Japan's burgeoning tourism industry is bringing unprecedented changes. It is widely believed that had it not been for COVID-19, the government's push to attract 40 million overseas visitors by the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics would have been achieved. Despite the Olympic games not taking place as planned, there seems to be no abate in the surge of tourism to Japan and the 40 million per year figure is not unrealistic. One topic of great concern, not limited to Japan, has been bad tourist behavior. Kyoto, in particular, is so fed up with poor tourist conduct that there has been a back-lash: tourists are no longer welcome at many establishments. It is my belief that tourists would have better behavior if they knew what was expected of them. After all, Japan is one of the most polite countries in the world, so should they be blamed for not knowing what is and is not acceptable in Japan?
My book Amy's Guide to Best Behavior in Japan: Do it Right and be Polite (Stone Bridge Press, 2018, in it's second printing) is an introduction to Japanese manners and an essential guide for anyone planning travel to Japan. Arm yourself with what you need to know before visiting and you'll not only make fewer faux pas, but you'll impress the Japanese.
Find out more at the links below:
For those in Japan, order here
For those outside of Japan, order here.
Or join our discussion on Japanese etiquette on Facebook where I give insight into the culture of Japanese politeness and etiquette!