17 Biggest Regrets From Tourists Visiting Japan / Japan Travel Mistakes to Avoid

17 Biggest Regrets From Tourists Visiting Japan / Japan Travel Mistakes to Avoid

17 Japan Travel Mistakes Tourists Always Regret Hi! I’m Akanemaru, born and raised in Japan. Your first trip to Japan should be exciting,
not full of mistakes. But many tourists unintentionally make mistakes
because of cultural differences, social manners, or transportation rules. What may seem shocking to locals
is often done by tourists without any bad intent. So in this video, we’ll highlight 17 common travel mistakes,
explained from a Japanese perspective. By knowing these in advance, your trip will be smoother,
safer, and way more enjoyable. Now, let’s get started! Chapter one:
Taking Large Suitcases onto Crowded Trains Japan’s rush hour trains,
especially in the morning and evening,are famously packed. If you board with a large suitcase during that time,
it can really bother other passengers. There’s barely room to move,
and your suitcase may not only get in the way it can also be a safety hazard. In major cities like Tokyo or Osaka, even just holding a suitcase during rush hour can attract
disapproving looks. Try to avoid peak hours or consider alternatives
like airport buses or luggage delivery services. Some Shinkansen routes now require reservations
for oversized baggage. Make sure to check in advance. In Japan, being considerate of others is key especially when it comes to your luggage. Chapter two: Speaking Loudly in Quiet Restaurants Did you know that in Japan,
“quietness” is actually considered part of the dining experience? Especially in sushi bars, traditional restaurants, or cafes, background music is minimal,
and voices carry easily. So when tourists speak at their normal volume,
locals might perceive it as disruptive or too loud. There are many online reviews complaining
about noisy foreign guests at nearby tables. Because Japan values quiet enjoyment of food, it’s important to be mindful not just of what you say,
but how loudly you say it. If the other guests are keeping their voices down like during dates or business meetings,
your loud conversation can stand out awkwardly. Of course, casual conversation is fine but in Japan, being aware of the atmosphere around you is key. Chapter three:
Confused by Japan’s Complicated Garbage Sorting Rules Many foreign visitors are surprised by how complicated
trash disposal can be in Japan. There are many categories burnable, non-burnable, recyclables, plastics,
glass bottles, and cans each requiring different handling. What’s more, the rules and collection days
vary depending on the city or even the district so rules in one part of Tokyo may not apply in another. For short-term travelers, it’s often unclear where
and how to dispose of trash whether in the hotel or out on the street. Even public bins near vending machines are usually
only for cans and bottles putting other trash there can be considered rude. Simply tossing everything in one bag doesn’t work here. And public trash bins are surprisingly rare in Japanese cities. If you can’t find a proper place to throw something away, it’s best to take it back to your hotel
and ask how to dispose of it. You might wonder, “Why is it so strict?” but it reflects Japan’s commitment to cleanliness
and recycling culture. Chapter four: Can’t Find the Shop 
Because You Can’t Read the Name One common issue when traveling in Japan
is reaching the destination on Google Maps only to be unable to find the actual shop. A major reason for this is that the shop name
is often written in Japanese kanji, which many travelers can’t read. Even if your map app shows the name in Roman letters, the real-life signs or building directories
often display only Japanese. This is especially true for restaurants or cafes
inside multi-tenant buildings, or those located on upper floors. You might find yourself circling the same building repeatedly, thinking, “It should be here, but I don’t see any matching sign!” To avoid this, take a screenshot of the shop’s name
in Japanese characters or check for pictures of the storefront in advance. Building directories often list tenants in kanji, so it helps to match the characters from your reference
with those on the directory. Getting a little lost can be part of the adventure but when you’re tired, being prepared makes a big difference. Chapter five: Accidentally Entering Restricted Areas One surprisingly common mistake among foreign visitors
in Japan is accidentally walking into areas that are off-limits. At shrines and temples, certain sacred areas
are meant only for worshippers, and stepping into them is considered highly disrespectful. If you’re ever unsure whether an area is accessible, check for signs, ropes,
or markings on the ground that indicate restrictions. Another common error is taking shortcuts through alleys
or private residential areas, thinking it’s a public path. In tourist spots, stepping into off-limits areas just to take a good photo can easily lead to conflict
with locals or staff. Because boundaries and social expectations in Japan
are often implied rather than clearly marked, being observant is key. If you’re unsure, the best approach is to stop 
and assess your surroundings rather than proceed and risk causing offense. Chapter six: Shocked by the Price After Ordering “Omakase” At high-end sushi restaurants or traditional Japanese eateries, it’s common to find a style called omakase,
or “chef’s choice.” Many travelers order omakase without hesitation
only to be shocked by the bill afterward. Omakase allows the chef to serve seasonal specialties,
but the price is often not listed ahead of time. In popular tourist areas,
an omakase meal can easily exceed ¥20,000 per person, leading to unexpected expenses. If you mistake omakase for a casual set menu,
you might be in for an unpleasant financial surprise. Before ordering, it’s wise to ask whether the chef
can tailor the meal to your budget or provide a price estimate. Omakase meals often include premium ingredients, so it’s normal for the price to reflect that level of quality. To enjoy Japanese cuisine without stress, 
don’t hesitate to ask questions especially when there’s no written menu. Chapter seven:
Getting Totally Lost Inside Japanese Train Stations Japan’s train system is incredibly efficient, but for many tourists, the inside of a Japanese station
can feel like a confusing maze. In mega-stations like Shinjuku or Tokyo,
there can be over 20 exits, and it’s easy to get disoriented
and not know which one to take. Even with signs like “East Exit” or “West Exit,” first-time visitors often struggle to figure out
which side their destination is on. Even with a map on your phone,
GPS can be unreliable inside the station, and you might keep walking without finding the right way out. Transferring lines can mean going up
and down multiple sets of stairs and escalators, which eats up time and energy. If you’re in a rush, it only adds to the stress so it’s best to check exits and transfers using Google Maps
before you even arrive at the station. Some exits have confusingly similar names like “South Exit,”
“New South Exit,” or “South Gate,” so make sure to double-check the full name of the exit. Since many stations are connected to large shopping complexes,
they’re great for sightseeing but take your time navigating until you’re used to them. Chapter eight: Confusing Hotel Onsen and Public Baths When travelers hear the word “onsen,”
many assume it always refers to natural hot springs but not all hotels actually have real onsen. Even if a hotel promotes a “large public bath”, it might just be a spacious tub filled with regular heated
tap water, without any natural hot spring minerals. Onsen and public baths may look similar, but only when it says “natural hot spring”
can you be sure it’s a genuine onsen experience. In tourist spots, you might even see “onsen-style bath,”
which only mimics the look and feel it doesn’t carry the therapeutic minerals of a real onsen. Because hotel websites can be vague or misleading, look for phrases like “natural hot spring”
or “direct from the source” before you book. Even real hot springs may be diluted
or heated for hygiene reasons, so if authenticity matters to you, read the fine print. Without knowing these distinctions, you might show up expecting a traditional onsen
and leave feeling disappointed. Chapter nine: Ordering Randomly
Because You Can’t Read the Kanji Menu Many restaurants in Japan still don’t offer English menus. When faced with a menu written entirely in kanji,
many tourists resort to guessing and ordering at random. Some ingredients, like eel (unagi) and catfish (namazu),
look similar in writing but taste very different leading to unexpected surprises. Japanese cuisine includes many offal dishes and unique delicacies that might be challenging 
for those unfamiliar with them. It can be disappointing when the dish you get turns
out to be nothing like what you expected. To avoid this, use translation apps on your phone
or look for menus with pictures. There are apps that let you scan and translate text instantly downloading one before your trip is a smart move. And if you’re still unsure, asking the staff
for their recommendation is always a safe bet. Chapter ten: Stranded in the Countryside
with No Transportation Many tourists visiting rural Japan
are caught off guard by unexpected transportation problems. Unlike in big cities, rural areas often have very limited train
and bus service and taxis can be hard to find. Many travelers book hotels that are a 30-minute walk
from the station, only to realize upon arrival
that there’s no transportation available. If it’s late at night or the weather is bad, 
walking can become a serious challenge. In small tourist towns, there may be only one taxi company and calling one doesn’t guarantee immediate service. Even smartphone apps may not show accurate schedules
or have English information for rural transit systems. So it’s essential to check access to your accommodation, nearby transit options, and your return route before your trip. If possible, confirm if your hotel offers shuttle service
or save a screenshot of the walking route from the station. Chapter eleven: Complaining at a Ryokan 
Because the Futon Isn’t Laid Out Many tourists are surprised to find no bedding laid out
when they arrive at a traditional Japanese inn, or “ryokan.” Unlike hotels, ryokans often follow a tradition where guests either lay out the futon themselves 
or staff do it while guests are at dinner. In budget ryokans or no-meal stays, futons are usually left folded up
until guests lay them out themselves. Complaining about “no bed” without knowing the custom may confuse or frustrate staff
who are simply following tradition. Often, futons are stored in the closet (oshiire), and some visitors don’t realize
they’re meant to take them out and set them up. If you don’t know how to set it up, just ask the front desk,
they’ll be happy to guide you. Laying out your own bedding
is actually part of the cultural charm of staying in a ryokan. By understanding the style of your accommodation in advance, you’ll have a much smoother and more enjoyable stay. Chapter twelve: Confusing Shrines and Temples
And Breaking Rules Without Knowing Many foreign visitors to Japan get confused by the difference
between jinja (Shinto shrines) and tera (Buddhist temples). They often look similar and are both seen as places of worship, so tourists may treat them the same way
without realizing the difference. Shrines are rooted in Shinto, Japan’s indigenous religion, and are marked by features like torii gates,
guardian lion-dogs, and halls dedicated to deities. Temples, on the other hand, are Buddhist
and often include statues of Buddha, pagodas, bells, and are home to monks in training. Some people unknowingly offer incense at shrines, or walk into temple halls with shoes on,
not realizing these are culturally inappropriate actions. Visitors sometimes even step into restricted areas, unknowingly offending local beliefs and customs. Worship customs differ too, at shrines, 
it’s customary to bow twice, clap twice, then bow once. At temples, a silent prayer with hands together is typical. By learning even the basics before your trip, you’ll avoid cultural mistakes
and show genuine respect for Japanese traditions. Chapter thirteen: Wearing Shoes Where You Shouldn’t
A Common but Serious Mistake Japan has a strong “no shoes indoors” culture,
meaning many places don’t allow outdoor shoes inside. It’s not just homes—traditional inns (ryokan), 
tatami-mat restaurants, temples, and some tourist spots also require you to remove your shoes. Due to cultural differences, many foreign tourists
accidentally walk onto tatami floors with their shoes still on. Tatami mats are delicate and can easily be damaged
or dirtied by shoes, making this a major breach of etiquette. Even after removing your shoes,
you may be provided with slippers often separate pairs for toilets and living areas. If you return to the room wearing toilet slippers,
you might get some awkward stares from those around you. If you see signs saying “Please remove your shoes”
or “No shoes,” always follow them strictly. Respecting local customs, like proper shoe etiquette shows appreciation for Japanese culture
and leaves a good impression. Chapter fourteen: Overlooking the Quality of Food
Inside Train Stations Train stations in Japan aren’t just transit hubs
they’re gourmet hotspots. “Eki-naka” (in-station) dining is something many travelers overlook. Beyond convenience stores and fast food, you’ll find sushi,
ramen, curry, and traditional sweets all made with quality that rivals standalone restaurants. For example, Tokyo Station’s “Gransta”
or Shin-Osaka’s “Ekimarche” offer famous local eateries and trendy food all in one place. Many travelers assume that food inside train stations
must be mediocre, but skipping these options is truly a missed opportunity. Ekiben (station bento boxes)
are also of surprisingly high quality and enjoying one during your train ride
is a classic Japanese travel experience. Even if you’re short on time,
eki-naka food lets you enjoy great meals quickly perfect for travel days packed with train rides. Don’t just walk past thinking “It’s just a station”
take time to explore. You might discover some of your favorite meals there. Chapter fifteen: Sampling Without Buying
at Department Store Food Halls Japan’s “depachika” (department store food halls)
are like gourmet amusement parks filled with high-end culinary delights. You’ll find free samples of cheese,
wagashi (traditional sweets), pickles, desserts, and more letting you taste before you buy. However, circling the floor repeatedly and only sampling
without buying anything can be seen as poor etiquette in Japan. Sales staff won’t say anything, but they may feel
uncomfortable if you take samples with no intent to purchase. Some tourists may think “It’s free anyway,” but in Japanese shopping culture,
it’s better to be modest and considerate. If you need time to compare shops, saying something like “I’ll think about it and come back”
is a polite gesture. Depachika are great places to discover delicious treats, so if you like something,
even a small purchase helps support the vendors. Chapter sixteen:
Getting Frustrated by the Lack of Smoking Areas In Japan, smoking regulations have become increasingly strict
due to a growing health-conscious culture. Most restaurants, cafés, and indoor areas in hotels
are completely smoke-free, which can make smokers feel unwelcome. Even outdoors, smoking while walking or in public spaces
is usually banned, and in some areas, you could be fined. In cities and tourist spots,
you may find designated smoking areas, but they are limited and not always easy to locate. Many travelers get frustrated by the lack of smoking spots, but in Japan, smoking is considered a tightly
regulated behavior out of respect for others. Checking for nearby smoking areas in advance using apps
or maps can save you a lot of stress. Smokers should also consider carrying a portable ashtray showing good manners can make your trip smoother
and more respectful. Chapter seventeen:
Running Into Trouble Without Enough Cash Even though credit cards and mobile payments
are common in many countries, Japan still holds onto a cash-based culture in many places. You’ll often find that small restaurants, local souvenir shops, and rural transport systems don’t accept credit cards
or e-money. Many first-time visitors are shocked to discover
that their credit cards are not accepted in many situations. On top of that, many ATMs don’t accept foreign cards
or are unavailable late at night, which can leave travelers stuck. In rural areas, the nearest ATM
might be over 30 minutes away by car, making cash shortages a serious issue. It’s a good idea to withdraw a decent amount of yen
at the airport or in a major city before heading out. You can also top up a Suica or PASMO IC card with cash, which can be used for trains, buses,
and even at convenience stores. In Japan, your usual habits
or assumptions may not always apply as expected. But if you’re aware of these common mistakes in advance,
you can avoid trouble and enjoy your trip more fully. Use the tips from this video to have a smooth,
stress-free, and unforgettable experience in Japan.

Japan Travel Tips You Need to Know Before Visiting – 17 Common Mistakes Tourists Make
Learn the most common Japan travel mistakes tourists make, including cultural etiquette and manners, and how to avoid them for a smooth and enjoyable trip.
We hope these tips help you make the most of your trip to Japan!

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