To try on clothes in Japan, the primary step is to talk to a salesperson.
Trying on clothes in Japan is a polite and structured process often involving interaction with store staff. Unlike some countries where you might freely enter a fitting room, it's customary and often required to first engage with a salesperson.
The Essential Step: Approach a Salesperson
The most crucial step when you want to try on an item of clothing is to talk to a salesperson. Don't just grab items and head towards what looks like a fitting room area.
- Guidance: A staff member will guide you to an available changing room.
- Assistance: They are also there to assist you if you need a different size, color, or have any questions.
Approaching staff not only follows local etiquette but also ensures you are aware of any specific store policies regarding fitting rooms.
Inside the Changing Room: Specific Rules
Japanese changing rooms, known as 'fitting rooms' or 'dressing rooms' (フィッティングルーム or 試着室, shichakushitsu), may have specific rules designed to keep the clothes clean and maintain hygiene.
Based on the reference, you might encounter the following requirements:
- Shoe Removal: Some changing rooms require you to take off your shoes before entering. Look for signs or follow the lead of the salesperson. This helps keep the fitting room and the clothes clean.
- Face Covers: Women, especially, may be asked to use a face cover. This is a small cloth or paper cover provided by the store. You hold it over your face (specifically the mouth and nose area) while pulling the garment over your head. This prevents makeup or foundation from transferring onto the clothes, keeping them pristine for the next customer.
Quick Guide to Trying On
Here's a simple breakdown of the process:
- Select the item(s): Choose the clothes you are interested in trying on.
- Find a salesperson: Locate a staff member near the fitting room area or where you found the clothes.
- Request to try on: Politely ask if you can try on the item(s). You can simply hold up the item and point to the changing room area, or use phrases like "試着してもいいですか？" (Shichaku shite mo ii desu ka? - May I try this on?).
- Follow guidance: The salesperson will lead you to an available fitting room. They might note down the items you are taking in.
- Observe room rules: Before entering, check if you need to remove your shoes. If a face cover is offered (or is inside the room), use it when pulling garments over your head.
- Try the clothes: Step into the items.
- Seek help if needed: If you require a different size or another item, you can often call the salesperson by pressing a button inside the room or simply opening the curtain slightly and asking.
- Return the clothes: Once finished, neatly return the clothes to the salesperson waiting outside or place them in a designated return area within the fitting room complex. Even if you don't buy them, returning them nicely is appreciated.
By following these steps, particularly the initial interaction with staff and adhering to changing room specific rules like removing shoes and using face covers, you can have a smooth and respectful clothes trying-on experience in Japan.
