An empty plate signals a desire for more food. Leave a little food on your plate when you are finished eating. When drinking with a Japanese person, fill his glass or cup after he has filled yours. While he is pouring, hold your cup or glass up so he can fill it easily. Never pour your own drink and always pour your companion's.
Toasting is very important in Japan and many toasts are offered during the course of an evening.
At dinner, wait for the toast before you drink. Respond to each toast with a toast. If you are the honored guest, wait until all the food is on the table and everyone is ready before you eat. When offered food, it is polite to hesitate before accepting. You do not have to eat much, but it is rude not to sample each dish.