In Japan, drinking alcohol in public spaces is permitted, which is a unique aspect of Japanese culture. You’ll often see people enjoying their beverages in parks during cherry blossom season or at summer fireworks festivals. But is it really safe to drink outside in Japan? Let’s dive into why outdoor drinking is allowed and how safety is maintained.

Why is Drinking Outside Allowed in Japan? 🌸

Japan is one of the few countries where public drinking is legally permitted.

Drinking outdoors has long been a part of Japanese cultural celebrations. During the spring cherry blossom (hanami) season and summer festivals, it’s common to see groups of friends and families enjoying drinks together in parks and public spaces. These traditions have been passed down through generations, making public drinking a well-accepted practice.

In addition that, Japanese people generally adhere to a strong sense of public etiquette. Cleaning up after oneself, not disturbing others, and respecting public spaces are ingrained behaviors. This collective mindfulness helps maintain order and cleanliness, allowing for responsible public drinking without causing disturbances.

Is it Safe to Drink Outside in Japan? 🕵️‍♂️

Given the allowance for public drinking, one might wonder about its safety.

Japan is renowned for its low crime rate. The general sense of security allows people to comfortably enjoy outdoor activities, including drinking, even late into the night. The low incidence of crime provides a safe environment for public gatherings involving alcohol.

Example: Cherry Blossom Season

During cherry blossom season, parks across Japan are filled with people enjoying picnics and drinks. Despite the large crowds, incidents are rare due to the presence of police patrols and local volunteers who ensure safety and order.

Many public areas in Japan are equipped with surveillance cameras, which deter potential misbehavior and ensure safety. Additionally, the police regularly patrol these areas, providing a visible security presence and quickly addressing any issues that may arise.

Points to Keep in Mind for Safe Outdoor Drinking !

While it is generally safe to drink outside in Japan, there are a few guidelines to follow to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone. It’s important to drink responsibly. Overconsumption of alcohol can impair judgment and lead to unsafe situations. Enjoying alcohol in moderation ensures that you and those around you have a good time.

When drinking in public, always be mindful of others. Avoid being too loud, and never leave litter behind. Respect for others in shared spaces is key to maintaining the harmony that allows public drinking to continue.

Always dispose of your trash properly. Japan has a strict recycling system, and it’s important to follow the guidelines. If no trash bins are available, take your waste with you to dispose of it correctly later.

Where Is Public Drinking Banned?

Restrictions vary depending on the city or prefecture. For instance, in parts of Tokyo like Shibuya during certain festivals or holidays, outdoor drinking is not allowed. In some parks or near public facilities, signs may indicate whether drinking is prohibited. It’s important to pay attention to posted signs or consult with local authorities to avoid any violations.

Respect the Rules

If you’re visiting Japan, make sure to check local rules before cracking open a drink outdoors. While enjoying a beer during cherry blossom season or at an outdoor festival is a beloved tradition, respecting these new regulations is essential. In places where drinking is still allowed, be mindful of your surroundings and dispose of your trash properly.

By staying aware of local guidelines, you can enjoy Japan’s unique drinking culture responsibly and without any issues.

Let’s go to Izakaya and a Japanese Snack-bar with a fun guide!!

You can enjoy many kinds of drink at Izakaya and drinking culture Snack Bars, beloved by many　but you can’t enter without a guide. You can enjoy communication with the owner and other customers, as well as singing karaoke, allowing for a relaxing time.

Most snack bars have a policy of refusing entry to foreigners. However, with a tour, you’ll have a guide, so you can enter with peace of mind.

When visiting Japan, don’t just check off the tourist spots –
dive into local experiences for an unforgettable journey!

Once you experience it, you’ll be captivated too! The charm of snack bars.

New encounters with people! The camaraderie of singing at a snack bar! Conversations with the mama-san!