Imagine stepping into a cozy restaurant in Japan on a freezing winter day. You take off your coat, sit down, and—before you even open the menu—a glass of water with ice cubes arrives on your table. It’s refreshing, yes, but also puzzling: why ice-cold water, even in the middle of winter? A Custom Rooted in Hospitality In Japan, serving cold water is not just a practical act — it’s a symbol of omotenashi, the country’s unique spirit of hospitality. For restaurant staff, offering something cool and clean-looking is a sign of care and respect. Cold water feels “fresh” and ...
