about the burden of gel nails, we have prepared a number of “non-scraping” gel polishes, shellac, nail care, foot care, etc.
Recommended for those trying nail art for the first time, as well as those seeking special care. Men's care is also available, so it's also suitable for couples.
Ginza/ “head CONCIERGE Ginza Store”
A head spa specialty store where a group of nationally qualified specialists lead to “ultimate sleep.”
It is a technique of pressing pressure points on the head called the deep muscle approach, which leads to ultimate sleep.
Various effects can be expected, such as “relieving insomnia,” “improving shoulder stiffness,” “recovering from eye strain,” and “anti-aging.”
Enjoy the ultimate head spa that goes beyond relaxation.
Jimbocho (Akihabara area)/“CREBIA Jimbocho Store”
A slimming esthetic salon that leads to effortless results! Highly skilled and experienced staff are popular.
It is a talented salon that is a strong ally for women who want to go on a diet.
Our experienced staff will suggest a menu tailored to each person's constitution and concerns, so you can get closer to your ideal body without difficulty, without waste, and effectively.
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