— Unusual Japanese Laws, Etiquette, and Local Customs —
Japan has many unique rules that may surprise not only foreigners but also Japanese people themselves. From official laws to unwritten customs, these regulations can seem strange to outsiders. In this article, we introduce ten of Japan’s most bizarre rules that you might not have known about!
1. Playing the Piano at Night Can Be Illegal?
Many cities in Japan have strict noise regulations regarding musical instruments, making late-night piano playing potentially illegal.
✅ Most local governments prohibit playing musical instruments after 10 PM.
✅ Some apartment buildings have rules banning instruments altogether.
✅ Without soundproofing, complaints from neighbors are common.
2. You Can’t Own a Car Without a Parking Space
In Japan, you cannot purchase a car unless you have proof of a parking space.
✅ Parking spaces in cities can be extremely expensive (up to several hundred dollars per month).
✅ While some rural areas have exceptions, most people must prove they have parking before buying a car.
✅ Illegal parking is strictly punished.
3. Women Are Forbidden from Entering a Sumo Ring
In traditional sumo wrestling, women are not allowed to step into the ring due to ancient customs.
✅ This rule is based on Shinto beliefs that the sumo ring is sacred.
✅ There have been controversies when female officials tried to enter the ring.
✅ Many people see this rule as outdated and discriminatory.
4. Vending Machines Can Operate 24/7, But Convenience Stores May Be Restricted
While vending machines can run 24 hours a day, some areas have laws restricting the operating hours of convenience stores.
✅ Vending machines are considered quieter and more energy-efficient.
✅ Some local governments have tried to reduce late-night store operations.
✅ Concerns about crime and energy consumption have fueled restrictions.
5. Free Water in Restaurants – A Rare Global Phenomenon
In Japan, it’s normal for restaurants to serve free water or tea, a practice that’s uncommon in many other countries.
✅ In Europe and some other regions, even tap water at restaurants often costs money.
✅ Japan has a strong culture of providing free drinks with meals.
✅ Some family restaurants now offer self-service drink stations.
6. Playing Ball in Some Parks is Prohibited?
Many public parks in urban Japan have strict bans on ball games.
✅ The rule exists to prevent noise and accidents.
✅ Critics argue that parks should be spaces for children to play freely.
✅ Some cities are now creating designated areas for ball games.
7. Smiling in Passport Photos is Not Allowed
Japan has strict rules requiring passport photos to have neutral facial expressions.
✅ This is to ensure easier identification of individuals.
✅ A slight smile may be accepted, but big smiles are usually rejected.
✅ Many other countries, such as the U.S., allow smiling in passport photos.
8. Talking on the Phone in Trains is Bad Manners
Unlike in many other countries, talking on the phone while riding a train is considered rude in Japan.
✅ The rule is based on the cultural value of not disturbing others.
✅ Some train areas require passengers to turn off their phones completely.
✅ Foreigners often find this rule surprising, as phone conversations are normal in many countries.
9. Walking While Smoking is Not Technically Illegal?
Despite many “No Smoking While Walking” signs in Japan, this rule is not a national law.
✅ Most bans are based on local regulations rather than national law.
✅ Some cities impose fines, while others only give warnings.
✅ Public smoking areas are decreasing, making it harder for smokers.
10. Drinking Alcohol in Public is Allowed, But Smoking is Not?
In Japan, drinking alcohol outdoors is widely accepted, but smoking in public areas is heavily restricted.
✅ Drinking at cherry blossom festivals and public events is common.
✅ Meanwhile, many cities impose fines for smoking outside designated areas.
✅ Japan’s increasing health awareness has led to stricter smoking regulations.
Conclusion
Japan has a variety of rules that can seem unusual or surprising.
・ Some are official laws, while others are social customs or local regulations.
・ Many rules reflect Japan’s cultural values, such as consideration for others and public order.
・ As society evolves, some of these rules may change or be abolished in the future.
Which of these rules surprised you the most?