Understanding local laws and customs can enhance your travel experience and help you avoid any potential missteps. Here are some things to keep in mind when visiting Japan:
Local Laws:
Drugs: The use or possession of some drugs that might be legal in other countries, like marijuana, can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment in Japan.
Medication: Certain over-the-counter and prescription medications from other countries are not allowed in Japan. This includes some medicines that contain stimulants (such as pseudoephedrine), and some types of allergy and sinus medications, cold medicines, and ADHD medications. Check with the Japanese embassy or consulate in your home country if you're unsure whether your medication is allowed.
Drinking Age: The legal drinking age in Japan is 20 years old.
Smoking: Smoking is prohibited in many indoor places, including restaurants and cafes, and also in some outdoor public areas. Look for designated smoking areas.
Photography: Always ask for permission before photographing people, and respect signs that prohibit photography, especially in temples and shrines.
Cultural Etiquette and Customs:
Politeness: Japanese society values politeness and respect. Even if you don't speak Japanese, using phrases like "arigato" (thank you), "sumimasen" (excuse me/I'm sorry), and "konnichiwa" (hello) can go a long way.
Shoes: In many indoor places, including temples, traditional restaurants, and people's homes, you'll need to remove your shoes before entering. There are usually slippers provided for guests.
Chopsticks: There are several rules for using chopsticks in Japan. For example, do not stick your chopsticks vertically into a bowl of rice, pass food from one pair of chopsticks to another, or use them to point at things, as these are associated with funeral rites.
Bowing: Bowing is a common way of greeting, saying thank you, or apologizing in Japan. The depth and duration of the bow can depend on the situation and the status of the person you're bowing to.
Noise Levels: Keeping noise levels down in public places, especially on public transportation, is generally expected. Talking on cell phones is discouraged on trains.
Religion and Religious Customs:
Temples and Shrines: When visiting temples and shrines, follow the specific customs, such as washing your hands and mouth at the purification fountain, and walking through the torii gate on the side rather than down the middle. If there is a ritual or ceremony happening, observe respectfully from a distance.
Religious Observance: Japan's two main religions are Shinto and Buddhism. Many people practice customs from both religions, and it's common to visit Shinto shrines for celebrations of life events and Buddhist temples for funerals and ancestor worship. However, the practice of religion in Japan tends to be less dogmatic and more a part of daily life than in some other countries.
