Will be going to Japan in Ocotber for 4 weeks. Around the Toyota City and Nagoya area. May head into Tokoyo for a weekend if time allows.
Any heads up to things not to miss?
Also any special etiquette that I should be aware of while shooting?
Any info would be greatly appreciated
Thank You
-Mike
I go to Japan regularly. I always go here to help me finalize my itinerary. The forums there are really helpful and the mods are super knowledgable. You won't need to look anywhere else.
Perhaps more than etiquette, remember as with the UK and some other countries, the Japanese drive on the left side of the road, stepping into traffic after looking the wrong way can be embarrassing.
There's an historic castle in Nagoya and there might be fall colors popping up. I was homeported in Japan for three years and finding photo ops was never a problem.
As far as etiquette I was wondering is there anything special I should keep in mind when asking people if they would mind having there photo taken? I live in a small town here in Kentucky and typically a "Would you mind if I take your photo?" works.
Just wondering if the same would apply in Japan? I realize people are people just about anywhere you go, but would hate to assume anything.
Thank You
-Mike
P.S. Thank You for the link JoJo, have been reading most of this morning!
WiredMike wrote:
As far as etiquette I was wondering is there anything special I should keep in mind when asking people if they would mind having there photo taken?
In Japan the law allows you to take a picture of someone in a public place (like a street).
Japanese people are usually shy (because they don't know how to behave/react) in front of a foreigner. Thus most of the people won't say a thing if you take a picture of them.
However, the Japanese are very courteous and deserve that you ask them if they agree about the picture, out of courtesy.
I had only one problem in many years: in Harajuku (Tokyo) while I was trying to take a picture of a "rocker" like guy (with quiff and all). Since he was very discourteous and aggressive, I took the picture anyway, from a distance... (it was on the street)
It actually helps a lot to make it glaringly obvious that you're a tourist.
If you are of another skin color, you're set from the start.
Me, being a Japanese American, will speak in English with the people with whenever I can, as there's a real weird vibe between the average citizen and someone taking pictures of strangers.
As mentioned before, not many people will try to stop you if you take a picture of them, but you may draw a bit of attention to yourself.
The types of people who may make a claim are middle-aged housewives who believe their rights have been impinged upon, and store-workers (you'll notice that a majority of stores have a no camera sticker in the front window).
Japanese folk are pretty introverted, and will often politely decline any requests. Doesn't hurt ot try though. A smile goes a long way as a foreigner.
As Craigs said, autumn foliage is certainly something to look out for.
Good luck and I'm really jealous that you get to go this time of year!!
Just an update. Looks like will be staying at the Marriott in Nagoya from November 28-December 23.
Dont know what kind of free time will have as this is a work trip. But hey if anyone here wants to hook up send me a message.
Thank you for the info above. Will play it like I always do in public and smile and be courteous and respectul. Manners seem to go a long way no matter where you are at.
