1. Introduction
When visiting Japan, it is important to be mindful of the culture and dress appropriately. Japanese people tend to be very particular about clothing, so there are certain items that should be avoided when traveling to Japan. This article will provide an overview of traditional Japanese clothing and discuss what clothes to avoid in Japan.
2. Traditional Japanese Clothing
Traditional Japanese clothing includes kimonos, hakama, yukata, and other traditional garments. Kimonos are typically worn by women on special occasions such as weddings or festivals, while hakama are worn by men on formal occasions such as ceremonies or tea ceremonies. Yukata are casual summer kimonos made of cotton or synthetic fabric and are often worn at outdoor events such as fireworks displays or festivals.
3. Clothing to Avoid in Japan
When visiting Japan it is important to dress modestly and respectfully. Wearing revealing clothes or extremely casual outfits can be seen as disrespectful and may make you stand out in a negative way. It is also important to avoid wearing clothes with offensive logos or slogans, as well as going shirtless or wearing sandals in the wrong place.
4. Shorts and Short Skirts
Shorts and short skirts should generally be avoided when visiting Japan unless you are at the beach or engaging in a sport activity like surfing or running. Even then, shorts that reach just above the knee may still draw unwanted attention from locals who consider them too revealing for everyday wear in public places like parks, temples, shrines, museums, etc..
5. T-shirts with Offensive Logos or Slogans
T-shirts with offensive logos or slogans should also be avoided while traveling in Japan due to cultural differences between countries regarding what is considered appropriate language or symbols for public display.For example, t-shirts featuring images of skulls may not be well received due to their association with death in Japanese culture.Similarly,t-shirts featuring profanity,sexual content,political statements,religious symbols,etc., should all be avoided when traveling in Japan.
6. Revealing Clothes and Extremely Casual Outfits
Revealing clothes such as low cut tops,short skirts,low rise jeans,tank tops,etc., should all be avoided while traveling in Japan.Similarly,extremely casual outfits such as sweatpants,pajamas,flip flops (outside of the beach),ripped jeans/t-shirts/shorts/etc., should also not be worn outside of your hotel room.It is best to stick with more conservative clothing options like collared shirts/blouses paired with pants/skirts that reach at least mid thigh length.
7. Going Shirtless or Wearing Sandals in the Wrong Place
Going shirtless outside of beaches/pools is considered inappropriate behavior and may draw unwanted attention from locals.Similarly wearing sandals (outside of the beach) can also make you stand out from other tourists who adhere to local customs when it comes to footwear choices.Closed toe shoes such as sneakers/loafers/boots are much more appropriate for everyday wear.
8 Conclusion
When visiting Japan it is important to dress modestly and respectfully by avoiding items like shorts & short skirts, t-shirts with offensive logos & slogans, revealing clothes & extremely casual outfits (such as sweatpants), going shirtless & wearing sandals outside of beaches/pools areas etc.. Following these guidelines will ensure that you don’t stand out negatively among locals while still being able to enjoy your time exploring this amazing country!
9 Sources
Tokoyama C., (2021). What Clothes To Avoid In Japan? Retrieved from https://www.japaninsidersguide.com/what-clothes-to-avoid-in-japan
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Is it OK to wear red in Japan? In fact when it comes to clothes red is the happiest color youll find in Japan.
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Did you know that going out without makeup is considered rude in Japan? Some women are ashamed to see people outside their family without makeup. If you are wondering these things you are not alone.
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Casual clothing is common in Japan outside of the Tokyo business district. Denim shorts and a t-shirt are fine if you dont plan to visit religious sites.