What to avoid in Japan, native insight

strictly not acceptable (strongly discouraged / can cause trouble)

・wearing shoes indoors
→ homes, temples, traditional restaurants, ryokan inn — always check the entrance

・not lining up properly
→ trains, elevators, even small shops — Japan runs on order

・not separating trash / recycling properly
→ bins are rare, but sorting rules are strict where they exist

not preferred (culturally uncomfortable, but tolerated)

・strong perfume / heavy fragrance
→ subtlety is valued, especially in close spaces like trains

・speaking loudly in public
→ trains, cafes, streets — people keep volume low

・talking on the phone on trains or even restaurants
→ silent mode is expected, calls are avoided

・public displays of affection (PDA)
→ holding hands is fine, anything more stands out

・revealing clothing / excessive exposure
→ urban areas are flexible, but modesty is still the baseline

native tip (this is the key)
if you’re unsure, just observe people around you

Japan works on “don’t disturb others” more than “follow rules”
master this, and you’ll feel the culture instantly