photo by othree
According to the Japanese government’s announcement, the number of tourists from overseas reached the highest ever 17.7 million in the first half of 2024, expected to exceed 3.5 million by the end of the year. Nowadays, international tourists are seen all over Japan, not just in famous tourist spots but in every city. In popular sites like Kyoto and Mt. Fuji, issues relating to overflowing tourists are arising. Along with these issues, unpreferable behavers of tourists also stand out. Generally speaking, manners matter in Japan. So, what sort of issues are there at present?
Top three important manners in Japan
One of the most commonly heard comments about Japanese people could be, Japanese are polite, well-mannered, or that sort. Come to think of it, such behaviour of Japanese people probably fostered by those three rules that deeply imprinted in their mind.
Take your trash home with you
There are no rubbish bins on Japanese streets. There are some at convenience stores or in parks, but not on streets. Then, what are people doing with their rubbish? They simply take their rubbish home. Never ever litter.
Be quiet in public transport
Japan has advanced public transport systems. In addition, everyone is super quiet on the train, bus, or any other public transport vehicle. What you hear is just noises the vehicle makes and announcements. Other than that, it’s as quiet as an exam hall. So, be quiet in public transport!
Stand in queue, don’t jump the queue
Japan is a small country with so many people. While travelling in Japan, you will have many occasions to wait in queue: at a railway station, bus stop, or in an amusement park. Amazingly, Japanese people are always waiting in queue patiently. You may be surprized how patient they are, but this is standard in Japan. Never ever disrupt or jump the queue.
There are more to learn…
Knowing different culture is one of the best things about traveling in different countries. But sometimes you may be violating manners there without knowing. From here on, we introduce other little manners you should know in when traveling Japan.
Be mindful of other people when taking photos on the street
Taking photos at a tourist’s spot is fun. But certain behaviour definitely bothers someone, for example, taking photos on the roadway and going into someone’s property. Especially, the latter is trespassing. You should also avoid contacting or taking photo of people engaged in certain professions such as geisha or maiko in Kyoto, for example.
Flush toilet paper
In Japan, You flush toilet paper down the toilet. The use of flush toilets varies from country to country, and some countries have the custom of throwing toilet paper in the rubbish bin, but in Japan, throw it in the toilet bowl and flush it.
Public bath manners
Some people may be looking forward to bathing in hot springs in Japan. In public baths, including public baths in ryokans and hotels, there are the following rules:
• No swimsuit (go in naked)
• Wash up before go into a bathtub
• Do not put towels in the bathtub
If you don’t feel comfortable entering a public bath naked, use the bathroom in your room.
Don’t enter a retail store while eating or drinking
In Japan, people don’t really eat and drink while walking. If you enter a retail store while eating or drinking, you may be refused entry. Eating and drinking while walking is not prohibited, but you should finish eating and drinking before entering the restaurant.
Behave considerately when you are at shrines and temples
Among the popular tourist attractions are many shrines and temples. When visiting these places, you must remember that shrines and temples are religious facilities sacred places. Even the plants and stone lanterns are carefully maintained. No loud chatting, no graffiti, no taking things away at these places.
Bon voyage!
In 2024, Japan hit the new record of the number of overseas tourists. While it is wonderful to have so many people know about Japan, there are also troubles caused by the rapid increase in tourists. The rules introduced in this column are normal in Japan, but they may be surprising to people from countries other than Japan. When you came to Japan to have fun, it will be a waste if you get into trouble with the facilities and the people around you. Let’s take Japan’s unique rules for interesting culture.
