Is it OK to eat while walking?
In short
It dependsIt is not banned nationwide by law, but in crowded places people are expected to stop and eat, out of consideration for others. Some tourist areas ask visitors to refrain.
When does this apply?
Many people eat street food or snacks from shopping streets in front of the stall where they bought them or on a bench. The Japan Tourism Agency’s etiquette campaign also uses a pictogram asking visitors not to eat while walking.
Why?
Eating on the move in busy places can easily stain other people’s clothes and leave crumbs or litter behind.
What to do
- Eat in front of the shop or at a bench or designated spot
- On a crowded street, stop and step to the side
- Return trash to the shop or take it with you
Better to avoid
- Walk through a crowd while eating
- Leave skewers or containers on the street
Exceptions and differences
Some shopping streets make eating as you stroll part of the fun, while other tourist areas ask visitors to refrain through local ordinances or requests. Follow the local signs and shop notices.
Manners can differ by region, facility and generation. Local signs and staff instructions come first.
Check with a quiz
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Sources
- Travel Etiquette for the Future (Promoting sustainable tourism)(opens in a new tab)
- 博物館からのお願い (Requests from the museum)(opens in a new tab)
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