Public Space
In Japan, public spaces are considered shared spaces that should be respected by everyone. This is reflected in the Japanese concept of minna no kuni, which translates to "the land of all people." As such, there are a number of etiquette rules that Japanese people follow when using public spaces.[1]
Cleanliness and Order
In Japan, cleanliness and order are highly valued. This is reflected in the way that public spaces are maintained. Streets are clean and well-maintained, and trash cans are ubiquitous. In fact, Japan is one of the cleanest countries in the world.
This emphasis on cleanliness and order is rooted in Japanese culture. From a young age, Japanese children are taught the importance of keeping their surroundings clean. They are taught that it is their responsibility to take care of the environment and to make their community a better place.
Here are some specific examples of how cleanliness and order are expected in public spaces in Japan:
- After eating at a restaurant, it is customary to stack your dishes and utensils neatly on your tray. This helps the staff to clean up quickly and efficiently.
- After a day at the park, it is expected that you will pick up any trash that you may have generated. This helps to keep the park clean and enjoyable for everyone.
- When checking out of a hotel room, it is recommended to ensure all trash is either inside the designated garbage bin or neatly placed beside it if the bin is full.
- When you leave a train station, it is polite to take a moment to tidy up any trash that you may have seen. This helps to keep the station clean and welcoming for visitors.
Respect for Others
In addition to cleanliness and order, it is also important to be respectful of others when using public spaces in Japan. This means being mindful of your noise levels, avoiding blocking walkways, and being considerate of others' personal space.
Here are some specific examples of how respect for others is expected in public spaces in Japan:
- It is considered rude to talk loudly in public. This can be disruptive to others who are trying to enjoy their surroundings.
- It is also important to be aware of your surroundings and avoid bumping into others. When walking in a crowded area, it is polite to use your shoulders to indicate that you are coming through.
And when sitting on a bench or other public space, it is polite to make room for others if they need to sit down. This can be done by scooting over or standing up.
Additional Information
In addition to the rules mentioned above, there are a few other things to keep in mind when using public spaces in Japan. For example, it is generally considered polite to remove your shoes before entering a temple or shrine. This is a sign of respect for the sacred space.
It is also important to be aware of the smoking laws in Japan. Smoking is prohibited in many public spaces, including restaurants, parks, and train stations. If you do smoke, it is polite to be considerate of others and smoke in designated areas.
