This article explores the cultural norms and expectations in Japan regarding public displays of affection, such as hugging. It explains that physical contact between strangers is frowned upon, and legal restrictions on PDA exist in some areas. Hand-holding or linking arms is generally accepted among couples who know each other well enough. However, anything more intimate than that is usually seen as too intimate for most contexts outside the home. Japanese culture has a strong impact on hugging in public, with even married or dating couples rarely showing any signs of physical affection while out in public spaces. Most Japanese people feel uncomfortable when seeing two strangers engaging in any kind of physical contact and consider it inappropriate behavior which should only take place behind closed doors. There are exceptions to this rule for family members, close friends, and certain businesses/schools/organizations.