Don’t cross on a red 【WHAT NOT TO DO JAPAN】

Crossing on a red light in Japan is generally discouraged due to several reasons.

1. Traffic Safety: Obeying traffic signals, including red lights, is essential for pedestrian and vehicular safety. Crossing on a red light increases the risk of accidents, as it disrupts the flow of traffic and can lead to collisions between pedestrians and vehicles.
2. Respect for Rules and Authority: Japanese culture places a strong emphasis on respect for rules and authority. Crossing on a red light disregards traffic laws and signals, which goes against the cultural norm of following rules and respecting authority figures such as traffic signals and police officers.
3. Role Modeling for Children: Japan places importance on setting a good example for children. Crossing on a red light may set a poor example for children who are learning about pedestrian safety and traffic rules, potentially leading to them imitating unsafe behavior.
4. Consideration for Others: Crossing on a red light can disrupt the flow of pedestrian and vehicular traffic, causing inconvenience to others and potentially leading to congestion or delays.
5. Legal Consequences: While the enforcement of jaywalking laws may vary in different parts of Japan, crossing on a red light can result in fines or penalties if caught by law enforcement officers.
6. Cultural Norms of Patience: Japanese society values patience and orderly behavior. Waiting for the green light demonstrates patience and consideration for others, contributing to a harmonious and orderly environment.

Overall, crossing on a red light in Japan is discouraged due to safety concerns, respect for rules and authority, consideration for others, and adherence to cultural norms of patience and orderliness. It’s important to follow traffic signals and obey pedestrian crossings to ensure the safety and well-being of oneself and others.