Another "unqualified traveler" incident? Offensive graffiti found at Meiji Shrine torii gate in Japan

▲ Mr. Lai was visiting Meiji Shrine in Japan when he spotted the three characters "ＸＸ娘" on a wooden pillar of the grand torii gate. (Photo provided by citizen Lai Yu-yu, no unauthorized reproduction, same below)

International Desk / Comprehensive Report

Another case of a "disgraceful Taiwanese traveler"? Mr. Lai anda Japanese friend were visiting Meiji Shrine in Tokyo when they discovered the Taiwanese profanity "XX娘"carved into a 40-year-old wooden pillar of the shrine's grand torii gate, and his Japanese friend even asked him what those three characters meant, leaving Mr. Lai extremely embarrassed. When photos of the incident spread online, they sparked widespread outrage, with many condemning such behavior as unworthy of being called "Taiwanese!"

Located in Tokyo, Japan, Meiji Shrine is the most visited Shinto shrine in the country. In addition to featuring traditional Japanese architectural elements, the shrine is also known for its iconic wooden torii gate that symbolically separates the realm of the gods from the human world, making it a must-visit photo spot for many tourists.

▲ Meiji Shrine is Japan’s most visited Shinto shrine and one of the top destinations for Taiwanese tourists.

But when Mr. Lai and his Japanese friend were visiting Meiji Shrine, they were shocked to find the Chinese profanity "XX娘" carved into the wooden pillar of the grand torii gate. He was left completely stunned, while his friend kept asking what the three characters meant, leaving him feeling both awkward and deeply embarrassed.He could only awkwardly claim that although it looked similar, it probably wasn’t Chinese.

Once the photos were posted online, they immediately triggered a wave of criticism. Since the characters were in traditional Chinese, netizens speculated it was the work of someone from Taiwan, with many slamming the act as "utterly tasteless."Japan is one of the most beloved travel destinations for Taiwanese, yet repeated incidents of "disgraceful traveler" behavior have made foreigners laugh at us.