Casual — to friend
Cultural · Dining
You
日本では麺をすすって食べるのはマナー違反ではありませんよ。
にほんではめんをすすってたべるのはマナーいはんではありませんよ。
In Japan, slurping noodles is not considered bad manners.
Romaji: Nihon dewa men wo susut te taberu no wa manā ihan dewa arimasen yo. / Reply Romaji: Hontō ni? Yatta, jā ensoryonaku susuri masu!
Reply
本当に？やった、じゃあ遠慮なくすすります！
ほんとうに？やった、じゃあえんりょなくすすります！
Really? Great, then I'll slurp without holding back!
Gesture & etiquette
A relaxed, reassuring tone — this is good news for most foreigners. In a ramen shop, let your companion observe locals naturally to see the behavior in context. Note: the 'okay to slurp' rule applies specifically to noodle dishes.
Slurping noodles (ramen, soba, udon) is culturally accepted — even appreciated — as it cools the noodles and is said to enhance flavor. However, loud slurping of non-noodle foods is still considered rude. This is one of the most common cultural surprises for foreign visitors dining in Japan.