Japan is one of the most incredible places to visit—breathtaking temples, buzzing city life, delicious food, and a culture deeply rooted in respect and harmony. But with Japan opening its doors to more tourists than ever, there’s been a growing problem: some visitors just don’t know (or care) about local etiquette.
I’m talking about the people who harass locals for fun, cut in line like it’s no big deal, or chase down geisha in Kyoto for a selfie. If you don’t want to be that tourist—the one that makes locals roll their eyes or, worse, actively dislike foreigners—you’re in the right place.
In my latest video, I’m breaking down how NOT to be a walking meiwaku (a nuisance) in Japan. From understanding the cultural concept of wa (harmony) to practical tips like not blocking pathways or speaking too loudly in public, this is your guide to traveling Japan respectfully—and having a much better experience in return.
The Two Key Concepts You Need to Understand
Before we get into specific do’s and don’ts, there are two big cultural ideas that explain why certain behaviors are frowned upon in Japan:
1. Wa (和) – The Importance of Social Harmony
Japan is a collectivist society, meaning that people prioritize the group’s well-being over individual wants. This is why you’ll notice that locals tend to be quiet on public transport, form orderly lines, and avoid disruptive behavior in shared spaces.
Being mindful of wa means minimizing disruptions for others, whether that’s by lowering your voice, following unspoken social rules, or simply observing how locals behave and doing the same.
2. Meiwaku (迷惑) – Don’t Be a Nuisance
If you inconvenience others in Japan, you’re being meiwaku. And trust me, you don’t want to be labeled that way.
It could be as simple as taking up too much space in a crowded area, playing videos on speaker mode in public, or ignoring local rules because “you’re just a tourist.” People in Japan go out of their way to avoid being meiwaku, and when someone blatantly disrupts the harmony, it doesn’t go unnoticed.
Now that you know these two concepts, let’s talk about real-life tips to help you avoid common tourist mistakes.
Why This Matters for Travelers
Most locals don’t expect foreign tourists to be perfect. But they do appreciate when visitors make an effort to be mindful. Traveling respectfully doesn’t just benefit the people around you—it also makes your own experience in Japan so much better.
When you show respect, you’ll notice people being more helpful, kind, and open to interacting with you. And really, isn’t that what travel should be about?
If you’re planning a trip to Japan (or just want to learn more about cultural etiquette), check out the full video.
