A tourism official from Japan has shared valuable advice for travelers concerned about upsetting locals in the country.
Japan is a highly sought-after holiday destination, with a significant increase in visitors this year due to the weakened yen, resulting in a surge in bookings.
In April, nearly 70,000 UK citizens visited Japan, marking a 43% rise from the same period in 2024. The country welcomed a record 21.5 million tourists in the first half of 2025, a 21% increase compared to the previous year.
With increased tourism comes added complexities, as experienced by many popular tourist destinations worldwide.
Shigeki Murata, the commissioner of Japan Tourism Agency, addressed the challenges posed by the growing travel sector during a discussion at the World Travel and Tourism Council summit in Rome. He highlighted the importance of respecting social norms, particularly in public transport, as a key concern.
Murata emphasized the significance of following etiquettes, especially on trains, where noise levels and overcrowding can cause discomfort to locals. He mentioned the need for visitors to adhere to rules and maintain a level of silence, particularly while using public transportation.
Kyoto, renowned for its historic charm and geisha culture, faces challenges due to the influx of tourists relying on buses for transportation. In response, the city council introduced specialized paid transfers for foreign tourists with large suitcases to ease congestion and accommodate both tourists and locals.
To address issues related to tourist behavior, certain regulations have been implemented in parts of Japan, such as restrictions on photography in Kyoto and discussions about potentially charging tourists more than locals for dining experiences.
Travelers planning a trip to Japan are advised to consult resources like Japan Guide, which offers comprehensive guidelines on social etiquette, including proper conduct on trains. Suggestions include queuing up on platforms, refraining from loud conversations, and being considerate of other passengers while boarding and alighting trains.
