Japan is famous for its safety, order, and respect for rules. For many foreigners, this is one of the country’s greatest appeals, but it can also lead to a few surprises. From unusual bicycle regulations to unexpected hotel check-in requirements, Japan has laws and social rules that may feel strange if you’re visiting for the first time.
While some of these rules are strictly enforced by law, others are more about cultural expectations that are just as important to follow. Knowing them in advance can help you avoid awkward situations (or even fines!) and enjoy your time in Japan stress-free.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the weirdest and most surprising rules for foreigners in Japan, including a final section with three extra quirky rules you may not believe existed.
1. Weird Rules in Japan : Carrying Your Residence Card at All Times
If you’re living in Japan as a foreigner, you are legally required to carry your residence card (zairyū card) with you at all times. This is not just a recommendation, it’s part of the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act.
Police officers or immigration officials have the right to ask you to show your card at any moment. If you fail to present it, you could face fines or, in rare cases, detention. Even though it may feel inconvenient, this rule is taken seriously in Japan.
Tip for travelers: If you’re only visiting Japan short-term, you don’t need a residence card, but some hotels may ask to see your passport as part of the check-in process.
2. Weird Rules in Japan : Smoking in the Wrong Places
In Japan, smoking is heavily regulated, not just indoors, but even on the streets. Many cities, including Tokyo and Chiba, have designated “no smoking zones” where lighting up a cigarette is strictly prohibited. If you’re caught smoking in these areas, you can be fined on the spot.
Instead, look for designated smoking areas marked with clear signs. These can be found near train stations, convenience stores, or inside certain restaurants and bars.
Tip for travelers: Don’t assume you can smoke while walking down the street. Always check for smoking zones, and if in doubt, ask a local or look for signs.
3. Weird Rules in Japan : Bicycle Rules (Yes, They’re Strict!)
Riding a bicycle in Japan may look casual and easy, but the laws are surprisingly strict. What feels normal in other countries can actually get you fined here.
- No umbrellas while riding – Even if it’s raining, you’re not allowed to hold an umbrella while cycling. Instead, locals use rain ponchos.
- Lights at night – Bicycles must have a front light turned on after dark. Riding without one can result in fines.
- No phone or headphones – Using your smartphone or listening to music while cycling is strictly prohibited, as it’s considered dangerous.
- Alcohol and cycling – Riding under the influence of alcohol is illegal and taken very seriously in Japan.
Police frequently stop cyclists to check for lights or proper parking, so it’s a good idea to follow the rules carefully.
Tip for travelers: If you rent a bicycle in Japan, make sure it comes with a light and a lock. Cycling is a fantastic way to explore, but only if you respect the regulations.
4. Weird Rules in Japan : Tattoos and Hot Springs (Onsen Rules)
In Japan, tattoos have long been associated with the yakuza (organized crime groups). Because of this, many traditional hot springs (onsen) and public baths (sentō) still prohibit guests with visible tattoos from entering.
For foreigners, this can be surprising, especially as tattoos are common in many countries today. While the stigma is slowly changing, the rule still applies in many smaller or more traditional establishments.
What you can do:
- Look for tattoo-friendly onsen—many modern facilities and big chains now welcome guests with tattoos.
- Use cover-up stickers or bandages if your tattoo is small.
- Check the onsen’s website or call ahead to avoid being turned away.
Tip for travelers: Don’t take it personally, it’s more about tradition than discrimination. The good news is that tattoo-friendly options are increasing every year, especially in tourist areas.
5. Weird Rules in Japan : Drinking Alcohol in Public (Surprisingly Legal!)
Unlike many countries where open-container laws are strict, Japan allows drinking alcohol in public. You’ll often see people enjoying a can of beer or a highball in parks, at the beach, or even on the street, especially during seasonal events like hanami (cherry blossom viewing) or summer festivals.
However, this freedom comes with an unspoken rule: don’t cause a disturbance. Being loud, messy, or overly drunk in public is frowned upon, and the police may step in if your behavior becomes disruptive.
But there are exceptions. In 2023, Shibuya Ward introduced a ban on drinking in public during Halloween and New Year’s Eve celebrations. Since last October this rule have been extended to all year round. The goal was to reduce dangerous overcrowding and rowdy behavior, which had become a growing problem in the district.
Tip for travelers:
- Convenience stores (konbini) sell alcohol 24/7, making it easy to grab a drink on the go.
- Drinking is legal on trains, including the shinkansen, but keep it quiet and clean.
So yes, you can legally sip sake under the cherry blossoms. Just remember to drink responsibly and respect the atmosphere around you.
6. Weird Rules in Japan : Illegal Drugs = Zero Tolerance
Japan has some of the strictest drug laws in the world. Even a tiny amount of illegal substances—like cannabis—can result in arrest, heavy fines, deportation, and a lifetime ban from re-entering the country.
This zero-tolerance policy has shocked many foreigners, especially since cannabis is legal or decriminalized in several other countries. In Japan, however, there is no distinction between “soft” and “hard” drugs—both are treated as serious crimes.
It’s not just recreational drugs, either. Certain over-the-counter medications that are common abroad, such as inhalers containing pseudoephedrine or painkillers with codeine, are banned in Japan. Bringing them into the country can cause major legal issues at customs.
Tip for travelers:
- Always check Japan’s banned medication list before flying.
- Do not attempt to bring in cannabis, CBD oil with THC, or any other restricted substance—even in small quantities.
When it comes to drugs, Japan’s stance is simple: don’t risk it.
7. Weird Rules in Japan : Quiet on Public Transport
One of the first things foreigners notice in Japan is how quiet trains and buses are. Unlike in many countries, talking loudly—or worse, talking on your phone—is considered very rude on public transportation.
Some shinkansen (bullet trains) even have designated “quiet cars”, where passengers are expected to avoid conversations altogether. Announcements often remind riders to switch phones to “manner mode” (silent mode) and to avoid making calls.
Tip for travelers:
- Keep your voice low if chatting with a friend.
- If you need to take a call, step off the train at the next station platform.
- Respect priority seating areas by keeping them available for those in need.
For solo travelers, this can actually be a blessing, Japan’s trains offer a rare chance to relax in peace while moving between destinations.
8. Weird Rules in Japan : Hotel Check-In Rules for Foreigners
When checking into a hotel in Japan, foreigners may be surprised to find that they are asked to show their passport, even if they live in Japan. This isn’t just a hotel policy, it’s part of Japanese law.
Hotels are legally required to record the nationality and passport number of all foreign guests who do not have a Japanese address. If you’re a resident, your residence card (zairyū card) may be requested instead.
Some smaller inns or guesthouses may not be familiar with the exact rules and could ask all non-Japanese-looking guests for ID. While it can feel awkward, know that the hotel is just following government regulations.
Tip for travelers:
- Always carry your passport if you’re visiting Japan short-term.
- If you’re a resident, be prepared to show your residence card.
- Don’t take it personally, it’s standard procedure, not discrimination.
9. Weird Rules in Japan : Trash and Recycling Rules
For many foreigners, Japan’s garbage system is one of the most confusing parts of daily life. Unlike in many countries where you can toss everything into a single bin, Japan requires strict separation of trash.
Depending on the city or ward you’re in, you may need to sort your waste into categories like:
- Burnable (moeru gomi) – kitchen waste, paper, etc.
- Non-burnable (moenai gomi) – ceramics, small electronics, batteries.
- Plastics (purasuchikku) – packaging with the recycling logo.
- Cans, bottles, and PET bottles – usually collected separately.
Collection days also differ, taking out the wrong trash on the wrong day can lead to your bag being left behind with a warning note, or even fines in stricter areas.
Tip for travelers:
- Don’t expect public trash bins everywhere, most were removed for security reasons. Carry your trash with you until you find a bin.
- If you’re staying in an Airbnb or long-term rental, ask your host for the local garbage guide (gomi guide).
Following these rules might feel overwhelming at first, but it reflects Japan’s culture of cleanliness and respect for shared spaces.
Bonus: Other Weird Rules in Japan
Beyond the official laws and regulations, there are a few quirky rules that might surprise foreigners even more:
10. No Dancing After Midnight (Until 2015)
For decades, Japan had a law banning dancing in clubs after midnight unless the venue had a special license. This was originally introduced in the 1940s to curb “immorality.” While the law was abolished in 2015, some clubs still keep restrictions in place.
11. Jaywalking is Illegal
Even if the street is completely empty, crossing outside of a pedestrian crosswalk is against the law in Japan. Police sometimes stop jaywalkers, especially in busy areas, and fines can apply.
12. Public Displays of Affection (PDA)
Kissing, hugging, or showing affection in public isn’t illegal, but it’s often considered inappropriate in Japan. Most couples avoid PDA, especially in trains or other crowded spaces, and foreigners may get surprised looks if they don’t follow this cultural norm.
Final Thoughts
Japan is one of the safest and most organized countries in the world, but that comes with a unique set of rules and cultural expectations. From carrying your residence card at all times to avoiding tattoos at traditional hot springs, many of these laws may seem unusual at first glance. Others, like the strict cycling regulations or recycling rules, highlight the country’s commitment to safety, order, and respect for community spaces.
For foreigners, the key is to stay informed and adapt. By knowing these rules in advance, you’ll avoid awkward situations, fines, or misunderstandings, and gain a deeper appreciation for how Japanese society works.
So whether you’re traveling or living in Japan, keep these “weird” rules in mind and enjoy your time without surprises.
Love what you are reading? Come to Japan on an exciting study-abroad journey!
If you love Japanese culture, why not study Japanese in Japan? Coto is excited to announce that we’re offering a matching service to help students find a Japanese language school that provides student visas.
So if you want to come to Japan, let us help you! We provide free support, no agent fee! Our goal is to help make your dream of moving to Japan come true. Find a language school today and contact us!
FAQ
Do I really have to carry my residence card at all times in Japan?
Yes. Foreign residents are legally required to carry their residence card (zairyū card) at all times. Police can ask to see it, and failing to present it may result in fines.
Is it true that some onsen don’t allow tattoos?
Yes. Many traditional hot springs still ban tattoos because of their association with organized crime. However, tattoo-friendly onsen are becoming more common.
Can I drink alcohol in public in Japan?
Generally, yes, Japan allows drinking in public. But Shibuya introduced a ban during Halloween and New Year celebrations due to crowd control issues.
Is jaywalking illegal in Japan?
Yes. Even if the street is empty, crossing outside the crosswalk is against the law and can lead to fines.
Why is recycling so complicated in Japan?
Japan enforces strict recycling rules to maintain cleanliness and environmental responsibility. Trash must be separated into categories like burnable, non-burnable, plastics, and bottles.
Are drugs really that strict in Japan?
Absolutely. Japan has a zero-tolerance policy for drugs, including cannabis. Even small amounts can lead to arrest, deportation, or a lifetime ban.
