This week’s Whine Wednesday is about misbehaving foreign tourists, and a prime example was once again visible yesterday when a few foreign backpackers took the train from Osaka-Kansai Airport to Namba, disturbing other passengers.
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It’s well known that train etiquette is important in Japan and that also goes for other forms of public transport such as the bus and public spaces in general.
Being considerate is highly valued in Japan, but the first thing that these guys did after getting off the plane and out of the airport was using the train to exercise on the handrails:
Not sure what shelter these guys escaped from, but here is some news for you: The trains aren’t a gym. Go exercise in the park or at your hotel.
Unfortunately, misbehaving foreign tourists have become a common thing all over Japan and Korea. This includes people who pull down and break off cherry tree branches and destroy the Sakura blossoms:
Whine Wednesdays: Inconsiderate Foreign Travelers During Japan’s Sakura Season
Then there is this new breed of nuisance streamers, people who livestream their misbehavior for the world to see, and many have now gotten in trouble with the law ranging from police interactions to court appearances and prison sentences.
I wouldn’t expect certain people to behave properly back home either. Not sure why it’s necessary to bum and goof around on a packed train.
Conclusion
This Sakura season in Japan will definitely test my patience again, given the large number of foreign visitors who simply can’t seem to behave themselves.
Yesterday’s ride from KIX to Osaka City was just the harbinger for things to come and I haven’t even gone to see any cherry blossoms yet. Let’s see what other adventures await.
To say that everything is calm, easy, and smooth in Japan would be an exaggeration, but certain behavior is inappropriate no matter where you are, Japan or back home. Keep yourself together, it’s embarrassing!
