Travel Tips In Japan No.1: “Irashaimase” Do You Know Correct Response At An Izakaya?

Hello guys!!!

It’s been a while for me to post new article. So today, I’d like to share some tips: how you can enjoy experience in Japan.

OK. Today’s topic is first conversation at an Izakaya.

Have you ever heard this word: “Irashaimase (いらっしゃいませ)”?

This word is typical JAPANESE Word and I think there is no word in English.

When you read this article, you’ll be able to do first conversation with a staff.

Let’s get start it!!!

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1. Introduction: The First Word You Hear in a Japanese Izakaya

Imagine this: you slide open the wooden door of a cozy Japanese izakaya. The warm scent of grilled skewers and sizzling oil fills the air. Suddenly, the staff shout in unison, “Irasshaimase!” (“いらっしゃいませ！”). You pause—should you say something back?

For many first-time visitors, this enthusiastic greeting can be surprising or even overwhelming. You’ve just walked in, and suddenly you’re the center of attention. In your own country, no one might even look up when you enter a restaurant. But in Japan, this boisterous welcome is a cultural norm.

“Irasshaimase” isn’t just a phrase—it’s a ritual. It sets the tone for your experience, signaling that the staff are ready to serve and that you, as the guest, are being warmly welcomed. In the world of Japanese hospitality (omotenashi), this phrase is almost sacred.

In this blog post, we’ll break down what “irasshaimase” really means, how to respond (or not!), and how modern izakayas are evolving this tradition. Whether you’re a curious traveler or an izakaya regular, this guide will help you navigate one of Japan’s most iconic—and mysterious—customs.

2. What Does “Irasshaimase” Actually Mean?

“Irasshaimase” (いらっしゃいませ) may sound like a cheerful chant, but it actually comes from a very polite and formal part of the Japanese language. It’s derived from the verb irassharu, an honorific version of “to come” or “to be.” The phrase roughly translates to “Welcome!” or more precisely, “Please come in and be here.”

In daily conversation, Japanese people don’t usually say “irasshaimase” to each other. It’s almost exclusively used in customer service, especially in restaurants, shops, and hotels. It’s not meant to start a conversation—instead, it’s a one-way expression of hospitality, meant to show attentiveness and readiness to serve.

Unlike greetings such as “hello” or “good evening,” this phrase doesn’t expect a response. It’s a declaration that the staff have noticed you and are acknowledging your presence as a valued guest.

Understanding the meaning behind “irasshaimase” can help you feel more comfortable when you hear it. It’s not about putting you on the spot—it’s about honoring your visit. That’s why you’ll hear it not just once, but sometimes from every staff member as you enter. It’s part of the uniquely warm and welcoming atmosphere of Japan’s service culture.

3. Do Japanese People Respond to It?

Here’s something that might surprise you: even Japanese people usually don’t respond to “Irasshaimase.” When locals walk into a restaurant or shop and hear the staff cheerfully greet them, they typically don’t say anything in return. Instead, they might give a small nod, a gentle smile, or simply walk in without reacting at all.

This might seem a little odd from a Western perspective, where greetings usually involve a two-way exchange. But in Japan, “Irasshaimase” isn’t a conversation starter—it’s a performance of hospitality. The customer’s role is simply to receive it, not to respond.

That said, you might occasionally see someone acknowledge the staff with a quiet “konnichiwa (こんにちは)” or “yoroshiku (よろしく),” especially in more casual or rural settings. But even then, a response isn’t expected.

If you’re a foreigner and feel unsure, don’t worry. You won’t come across as rude by staying silent. In fact, copying what locals do—like giving a small nod or polite smile—is the most natural way to fit in. It shows respect without disrupting the rhythm of the place.

So next time you hear “Irasshaimase,” feel free to smile, nod, and soak in the welcome. That’s exactly what it’s there for.

4. What Should You Do as a Visitor?

So, you’ve just walked into a bustling izakaya and the staff shout “Irasshaimase!” What should you do?

The good news: you don’t have to say anything. As we mentioned earlier, even Japanese locals usually don’t respond verbally. If you’re feeling unsure, the safest and most culturally appropriate response is to smile or give a slight nod. This non-verbal gesture is seen as polite and completely acceptable.

But what if you want to respond? That’s okay, too! Some visitors like to acknowledge the staff with a cheerful “Konnichiwa” (hello) or a soft “Sumimasen” (excuse me) as they walk in—especially if you’re going to the counter or asking for a seat. Just remember, the staff likely won’t engage in small talk at that point; they’re focused on getting you seated and served.

Want to sound more natural? Try this phrase as you’re being shown to your seat:
“Yoroshiku onegaishimasu” (よろしくお願いします) – It’s a polite way to say “Please take care of me” and is commonly used in service situations.

No pressure, though. Whether you respond or not, the important thing is to enjoy the warm welcome and settle in for a great time.

5. Historical and Cultural Background

To understand “Irasshaimase,” it helps to take a quick step back in time. This enthusiastic greeting didn’t appear out of nowhere—it has deep roots in Japan’s merchant culture, especially during the Edo period (1603–1868).

In the bustling streets of Edo (now Tokyo), shopkeepers would loudly call out to passersby with variations of “Irasshaimase” to invite them in. These greetings weren’t just polite—they were marketing. A loud, friendly voice signaled that the store was open, trustworthy, and ready for business.

This culture of vocal hospitality evolved through the Meiji and Taisho eras, and by the time Japan’s economy boomed in the postwar Showa period, the phrase had become standard practice in retail and food service. Chain izakayas and department stores adopted it as part of their employee training, emphasizing consistency and cheerful energy.

But “Irasshaimase” isn’t just about business. It reflects a uniquely Japanese value: omotenashi—the spirit of wholehearted hospitality without expectation of return. Saying it loudly and warmly is a way of showing sincerity and care, even to complete strangers.

Today, even as trends shift, “Irasshaimase” remains a cultural marker—one that links modern izakayas to centuries of Japanese hospitality tradition.

6. Modern Trends: Changing Customer Service in the Reiwa Era

In the Reiwa era (2019–present), customer service in Japan is undergoing subtle but notable shifts, even in the world of izakayas. While “Irasshaimase” is still commonly heard when you enter, some modern izakayas and other businesses are starting to change their approach to service—particularly in how they greet and engage with customers.

The main change revolves around creating a more personal, relaxed experience. As Japan’s younger generations become more attuned to global trends, some establishments are opting for quieter, less formal greetings. This might include simply nodding or offering a warm, low-key “Welcome!” instead of the loud “Irasshaimase!” This reflects a desire to be more mindful of the customer’s experience, avoiding the overwhelming energy of traditional service while still offering that warm hospitality.

Moreover, the rise of tech-driven service in places like izakayas with tablet ordering systems is shifting the dynamic. Customers may not interact with staff as much as before, so the role of the greeting has become less about establishing an immediate connection and more about setting the tone for a smooth and pleasant visit.

Despite these changes, the core value of “Irasshaimase”—welcoming and respecting the customer—is still at the heart of Japanese service culture. It’s just evolving to meet the needs of today’s clientele.

Moreover, the rise of tech-driven service in places like izakayas with tablet ordering systems is shifting the dynamic. Customers may not interact with staff as much as before, so the role of the greeting has become less about establishing an immediate connection and more about setting the tone for a smooth and pleasant visit.

Despite these changes, the core value of “Irasshaimase”—welcoming and respecting the customer—is still at the heart of Japanese service culture. It’s just evolving to meet the needs of today’s clientele.

7. Conclusion: How to Appreciate “Irasshaimase” in Your Own Way

As we’ve seen, “Irasshaimase” is much more than just a greeting—it’s a cultural symbol that reflects Japan’s deep-rooted hospitality and respect for customers. Whether it’s shouted enthusiastically by a staff member at an izakaya or softly offered in a quiet shop, the phrase is a welcoming gesture that invites you into a space with warmth and sincerity.

For foreigners visiting Japan, it’s easy to feel a little unsure about how to respond, but remember: you don’t have to say anything at all! A polite smile, a slight nod, or even no reaction at all is perfectly fine. In fact, by simply enjoying the moment and appreciating the hospitality, you’re engaging with Japanese culture in an authentic way.

If you want to go a step further, try responding with a gentle “Konnichiwa” or “Yoroshiku onegaishimasu,” especially when you’re being shown to your seat. This small effort can make the experience even more enjoyable for both you and the staff.

Ultimately, the key to appreciating “Irasshaimase” is to embrace it as part of the broader spirit of Japanese customer service. It’s an invitation to feel welcomed, respected, and cared for—a sentiment that transcends words.