Video summary

16 Shocking Taboos In Japan That Could Embarrass You – Number 6 Will Terrify You!-Travel Documentary

Main summary

Key takeaways

Lifestyle

Japan Travel Etiquette Overview (Key “Taboos” + Practical Guidance)

Note: Some details may be slightly off due to auto-generated subtitles.

No Tipping

  • Tipping is generally unnecessary and can be viewed as implying staff weren’t paid enough or didn’t meet standards.
  • Show appreciation politely instead (e.g., thank you after a service or meal).

Don’t Blow Your Nose in Public

  • Blowing your nose in shared public spaces is considered extremely rude/unpleasant.
  • If you must, do it privately (e.g., in a restroom).

Avoid Displaying Your Face in Busy Public (Masks Are Normal)

  • Masks are commonly worn—not only when sick, but also to avoid drawing attention or looking unkempt.
  • This is especially common in crowded places like trains and restaurants.

No Tattoos in Some Public Facilities

  • Tattoos may be restricted in places such as:
    • Onsen (hot springs)
    • gyms
    • public baths
  • This is partly due to historical associations (e.g., with the Yakuza), though rules vary.
  • Policies can differ by venue; check in advance.
  • Some newer or more tourism-focused areas may allow tattoos.

Don’t Gift Lingerie

  • Considered inappropriate or embarrassing due to strong modesty norms.
  • Underwear is seen as too intimate to give as a gift.

Don’t Point at People

  • Pointing is considered impolite and invasive.
  • Use indirect cues instead (subtle hand motion or eye direction).
  • If you must point:
    • Point with the whole hand (palm down), or
    • Use your thumb.

Don’t Stick Chopsticks Upright in Rice

  • This resembles funeral/incense rituals and is considered a bad omen.
  • Place chopsticks horizontally across the rest or neatly beside your plate.

Avoid Gifts in Sets of Four

  • Four sounds like the word associated with death, so it’s considered unlucky.
  • Eight is suggested as a safer alternative (associated with prosperity/growth).

Avoid Intrusive or Sensitive Topics

  • Don’t ask personal questions right away (e.g., salary, relationship status, family).
  • Keep conversation light and respectful until trust is established.

Exchange Business Cards Correctly (Formal Ritual)

  • Present and receive cards using both hands.
  • Hold the card so the recipient can read it immediately.
  • Don’t shove cards into a pocket/wallet—place them carefully (often into a card holder).
  • Take a moment to look at the card after receiving.

No Shoes Indoors

  • Remove shoes when entering homes and certain places (e.g., traditional rooms, some restaurants, some temples).
  • Use indoor slippers if provided.
  • Make sure socks (or appropriate foot coverings) are clean.

Don’t Pour Your Own Drink

  • In group settings, it’s expected that others pour for you, and you reciprocate.
  • Wait for someone to pour first, then return the favor.

Avoid Public Physical Contact (PDA)

  • Holding hands, hugging, and kissing in public are generally avoided.
  • Even casual touching (like patting someone on the shoulder) may be seen as too familiar.

Don’t Say “No” Directly

  • Direct refusal can come off as rude or blunt.
  • Use softer, indirect phrasing (e.g., “it’s difficult,” “I’ll think about it”) to decline politely and preserve harmony.

Don’t Overstay Your Welcome

  • Leave at an appropriate time after a visit or social meal.
  • Excuse yourself when the event starts winding down.

Don’t Complain About Food

  • Criticizing dishes can be disrespectful because meal preparation is treated as an art.
  • Offer appreciation instead.

Don’t Leave Trash Behind

  • Public bins are rare, so take trash with you until you find proper disposal.
  • Carry a small bag for litter temporarily to avoid shame and potential legal issues.

Notable Locations / Products / Speakers Mentioned

Locations

  • Tokyo
  • Kyoto
  • Shinjuku Station
  • Temples
  • Onsen (hot springs)
  • Traditional inns/venues (the text “in ralon” likely refers to traditional settings/ryokan areas)

Number Symbolism

  • 4 = unlucky (death)
  • 8 = lucky (prosperity/growth)

Channel/Brand

  • HN Travel Destinations (mentioned as the speaker/channel in the documentary-style video)

Original video