Ten Things to Be Aware of in Japanese Life

Whether you are new to Japan this year or planning a trip here in the future, knowing the “things not to do in Japan” — commonly called taboos — will help you blend in better with the local culture and enjoy your visit even more.

We’ve summarized ten key taboos to be aware of in Japan. Let’s see if you’re following them right!

1. Kimono and Yukata: Always wear the left side up

When I visit shrines or temples, I often see many Japanese people dressed in kimonos. In summer, I want to try wearing a yukata myself and join a big fireworks festival. But it’s important to know that both kimono and yukata have specific rules about how they should be worn.

Both men and women should always wear the left side over the right when putting on a kimono or yukata. Wearing it the other way around — right over left — is how the deceased are dressed for funerals in Japan, and it’s considered very unlucky.

If you’re unsure which side should be on top, try slipping your right hand inside the collar after wearing it. If it fits easily, you’ve worn it correctly.

2. Which side to stand on the escalator

This is an unwritten social rule in Japan. Generally, people stand on one side of the escalator and leave the other side clear for those who want to walk.

Recently, the government and transportation authorities have been encouraging everyone to stand still on escalators to prevent accidents caused by walking on them.

Which side you stand on depends on the region. In the Kanto area (including Tokyo), people usually stand on the left, leaving the right side free. Meanwhile, in the Kansai region (Osaka, Hyogo), people stand on the right side. Kyoto, close to Osaka, is a bit more flexible, and people stand on either side.

If you’re unsure, just follow what the people in front of you are doing — if they stand left, you stand left; if right, you stand right. It’s the easiest way to respect local customs.

Read more about escalator etiquette on Wikipedia.

3. Don’t shout or talk on the phone on trains or elevators

Japan values social harmony and tries hard to avoid causing inconvenience to others. In confined spaces like trains or elevators, loud conversations or phone calls are considered rude and intrusive.

To keep the atmosphere calm, avoid speaking loudly or taking calls in these spaces. If you really need to communicate, text messages or emails are preferred.

If you must make a call, Japanese etiquette suggests the following:

• Get off the train at the platform, make your call there, then continue your journey.
• Hang up and send a text or email to explain you’re on the train and will call back later.
• If absolutely necessary, take the call quietly (whispering), and call back after you get off the train.

Also, if you’re near a “love seat” — a special seating area often for couples — avoid answering your phone altogether, or even switch it off, as some people nearby might rely on sensitive medical devices that can be affected by phone signals.

4. Respect crowded queues

Whether at a restaurant, museum, or amusement park, you’ll often find long lines when places are busy. People naturally form orderly queues and expect everyone to wait their turn.

Jumping ahead in line is considered rude and uncultured.

Especially when boarding or exiting trains, passengers line up on both sides of the door, letting others get off before boarding in order — even at Shinjuku Station, Japan’s busiest station during rush hours. This level of orderly queuing is rare outside Japan.

5. Don’t bring outside food into restaurants or cinemas

Many restaurants and movie theaters in Japan clearly post signs saying “Please don’t bring outside food or drinks.”

It’s considered disrespectful because these establishments provide seating for customers who purchase their food or tickets.

Additionally, in case of food poisoning, it’s difficult to determine responsibility if outside food is involved, which could result in the business being shut down.

6. No eating while walking

There are three main reasons why eating on the go is discouraged in Japan:

1. Some foods have strong odors that might bother others.
2. Eating while walking can cause food debris to fall on the ground, harming the environment.
3. Public trash cans are scarce outside places like convenience stores and train stations, so there’s often nowhere to properly dispose of wrappers or leftovers.

7. No littering

As mentioned, public trash bins are rare in Japan except at convenience stores and stations. This means discarding garbage on the street is both frowned upon and inconvenient.

The common practice is to carry a plastic bag to collect all your trash and take it home for proper disposal. Bringing a small bag with you is a good way to keep the environment clean.

8. Take off your shoes when entering homes

Unlike some countries where outdoor shoes are worn inside, in Japan it’s customary — often required — to remove shoes before entering certain indoor areas.

This tradition likely comes from the use of tatami mats, which are easily damaged and need to be kept clean.

For example, when entering someone’s home, remove your shoes at the entrance and switch to indoor slippers. In some hotels, traditional buildings, or temples, you may also be asked to take off your shoes and store them in a shoe closet or carry them with you inside.

9. Observe traffic rules strictly

Though many of us learn to cross at red lights in groups or hurry regardless, in Japan, pedestrians and cyclists are expected to follow traffic signals carefully.

Crossing the street against the light is not only dangerous but also a legal violation, even if there are no railings separating lanes.

Always cross at designated crosswalks and respect pedestrian signals.

10. Some places prohibit photography

Privacy and property rights are taken very seriously in Japan. Always be aware of signs forbidding photography.

Museums, exhibition halls, and art galleries often ban photography (especially flash) to protect cultural artifacts. Cinemas, theaters, and some stores also prohibit photos to safeguard copyright and business interests.

Ignoring these rules can result in moral condemnation and even legal consequences.

Conclusion

By understanding and respecting these common taboos, you’ll not only avoid awkward situations but also show genuine appreciation for Japanese culture. Embracing local customs will make your trip smoother and more enjoyable, helping you create meaningful memories in Japan. So, keep these tips in mind, and enjoy your journey with confidence and respect!

Also Read: A Must-Read for Studying in Japan: Trash Disposal Rules & Sorting