LAW 101: Important Laws in Japan That Internationals and Expats Need to Know | Guidable - Your Guide to a Sustainable, Wellbeing-centred Life in Japan
LAW 101: Important Laws in Japan That Foreigners and Expats Need to Know

LAW 101: Important Laws in Japan That Internationals and Expats Need to Know

By Guidable Writers Jul 19, 2017

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Whenever we go to any kind of place, either local or travelling abroad, we sure know that each place has rules that everyone must follow. Whichever country we came from or whichever place we go to, I’m sure there are general rules that must be obeyed and followed. If you’re planning to travel and live in Japan eventually, please be reminded that there are some set of rules that must be followed and observed.LAW 101: Important Laws in Japan That Foreigners and Expats Need to Know

Passport!

Wherever you go, you should always have your passport with you. This is mainly for identification purposes. As a tourist, I’m sure you will be too eager to explore the place and in order to avoid delays in your trips make sure to always have your passport in your bag. This does not apply only in Japan but in any countries around the world.

LAW 101: Important Laws in Japan That Foreigners and Expats Need to Know

No Jaywalking

Here in Japan, there are streets and roads that pedestrians are not permitted to cross. There are designated pedestrian lanes that everyone must use. To avoid being caught by crossing the street or road that any pedestrians are not permitted to do so, proper observance of “No Jaywalking” regulation should be followed. If you’re not sure if the street you will be crossing to is a “No Jaywalking” zone regulated, you can always ask any police officer in kobans that are assigned in the area. With that, you can be sure and safe to cross the street. You can identify them easily as japanese police officers wear blue uniforms.

No Smoking in Public Places

Cigarettes in Japan are cheaper than any other tobacco selling countries, but don’t be glad about this news. Smoking in any outdoors or public places here is really prohibited. You should be able to locate the proper designated areas where you can enjoy smoking. Please keep this in mind to avoid paying fines. But don’t worry, if you’re planning to go for a night out with friends there are some restaurants and bars that offers designated places where smokers can go to light a stick of cigarette.

LAW 101: Important Laws in Japan That Foreigners and Expats Need to Know

No Littering

Japan is a beautiful place to go to and explore. You can see how organized and proper not only the locals but the whole country as well. Therefore, proper disposal of your garbage must be observed. If you happen to unwrap a candy, chew a gum, have an empty water bottle, soda cans and could not locate any trash bins to throw them, you can keep it for a while until you see one to throw it to, don’t just throw it anywhere and anytime you want to. Here in Japan, flammable and nonflammable garbages are segregated because they are very strict when it comes to recycling.

ADDITIONAL RULES THAT MUST BE OBSERVED:

LAW 101: Important Laws in Japan That Foreigners and Expats Need to Know

No Tipping

You must be generous enough to pay back the good service rendered to you by the staff of the restaurant you enjoyed eating at but tipping them is a no-no. They may take it as an insult, so avoid giving tips to any of them. A simple gesture of saying thank you or “Arigatou gozaimasu” will be enough to let them know that you appreciate their food and service.

LAW 101: Important Laws in Japan That Foreigners and Expats Need to Know

Silence on Public Transport

If you’re new to Japan, I’m pretty sure that you must be excited to experience a ride in the bullet train, that’s really fine. But proper observance of silence and respect to fellow passengers must be done while enjoying the ride. Keeping your phone in silent mode is a given rule and talking on the phone is strictly prohibited while you are riding the train.

LAW 101: Important Laws in Japan That Foreigners and Expats Need to KnowDiscipline in Falling In Line

You might get stuck in the middle of rush hour and travelling back to where your hotel is will not be that fast as you think. Large volume of crowd are expected in public transportation areas, especially if you’re travelling using the train. You should be able to discipline yourself to fall in line and be patient to wait for your turn to embark on the train.

There you go. I hope that this will be helpful to you when you plan to travel in Japan. Keep in mind that obeying rules and regulations to any places you go will not give you any harm. So be a law-abiding tourist.

Enjoy your trip!

 

RCDAYANG / PH

Wanna know more about Japanese authentic food? Check it out!