Planning your Japanese adventure? Before you pack, there’s something crucial you should know.
Japan has hidden rules that could catch you off guard – and potentially cost you.
These aren’t your typical tourist tips; they’re lesser-known regulations that might lead to unexpected fines if overlooked.
Don’t let obscure laws turn your dream trip into a costly mistake. Discover the 10 hidden Japanese rules that could impact your wallet. 😊
1. No Dancing After Midnight
While nightlife in Japan is busy and vibrant, there are certain restrictions to follow.
One example is the limitations in terms of dancing after midnight. The country abides by its “Fueiho” law, which means you can’t dance the night away in public spaces.
Only clubs and bars with approval from the government are allowed to operate dancing after midnight.
So, if you visit an illegal club and authorities raid the area, your entertainment will be cut short. There’s no fine for visitors — it’s just an inconvenience on your part.
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2. Noise Pollution Laws
Silence is widely honored in the country, whether in public spaces or residential areas. Because the Japanese value peace and quietness, you should also abide by their culture.
Keep your noise level low, especially in public and at night.
Their culture of peacefulness encompasses conversations and music. Thus, always keep an eye on your noise level as a sign of respect for others.
Persistent noise disturbances may result in complaints while repeated violations can lead to hefty fines up to 100,000 yen.
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3. No Smoking on the Streets
Japan is extremely strict with its health guidelines. This includes the prohibition of smoking in public spaces and streets.
Apart from complying with health standards, this law also reduces accidental burns. It’s also associated with their culture of cleanliness.
Minimize litter from cigarette butts and show respect to other people. Only smoke in designated smoking sections to avoid getting fines between 1,000 and 20,000 yen.
So before lighting up, make sure to check the smoking signs.
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4. No Walking While Smoking
In connection with their smoking rules, you are also not allowed to smoke while walking on the streets.
This guideline is applicable to many areas in the country to minimize accidental burns. It also helps in reducing risks associated with fire.
If you want to smoke, look for specific smoking areas and stay there. Do not smoke and walk. Just like smoking on the streets, the penalty ranged from 1,000 to 20,000 yen.
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5. No Talking on Mobile Phones While Walking
Did you know that there’s an unwritten rule when using your mobile phone? Though it’s not a legal requirement, it’s highly discouraged to use your phone when walking.
There are no specific fines, but locals might give disapproving stares. Locals appreciate it when you respect their culture of peace.
In public transportation systems like buses and trains, talking on your phone is officially restricted.
Comply with these guidelines to keep up with public order and prevent accidents. Not following rules, especially in places with official bans may lead to small fines.
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6. Drinking in Public
While Japan has high respect for public order, there may be loose restrictions in terms of drinking.
You can actually drink in public spaces, like streets and parks. However, you need to be cautious with your alcohol intake. Public intoxication is a no-no, especially when you cause a scene.
Disturbance due to getting drunk can result in public arrest or significant fines.
The penalty may lead to up to 50,000 yen, or worse, detention. So, drink responsibly and show respect to people around you.
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7. Illegal to Force Someone to Drink Alcohol
Although drinking is allowed in public spaces, there are still restrictions. It’s strictly prohibited to coerce a person into drinking and not honoring their choices.
The law is drafted to avoid alcohol-related incidents. One of the main considerations of the rule is due to prevalent drinking in work settings.
Coercing someone to drink alcohol can result in severe penalties. Violators can get fined up to 500,000 yen. So, respect individual choices.
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8. No Using Phones While Driving
Following road rules is always a priority for the safety of everyone. In Japan, they have strict laws when driving. You are not allowed to use your mobile phone, either texting or calling.
If you violate this law, the fine can reach up to 18,000 yen. Ensure safety at all times and pull over if you need to use your phone.
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9. No Splashing Pedestrians
One of the more distinctive rules in the country is the no splashing law on pedestrians. It’s created for drivers to be more careful when driving on streets with puddles.
The law is part of their “Dangerous Driving” category. Since splashing pedestrians in puddles is illegal, you should comply with the rules.
Slow down when traversing through a pedestrian to avoid causing inconvenience to people. If you get caught, the penalty is up to 20,000 yen.
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10. No Gambling
Gambling in Japan has stringent rules. Only government-run lotteries and pachinko are allowed to operate. So, avoid engaging in illegal gambling activities, or else you’ll face fines or even imprisonment.
If you want to gamble, skip underground casinos and go for the authorized ones. Remember to always stay out of trouble because Japan has extremely strict consequences.
