Japanese Locals Share Honest Opinions on Tourist Etiquette and Living in Japan

TAKASHii

Summary:

Train Etiquette [0:41][0:50]: Japanese locals request foreigners to let people off the train before boarding and to queue orderly, as trains can get noisy due to many foreigners [0:57].
Noise Levels [2:55]: Foreigners are encouraged to be mindful of their volume in public spaces like trains, buses, and quiet restaurants (e.g., sushi restaurants), as Japanese people generally speak more quietly.
Littering [0:07]: Littering, especially spitting gum on the streets, is highly discouraged.
Filming [0:02][3:58]: Filming in public places, particularly maid cafes, shops, and restaurants, without permission is a significant concern, with "No Video Recording" signs becoming more common.
Communication [0:09][10:42]: Japanese people prefer initial contact to be in Japanese, as starting in English can make them defensive. Many Japanese struggle with English, but try to help [10:46]. Japanese tend to be introverted and shy [11:52].
Living in Japan [5:40][5:54][6:15]: Most locals believe Japan is an easy country to live in due to its cleanliness, safety, affordability (low yen), and kind people. However, cultural differences [7:17], such as social manners [4:30] and issues like LGBTQ+ rights [7:24], can be a challenge.
Recommendations for Visitors [13:00]: Suggestions include experiencing Hakone Onsen [13:21] or Gunma Prefecture Onsens (understanding the difference between Onsen and Sentō [13:43]), exploring Yoyogi Park and Meiji Jingu Shrine [14:12] in Harajuku, visiting the famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing [14:40], and enjoying the lively food scene and approachable people in Osaka [14:58].

Japanese Locals' Opinions on Tourist Etiquette [0:38]

Train Etiquette [0:41]
- When getting off the train, people standing near the doors should step off to allow others to exit easily. [0:41] ![Image of a woman saying to let people off the train.][0:41]
- Foreigners should learn how to line up for the train, like boarding in an orderly manner. [0:50] ![Image of a woman saying to line up for the train.][0:50]
- Some trains can get pretty noisy due to many foreigners, and locals wish for quieter commutes. [0:57] ![Image of a quiet train interior.][0:57]
  - Those who stay longer in Japan tend to adapt to the local etiquette. [1:03]
  - First-time visitors often let loose, leading to noisy behavior. [1:08]
Communication Styles [1:13]
- The first contact should definitely be in Japanese. [1:17]
  - Japanese people get defensive if conversations start in English, often responding with "Sorry, I can't speak English." [0:09] ![Image of a man explaining that Japanese people get defensive if you start with English.][0:09]
  - Starting with Japanese might make it easier for Japanese people to open up. [1:31]
Public Conduct [1:35]
- Talking loudly on the bus or train is seen as impolite. [1:35]
  - Being quiet, even in elevators, is typical Japanese etiquette. [1:39]
  - Japanese and foreigners have different standards for voice volume; Japanese people tend to have quieter voices, so foreigners should be even quieter. [1:44]
- Littering is strongly discouraged, specifically mentioned is spitting out chewed gum onto the street. [2:00] ![Image of a woman saying she wishes people would stop littering.][0:07]
  - While some Japanese also do this, it's more common among tourists. [2:18]
  - Foreigners living in Japan tend to follow etiquette well, unlike some temporary tourists who may be unaware or less mindful. [2:22]
- Talking loudly in restaurants can be a nuisance to others. [2:43]
  - People should be mindful of their voice volume and try to match the restaurant's atmosphere. [2:48]
  - It's acceptable in noisy places like an izakaya, but not in a quiet Japanese restaurant (e.g., sushi restaurant). [2:55] ![Image of a man mentioning eating at a sushi restaurant.][2:55]
Filming and Photography Rules [3:27]
- Taking pictures or filming in specific locations like maid cafes without permission is not allowed, as no money is involved (unlike other services). [3:27] ![Image of a man saying people are often filming.][0:02]
  - This problem is similar to issues with Maiko in Kyoto. [3:53]
  - "No Video Recording" signs are increasingly found in stores and restaurants due to tourists filming. [3:58] ![Image of a man explaining the need to respect "no video recording" rules.][3:58]
Understanding "Reading the Air" [4:30]
- In terms of manners, Japanese people expect everyone to be polite; if manners are not followed, they are reserved and won't directly confront visitors. [4:30] ![Image of a man explaining to "read the air."][4:30]
  - Foreigners should try to "read the air" and understand unspoken social cues. [4:38]
  - With repeat visits, visitors will realize that there's a reason for Japan's quiet and peaceful atmosphere. [4:45]

Is Japan an Easy Place for Foreigners to Live? [5:33]

Affordability and Safety [5:36]
- Many believe Japan is an easy country to live in. [5:36]
- Cities are generally clean and safe. [5:40] ![Image of a woman stating cities are clean and safe.][5:40]
- The yen is currently cheap, making it very affordable for foreigners. [5:44]
- Cost of living is low compared to abroad. [5:49]
- People are kind, polite, and it's safe (e.g., a lost wallet was returned after 3 months). [5:54] ![Image of a woman describing Japan as affordable and safe with kind people.][5:54]
- The Japanese police are amazing for returning lost items and maintaining order. [6:15] ![Image of a man praising Japanese police.][6:15]
- While crime has slightly increased recently, it's still a safe country compared to others. [6:45]
Cultural Differences and Challenges [7:12]
- System-wise, Japan is very easy to live in, but the culture is very different. [7:12]
- There's a disconnect for foreigners, which needs consideration when living in Japan. [7:17] ![Image of a man discussing a cultural disconnect.][7:17]
- Some cultures may not have the same emphasis on being polite to superiors or elders, which is a Japanese tendency. [7:17] ![Image of a woman discussing cultural differences in politeness.][7:17]
- For people in the LGBTQ+ community, places like Canada are more open, and same-sex marriage is legal. This is not yet legal in Japan, making it potentially harder for specific minorities. [7:24] ![Image of a woman stating same-sex marriage is not yet legal in Japan.][7:24]
Welcoming Attitudes and Conservatism [6:53]
- Some Japanese people are becoming a bit conservative regarding foreigners living in Japan, perhaps due to increased attention from overseas. [6:59]
- However, many Japanese are welcoming and accept different kinds of people. [7:06]
- Everyone in Japan naturally has a desire to be hospitable; it's part of the culture. [7:48]
- Very few people will try to scam you, and most people are sensible and well-mannered, with violence being rare. [7:54]
- Tourism benefits Japan, so it's best to have a good relationship with visitors. [8:05]
- Japanese people need to adapt to foreigners, and foreigners will get used to Japan with repeat visits. [8:14]

Interacting with Foreigners in Tokyo [10:32]

Language Barriers [10:32]
- Tokyo is an international city with many foreigners, but there aren't many opportunities for Japanese and foreigners to interact. [10:32]
- Many Japanese people can't speak English well; they find it hard to give directions or help. [10:42] ![Image of a woman explaining difficulty in speaking English for directions.][10:42]
- Some Japanese people might refuse to help, saying "I don't understand English" or "No English." [10:50]
- Despite language barriers, many Japanese try their best to help foreigners, even with broken English. [10:46] ![Image of a woman trying to help with broken English.][10:46]
- Japanese culture is humble and reserved, leading to hesitation in striking up conversations. [11:12]
Cultural Hesitation [11:42]
- Many Japanese are not the type of people who actively start conversations. [11:42]
- However, if approached, they are often open to talking. [11:47]
- Japanese people tend to be introverted, shy, and nervous. [11:52] ![Image of a man stating Japanese people are introverted.][11:52]
Desire for International Exchange [12:01]
- More international exchange would be a good thing. [12:01]
- Many Japanese want foreigners to visit and learn about the good aspects of Japan. [12:17] ![Image of a woman expressing positive sentiment towards Japan.][12:17]
- While some Japanese oppose this, many more support it. [12:30]
- Patriotism and international cooperation are not contradictory; it's ideal for humanity to share the world and create a win-win for everyone. [13:10]

Recommendations for Visitors [13:18]

For a beautiful scenic view of Japan, Mount Fuji is highly recommended. [13:00] ![Image of Mount Fuji with pink flowers in the foreground.][13:00]
Hot Spring Experiences [13:21]
- Hakone Onsen, especially those with private outdoor baths in the room, is recommended. [13:21] ![Image of a woman recommending an onsen with a private outdoor bath.][13:21]
  - Hakone is easily accessible by train, just an hour away from Tokyo. [13:27]
- Onsens in Gunma Prefecture are also good. [13:32]
- Difference between Onsen (natural hot spring water, typically more expensive due to health benefits) and Sentō (public bath with artificially heated water, cheaper, many are tattoo-friendly). [13:43] ![Image of a man explaining that Sentō use artificially heated water.][13:43]
Exploring Tokyo's Diverse Areas [14:12]
- In Harajuku, visitors should explore beyond Takeshita Street and visit Yoyogi Park and Meiji Jingu Shrine for a deeper experience. [14:12] ![Image of a man recommending Meiji Jingu Shrine.][14:12]
  - This area combines traditional aspects of Japan with Japanese youth and pop culture. Shibuya is also nearby. [14:28]
  - Shibuya, with its famous Scramble Crossing, is a very popular destination. [14:40] ![Image of a woman recommending Shibuya Scramble Crossing.][14:40]
Visiting Osaka vs. Tokyo [14:47]
- Osaka is known for its abundant and delicious food, including street foods. [14:51]
- People in Osaka are generally easier to talk to and more easygoing ("nori ga ii") compared to people in Tokyo. [14:58] ![Image of a man describing Osaka people as fun and easygoing.][14:58]
  - Interaction with locals might be better in Osaka. [15:15]
General Welcome [15:49]
- Japanese people are generally welcoming and encourage foreigners to visit and enjoy Japan. [15:49]