2025 ARTICLE
Top 10 Tourist Etiquette Fears in Japan: What’s Really Disrespectful and What’s Just a Myth?
When visiting Japan, every move counts—especially when it comes to manners. But let’s be honest, sometimes tourists worry way too much about what might offend the locals. So, before you start mentally rehearsing your deepest bow or obsessively checking if your socks have holes, let’s sort out the real no-nos from the “chill out” moments.
1. Wearing Sandals Inside a Temple: Disrespectful or Just Fine?
Fear: “If I wear my sandals inside a temple, will the gods strike me down with a lightning bolt?”
Reality: Unless your sandals have secret ninja stars hidden underneath, you’re good! Most temples expect you to remove shoes at the entrance, but slip-on sandals make that easy. Just don’t wear your hiking boots indoors and stomp on the sacred tatami mats like Godzilla on a rampage.
2. Talking Loudly on Trains: Is Everyone Going to Stare?
Fear: “Will people throw me out of the Shinkansen if I laugh too loud?”
Reality: Japanese trains are like libraries on wheels—quiet zones for serious people and manga readers. But don’t panic if you accidentally chuckle at a silly meme. Just keep your phone on silent and remember, even the shushiest places have a human or two who once accidentally dropped their bento box and caused a 10-minute delay.
3. Tipping: Should I Throw Money at My Waiter?
Fear: “Am I supposed to tip? What if I don’t? Will my sushi be cursed forever?”
Reality: Nope, tipping is not a thing in Japan. You might confuse your waiter so much they think you want to join their karaoke team. Instead, just smile, say “arigatou,” and enjoy your perfectly priced sushi.
4. Using Chopsticks: The Deadly Sin of ‘Sticking’ Them Upright
Fear: “If I leave my chopsticks like that, will the entire restaurant hold a funeral for me?”
Reality: Yeah, don’t stick chopsticks upright in your rice—it looks like a funeral ritual. Just lay them down or rest them on the chopstick holder. You don’t want to be THAT tourist.
5. Bowing: Do I Need to Bow Like a Samurai Every Time?
Fear: “If I don’t bow correctly, will they think I’m disrespecting the entire country?”
Reality: A simple nod or slight bow will do. No need for a full ninja-warrior-level bow unless you want to be the star of the local TV show.
6. Entering a Bathhouse with Tattoos: Instant Ban or Just a Whisper?
Fear: “Will my tattoo cause a gang of yakuza to appear and drag me out?”
Reality: Some traditional bathhouses still frown on tattoos due to their gang associations, but many now welcome visitors. If you want to avoid the drama, ask ahead or rock a waterproof cover-up.
7. Pointing at People: Is It a Crime?
Fear: “Am I going to get arrested for pointing at someone?”
Reality: Pointing is a bit rude, sure, but not criminal. Use your whole hand instead or just awkwardly wave like a confused duck.
8. Eating While Walking: Public Execution?
Fear: “If I eat my ramen on the go, will the authorities arrest me?”
Reality: It’s uncommon to eat while walking, but you won’t be chased by samurai either. Just try to finish your food before strolling—your stomach and locals will thank you.
9. Blowing Your Nose in Public: Gross or Just Normal?
Fear: “Will people scream if I blow my nose on the street?”
Reality: It’s considered polite to blow your nose in private, but no one’s handing out tickets. Just find a restroom or a secluded spot for maximum discretion.
10. Taking Photos of People Without Permission: Instant Enemy?
Fear: “Will I be chased by an angry mob for snapping pics?”
Reality: Always ask before photographing people close-up, but candid shots of crowds or festivals? Totally fine—and way less creepy than that one guy who followed the geisha around town.
Final Thoughts:
Chill out, traveler! Japanese etiquette might seem like a minefield, but most locals admire your effort and kindness far more than your perfect bow or chopstick technique. So relax, have fun, and maybe keep your sandals clean just in case.