お会計をお願いします。 — May I have the bill, please? (Cultural · Dining, Formal — to staff, JLPT N4)

Gesture & etiquette

Lightly raise one hand to shoulder height to catch the server's attention; avoid snapping fingers or calling out loudly; once you have their eye, say the phrase with a nod.

In Japanese restaurants, the bill is rarely brought automatically — you must ask. Catching a staff member's eye with a slight raise of your hand is appropriate. Splitting the bill at the register (割り勘, warikan) is common and accepted; telling the cashier '別々でお願いします' (separately please) beforehand helps.