This is what you should not do when you go on vacation to Japan

Japan is the dream destination of the moment, and rightly so. I visited the country in 2009 and again in 2024 and fell in love again with the culture, hospitality, and discipline. A trip to Japan brings a positive culture shock – something we tourists can learn a lot from.

Japanese people are known for their restraint and for avoiding confrontations. This means they rarely confront tourists about their behavior, but that doesn’t mean that everything is accepted. Harmony and respect are central in Japanese society – between people, animals, and nature. Always keep this in mind and adjust your behavior.

What you better not do

In public transport

– Speak softly or remain silent in subways, trains, and buses so that others can travel in peace.
– Do not take photos in public transport – privacy is very important in Japan.
– Keep your phone on silent and avoid making calls in public transport.
– Carry your backpack in front of you or place it between your legs so you don’t take up space.
– Do not sit in reserved seats for the elderly, pregnant women, and people with disabilities.
– Stand on the left on escalators and in a line (except in Osaka, where you stand on the right so people can pass on the left).
– Be considerate of others when traveling with a suitcase and do not block passages.

On the street and in public

– Do not cross at a red pedestrian light, even if no cars are coming. Japanese people strictly adhere to traffic rules.
– Smoke only in designated smoking areas. Walking with a cigarette is considered rude.
– Do not eat or snack while walking down the street. This is not customary and you hardly see trash cans, so take all your waste back to your hotel.
– Do not chase after a Maiko or Geisha in Kyoto and do not touch them. Take photos only from a distance.
– Always line up neatly – whether it’s at the subway, a store, or a temple.
– During the sakura season: do not pick blossoms and do not shake trees for photos or videos just for your Instagram or TikTok.

Food and drink

– Never stick your chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice – this resembles a ritual at funerals.
– Do not point with your chopsticks at someone or a dish and do not use them to move things.
– Use the tray on the counter to give cash to the cashier instead of handing it directly to their hand.
– Do not tip, this is considered rude. Good service is taken for granted.
– Do not use heavy perfume when going to a traditional Japanese restaurant – this disrupts the dining experience.

Culture and traditions

– Do not raise your voice and keep your patience. Showing frustration is considered immature.
– Always take off your shoes when entering a home, temple, or certain restaurants. This is clearly indicated.
– In temples and Shinto shrines: be extra respectful, take photos only where allowed, and do not damage anything.
– Do not point with your index finger at statues or objects, but use your whole hand.
– Haggling over prices is not customary and is considered disrespectful.
– Do you have a tattoo? Be aware that these should not be visible in most onsens (hot springs) and swimming pools. Cover them if necessary.

What you should definitely do

What you should definitely do

– Always be polite and show respect for Japanese culture.
– Observe and adapt to the behavior of the locals.
– Keep your surroundings clean and leave everything tidy.
– Show appreciation with a nod or a thank you instead of a tip.

Enjoy the unique customs and traditions – Japan is a country where respect and harmony are central, and that makes it so special!

In my next article, I will give you travel tips on what to visit in Japan.
Stay tuned!

ありがとうございます

ありがとうございます
(Arigatou gozaimasu!)

Love, Danielle