8 things Donald Trump definitely shouldn’t do while in Japan

Donald Trump kicks off his tour of Asia with a visit to Japan on November 5.

It’s the US president’s second trip abroad since taking office and, with a rich collection of traditions and etiquette to observe, has the potential to go a bit wrong.

So here are some tips for him:

1. Don’t forget to bow

It’s believed bowing initially started as a status symbol, with the inferior party bowing deeper than the person of higher status and thus putting themselves in a position of vulnerability.

A head nod is generally enough when interacting with friends and family, but Trump will probably be expected to perform an “eshaku” – a 15-degree bow – when meeting Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

It’s the bow used for an acquaintance of equal social rank, although Trump could also perform the 30 to 45-degree “respect” bow, futsurei or keirei.

Having said that though, handshakes are not uncommon in Japan when dealing with foreigners, so there could be a mix and match when the two leaders meet.

Easy enough?

Well, given how memorable Trump’s handshake with Abe was when they met at the White House, it’s definitely too early to say.

2. Don’t forget to take your shoes off before entering someone’s house

Guest slippers will often be provided, although just socks should be worn when stepping on a tatami (straw) mat, and a different pair of slippers is left inside the bathroom and not to be worn elsewhere.

3. Don’t dip your sushi on the wrong side

When eating nigiri sushi – raw fish placed on top of rice – the topping side should always be dipped into the soy sauce, mainly to prevent any rice breaking off and floating in the bowl.

Nigiri is also a type of sushi that is eaten with fingers, even in formal settings.

Other food dos and don’ts for Trump to consider include the fact that slurping noodles is considered not just practical (because it helps cool the very hot ramen) but actually polite – a sign you are enjoying the food.

4. Don’t pour your own drink

If you’ve poured for others, you’ve just got to put the bottle down and hope someone notices your glass is also empty.

And, before enjoying that drink, it’s customary to wait for someone around the table to say “kanpai”, or “cheers”.

5. Be careful how your chopsticks are pointing

Passing food from chopstick to chopstick is a big no-no, as it resembles a funeral custom where cremated bones are transferred to the urn. Placing chopsticks upright in a bowl is something else that resembles funeral traditions, as do crossed chopsticks.

On top of that, don’t rub your chopsticks together unless you want people to think you’re saying they’re cheap, and absolutely don’t eat directly from common dishes with them.

6. Tipping is not a thing

7. Don’t forget a gift though

8. Don’t blow your nose in public

Trump is an admitted germophobe, so this might be one of the traditions that pleases him.