Japanese culture is marked by a deep respect for privacy and others' space, and these characteristics are reflected in the filming and photography rules in the country. For tourists, understanding these norms is essential to avoid uncomfortable situations or even legal issues. Although Japan does not have specific laws regarding photography in public places, privacy is taken seriously, and there are various cultural and social guidelines that must be respected.
In this article, we will explore the main rules related to filming and photography in Japan, present locations where the practice may be restricted, and provide some useful phrases for you to communicate while taking photos.
Table of Content
Places and Situations with Filming and Photography Restrictions
Stores, Restaurants, and Temples
Although filming in public places is not illegal, many private establishments, such as shops and restaurants, prefer to maintain discretion about their methods and internal practices. Temples and shrines, especially in their interior areas, often have restrictions on filming, considering it intrusive or disrespectful. Be aware of the notices, which are often in English or with universal symbols.
When visiting places like historic temples or traditional gardens, respect the tranquility of the environment. Taking photographs without permission may be considered rude.
Shows and Events
Most concerts, theater shows, and events in Japan strictly prohibit photography and recording. This rule aims to protect the privacy of artists and the audience, as well as to avoid issues related to piracy. Organizers usually place signs in visible locations, and non-compliance can lead to removal from the venue.
Why does the restriction exist? Besides safety, the restrictions also ensure an immersive and uninterrupted experience for all viewers.
Train Stations and Busy Locations
In the busy train stations of Japan, especially those operated by JR, the use of selfie sticks is prohibited for safety reasons. In crowded places, the equipment can cause accidents or discomfort.
Avoid using flash in indoor environments, such as trains and subways. Many passengers find it bothersome or invasive.
Privacy Care
In Japan, even in public places, a person's image is protected by privacy laws. If you publish photos or videos in which someone appears without consent, especially on social media, you can be held liable if the person feels harmed.
How to Avoid Problems
- Whenever possible, ask for permission before taking photos of individuals, such as cosplayers, staff of establishments, or street performers.
- If someone says "ダメ (Dame)", which means "no can do", immediately respect the person's wishes.
- Blurring faces of people in published photos is a common practice to avoid future conflicts.
Useful Phrases for Taking Photos in Japan
Learning some simple phrases in Japanese can be very helpful when asking for permission to take photos or getting help from a local. Here are some practical expressions:
ここで写真を取っていいですか。
Koko de shashin o totte īdesu ka.
May I take pictures here?
写真を撮っていただけますか?
Shashin o totte itadakemasu ka.
can you take a picture of me?
このボタンを押すだけです。
Kono botan o osu dake desu.
Just press that button.
もう一枚お願いします。
Mou ichimai onegai shimasu.
One more photo, please.
写真を撮りましょうか?
Shashin o torimashou ka.
Can I take a picture?
一緒に写真に入っていただけませんか?
Issho ni shashin ni haitte itadakemasen ka.
Can we take a picture together?
Vocabulary related to Cameras and Photography in Japanese
To finish, let's leave some words to add to your vocabulary:
- 写真 (shashin) - Photography
- カメラ (kamera) - Camera
- 撮影 (satsuei) - Photography/Filming
- レンズ (renzu) - Lens
- フラッシュ (furasshu) - Flash
- シャッター (shattā) - Shutter
- ズーム (zūmu) - Zoom
- 三脚 (sankyaku) - Tripod
- ポートレート (pōtoreeto) - Portrait
- 風景 (fūkei) - Landscape
- 撮る (toru) - Take (photo)
- 現像 (genzō) - Revelation (of photos)
- 構図 (kōzu) - Composition
- ピント (pinto) - Focus
- 光 (hikari) - Luz
- 露出 (roshutsu) - Exhibition
- フィルター (firutā) - Filter
- アルバム (arubamu) - Album
- プリント (purinto) - Photo printing
- デジタル (dejitaru) - Digital
- ISO感度 (ISO kando) - ISO Sensitivity
- シャープネス (shāpunesu) - Clarity
- ぼけ (boke) - Blur
- スローモーション (surō mōshon) - Slow motion
- ビデオ撮影 (bideo satsuei) - Video recording
- フィルム (firumu) - Movie