How to be a More Thoughtful Traveller in Japan
We’ve all seen it in the news recently: a fence built to block an Insta-famous Mt Fuji view, tourists banned from certain Kyoto streets, and even foreigners being limited from certain Tokyo restaurants. The rise of social media-travel, along with the sheer volume of visitors to Japan has led to some bad behaviour, and restrictions to match.
It has never been easier or more affordable to visit Japan. With a record 35 million visitors set to arrive this year alone, it can be easy to get sucked into accidental over-tourism. You can’t resist a visit Tokyo without seeing Shibuya Crossing, or Kyoto without posing under the archways of Fushimi Inari Taisha. Japan also has many unwritten rules. It’s impossible to know everything, and that’s why I am here to help you avoid any embarrassing moments or epic etiquette fails.
Below I share with you 14 tricks and tips to help you avoid being ‘that guy’ on your next trip.
1. Venture to Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations
Cities like Kyoto are becoming more crowded than ever, yet there are so many missed parts of Japan to see and experience. Why not hike through the cedar forests of Yakushima Island or take an adventure through Hokkaido’s Shiretoko National Park?
2. Stay in Local Accommodation
Local ryokans and family-run hotels give you an opportunity to give back to local businesses, spreading the tourist spend away from chains and business hotels. Many design hotels also offer sustainable initiatives to ensure you’re helping, not harming, the community.
Related post: Is the Japan Rail Pass Worth it in 2024?
3. Embrace Slow Travel
Instead of a whistle-stop tour, try winding your way through Japan over a longer period, whether you can visit for two weeks or a month. Go deeper, get accustomed with local etiquette and develop a connection with people and places in a meaningful way.
4. Ask Yourself ‘Why?’ not ‘Where?’
Really ask yourself why you want to visit a certain place. If social media didn’t exist, would you still visit that infamous photo spot? If Lucy at the office hadn’t been to that viral restaurant, would that still be your choice?
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5. Shop Local
Discount gadgets, vintage shops and souvenirs galore. There are many things to buy in Japan. Why not support independent artists, such as investing in a pair of zouri sandals from a master craftsman in Kyoto or some beautiful lacquerware from a small shop in Kanazawa.
6. Practice Good Onsen Etiquette
The art of onsen bathing has many layers of cultural do’s and don’ts. Make sure to pay attention to these before entering. Always be respectful of others and follow the rules to make the most out of your experience.
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7. Celebrate Local Culture
From the crafts of Kanazawa to the pilgrim trails of Wakayama, Japan is a hyper-local, hyper-seasonal country. Taking time to learn what makes each area famous will help you have a deeper experience.
8. Use Technology as a Tool, Not a Destination
The best parts of Japan are often away from social media, away from budding vloggers, selfie sticks and cameras. Take time to slow down and embrace the true beauty of Japan’s nature, shrines, temples and islands.
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9. Learn a Few Basic Phrases
One of the major frustrations for business and restaurant owners is the language barrier. Learning a few basic Japanese phrases will go a long way and help a lot when it comes to going about your trip.
10. Buy Independent Guidebooks
Looking for trusted travel resources, local recommendations and bucket list experiences? Views from Japan is a carefully curated guidebook showcasing Japan’s rare adventures, local crafts and remote locations across 20 different prefectures.
11. Avoid Tipping
This might sound counterintuitive, but unlike other developed nations, tipping in Japan just isn’t a thing, and can even be seen as rude. If you had a particularly good experience, make sure you pay plenty of compliments instead.
12. Don’t Treat Japan Like a Theme Park
Let’s have a great time in Japan, but just remember Japan is not a theme park. Treat people you meet with respect. Do not chase geisha in hope of getting a cheeky photo. Don’t block roads. Don’t break the law. Please generally use your common sense.
13. Avoid Eating While Walking
It’s considered rude to eat while walking in public. Sit down to eat, or stand alongside the vendor or convenience store, even if it’s just a quick snack.
14. Leave No Trace
You will find that there aren’t many trash bins on Japan’s streets. You must take your rubbish home with you, or make sure you dispose of it inside convenience stores. Say no to plastic bags as much as possible, too.
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