お会計お願いします

Catch the server's eye first. A small hand raise or a polite すみません (sumimasen) helps. Once they look your way, say お会計お願いします. They will usually bring a small slip to your table. In Japan, you often take this slip to a register near the entrance. Don't wait at the table for them to bring a credit card machine. That rarely happens! Just grab the paper and head to the front. If you are already at the register, you can say it there too.

Use this at any sit-down restaurant. It works at fancy sushi spots and casual ramen shops. It is perfect for cafes when you've finished your latte. Use it at an izakaya (Japanese pub) when the night is winding down. It is the safest, most 'correct' phrase for any traveler or resident. It makes you sound cultured and respectful of the staff's time.

Do not use this at fast-food joints. Places like Yoshinoya or McDonald's usually require payment upfront. Avoid using it at street food stalls. You pay for your takoyaki right when you get it! Also, try not to shout it from across the room. Japan values a quiet atmosphere. If the waiter is busy, wait for a quiet moment. Screaming for the bill is a major faux pas.

Japanese service, or *omotenashi*, is about anticipating needs. However, servers often wait for you to signal the end of the meal. This prevents you from feeling rushed. In some traditional places, they might bring tea after you ask for the bill. This is a 'last call' gesture. Also, tipping is not practiced in Japan. The price on the bill is exactly what you pay. It is a clean, honest transaction every time.

You might hear お勘定お願いします (O-kanjo onegaishimasu). This is a bit more traditional and often used by older generations. In very casual spots, some people just say チェックで (Chekku de). However, お会計 is the gold standard. If you want to pay separately, you can add 別々で (betsubetsu de). This tells the server you aren't treating your friends today!