Why Do Japanese Waiters “Ignore” You Until You Call Them?

Check your table. Is there a small black or brown device with a button? That is the “Call Button” (Yobidashi). Press it! You will often hear a “Ping-Pong!” sound, and a server will shout “Hai!” and come running immediately. It is not rude to press it; it is the rule.

If there is no button, you must use your voice. Raise your hand and shout “Sumimasen!” (Excuse me!). Do not be shy. In a busy Ramen shop or Izakaya, a quiet voice will be drowned out. Local Japanese people shout it quite loudly. It is the magic word to get water, order food, or get the check.