What Not to Wear in Japan as a Tourist
Imagine this: you’ve finally made it to Japan, ready to explore Tokyo’s neon lights, Kyoto’s temples, and Osaka’s street food. But before you step out of your hotel, you realize something—what if your outfit makes you stand out in the wrong way? In Japan, clothing isn’t just fashion; it’s a form of respect. Wearing the wrong thing can make locals uncomfortable, or worse, come across as disrespectful. So, what not to wear in Japan as a tourist? Let’s break it down.
Why Clothing Matters in Japan
Japan is a country that values harmony, modesty, and etiquette. While tourists are forgiven for small cultural slip-ups, your clothing is the first thing people notice about you. Dressing appropriately can help you blend in, show respect, and avoid awkward stares.
Unlike in some Western countries, Japan doesn’t really have a “do whatever you want” approach to fashion when it comes to public spaces. Certain outfits can give off signals you don’t intend to send.
What Not to Wear in Japan as a Tourist
1. Revealing Clothing
Short shorts, deep cleavage tops, and see-through fabrics might be normal at the beach or in Western nightlife, but in Japan, they can draw unwanted attention. Modesty is highly valued, especially in temples, shrines, and family-friendly areas.
Instead of tank tops or crop tops, go for simple, breathable T-shirts with Japanese-inspired designs. (Check our Japanese T-shirts collection for styles that blend in perfectly while staying comfortable.)
2. Shoes That Are Hard to Remove
In Japan, it’s common to remove your shoes when entering homes, temples, traditional restaurants, and even some fitting rooms. Wearing boots with complicated laces or sandals with socks can be inconvenient and even frustrating.
Better choice: slip-on sneakers or simple loafers. They save time and respect the cultural practice of leaving shoes at the door.
3. Loud or Flashy Prints
While Tokyo street fashion can be bold, tourists often overdo it with loud shirts, neon colors, or inappropriate slogans on their clothes. T-shirts with offensive or “funny” phrases in English may seem cool back home, but in Japan, they can come across as childish or even rude.
Pro tip: stick with simple, elegant patterns. A minimalist design from our Japanese T-shirts collection is a great example of style that’s trendy yet respectful in Japan.
4. Dirty or Worn-Out Clothing
Japan places a lot of importance on cleanliness and presentation. Even casual wear is expected to be neat. Torn jeans, stained shirts, or wrinkled outfits may give the impression that you don’t respect the environment you’re in.
This doesn’t mean you need to dress up formally, just make sure your clothes are clean and tidy.
5. Oversized Backpacks Indoors
It’s not exactly clothing, but your accessories matter too. Huge backpacks inside trains or small restaurants are considered inconsiderate because they take up space. Instead, use a smaller crossbody bag or a stylish tote.
6. Swimwear Outside the Beach or Pool
Wearing swimwear outside of pools or beaches is a big no-no in Japan. Walking around town in bikinis, swim trunks, or even a tank top with no shirt over it is considered inappropriate.
If you’re heading to hot springs (onsen), remember that swimsuits are also not allowed inside. Everyone bathes naked, and covering up with a towel or swimsuit breaks the tradition.
7. Too Much Perfume or Strong Accessories
This isn’t exactly “clothing,” but it’s related. Heavy perfume, giant hats, or jingling accessories can disturb people around you, especially on trains where everyone is in close quarters.
What You Should Wear in Japan
Now that we’ve covered what not to wear in Japan as a tourist, let’s talk about what works well.
Comfortable and Modest Everyday Wear
Think neutral colors, simple designs, and breathable fabrics. Japan’s summers are hot and humid, so light materials are best. Winters are cold, so layering is key.
Easy-to-Remove Shoes
Slip-on shoes or clean sneakers are the best. Bonus points if they look neat and match your outfit.
Traditional-Inspired Clothing
You don’t need to wear a kimono every day, but incorporating small Japanese-inspired pieces shows appreciation for the culture. Items like yukata jackets, tote bags with traditional prints, or wave-pattern t-shirts can make your look both stylish and respectful.
Dressing for Specific Places
Temples and Shrines
Avoid shorts, tank tops, and revealing clothing. Think of it like visiting a church—modesty shows respect.
Onsen (Hot Springs)
Leave your swimsuit behind. Instead, wear the provided yukata before and after your bath.
Restaurants and Izakayas
Casual is fine, but avoid sloppy looks. Clean sneakers and a neat shirt go a long way.
Festivals
This is the perfect time to wear a yukata or jinbei. They’re light, fun, and locals love seeing tourists embrace traditional clothing respectfully.
Final Thoughts: Respect Through Clothing
So, what not to wear in Japan as a tourist? Revealing clothes, difficult shoes, flashy prints, dirty outfits, and swimwear outside the pool are the main things to avoid. Instead, keep your clothing clean, simple, and easy to manage.
Remember: you don’t need to dress like a local to enjoy Japan. Just showing effort through respectful clothing choices will make your trip smoother and help you connect with people.
And if you’d like to bring home a piece of Japan—or prepare your wardrobe before you go—check out our Japanese T-shirts collection to prepare your wardrobe before your trip or to bring home a stylish piece of Japan.
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