Why Do Japanese People Get Angry at Foreign Tourists?
Exploring Cultural Backgrounds and Examining the Friction Between Tourism and Society
Have you ever unknowingly angered locals during your travels? Imagine climbing or playing on a torii gate at a Shinto shrine in Japan to take a photo. (This has actually happened.) While it may seem like a fun memory to you, for locals, such actions can be perceived as desecrating a sacred space and causing deep offense.
These cultural frictions have become increasingly common as Japan positions itself as a “tourism-oriented nation.” In some cases, they have escalated into serious issues. Here are some examples:
The Johnny Somali Incident
Johnny Somali, whose real name is Ramsey Khalid Ismael, is a foreign YouTuber who livestreamed himself loudly disrupting passengers on a Japanese train. His behavior, dismissed as “pranks,” drew widespread criticism and ultimately led to his arrest and deportation. This incident symbolically demonstrates how such actions disrupt the public order cherished by Japanese society.
Attempted Arson at Yasukuni Shrine
Yasukuni Shrine, a place of immense historical and religious sensitivity in Japan, became the site of an attempted arson by a tourist. Such actions are not merely considered criminal but are seen as profound insults to Japanese cultural heritage, history, and identity itself. Moreover, the historical controversies surrounding Yasukuni Shrine complicate such incidents further.
While these cases may be extreme, even minor breaches of etiquette or misunderstandings can frustrate locals. Why do such actions provoke strong reactions? And where do these underlying tensions between Japanese society and the tourism industry stem from?
Cultural Background: Japan’s “Reading the Air” Culture and Its Ideological Origins
Much of Japanese culture is based on unspoken rules and tacit understanding. The concept of “reading the air” (kuuki wo yomu) refers to the ability to grasp social context and adjust one’s behavior accordingly. This is not merely a cultural quirk but something deeply rooted in Japan’s historical and ideological background.
The Influence of Harmony and Confucianism
The origins of “reading the air” can be traced back to Confucian values and the communal consciousness of feudal society, often referred to as mura shakai. Confucianism emphasizes harmony within the group or family, valuing the avoidance of conflict as a virtue. Japan adopted these values, evolving the concept of wa (harmony) as a central societal principle. This led to a culture where “correct behavior” is implicitly shared within groups, even without explicit rules.
Modernization and Its Effects
Since the Meiji Restoration, Japan has rapidly modernized, adopting Western values and societal systems. However, this process also led to the erosion of traditional values, creating a tension between older communal principles and emerging individualistic ideologies. As the tourism industry has expanded, these tensions have increasingly manifested in the form of “friction with foreign tourists.”
For example, Shinto shrines and torii gates are not merely tourist attractions but sacred spaces with profound spiritual and cultural significance. Touching or climbing on them is often considered disrespectful or even sacrilegious. Yet, tourists unfamiliar with this context may see them as simply beautiful architectural structures.
Friction Between Global Tourism and Japanese Culture
The Impact of Tourism Capitalism
In recent years, the Japanese government has actively promoted policies to attract foreign tourists under the banner of becoming a “tourism-oriented nation.” However, this success comes with its costs. In historic cities like Kyoto, overtourism has strained the lives of local residents and negatively impacted the preservation of cultural heritage. Instead of protecting local culture, tourism risks commodifying it, eroding its original essence.
Expectations of Foreign Tourists and Xenophobic Sentiments
The backlash against tourists is not limited to cultural misunderstandings; in some cases, it is tied to xenophobia and nationalism. The Yasukuni Shrine serves as a prominent example. While seen by some abroad as a symbol of far-right nationalism, conservative Japanese view it as a shrine honoring those who gave their lives for the country. Thus, acts like arson attempts are framed as “disregarding Japanese culture and history” and are often leveraged in xenophobic rhetoric. Meanwhile, progressive voices argue that these issues stem not only from tourists’ ignorance but also from Japan’s failure to provide sufficient explanations. Efforts are underway to establish alternative memorial sites untied to Yasukuni Shrine’s historical controversies.
Tips for Being a Good Guest
To avoid cultural misunderstandings, tourists should make an effort to adapt to local customs and values. Here are some practical tips:
- Learn About Japanese History and Values
Understanding the significance of sacred spaces and public etiquette in Japan can help prevent misunderstandings.
2. Consider the Impact of Your Actions
Be mindful of how your actions might affect local residents and their cultural practices.
3. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions
If you are unsure about something, ask locals. Many Japanese people are happy to explain their culture and help you.
Conclusion: Bridging Cultural Tensions
Tourism in Japan offers more than just sightseeing; it is an opportunity to understand and respect different cultures and values. However, this requires effort from both sides. Tourists must learn about Japanese culture and act with respect, while Japanese society should embrace external perspectives with greater flexibility.
Ultimately, tourism should serve as a bridge between cultures. Achieving this requires moving beyond superficial rules to foster deeper mutual understanding.
