What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Atami?

"In Atami, it's important to respect the local customs and traditions. Avoid speaking loudly or causing a disturbance, as Japanese culture values harmony and peace. When visiting hot springs or onsens, which Atami is famous for, ensure you wash thoroughly before entering the communal bath. It's considered disrespectful to enter the water without cleaning yourself first. Never stick your chopsticks upright in your rice, as this is a ritual performed at funerals. Similarly, passing food from chopstick to chopstick is considered bad manners because it's reminiscent of a Japanese funeral rite. Avoid tipping in restaurants, taxis, or hotels. Unlike in many Western cultures, tipping is not customary in Japan and can sometimes be seen as insulting. Remember to remove your shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments. There will usually be a designated area for shoe storage. Avoid blowing your nose in public. It's considered rude and unhygienic in Japanese culture. If you need to blow your nose, it's best to do so in a private place like a restroom. When using public transportation, keep your phone on silent and avoid talking on the phone. It's considered impolite to disturb others in this way. Lastly, respect queues and don't cut in line. Japanese people take queuing seriously and it's considered very rude to not wait your turn," explained one expat living in Atami, Japan.

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