Don’t blow your nose in public 【 WHAT NOT TO DO JAPAN】

Blowing your nose on a train in Japan is generally considered impolite due to several cultural and social factors.

1. Consideration for Others: Japanese society places a strong emphasis on harmony and consideration for others. Blowing your nose loudly in a public space like a train can disturb fellow passengers and disrupt the peaceful atmosphere.
2. Noise Pollution: Trains in Japan are known for their quiet and serene environment. Excessive noise, such as blowing your nose loudly, can contribute to noise pollution and make the commute less enjoyable for other passengers.
3. Hygiene and Cleanliness: While it’s important to maintain good hygiene, blowing your nose in public is often viewed as unhygienic in Japanese culture. People prefer to minimize the spread of germs and maintain cleanliness in shared spaces.
4. Cultural Norms: In Japanese culture, there is a preference for discretion and modesty in public behavior. Blowing your nose loudly can be seen as drawing unnecessary attention to yourself and your bodily functions.
5. Alternative Etiquette: Instead of blowing your nose audibly, it’s more common and acceptable to discreetly sniffle or use a tissue to gently wipe your nose. Many Japanese commuters carry handkerchiefs or tissues for this purpose.
6. Respect for Personal Space: Japanese culture values personal space and privacy. Engaging in activities like blowing your nose, which are typically done in private, can intrude upon this sense of personal space and make others uncomfortable.

Overall, while blowing your nose on a train is not explicitly forbidden, it’s generally considered impolite and is best avoided out of respect for your fellow passengers and Japanese cultural norms of etiquette and consideration for others. If you must blow your nose, it’s recommended to do so discreetly and with consideration for those around you.