Fun Friday 27: How not to be an obnoxious tourist in Japan

Learn Japanese Pod

Alex Brooke

Osaka, Study, Japanese, Education, Japan, Tokyo, Podcast, Language Courses, Jlpt

4.8 • 908 Ratings

🗓️ 20 June 2024

⏱️ 50 minutes

🔗️ Recording | iTunes | RSS

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Summary

In recent years, Japan has experienced a surge in tourism, with millions flocking to its stunning temples, bustling cities, and serene landscapes. However, this boom has also brought about a significant issue: overtourism. As more travelers visit, overcrowding and a minority of obnoxious tourists has become increasingly problematic, causing frustration and discomfort among the locals who call these beautiful places home.
Overtourism in Japan is fueled by various factors, including the cheap yen, the boom in post pandemic travel and lack of local planning and infrastructure adequate for the volume of tourists. While the causes are complex and multifaceted, each visitor has the power to make a difference. By being mindful and respectful, you can contribute positively to your experience and the well-being of the local communities.
In this episode, we dive into the do’s and don’ts of tourism etiquette in Japan. From cultural sensitivities to practical tips, we’ll guide you on how to enjoy your trip without becoming an unwelcome guest. Tune in to learn how to be a considerate traveler and ensure your visit leaves a positive impact.

Transcript

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0:00.0	Ladies,
0:07.0	gentlemen, boys and girls, you are listening to Learn Japanese Pod, the podcast that helps you to speak Japanese more naturally, fluently, and perhaps even beautifully.
0:19.0	Well at least I'm trying to.
0:21.0	And you are listening to the Fun Friday edition where we talk to cool people
0:25.4	doing cool things in Japan. And I am your host, as always Alex, but I am joined by my wonderful friend.
0:35.0	Andy, how you doing?
0:37.0	I'm doing great. It's been ages since we've had you on a podcast,
0:41.0	so it's great to have you back.
0:42.0	Well, thank you very much. It's great to be back.
0:43.4	And I have actually got a couple of emails from people asking when you would come back on the podcast.
0:50.0	Well, they have their answer. They have their answer. It's right now, so people are waiting to hear you again.
0:54.6	So thank you. So thanks to coming back. Oh, it's my pleasure. And a lot has been happening in the news and the specific thing that's happened in the news is essentially
1:08.1	awful tourists in Japan which will get into in more detail.
1:12.1	Why are you looking at me when you say that?
1:15.6	Well no no no no you're not an awful tourist. I'm an awful resident.
1:20.3	Yes exactly. We are the worst residents of Japan. So today's topic is basically
1:28.1	talking about tourists being obnoxious in Japan, but actually it's really about how not to be an obnoxious tourist in Japan
1:37.0	if you were wondering, if you hadn't visited Japan before
1:40.0	and if you were wondering the rules of etiquette here and you know being culturally considerate,
1:48.9	what would you do if you came to Japan? So that's what we're talking about today and before we get into the details I think we should have some full disclosure and tell everyone how we have horribly embarrassed ourselves.
2:02.8	I was about to say that.
2:03.8	It's like you're learning etiquette from people who have learned it themselves by making every
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