As a traveler, one of the most important things to remember when on a trip is to always follow the domestic laws and customs of the foreign land being visited. Violation of the law can result in a variety of consequences such as: fines, deportation, detention, and even corporal punishment, which are all guaranteed ways to end an otherwise enjoyable R&R. If a certain behavior is allowed in your home country, that does not mean it is allowed everywhere else. Remember that all countries are free to impose their own rules applicable in their territory, and generally, foreigners are not exempt from following these same rules. More often, facing charges in a foreign land is harder as you have little knowledge how their justice system works. Also, not all countries follow the same standard of due process, so it is advisable to always err on the side of caution when abroad. Being mindful of these facts and strictly observing local laws will save you from stress, hassle, and unnecessary expenses.

Japan is widely known for its polite, law-abiding citizens. Like its inhabitants, the Japanese government expects the same level of respect for its laws from foreigners, no exceptions. If you’re heading to Japan soon, below are 6 essential rules/laws that you need to remember:

1. Always Carry Your Passports

As a safety measure, Japanese law allows its police to stop and inspect foreigners for proper identification. This said, foreign travelers must carry their passports at all times. 

Do not worry about getting your passport stolen while outside, as Japan is deemed one of the safest countries in the world.

Being caught without a passport may get you arrested on the spot. Yikes.

 2. No Littering

Of all the countries I have visited in East and Southeast Asia, Japan is probably the cleanest. From streets to subways, from parks to alleyways, it is rare to find trash just lying around as the Japanese people are very disciplined when it comes to neatness. In certain areas, you can get fined for as much as 30,000 yen! Interestingly, you may find few trash bins in the streets. With the help of signs, this seemingly counter-intuitive strategy works by encouraging people to keep their trash in their pockets until they get home or see a trash bin along the way. So please do as the locals do, no littering. Put that mochi wrapper in your bag or pocket if you can’t find a nearby trash bin in the meantime.

Also the Japanese, take trash-sorting very seriously. If you’re renting an Airbnb and need to take out your own trash, please put some effort in sorting your trash. Most trash bins have signs to help you out.

3. No Jaywalking

Similarly, the Japanese strictly follow their traffic rules. Traffic signs are everywhere. Jaywalking seems to be a minor offense, however, Japanese drivers will not hesitate to honk you or call you out if you cross the street illegally or not within the allotted time. Rightly so, because even in the world’s busiest crossing, the Shibuya Crossing, everyone stays within the bounds of the crosswalk and crosses only in accordance with the traffic lights. If caught jaywalking in front of the police, you may be fined, warned, or asked to show your passport.

4. No Smoking in Public Places

Smoking in Japan is heavily regulated. Outdoors, people can only smoke in certain designated areas, otherwise a fine as high as 50,000 yen can be imposed on violators. That is why you can rarely spot people smoking freely in the streets.

Do note, however that smoking inside most bars and restaurants as well as inside private business establishments are legal.

Note that legal age for smoking is 20 years old.

 

5. Drinking Regulations

Contrary to smoking, drinking outdoors is legal in Japan, even though it may be frowned upon by some. Despite this, during sakura season, it is common to see groups of people in parks having a picnic with a beer can on hand. Also, beer and  sake can be seen available in vending machines, a testament to their cultural acceptability as an outdoor drink.

Like in smoking, drinking age is 20 years old.

 6. Restrictions on Medications

Foreigners need to be especially wary of medicines that they intend to bring into Japan. The Japanese government is strict in enforcing their laws against stimulants as certain medications for allergies, pain killers, cold and flu are banned in the country. Over-the-counter medicines in some countries are strictly prohibited in Japan, and possession of these controlled drugs may result in immediate deportation. If you plan to bring medicines for personal use into Japan, please inquire first with the Japanese Embassy in your country/region regarding the list of medicines allowed/prohibited to brought into the country.

Japan is likewise strict in its crusade against illegal substances. Marijuana remains illegal in Japan and being caught possessing, trafficking, and/or using the same may lead to immediate arrest. Apart from hefty fines, individuals caught and tried for violating their drug laws may be jailed for several years with labor. Police are also empowered to do random drug testing in bars.

Keeping these six laws in mind will help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip in the Land of the Rising Sun. Happy travels!