In a recent report by Japanese news channel ANNnewsCH, “over tourism” in Japan, particularly in the Kanagawa region is causing a hindrance to daily life for the locals. Foreigners unfamiliar with the local etiquette have Kanagawa natives complaining, such as throwing trash on the floor.
Being the fall season, there is a big peak in foreign tourists. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, tourists in the Kamakura area consisted of 30% foreigners. In 2023 it has risen to half.
While the rise of people coming in and out of the shopping district, Komachi Street, is a pleasant surprise, locals are having a second thought due to “over tourism.”
While not a crime, the biggest hurdle Japanese face in “over tourism” are foreign tourists not respecting local Japanese etiquette. This includes:
- Eating while walking on the street
- Touching souvenirs after eating with filthy hands
- Leaving trash on the ground
This is not to say that all foreign tourists have disrespected Japan. Some foreigners have studied the culture before their trip.
