Japan is a beautiful country with a rich culture and history, and it is an exciting destination for many travelers. However, there are some things one should not do while visiting Japan, as they could be considered rude or disrespectful.
This article will cover the things you should not do while visiting Japan and why they are best avoided.
1. Don’t be late: Japan is known for its punctuality, and being late could be seen as disrespectful. If you need to be somewhere, plan to arrive early and be prepared to wait if the person you are meeting is already there.
2. Don’t talk loudly: Japanese people value politeness and consider it rude to talk loudly in public. If you need to have a conversation, try to keep your voice low and be conscious of others around you.
3. Don’t point: Pointing is considered to be rude in Japan, and it is better to gesture with an open hand or use your chin to indicate something.
4. Don’t blow your nose in public: Blowing your nose in public is considered to be impolite in Japan, and it is better to do it in private or wait until you can find a restroom.
5. Don’t eat or drink in public places: Eating and drinking in public places are considered to be rude, and it is best to find a private place to eat and drink.
6. Don’t wear shoes in someone’s house: Taking off your shoes when entering someone’s house is a sign of respect in Japan, and it is best to follow this custom.
7. Don’t speak English loudly: Speaking English loudly in public is considered to be rude and can be seen as a sign of disrespect. It is better to speak English in a low voice or switch to Japanese if you know it.
8. Don’t give tips: Tipping is not customary in Japan and is considered to be offensive.
9. Don’t get drunk in public: Drinking to excess and being drunk in public is not acceptable in Japan, and it is best to drink responsibly.
10. Don’t be too touchy-feely: Public displays of affection are frowned upon in Japan, and it is best to keep physical contact to a minimum.
11. Don’t wear shoes indoors: Wearing shoes indoors is considered to be impolite in Japan, and it is best to take them off before entering someone’s home or a building.
12. Don’t talk while eating: Talking while eating is considered to be impolite in Japan, and it is best to maintain silence while eating in public.
13. Don’t take photos without permission: Taking photos of people without their permission is considered to be rude in Japan, and it is best to ask for permission before taking a photo.
14. Don’t be disrespectful to religious sites: Japan is a country with a rich religious history, and it is important to be respectful when visiting religious sites.
15. Don’t expect people to speak English: English is not widely spoken in Japan, and it is best to learn some basic Japanese phrases before visiting.
Following these guidelines will ensure that you have a positive experience while visiting Japan and will ensure that you are respectful of the local culture. Japan is an amazing country, and it is important to be mindful of the customs and etiquette while visiting.
