A lot of practices in Japan are served on the premise that people are genuinely good and modest; the banned alleys in Kyoto are private property that were open to the public as goodwill from the neighborhood. If the alleys become crowded to the point it disrupts the local community, I guess you have to close it.
Yup, but anytime something is taken away, the effects should be considered. In that light, this was done poorly. Their signage over the years has been awful to bad.
@@onlyinjapanGO But Japan must first consider their citizen's feelings first and foremost before other nationalities. Maybe this was just the easiest solution they can find quickly. If they permanently close said location, there are dozens of other locations foreigners can go too.
@@onlyinjapanGOthinking one step further to your idea of official city geisha for photos: good in principle, but might it foster the idea that all geisha are okay with it, and encourage some tourists to be even more aggressive? I do think yours is a good idea, but I also agree that some streets might need to be off limits, to allow the regular geisha/maiko to go about their business. It's only a few small lanes, in a city with hundreds of attractions, after all. The locals shouldn't have to feel like they live in Disneyland. TL;DR: why not do both?
I totally agree!! If tourists were being disrespectful at local churches and temples, and harassing local workers where I’m from, we’d all be rightfully outraged.
I may be wrong but I feel some tourists act childish and not like adults. Taking pictures or videos just for social media instead to be there and enjoy places and respect people.
Not just some, a considerable amount simply cant or wont respect their customs. I completely understand it even if it means I myself wont be able to visit in the future.
Recently returned from a 10-day trip to Japan in March and everyone I encountered was incredibly friendly and helpful. I made an effort to speak Japanese when checking in/out at hotels, ordering food at restaurants, and whenever I had to ask someone a question. Could not have felt more welcome.
The simple solution is tourists need to behave themselves and have respect for the country they're visiting. If they can't or won't do that, then they don't deserve to be there. Japan isn't perfect, but it's the closest thing to a utopia on this planet. They display basic regard for others that I think the rest of the world is losing. Japan deserves total respect and appreciation.
Behavior is innate though. If a person has bahavioral issues from where they came from then they will surely behave pretty much the same wherever they go.
but what's the consequences if tourists do not behave themselves and don't have respect? That's the issues. Hoping for people to behave in way we want, when we know they won't is not a good plan.
I think it's fine for Kyoto to restrict access to certain areas. Some places of business should not be accessible to just anyone. Kyoto needs more/better bike lanes and more ebikes. Especially need more racks to lock ebike rentals to in more locations.
I've traveled all over and there's over-tourism everywhere. Greece? Italy? Portugal? Fugghedabouddit. Japan is a unique culture that, to a large degree, respects/expects conformity and adherence to rules and regulations. Japanese want tourists to come and appreciate this. It's understandable that tourists visiting from more freewheeling, lax countries might find this attitude or behavior as tourist-unfriendly but it's not.
I'll add one more thing from me... I've been to Kyoto twice and I always happened to travel the country on a bicycle. Each time I've been there (2019 & 2023) I always had a hard time. One thing was that I was travelling on a bicycle so in a sense I was tied to my steed, unable to explore the city as I would have wanted maybe. Don't get me wrong, I stayed for a night or two in the city, but I always had this feeling that this isn't a place for me. Sure, it has lots of amazing architecture and it's culturally significant, BUT... Kyoto is always crowded and it's really, as John says, overrated. You'd be better hitting Nara. My best suggestion for everyone would be, got to Izu Peninsula, go deep into Shikoku (Iya!), go to Izumo which is very significant. If you happen to be on Shikoku, please go visit Minna no Coffee to the west of Niihama. Cheers.
A commentary on Kyoto. Their culture is a bit different. Every area has a different culture, but there is some uniqueness to Kyoto that even Japanese has difficulty in understanding. There is even a whole season of drama made to show this. I forgot what the title is. One example that sticks with me is that Kyotoites will put their community first rather than visitors, even if they are Japanese. In the episode, there were a couple of Japanese tourists that want to buy a lot of tofu from this one Kyoto shop. The owner was reluctant to sell and say that they ran out. The reason was they don't want to disappoint their regular customers by not having enough tofu. They rather risk losing money than losing customers, their community. The above shows their decision on Gion. They would rather lose tourists and income than lose the trust of their own community. Because tourists would just be there temporarily, they could leave a trail of destruction (hyperbole of course) and leave the next day. The community, the Kyotoites cannot go anywhere. It's their home.
Update... Found the title 京都人の密かな楽しみ or The Secret Lives of Kyoto Folk (2015). The RUclips channel called "airship" uploaded whole episodes. This series made me understood the unique personalities of Kyotoites. Well, not really understand them, but accepting their uniqueness.
I was there in the mid 2000's It's supposed to be " The city of peace and tranquility". Too many tourists will ruin it. I love that they limit buildings height in order to not obstruct the mountain views. Love 💗 Japan but hey, doesn't everyone?
I flew to Japan in Oct 2022 from London and I was surprised how many people on the flight had never been to Japan before. It was obviously seen as an exotic land which was off limits due to border staying closed while others opened up. High flight prices don't seem to deter (rich) people going.
Definitely living here has been a shocker and adjustments have been a struggle but as with learning the language will help a keen observation of the culture helps
There are great steps to bridge the gap in culture shock, living in a new culture and having good observation skills is super useful! I was awful my first 2-3 years. Quite frankly, I’m surprised I’m still here 😂
Hello John .. Is me Lucy from Melbourne Australia... We spoken on Instagram not long ago. Hope you remember me.. I really love this video upload of yours.. Very helpful and So Informative for both local Japanese and Foreigners.. 😀👍🏻
Whenever I visit Japan, I avoid the high season and the touristy places. If I do go to Kyoto, I go late in the afternoon from Osaka, drink coffee at a Kurasu near Kyoto station, and then hiked Fushimi Inari at night. I don't like crowds. Tokyo... Try going hiking at Mt Takao. Go to Mitaka. Many other places to visit than what's on the Yamanote line. I also go to Kyushu more nowadays compared to Kanto-Kansai. There are many places to visit in Japan.
I’ve been in Kyoto and Osaka all week in 2024 and as an American I definitely feel like an outsider. Lots of signs on businesses that say no tourists. Most menus and store signs are in Japanese which is understandable but the people seem to have zero interest in trying to communicate with me even if I act super kinda. Also if I try and make eye contact and smile at almost any local most instantly look away or just stare at me. I feel like smiling with strangers is a universal gesture all over the world. I’m going to Tokyo next and I’m hoping it’s a much better experience. I just came here directly from Vietnam and all the Vietnamese people were super welcoming and friendly.
John if only tourists would inform themselves, how hard the Miko train and how tight their schedules are during their training to become Geisha, they would hold them in respect and awe. I have been to the Gion area and it was the tranquillity of those streets that stays in my mind. If that no longer exists, then that is not the real Gion. I hope there is a solution for the residents that will bring back the harmony they deserve. Maybe Kyoto could create "Geisha World" for tourists..... Muffy from Oz (Australia)
I highly recommend the Tohoku region for the off the beaten path route...you don't need to ride the Tohoku shinkansen to go there..from Tokyo there are many long distance bus routes that go there....they are cheaper and you can feel a lot more like a local riding them
My sister and I went to Japan in February last year. We had a lovely time. Most of the people we talked to were friendly and helpful. The only difficulty we had was when we were trying to get to Haeda airport, everyone was sending us to Narita Airport. As we were leaving, we noticed an increase prices for the next few months. But considering Japan was closed down the longest during Covid, it does make sense that they're increasing prices to help make up for the loss revenue when they were closed.
Entitled people bringing their entitledness to other countries. It's ok to be a tourist, but be respectful of the country and culture you're visiting. The locals have their daily lives to live too. Too many people, too many content creators acting a fool in other countries and making a bad example for others to copy, all for clout and attention.
Last March I was in Japan for 2 months following the life path of Sakamoto Ryoma. We went to Nagasaki, Kochi and many others places. We went to Kyoto only to visit Ryoma’s grave. We had the misfortune of passing the Yasaka Pagoda and the crowds were insane. I’m going again this October for 2 months and I won’t be going near the golden route. We always start in Miyazaki a beautiful city and then we are heading north eventually getting to Hirosaki Castle. Japan has so much to see that isn’t in the big cities. Kyoto needs to do something about the crowds, their messaging hasn’t been great but having witnessed the crowds, I support them.
We from Hikone - will have my Japanese wife dress out in kimono white face, wig etc head over to Kyoto just outside alley & charge 2,000 yen to take 2 pictures with her... new side hustle!
We did not encounter any anti-tourist sentiments during our stay in Tokyo and in all the ports we visited. We vendors in the ports were clearly appreciative of tourist dollars. In Tokyo, we stayed at Imperial Hotel, shopped at Suibu and Hikarie Shibuya Department stores - no obvious anti-tourist sentiments at all. We had a memorable and pleasant stay.😊
the Japanese gov and Japan based youtubers promoted Japan too well and made it too mainstream…you guys are too blame for this for making lesser people aware about how cool Japan is 😒😒🤦🏽♂️🤦🏽♂️don’t cry now this is your doing
John, You make many great points in this video and have been doing a service to Japan by promoting places most people are not familiar with. In addition, you explain the importance of cultural understanding. I think if you want tourists, you have to be prepared for it and Japan is lacking in some ways. Several places in the world deal with tourists effectively. I have seen your videos for many years and I think you are original and a quality creator. Keep up the great work!
My husband and I visited Kyoto for the first time 10yrs ago and fell in love with Kyoto and each time we traveled to Japan - Kyoto was ALWAYS a pit stop and we have visited Kyoto more than 7x's. Last visit was in 2023 and 2019 before the pandemic hit. Already in 2019 we started seeing signs of no photographing at popular areas of Gion and it sounds like it has gotten worse. Each time we visited Kyoto- it wasn't necessarily to see all the 'touristy' spots but more for the vibe and just hanging out enjoying the food. Kyoto feels like a small city where you see the old and the new. I notice you always champion to visit other 'unknown' popular places but there are alot of folks who visit Japan for the first time and Tokyo and Kyoto are usual the places they want to see and experience. Limited vacation time is also another factor that they may not have the time to 'explore' other places that may not be as popular. Now, I feel I don't care to visit Kyoto - it seems to have changed so much.
Disrespectful tourists are inevitable due to ignorance. I've witnessed this all over the world, It was happening when I first came to Japan in November 21 when there was barely any tourists
The reason why I chose to live and study here in sendai. I’m enjoying the tourist spots and pretty much i have some of them for my own. I suggest some tourist consider going north as well. There are pretty much zero tourist here except for local ones.
I understand that Kyoto will be crowded; but for someone visiting for the first time, specially with a partner who was never invested in Japan as much before as now, not going to Kyoto seems wrong. Maybe for next trip, it will be north and less touristy places. I am however, sad that due to some tourists, the experience is getting ruined for others. But still - I don't think I should lessen my excitement because Kyoto is a bit overcrowded. I hope to wake up early to at least avoid too much crowd. Thankfully we changed Osaka to Kanazawa+Shirakawago for some peace. :D
My best as advice (from someone who travels to Japan often, works in tourism) is to travel during off-peak times of the year. I also recommend visiting places where hordes of tourists don't usually go to. Just do the necessary research.
@@roro2kYes. exactly what I will plan for next trip if that happens. My issue is that I am not from a first world country, so the affordability to travel often is almost non existent. Maybe twice if I have nothing else on my travel list. I do have that in thoughts but for someone who will visit probably only once in maybe next 5-6 years, It kinda becomes an obvious thing to visit Kyoto once at the very least :).
Our stay was lovely, my daughter just walked into a hairdressers, no appointment, agreed to cut it, they were so welcoming. Even in the supermarket, people were polite to us. We loved our stay.
Of course if you are a first time visitor you would want to go to the major cities like Tokyo Osaka Saporro. But when you go back you'd want to visit the countryside.
Hey john! I really appreciate all the informative videos. I wish i could give my opinion live, but i live in Holland. Keep up the good work, you helped me out big time planning my 3 month trip. I think the Aomori prefecture has grown into my favorite one. Cant wait for the next video! I got to visit around 90% of all prefecturen
Let's not pretend that the primary reason foreigners get denied entry into some restaurants and bars is because they can't speak Japanese. Many places have signage that state "Japanese Speakers Only." It's cool with me, still a fun country to explore but let's acknowledge the reality too.
My answer Yes, host entitle or can reserve any offer whatever. It's a business proposal /culture proposal perhaps just leave it to the host, like a Sushi chief serving a special meal. Same token, as tourist we want to make the hosts comforrable as well, like a bilateral agreement. The more the host is happy, the more tourism is sustainable. Resilient is key in Japan.
Having been a tourist and a resident in Japan I have seen some appalling behaviour by tourists, but I have also seen and met some wonderful tourists who are respectful and kind. But when you have over tourism the percentage of bad tourists rises.
Tourists should be more open to travel to outside of those touristy locations. There's literally tons of other areas all over Japan that see 0 foreigners. Explore those areas. Be creative!
I agree but most tourists visiting a foreign country for the first time and with a limited amount of time (a week or two) want to see those main attractions. Here in Japan that means Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and maybe Hiroshima. Greece is Athens, Delphi and Santorini. Italy is Rome and Florence. First-time tourists aren't going to small country towns and soaking up local culture. That's never going to change.
My personal feeling about this is that there is a lot of rudeness around. I don’t think Japan is anti-tourist. I think they are just anti-idiots who treat people’s actual daily lives as props in a picture opportunity. See it in London a lot too. I am not at all put off Japan!
I certainly had this impression when we arrived in Japan via Narita 2 weeks ago. The people at the immigration counters didn’t feel as welcoming as compared to the several previous times I’ve been in Japan. But other places in Tokyo and Osaka were ok. Had a good chat with the Tsukemenzuppa chef. Would have been better I suppose if I could converse better in Japanese..
i guess it's like you mentioned at the start about the restaurants refusing customers, if Kyoto is saying no, i guess I'll go elsewhere I'm heading to Japan for the first time in a few months starting from the bottom at Ishigaki i saw your video on it a few months ago looks wonderful
I was just at my local soba shop, a small place with minimal staff. An English speaking tourist came in and because he didnt understand anything and the staff speaks no English he took like 15 minutes to order. The staff hand to hold his hand (figuratively) and explain the entire menu, meanwhile all the other customers in the crowded restaurant are getting no service. That's why some small shops don't want to deal with English speaking gaijin.
I'm just back from Kochi. Unfortunately almost no cherry blossom but also almost no foreign tourists. It was so nice to see the castle without any lines. Highly recommended. Btw I had the same experience in Matsuyama. Also a wonderful castle.
I was fortunate enough to have first explored Kyoto a couple of times before the huge surge in tourism (including pre covid). And I went back to Kyoto last November for the first time since 2015 and I planned it smartly. Fushimi Inari Taisha, Arashiyama Bamboo Groves, Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka, etc, I went first thing in the morning before the tourists started waking up. And then I spent the rest of my time exploring the outskirts away from central Arashiyama, and lesser visited places around the city and prefecture. Kyoto can be still be enjoyed without the large crowds, but it has to be done with a bit of smart researching and effort.
This situation also reminds me of when disney Paris closed down their park after opening up during covid. An that was due to tourists taking selfies in parts of the park that were closed off to guest or in dangerous locations.
First time we were in Kyoto we saw women dressed up in kimonos and asked to take their pictures. They said sure but they were Chinese visitors dressed up. Kyoto should hire people/actors to dress up as maiko just so tourists can take pictures. Tourists won’t care if they are real geisha or not. It’s all about the photo.
I don't think Japan is anti-tourist, but definitely they don't want to deal with people who misbehave and don't follow rules. We go to Japan for the culture, the people, activities, safety, and that rare ability to let new ways and old ways co-exist. We don't go there to see people acting disrespectfully to the host country.
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Overtourism is in many places of the world. Not only Kyoto. Look at Paris... millions of tourists... many many japanese who take pictures of everything and everyone. But are they banned from entering some parts of Paris? Of course not. In my opinion, a country should be proud of their culture and be proud to show it to visitors, who maybe have only one chance in their life to see that culture. But on the other hand, visitors should respect that culture by behaving well. If I see how some tourists chase a Meiko like a Paparazzi, just to get a photo for their instragram, that is of course a complete No Go. And John, thank you for your good work. I really enjoy each single video of your channel.
I would stay away from the AI thumbnails because I usually skip channels for that reason BUT if the algorithm proves me wrong then ganbatte…regardless will continue supporting your channel because you always have uncanny energy :)
Fake Geisha walking around for tourists is a terrible idea, it's further encouraging tourists and foreigners to view all of Japan as Disneyland theme park. Turning Kyoto into Disney fantasy land for the pleasure of TikTok IG hungry foreigners is a dumb idea.
It prevents people from bothering real geisha and Asian tourists dressing as Geisha are already being photographed like Geisha 😂 maybe you’re right, let them take the weight of the cameras 📷
to me it's like the Go-Karts, the idea that it's OK to think of the ENTIRE city that people live, work, raise their families in as a Theme Park that just exists for your amusement.
I can understand from Kyoto's point of view that they don't want to create maiko models because it will downplay the profession. However, with social media, there is little compromise with tourists that want to do it their way. Hopefully Kyoto can be more open minded with what tourists are seeking than by tradition only. As for transportation, something must change. They should consider trams or restrict cars to only the main streets. Express busses are good if they replace existing service, not adding to the traffic. Thanks John for the discussion.
Social media destroyed every tourist destination on the planet. It's not about the experience and taking a picture to remember it by. Everything has to be recorded in a certain way, at a certain angle, with a certain pose, at a certain place, and they have to do so many takes like it's a photoshoot. Now imagine this being done by half of the tourists. It's absolutely horsehsit. Doesn't matter what country you're in an what time of day it is. People with social media addiction destroy the experience for those that want to be present.
I’ll finally go to Japan during May, my first trip there. I’ll spend about six days in Tokyo, about three days in Osaka plus two day-trips to Kyoto. A couple more day trips to places I won’t divulge to keep my comment brief. I live in rural location all my life, so big cities will be novel to me, which ties in to what you said in this video about different things being exciting for different people when traveling. Love your videos bro, keep posting them.
I've been in Japan in 2018, 2019 and 2023. Kyoto was ok but i would have rather skipped it altogether. Its just far too busy with far too many people. Kyoto does not have the excellent public transportation that Osaka and Tokyo have. You will notice that very clearly.
I have never been to Japan and my Japanese is at around N5 level but I'd still love to live in Japan. I'd like to find a small quiet place to live. I've been looking at houses/akiya around Kyushu and will look around other areas. If I get to Japan, I MIGHT visit cities but that is not my preferred setting. I'm an introvert, so I like small quiet places. I love the history and culture of Japan. Always good seeing your videos, John. Take care.
Tourist should respect the culture of the country they visit. I visited a temple in Kyoto where fortunately there's a marriage ceremony going on. It attracted tourists to take pictures as the wedding is in very beautiful traditional clothes. It's okay to take pictures from far as long as you know the limit and not disturb the ceremony. But I did see a tourist took pictures right in front of their faces! Come on, how will you feel if somebody do that to you? It's suppose to be a sacred and private ceremony. It's so impolite. So yes, I can understand why they close the street to protect the geishas. Geisha is a profession you have to respect, not an icon like in Disneyland which their reason is for you to take pictures with them. Their citizens safety and comfort should be number 1. And no, I don't agree with your solution. It will loose the meaning. Kyoto is just to crowded now. That's why the citizens feel disturb by tourists. It's understandable. I love Kyoto, been there 2 times and still want to go there again. But if it's too crowded, I might think again. Maybe the government should promote more cities so tourists can be divided. Japan has many beautiful cities not known to many tourists.
Tourists behave badly everywhere. Most tourists are not disrespectful. Some just have this desperate need to do it all and see it all in a short amount of time and get the photos to prove it. Japan has so much to do and see, it can get overwhelming and therefore the experiences are just whisking away from one beautiful place to another (usually hyped up by influencers/youtubers/travel shows). I think theatre can be a good bridge for this, dinner and a cultural show, street shows.. Anything to help people see/experience more in a shorter amount of time in an authentic way. People hate things that feel fake or like a tourist trap. So maybe hyping up multiple other destinations that can be new must-sees for Japan can help alleviate the pressure on the golden route. Also, look at the tourist base coming through. Is there potential for them to come back multiple times to Japan, or is this just a one-off destination? I think looking at long term tourism should be considered. IE Show something from every prefecture that can help spread out the tourists, more compare and contrasting of regions, environments, things to do. And how to get to them (because let's be real, tourists are more likely to do something if they understand how to do it.)
I used 2 types of Kansai Regional JR passes. Very worth it, similar to JR pass just not for the whole Japan. It's a great alternative and made me look into other places I didn't consider going to before. I enjoyed Tottori and Okayama. Next trip, hoping to go around Kyushu or Kanazawa & Toyama. I've no issue with Kyoto not allowing tourists in certain areas. Last time I went to Gion area some tourists were running after a Maiko. clearly didn't read up about being a tourist in Kyoto
About japanese ppl not smiling or laughing... last time I visited I was with my ex, he tried on my lip balm and left all his mustache full of it, pink and strawberry, I laughed so hard that a japanese man looked at us and laughed a lot as well. We looked at each other and laughed even more, at expenses of my ex xD it was an hilarious experience.
Japan is not anti-tourism, they are pro-respect and pro-consent. It doesn't matter where you go in the world, consent should always come before any actions. Don't touch anything that does not belong to you or anyone that is passing by on the street without permission. The Japanese have strict policies about taking pictures in certain areas or of any people, even in general. Geisha are no exception. They are still people who are trying to work and make a living. Their beautiful attire is part of their uniform, and while they may stand out as they walk by, they are on their way to do a job... they are not costumed characters in a theme park. It is disrespectful to stop them on the street, take pictures without asking, and expect them to cater to you/spend time on you when they have paying clients already waiting for their arrival.
Tourists can't interrupt the work of geisha or miko. They are on their way to work and can't be stopped and late. Being late is not acceptable. Some rude tourist brought this on. Geish and Maiko do not walk on the street for leisure.
Here’s my point on the matter. While I agree that cities like Kyoto, Osaka and any other city along the Golden Route (Kyoto mostly) implement measures to warn tourists about their behavior around the locals, as well as include measures to accommodate foreigners, I believe that we as tourists need to educate ourselves on what is and NOT okay to do. Tourists have a responsibility to behave and be considerate of the rules/laws of any country they visit.
when i booked in november from the uk i have booked kyoto and osaka but i dont like loads of crowds its only recently i am realising how touristy and crowded these places are, i wouldnt have booked them if i had known, so are there any places i can travel to nearby as i have accommodation booked now so cant change it and also ive purchased the hokiruko arch pass, so any places not too far away on the outskirts of osaka and kyoto i can travel to for day trips, i think i will avoid kyoto and osaka main places, i am also going to kanazawa, aomori and hakodate as wel
everytime i go to Japan, Kyoto is my first stop, it feels for me a place were i come home. From Kyoto you can go everywere you like. For exemple a hike in the Japanese Alps, or a vistit to nara,...
The one concern I have with the fake geisha idea is that it would justify the act of chasing around geisha and taking pictures of them, and end up not stopping the disturbance to real geisha.
Japan is anti-clueless tourists. Lol. I like the idea of hiring people to dress in traditional clothes and have them be in a section of town, where tourists are welcome to take photos. It is an opportunity to create a new job, and tourists get what they want. Win-win! Tourists need to know the boundaries of the countries that they visit. Take your shoes off before going in a house, don't stand when you are eating, etc. Know the boundaries and don't be ignorant. Great discussion and perspective, John. Always a pleasure to hear your point of view. You have to assimilate during your stay... assimilation isn't futile. lol.
The last time i visited Japan is over 10 years ago. I love Japan. But watching some of the RUclips video's about Japan shows a lot of overcrowding. BTW I find Japan is not anti-tourism but also not pro-foreign tourism. Which is fine, Japan as a whole is not an attraction park. The only thing i missed is signs in English. If you walk around you miss a lot. And later on you find out that you passed by a worthwhile activity so but you missed because the information was not in English.. Keep up the good work.
I plan on visiting Japan and am watching dozens of videos on politeness and manners and dos and don't and think a simple test is a good idea for tourism visa
Are Japanese businesses honestly complaining about too many tourists? Too many people spending money? Really? The government complaining about more tax revenue? Really?
One year ago, you said that Kyoto is gonna be bankrupt because there are no more tourist now you’re saying they don’t want tourist they should make up their mind
It’s almost like there’s a happy medium and that it doesn’t have to be one extreme or the other. Yes, they need tourists. And yes, there is ALSO a thing as “too many” tourists.
Kyoto is not the only place that is struggling with over tourism in the world. Their solution to the problem is telling us something about Japan that is uncomfortable to talk about. But I think it’s important to hold Japan to the same standard as the rest of the world, and not make excuses for them.
Mmm whenever I travel I prefer to go to places AWAY from tourist areas BECAUSE of the crowds. I am aware that some tourists can be out of line and disregard the customs of the countries.
That's the best thing to do! I agree 100%. I'll be going to Japan soon and do my best to avoid touristy areas unless I absolutely have to do something there. I also avoid restaurants and establishments with signs that say English Menu and cater towards tourists.
Many tourists from other cultures just don't know how to properly behave in Japan. And, frankly spoken, only a few prepare for their visit and carefully read the 'Dos and Don'ts' before arriving in Japan. And to do something wrong is very easy in Japanese culture. I visited Japan on a regular basis from 1982 - 2015, and even though I only speak a very little Japanese, I have learned to understand Japanese people none-verbally. If you are familiar with this, you know exactly if you did something not so appropiate in Japan 😊
The way to keep most Foreigners out in the most gentle way: put a fence up in the areas you want people to avoid. We don’t even question it at that point. We instinctively say to ourselves: well, we can’t go in there. America is not a rule based society and we are not pressured to conform as Japan is. When you make a rule a law, we usually will listen. It’s unfortunate we have to resort to this however. I love Japan and all it offers.
Dont even like Kyoto BECAUSE its so awfully crowded. Shoulder to shoulder sometimes. Top favorite places I went to over my 33 day trip to Japan 1. Nagasaki 2. shimonoseki 3. Nagoya. Do your research, it has ALOT to offer. More than meets the eye, plus you can take a day trip to takayama from there which is way better than Kyoto 4. Matsushima, my God how gorgeous on a sunny day! If you love oysters and sushi, GO THERE. Take the boat cruise around the islands too! 5. This is also a toss between himeji and noboribetsu. What amazing places they were! I went into the non tourist areas of Himeji and it was an amazing experience. Noboribetsu is hands down the best onsen town Ive ever been to, even Kinosaki and Ginzan 6. Kobe 7. Beppu 8. Sapporo 9. Niigata 10. Hiraizumi (mini kyoto but on bikes!)
There was a daruma giant gachapon game at a department store in Shinjuku that I wanted to try. When it was my turn, the staff said no. "For Japanese Only". I was confused and slightly embarrassed as to why. I hope it was because it involved something where you needed to be a Japanese resident. But I have a feeling that it was more than that. Perhaps it was a language thing and that they didn't want to deal with non-japanese speakers.
About that part about maybe being a Karen in the U.S. gets you anywhere? Heh, even that doesn’t work here. And like you said also John, it applies to everywhere in the world you go. Nobody likes a rude person with a cocky attitude. And I do agree also that if Japanese officials want to have solutions for the over tourism problem, they need to also realize that they have to understand the tourist’s point of view as well. And that includes also understanding that just because one bad example of a tourist can stand out, it doesn’t mean that the rest of the crowd will follow that person. Personally, I’m of the mind that it’s important to follow a simple yet effective rule I was taught years ago: treat people the way you yourself want to be treated.
I just came back from Japan and Kyoto on March 15th from a 2 week trip. I never felt excluded or ostracized in any way as a tourist. The Japanese people I meant were either friendly and or minding their own business. Then again when I was there I minded my own business and that seemed to work out fine for me. I wasn’t being the annoying or obnoxious and intrusive tourist that I’ve seen in other videos of other tourists intruding on other people’s personal space.
It is a small % that always makes waves and often WE all only see it in the news. Japanese locals too and everything needs to be put in perspective here. It’s not as bad as reported, but it’s definitely an issue.
A lot of practices in Japan are served on the premise that people are genuinely good and modest; the banned alleys in Kyoto are private property that were open to the public as goodwill from the neighborhood. If the alleys become crowded to the point it disrupts the local community, I guess you have to close it.
Yup, but anytime something is taken away, the effects should be considered. In that light, this was done poorly. Their signage over the years has been awful to bad.
@@onlyinjapanGO But Japan must first consider their citizen's feelings first and foremost before other nationalities. Maybe this was just the easiest solution they can find quickly. If they permanently close said location, there are dozens of other locations foreigners can go too.
They are not youtubers like you they dont to think if that will affect their views. ..@@onlyinjapanGO
@@onlyinjapanGOthinking one step further to your idea of official city geisha for photos: good in principle, but might it foster the idea that all geisha are okay with it, and encourage some tourists to be even more aggressive? I do think yours is a good idea, but I also agree that some streets might need to be off limits, to allow the regular geisha/maiko to go about their business. It's only a few small lanes, in a city with hundreds of attractions, after all. The locals shouldn't have to feel like they live in Disneyland.
TL;DR: why not do both?
Nobody should bother the geishas.
I think tourists need to be gracious visitors, if the disruptive tourists had people go into their homes and act like this they’d lose it.
I totally agree!! If tourists were being disrespectful at local churches and temples, and harassing local workers where I’m from, we’d all be rightfully outraged.
I may be wrong but I feel some tourists act childish and not like adults. Taking pictures or videos just for social media instead to be there and enjoy places and respect people.
Not just some, a considerable amount simply cant or wont respect their customs. I completely understand it even if it means I myself wont be able to visit in the future.
Recently returned from a 10-day trip to Japan in March and everyone I encountered was incredibly friendly and helpful. I made an effort to speak Japanese when checking in/out at hotels, ordering food at restaurants, and whenever I had to ask someone a question. Could not have felt more welcome.
The simple solution is tourists need to behave themselves and have respect for the country they're visiting. If they can't or won't do that, then they don't deserve to be there. Japan isn't perfect, but it's the closest thing to a utopia on this planet. They display basic regard for others that I think the rest of the world is losing. Japan deserves total respect and appreciation.
Behavior is innate though. If a person has bahavioral issues from where they came from then they will surely behave pretty much the same wherever they go.
but what's the consequences if tourists do not behave themselves and don't have respect? That's the issues. Hoping for people to behave in way we want, when we know they won't is not a good plan.
Well spoken! 👍
I think it's fine for Kyoto to restrict access to certain areas. Some places of business should not be accessible to just anyone. Kyoto needs more/better bike lanes and more ebikes. Especially need more racks to lock ebike rentals to in more locations.
Definitely better bike lanes! But the roads are narrow for cars too - the city needs an upgrade 😂 cable car! Above ground walkway like in Shibuya now.
I've traveled all over and there's over-tourism everywhere. Greece? Italy? Portugal? Fugghedabouddit. Japan is a unique culture that, to a large degree, respects/expects conformity and adherence to rules and regulations. Japanese want tourists to come and appreciate this. It's understandable that tourists visiting from more freewheeling, lax countries might find this attitude or behavior as tourist-unfriendly but it's not.
Thank you for always adding context to these sensational headlines
I'll add one more thing from me...
I've been to Kyoto twice and I always happened to travel the country on a bicycle. Each time I've been there (2019 & 2023) I always had a hard time. One thing was that I was travelling on a bicycle so in a sense I was tied to my steed, unable to explore the city as I would have wanted maybe. Don't get me wrong, I stayed for a night or two in the city, but I always had this feeling that this isn't a place for me. Sure, it has lots of amazing architecture and it's culturally significant, BUT... Kyoto is always crowded and it's really, as John says, overrated. You'd be better hitting Nara.
My best suggestion for everyone would be, got to Izu Peninsula, go deep into Shikoku (Iya!), go to Izumo which is very significant. If you happen to be on Shikoku, please go visit Minna no Coffee to the west of Niihama.
Cheers.
A commentary on Kyoto. Their culture is a bit different. Every area has a different culture, but there is some uniqueness to Kyoto that even Japanese has difficulty in understanding. There is even a whole season of drama made to show this. I forgot what the title is.
One example that sticks with me is that Kyotoites will put their community first rather than visitors, even if they are Japanese. In the episode, there were a couple of Japanese tourists that want to buy a lot of tofu from this one Kyoto shop. The owner was reluctant to sell and say that they ran out. The reason was they don't want to disappoint their regular customers by not having enough tofu. They rather risk losing money than losing customers, their community.
The above shows their decision on Gion. They would rather lose tourists and income than lose the trust of their own community. Because tourists would just be there temporarily, they could leave a trail of destruction (hyperbole of course) and leave the next day. The community, the Kyotoites cannot go anywhere. It's their home.
Update... Found the title 京都人の密かな楽しみ or The Secret Lives of Kyoto Folk (2015). The RUclips channel called "airship" uploaded whole episodes. This series made me understood the unique personalities of Kyotoites. Well, not really understand them, but accepting their uniqueness.
Well said 👍🏼
So they still segregationus
I was there in the mid 2000's It's supposed to be " The city of peace and tranquility". Too many tourists will ruin it. I love that they limit buildings height in order to not obstruct the mountain views. Love 💗 Japan but hey, doesn't everyone?
@@FunkyBukkyoI'm going to check that out 😊
I flew to Japan in Oct 2022 from London and I was surprised how many people on the flight had never been to Japan before. It was obviously seen as an exotic land which was off limits due to border staying closed while others opened up. High flight prices don't seem to deter (rich) people going.
This is a good thing, a lesson to be learned, get it together tourists and be more respectful.
100% agree John ! Kyoto govt has a good problem, they just have to capitalize on it. Hiring actors to pose as Geisha's is not a bad idea.
Definitely living here has been a shocker and adjustments have been a struggle but as with learning the language will help a keen observation of the culture helps
There are great steps to bridge the gap in culture shock, living in a new culture and having good observation skills is super useful! I was awful my first 2-3 years. Quite frankly, I’m surprised I’m still here 😂
Hello John .. Is me Lucy from Melbourne Australia... We spoken on Instagram not long ago. Hope you remember me.. I really love this video upload of yours.. Very helpful and So Informative for both local Japanese and Foreigners..
😀👍🏻
Whenever I visit Japan, I avoid the high season and the touristy places. If I do go to Kyoto, I go late in the afternoon from Osaka, drink coffee at a Kurasu near Kyoto station, and then hiked Fushimi Inari at night. I don't like crowds.
Tokyo... Try going hiking at Mt Takao. Go to Mitaka. Many other places to visit than what's on the Yamanote line.
I also go to Kyushu more nowadays compared to Kanto-Kansai. There are many places to visit in Japan.
I’ve been in Kyoto and Osaka all week in 2024 and as an American I definitely feel like an outsider. Lots of signs on businesses that say no tourists. Most menus and store signs are in Japanese which is understandable but the people seem to have zero interest in trying to communicate with me even if I act super kinda. Also if I try and make eye contact and smile at almost any local most instantly look away or just stare at me. I feel like smiling with strangers is a universal gesture all over the world. I’m going to Tokyo next and I’m hoping it’s a much better experience. I just came here directly from Vietnam and all the Vietnamese people were super welcoming and friendly.
Thank you, John. I have visited Japan five times (twice in Kyoto) and I am with you in your presentation, every word you said. Very much appreciated.
John if only tourists would inform themselves, how hard the Miko train and how tight their schedules are during their training to become Geisha, they would hold them in respect and awe. I have been to the Gion area and it was the tranquillity of those streets that stays in my mind. If that no longer exists, then that is not the real Gion. I hope there is a solution for the residents that will bring back the harmony they deserve. Maybe Kyoto could create "Geisha World" for tourists..... Muffy from Oz (Australia)
I highly recommend the Tohoku region for the off the beaten path route...you don't need to ride the Tohoku shinkansen to go there..from Tokyo there are many long distance bus routes that go there....they are cheaper and you can feel a lot more like a local riding them
My sister and I went to Japan in February last year. We had a lovely time. Most of the people we talked to were friendly and helpful. The only difficulty we had was when we were trying to get to Haeda airport, everyone was sending us to Narita Airport. As we were leaving, we noticed an increase prices for the next few months. But considering Japan was closed down the longest during Covid, it does make sense that they're increasing prices to help make up for the loss revenue when they were closed.
Entitled people bringing their entitledness to other countries. It's ok to be a tourist, but be respectful of the country and culture you're visiting. The locals have their daily lives to live too. Too many people, too many content creators acting a fool in other countries and making a bad example for others to copy, all for clout and attention.
Last March I was in Japan for 2 months following the life path of Sakamoto Ryoma. We went to Nagasaki, Kochi and many others places. We went to Kyoto only to visit Ryoma’s grave. We had the misfortune of passing the Yasaka Pagoda and the crowds were insane. I’m going again this October for 2 months and I won’t be going near the golden route. We always start in Miyazaki a beautiful city and then we are heading north eventually getting to Hirosaki Castle. Japan has so much to see that isn’t in the big cities. Kyoto needs to do something about the crowds, their messaging hasn’t been great but having witnessed the crowds, I support them.
We from Hikone - will have my Japanese wife dress out in kimono white face, wig etc head over to Kyoto just outside alley & charge 2,000 yen to take 2 pictures with her... new side hustle!
We did not encounter any anti-tourist sentiments during our stay in Tokyo and in all the ports we visited. We vendors in the ports were clearly appreciative of tourist dollars. In Tokyo, we stayed at Imperial Hotel, shopped at Suibu and Hikarie Shibuya Department stores - no obvious anti-tourist sentiments at all. We had a memorable and pleasant stay.😊
the Japanese gov and Japan based youtubers promoted Japan too well and made it too mainstream…you guys are too blame for this for making lesser people aware about how cool Japan is 😒😒🤦🏽♂️🤦🏽♂️don’t cry now this is your doing
John, You make many great points in this video and have been doing a service to Japan by promoting places most people are not familiar with. In addition, you explain the importance of cultural understanding. I think if you want tourists, you have to be prepared for it and Japan is lacking in some ways. Several places in the world deal with tourists effectively. I have seen your videos for many years and I think you are original and a quality creator. Keep up the great work!
My husband and I visited Kyoto for the first time 10yrs ago and fell in love with Kyoto and each time we traveled to Japan - Kyoto was ALWAYS a pit stop and we have visited Kyoto more than 7x's. Last visit was in 2023 and 2019 before the pandemic hit. Already in 2019 we started seeing signs of no photographing at popular areas of Gion and it sounds like it has gotten worse. Each time we visited Kyoto- it wasn't necessarily to see all the 'touristy' spots but more for the vibe and just hanging out enjoying the food. Kyoto feels like a small city where you see the old and the new. I notice you always champion to visit other 'unknown' popular places but there are alot of folks who visit Japan for the first time and Tokyo and Kyoto are usual the places they want to see and experience. Limited vacation time is also another factor that they may not have the time to 'explore' other places that may not be as popular. Now, I feel I don't care to visit Kyoto - it seems to have changed so much.
Disrespectful tourists are inevitable due to ignorance. I've witnessed this all over the world, It was happening when I first came to Japan in November 21 when there was barely any tourists
The reason why I chose to live and study here in sendai. I’m enjoying the tourist spots and pretty much i have some of them for my own. I suggest some tourist consider going north as well. There are pretty much zero tourist here except for local ones.
I don’t think anyone in Japan cares. Remember when Kyoto businesses were saying where are all the tourists we are going bankrupt during the pandemic.
Yup
@hicharbud my thoughts exactly
The tourists can't come if they don't have a bed. Curb accommodation and that sorts it out.
I understand that Kyoto will be crowded; but for someone visiting for the first time, specially with a partner who was never invested in Japan as much before as now, not going to Kyoto seems wrong. Maybe for next trip, it will be north and less touristy places.
I am however, sad that due to some tourists, the experience is getting ruined for others. But still - I don't think I should lessen my excitement because Kyoto is a bit overcrowded. I hope to wake up early to at least avoid too much crowd. Thankfully we changed Osaka to Kanazawa+Shirakawago for some peace. :D
My best as advice (from someone who travels to Japan often, works in tourism) is to travel during off-peak times of the year. I also recommend visiting places where hordes of tourists don't usually go to. Just do the necessary research.
@@roro2kYes. exactly what I will plan for next trip if that happens. My issue is that I am not from a first world country, so the affordability to travel often is almost non existent. Maybe twice if I have nothing else on my travel list. I do have that in thoughts but for someone who will visit probably only once in maybe next 5-6 years, It kinda becomes an obvious thing to visit Kyoto once at the very least :).
Our stay was lovely, my daughter just walked into a hairdressers, no appointment, agreed to cut it, they were so welcoming. Even in the supermarket, people were polite to us. We loved our stay.
Of course if you are a first time visitor you would want to go to the major cities like Tokyo Osaka Saporro. But when you go back you'd want to visit the countryside.
Hey john! I really appreciate all the informative videos. I wish i could give my opinion live, but i live in Holland. Keep up the good work, you helped me out big time planning my 3 month trip. I think the Aomori prefecture has grown into my favorite one. Cant wait for the next video!
I got to visit around 90% of all prefecturen
The weather was pretty amazing today in Tokyo after 4 days of rain. I could see Mt Fuji in all its glory from Haneda Airport.
Let's not pretend that the primary reason foreigners get denied entry into some restaurants and bars is because they can't speak Japanese. Many places have signage that state "Japanese Speakers Only." It's cool with me, still a fun country to explore but let's acknowledge the reality too.
My answer Yes, host entitle or can reserve any offer whatever. It's a business proposal /culture proposal perhaps just leave it to the host, like a Sushi chief serving a special meal. Same token, as tourist we want to make the hosts comforrable as well, like a bilateral agreement. The more the host is happy, the more tourism is sustainable. Resilient is key in Japan.
Having been a tourist and a resident in Japan I have seen some appalling behaviour by tourists, but I have also seen and met some wonderful tourists who are respectful and kind. But when you have over tourism the percentage of bad tourists rises.
Tourists should be more open to travel to outside of those touristy locations. There's literally tons of other areas all over Japan that see 0 foreigners. Explore those areas. Be creative!
I agree but most tourists visiting a foreign country for the first time and with a limited amount of time (a week or two) want to see those main attractions. Here in Japan that means Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and maybe Hiroshima. Greece is Athens, Delphi and Santorini. Italy is Rome and Florence. First-time tourists aren't going to small country towns and soaking up local culture. That's never going to change.
My personal feeling about this is that there is a lot of rudeness around. I don’t think Japan is anti-tourist. I think they are just anti-idiots who treat people’s actual daily lives as props in a picture opportunity. See it in London a lot too. I am not at all put off Japan!
I certainly had this impression when we arrived in Japan via Narita 2 weeks ago. The people at the immigration counters didn’t feel as welcoming as compared to the several previous times I’ve been in Japan. But other places in Tokyo and Osaka were ok. Had a good chat with the Tsukemenzuppa chef. Would have been better I suppose if I could converse better in Japanese..
i guess it's like you mentioned at the start about the restaurants refusing customers, if Kyoto is saying no,
i guess I'll go elsewhere I'm heading to Japan for the first time in a few months starting from the bottom at Ishigaki
i saw your video on it a few months ago looks wonderful
Yes! Never complain, just go elsewhere ❤️ it’s a big country and city, so many other places.
I was just at my local soba shop, a small place with minimal staff. An English speaking tourist came in and because he didnt understand anything and the staff speaks no English he took like 15 minutes to order. The staff hand to hold his hand (figuratively) and explain the entire menu, meanwhile all the other customers in the crowded restaurant are getting no service. That's why some small shops don't want to deal with English speaking gaijin.
they should learn English most people in the world do is time for japan to let in multiculturalism
i visited Kyoto on my last trip for 4 days. I skipped riding the buses when i saw the lines, walked it instead when exploring the city.
I'm just back from Kochi. Unfortunately almost no cherry blossom but also almost no foreign tourists. It was so nice to see the castle without any lines. Highly recommended. Btw I had the same experience in Matsuyama. Also a wonderful castle.
I was fortunate enough to have first explored Kyoto a couple of times before the huge surge in tourism (including pre covid). And I went back to Kyoto last November for the first time since 2015 and I planned it smartly. Fushimi Inari Taisha, Arashiyama Bamboo Groves, Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka, etc, I went first thing in the morning before the tourists started waking up. And then I spent the rest of my time exploring the outskirts away from central Arashiyama, and lesser visited places around the city and prefecture. Kyoto can be still be enjoyed without the large crowds, but it has to be done with a bit of smart researching and effort.
This situation also reminds me of when disney Paris closed down their park after opening up during covid. An that was due to tourists taking selfies in parts of the park that were closed off to guest or in dangerous locations.
Back during WWII, The US government had a list of cities in Japan that are target for bombing, Kyoto was exempted.
First time we were in Kyoto we saw women dressed up in kimonos and asked to take their pictures. They said sure but they were Chinese visitors dressed up. Kyoto should hire people/actors to dress up as maiko just so tourists can take pictures. Tourists won’t care if they are real geisha or not. It’s all about the photo.
I don't think Japan is anti-tourist, but definitely they don't want to deal with people who misbehave and don't follow rules. We go to Japan for the culture, the people, activities, safety, and that rare ability to let new ways and old ways co-exist. We don't go there to see people acting disrespectfully to the host country.
Clean the ink from your fingers and nails by rinsing them with hydrogen peroxide at 3% w/v from the pharmacy and leave it to dry on your skin and nails. Also, you can try common concentrated bleach with a cotton swap and leave it to act for five minutes. Rinse the bleach with water after the five minutes, dry your hands, and apply skin lotion. The breach is sold in Seria or Daiso in small green plastic bottles with a pink cap.
Overtourism is in many places of the world. Not only Kyoto. Look at Paris... millions of tourists... many many japanese who take pictures of everything and everyone.
But are they banned from entering some parts of Paris?
Of course not.
In my opinion, a country should be proud of their culture and be proud to show it to visitors, who maybe have only one chance in their life to see that culture.
But on the other hand, visitors should respect that culture by behaving well.
If I see how some tourists chase a Meiko like a Paparazzi, just to get a photo for their instragram, that is of course a complete No Go.
And John, thank you for your good work.
I really enjoy each single video of your channel.
I would stay away from the AI thumbnails because I usually skip channels for that reason BUT if the algorithm proves me wrong then ganbatte…regardless will continue supporting your channel because you always have uncanny energy :)
Fake Geisha walking around for tourists is a terrible idea, it's further encouraging tourists and foreigners to view all of Japan as Disneyland theme park. Turning Kyoto into Disney fantasy land for the pleasure of TikTok IG hungry foreigners is a dumb idea.
It prevents people from bothering real geisha and Asian tourists dressing as Geisha are already being photographed like Geisha 😂 maybe you’re right, let them take the weight of the cameras 📷
to me it's like the Go-Karts, the idea that it's OK to think of the ENTIRE city that people live, work, raise their families in as a Theme Park that just exists for your amusement.
I think I’ll leave my Kyoto trip to the off season instead of this trip. I’m going to explore coastal towns and even Saitama over the coming weeks.
That's a good idea! I think Kyoto would appreciate it!
I can understand from Kyoto's point of view that they don't want to create maiko models because it will downplay the profession. However, with social media, there is little compromise with tourists that want to do it their way. Hopefully Kyoto can be more open minded with what tourists are seeking than by tradition only. As for transportation, something must change. They should consider trams or restrict cars to only the main streets. Express busses are good if they replace existing service, not adding to the traffic. Thanks John for the discussion.
Social media destroyed every tourist destination on the planet. It's not about the experience and taking a picture to remember it by. Everything has to be recorded in a certain way, at a certain angle, with a certain pose, at a certain place, and they have to do so many takes like it's a photoshoot. Now imagine this being done by half of the tourists. It's absolutely horsehsit. Doesn't matter what country you're in an what time of day it is. People with social media addiction destroy the experience for those that want to be present.
Tokyo going to go broke without tourists. The government needs tourists, but the locals have to deal with the tourists. That's a conundrum
We are in Niigata now , what are those places up here you mentioned?
We love going to the unknown places in Japan .
I’ll finally go to Japan during May, my first trip there. I’ll spend about six days in Tokyo, about three days in Osaka plus two day-trips to Kyoto. A couple more day trips to places I won’t divulge to keep my comment brief. I live in rural location all my life, so big cities will be novel to me, which ties in to what you said in this video about different things being exciting for different people when traveling.
Love your videos bro, keep posting them.
Thanks for posting this John. I was starting to get the anti-tourist feeling as well and you really helped to put things in perspective.
I've been in Japan in 2018, 2019 and 2023. Kyoto was ok but i would have rather skipped it altogether. Its just far too busy with far too many people. Kyoto does not have the excellent public transportation that Osaka and Tokyo have. You will notice that very clearly.
The local governments are always disappointing. Some bad decisions made in Tokyo as well. Harajuku station, Tsukiji, etc
Osaka will always be my city, I love that place.
I have never been to Japan and my Japanese is at around N5 level but I'd still love to live in Japan. I'd like to find a small quiet place to live. I've been looking at houses/akiya around Kyushu and will look around other areas. If I get to Japan, I MIGHT visit cities but that is not my preferred setting. I'm an introvert, so I like small quiet places. I love the history and culture of Japan. Always good seeing your videos, John. Take care.
Tourist should respect the culture of the country they visit. I visited a temple in Kyoto where fortunately there's a marriage ceremony going on. It attracted tourists to take pictures as the wedding is in very beautiful traditional clothes. It's okay to take pictures from far as long as you know the limit and not disturb the ceremony. But I did see a tourist took pictures right in front of their faces! Come on, how will you feel if somebody do that to you? It's suppose to be a sacred and private ceremony. It's so impolite. So yes, I can understand why they close the street to protect the geishas. Geisha is a profession you have to respect, not an icon like in Disneyland which their reason is for you to take pictures with them. Their citizens safety and comfort should be number 1. And no, I don't agree with your solution. It will loose the meaning. Kyoto is just to crowded now. That's why the citizens feel disturb by tourists. It's understandable. I love Kyoto, been there 2 times and still want to go there again. But if it's too crowded, I might think again. Maybe the government should promote more cities so tourists can be divided. Japan has many beautiful cities not known to many tourists.
we are going there in 5 days time...hope everything will be okay for my family in Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka, hope all will be good including South Korea.
Tourists behave badly everywhere. Most tourists are not disrespectful. Some just have this desperate need to do it all and see it all in a short amount of time and get the photos to prove it. Japan has so much to do and see, it can get overwhelming and therefore the experiences are just whisking away from one beautiful place to another (usually hyped up by influencers/youtubers/travel shows). I think theatre can be a good bridge for this, dinner and a cultural show, street shows.. Anything to help people see/experience more in a shorter amount of time in an authentic way. People hate things that feel fake or like a tourist trap. So maybe hyping up multiple other destinations that can be new must-sees for Japan can help alleviate the pressure on the golden route. Also, look at the tourist base coming through. Is there potential for them to come back multiple times to Japan, or is this just a one-off destination? I think looking at long term tourism should be considered. IE Show something from every prefecture that can help spread out the tourists, more compare and contrasting of regions, environments, things to do. And how to get to them (because let's be real, tourists are more likely to do something if they understand how to do it.)
I used 2 types of Kansai Regional JR passes. Very worth it, similar to JR pass just not for the whole Japan. It's a great alternative and made me look into other places I didn't consider going to before. I enjoyed Tottori and Okayama. Next trip, hoping to go around Kyushu or Kanazawa & Toyama.
I've no issue with Kyoto not allowing tourists in certain areas. Last time I went to Gion area some tourists were running after a Maiko. clearly didn't read up about being a tourist in Kyoto
About japanese ppl not smiling or laughing... last time I visited I was with my ex, he tried on my lip balm and left all his mustache full of it, pink and strawberry, I laughed so hard that a japanese man looked at us and laughed a lot as well. We looked at each other and laughed even more, at expenses of my ex xD it was an hilarious experience.
Japan is not anti-tourism, they are pro-respect and pro-consent. It doesn't matter where you go in the world, consent should always come before any actions. Don't touch anything that does not belong to you or anyone that is passing by on the street without permission. The Japanese have strict policies about taking pictures in certain areas or of any people, even in general. Geisha are no exception. They are still people who are trying to work and make a living. Their beautiful attire is part of their uniform, and while they may stand out as they walk by, they are on their way to do a job... they are not costumed characters in a theme park. It is disrespectful to stop them on the street, take pictures without asking, and expect them to cater to you/spend time on you when they have paying clients already waiting for their arrival.
Tourists can't interrupt the work of geisha or miko. They are on their way to work and can't be stopped and late. Being late is not acceptable. Some rude tourist brought this on. Geish and Maiko do not walk on the street for leisure.
Here’s my point on the matter. While I agree that cities like Kyoto, Osaka and any other city along the Golden Route (Kyoto mostly) implement measures to warn tourists about their behavior around the locals, as well as include measures to accommodate foreigners, I believe that we as tourists need to educate ourselves on what is and NOT okay to do. Tourists have a responsibility to behave and be considerate of the rules/laws of any country they visit.
when i booked in november from the uk i have booked kyoto and osaka but i dont like loads of crowds its only recently i am realising how touristy and crowded these places are, i wouldnt have booked them if i had known, so are there any places i can travel to nearby as i have accommodation booked now so cant change it and also ive purchased the hokiruko arch pass, so any places not too far away on the outskirts of osaka and kyoto i can travel to for day trips, i think i will avoid kyoto and osaka main places, i am also going to kanazawa, aomori and hakodate as wel
everytime i go to Japan, Kyoto is my first stop, it feels for me a place were i come home. From Kyoto you can go everywere you like. For exemple a hike in the Japanese Alps, or a vistit to nara,...
The one concern I have with the fake geisha idea is that it would justify the act of chasing around geisha and taking pictures of them, and end up not stopping the disturbance to real geisha.
Maybe the locals should watch smiley time videos. She is always smiling.
Japan is anti-clueless tourists. Lol. I like the idea of hiring people to dress in traditional clothes and have them be in a section of town, where tourists are welcome to take photos. It is an opportunity to create a new job, and tourists get what they want. Win-win! Tourists need to know the boundaries of the countries that they visit. Take your shoes off before going in a house, don't stand when you are eating, etc. Know the boundaries and don't be ignorant. Great discussion and perspective, John. Always a pleasure to hear your point of view. You have to assimilate during your stay... assimilation isn't futile. lol.
The last time i visited Japan is over 10 years ago. I love Japan. But watching some of the RUclips video's about Japan shows a lot of overcrowding. BTW I find Japan is not anti-tourism but also not pro-foreign tourism. Which is fine, Japan as a whole is not an attraction park. The only thing i missed is signs in English. If you walk around you miss a lot. And later on you find out that you passed by a worthwhile activity so but you missed because the information was not in English.. Keep up the good work.
It’s not tourist friendly bc they don’t speak English. It feels like you’re in a bubble bc you can’t freely communicate with the locals.
Kyoto should raise the taxes on tourists hotel rooms until the amount of tourists starts to go down
Well compared to average American food, Japanese 7-11 food is absolutely gourmet lol.
I plan on visiting Japan and am watching dozens of videos on politeness and manners and dos and don't and think a simple test is a good idea for tourism visa
Are Japanese businesses honestly complaining about too many tourists? Too many people spending money? Really? The government complaining about more tax revenue? Really?
One year ago, you said that Kyoto is gonna be bankrupt because there are no more tourist now you’re saying they don’t want tourist they should make up their mind
It’s almost like there’s a happy medium and that it doesn’t have to be one extreme or the other. Yes, they need tourists. And yes, there is ALSO a thing as “too many” tourists.
The ghost was a ninja. 😂
I watched WW II documentary on the pacific threatre, which made me wonder since you did the hiroshima story, would you do a follow up on Nagasaki?
A bit of anti tourist sentiment is probably a good reminder for tourists to respect the culture and not think themselves as kings.
Kyoto is not the only place that is struggling with over tourism in the world. Their solution to the problem is telling us something about Japan that is uncomfortable to talk about. But I think it’s important to hold Japan to the same standard as the rest of the world, and not make excuses for them.
Mmm whenever I travel I prefer to go to places AWAY from tourist areas BECAUSE of the crowds. I am aware that some tourists can be out of line and disregard the customs of the countries.
That's the best thing to do! I agree 100%. I'll be going to Japan soon and do my best to avoid touristy areas unless I absolutely have to do something there. I also avoid restaurants and establishments with signs that say English Menu and cater towards tourists.
I try avoiding tourist traps. As an introvert, I like quieter places with fewer people.
come to Hikone see the Samurai, this is my heaven Hikone is dakine!
Many tourists from other cultures just don't know how to properly behave in Japan.
And, frankly spoken, only a few prepare for their visit and carefully read the 'Dos and Don'ts' before arriving in Japan.
And to do something wrong is very easy in Japanese culture.
I visited Japan on a regular basis from 1982 - 2015, and even though I only speak a very little Japanese, I have learned to understand Japanese people none-verbally.
If you are familiar with this, you know exactly if you did something not so appropiate in Japan 😊
The way to keep most Foreigners out in the most gentle way: put a fence up in the areas you want people to avoid. We don’t even question it at that point. We instinctively say to ourselves: well, we can’t go in there. America is not a rule based society and we are not pressured to conform as Japan is. When you make a rule a law, we usually will listen. It’s unfortunate we have to resort to this however. I love Japan and all it offers.
Dont even like Kyoto BECAUSE its so awfully crowded. Shoulder to shoulder sometimes.
Top favorite places I went to over my 33 day trip to Japan
1. Nagasaki
2. shimonoseki
3. Nagoya. Do your research, it has ALOT to offer. More than meets the eye, plus you can take a day trip to takayama from there which is way better than Kyoto
4. Matsushima, my God how gorgeous on a sunny day! If you love oysters and sushi, GO THERE. Take the boat cruise around the islands too!
5. This is also a toss between himeji and noboribetsu. What amazing places they were! I went into the non tourist areas of Himeji and it was an amazing experience. Noboribetsu is hands down the best onsen town Ive ever been to, even Kinosaki and Ginzan
6. Kobe
7. Beppu
8. Sapporo
9. Niigata
10. Hiraizumi (mini kyoto but on bikes!)
People need to just simply do some research and act appropriately. You’re not in your home country so things are different.
And news of tourists defacing ancient structures doesn't help.
The world changed when they made a phone you could carry in your hand. And you could take photos and make videos.
There was a daruma giant gachapon game at a department store in Shinjuku that I wanted to try.
When it was my turn, the staff said no. "For Japanese Only". I was confused and slightly embarrassed as to why. I hope it was because it involved something where you needed to be a Japanese resident. But I have a feeling that it was more than that. Perhaps it was a language thing and that they didn't want to deal with non-japanese speakers.
About that part about maybe being a Karen in the U.S. gets you anywhere? Heh, even that doesn’t work here.
And like you said also John, it applies to everywhere in the world you go. Nobody likes a rude person with a cocky attitude.
And I do agree also that if Japanese officials want to have solutions for the over tourism problem, they need to also realize that they have to understand the tourist’s point of view as well. And that includes also understanding that just because one bad example of a tourist can stand out, it doesn’t mean that the rest of the crowd will follow that person.
Personally, I’m of the mind that it’s important to follow a simple yet effective rule I was taught years ago: treat people the way you yourself want to be treated.
What if they had a Worlds Fair and nobody came? Could happen next year. I had been thinking about it - and now I’m not.
I just came back from Japan and Kyoto on March 15th from a 2 week trip. I never felt excluded or ostracized in any way as a tourist. The Japanese people I meant were either friendly and or minding their own business. Then again when I was there I minded my own business and that seemed to work out fine for me. I wasn’t being the annoying or obnoxious and intrusive tourist that I’ve seen in other videos of other tourists intruding on other people’s personal space.
It is a small % that always makes waves and often WE all only see it in the news. Japanese locals too and everything needs to be put in perspective here. It’s not as bad as reported, but it’s definitely an issue.