Things I wish I knew before coming to Japan

Culturally, Japan is probably one of the most different countries compared to the United States. Due to this, there are many things that are important to know before visiting Japan; both in terms of laws and culturally acceptable and unacceptable behaviors. Many people are very surprised when they visit Japan, finding it vastly different than they imagined – and with last year’s new tourist restriction laws in Kyoto, it’s more important than ever to know about the country before you visit.

The language gap

If you’ve been around Europe or the Americas, it can be easy to assume that at least the people in the bigger cities know some English. After all, data shows that almost 50% of Europeans are fluent in English. But in Japan, only 15% to 20% of people can speak English, with only 2% being fluent. Some things you can do to prepare for this is to download Japanese on your Google Translate app, or bring an English-Japanese dictionary.

Subway etiquette

Since Tokyo is the biggest city in the world, its infrastructure is adapted to organized, efficient travel between stations and trains. This includes color-coded lines painted on the floors to guide you where to stand, and where to walk based on desired transfers. Remember to wait in line to board the subway instead of barging in before anyone can get out. Also, one societal rule for the escalators is to stand on the left side, so people walking can ascend on the right side. Make sure to be mindful not to block anyone’s way. Keep in mind that you should stand on the right side in cities in the Kansai region such as Osaka and Kyoto.

Trash

This is one that I was most surprised to learn, since most guides don’t cover it. Even though there are barely any trash cans on the street, Japan’s roads and sidewalks remain extremely clean. One thing you’ll learn is that the country’s society relies heavily on unspoken rules, which is one reason why foreigners are such a problem there. You’re expected to carry your trash home or to your hotel. Another big thing is trash sorting. Instead of our simple recycling and garbage, Japan has three disposables: Burnable (paper scraps and compost), non-burnable (metal, glass) and recyclable (newspapers, plastic bottles). For the last one, make sure to separate the wrapping and cap from the plastic of the bottle.

Silence

This might not seem like a big deal to a lot of American tourists, but if you don’t want to be seen as the rude gaijin (foreigner), you should try to talk quieter than you usually do, especially on trains. In Japan, the culture is very community-centered and you are expected to put other people’s comfort over your own. So, talking loudly and disturbing others isn’t acceptable. It’s important to be mindful of a culture’s customs, especially when they are accommodating you on a trip.

Using chopsticks

Japan, as in most Asian countries, has specific rules to use chopsticks. Certain “do-not’s” include sticking your chopsticks straight up in your bowl, pointing at others, stabbing food or licking your chopsticks. If you don’t know how to use chopsticks, most restaurants can provide utensils if asked. Curry is also normally eaten with a spoon. Even so, it is recommended to learn how to use chopsticks before coming.

Various laws

1. No smoking in public spaces – In many countries, it is legal to casually smoke on a sidewalk or outside a restaurant. However, this is strictly illegal in Japan, and you could get fined for it. There are many designated smoking areas for anyone that needs them.
2. Jaywalking – This was easily the most painful for me. As someone that lived in New York City, jaywalking is basically a part of my culture. Even in most countries where jaywalking is illegal, people do it anyway, and local law enforcement doesn’t mind. But in Japan, they take it more seriously, as you can get fined up to $345 and even end up in jail.
3. Alcohol – The drinking age in Japan is 20.
4. Medication restrictions – Almost all stimulants/ADHD medication is not allowed in Japan, as well as various painkillers. Even over-the-counter cold medicine is more strictly regulated. Even if you have a prescription for a common overseas medication, it’s usually prohibited to bring into the country.
5. Taking pictures – The U.S. has a law that if you go outside, you are consenting to being in a photo. In Japan, it’s illegal to take photos of people (or to have people in a photo) in which they are recognizable, called “right of publishing.” While most don’t mind, if someone gets mad that they are in your picture, it is completely in their right to make you delete that photo. If you want to take a photo of someone specific, make sure you have their permission first.
6. Tattoos – While tattoos themselves are not illegal, they are very taboo and can get you thrown out of an onsen (Japanese bath). Tattoos can also bar you from getting many jobs, working out at a gym or going to a pool, as many Japanese associate tattoos with the yakuza. However, it’s not very hard to cover them up, and most onsens will let you enter if you do. There are many skin-colored bandages or tape you can use to cover your tattoos.

While Japanese law enforcement won’t flame you for being a little loud on a train, it’s still very important to know about local customs before visiting a different country. Remember to be respectful on your trip, as Japan is a beautiful country, and its unique cultural traditions and societal norms are a big reason why it’s so special.

Story by Cassidy Samuels