In Japanese culture even the slightest gesture can have a hidden meaning, so you should be particularly up on these etiquette points before a Japanese dinner party:
Pointing is considered rude, so try to remember to wave your hand instead.
When invited to a Japanese house, always bring something for the hostess, but don't be offended if she doesn't open the gift in front of you — it's considered the height of rudeness for her to do so.
While it's extremely impolite to snort or sniff in public, slurping one's soup is actually encouraged.
When the hostess is busy serving, it's impolite to ask her to sit down and join you.
If you happen to be sitting at a low table without chairs, men should sit cross-legged, women should not — that's considered unfeminine.
As a guest, you'll be expected to serve yourself first, so try not to be overly considerate. According to etiquette, chopsticks should be placed horizontally across the bottom of the place setting.
Before eating, it's customary to say "Itadakimisu," which means, "I receive."
After finishing, always say, "Gochiso-sama deshita," which means, "Thank you for the feast."
If you feel you've committed an etiquette gaffe say, "Shitsuri shimasu," which means, "Please excuse me." This will absolve you of any blunder you may have made during your visit.
