Beware of Breaking the Law: 4 Photo Traps to Avoid While Traveling in Japan

With the surge in Japanese travel among Chinese tourists, spring visits to Japan coincide with the blooming of cherry blossoms and Nemophila flower seas—perfect backdrops for capturing memorable moments. However, seemingly harmless photo opportunities can land you in legal trouble. Hong Kong media has highlighted common legal pitfalls for travelers in Japan that should be avoided.

While beautiful scenery may tempt travelers to snap photos, Hong Kong travel website GOtrip reports that the most common illegal photography acts in Japan include “trespassing on train tracks to take photos,” “picking or breaking cherry blossoms,” “taking photos without consent,” and “ignoring no-entry signs”—four outrageous behaviors to watch out for.

During Japan’s spring cherry blossom season, a large number of tourists flock to view the blooms, but some irresponsible visitors have been caught “picking or breaking cherry blossoms.” Incidents of people touching, shaking, or even damaging and climbing cherry trees are frequent. However, many cherry trees are considered important local tourist assets, and damaging them can lead to arrest under Japan’s criminal law for “property damage.”

Additionally, kimono-clad girls or geisha on Japanese streets often catch the eye of foreign tourists. But Japan places high importance on privacy rights, and even the most common street photography could infringe on portrait rights. If the photographed individual files a complaint, it could result in legal action.

Furthermore, while Japan’s railway culture is world-renowned, “trespassing on train tracks to take photos” is a serious offense. Offenders may be prosecuted for violating the “Railway Business Act.” Earlier this year, a Japanese celebrity was legally charged for entering a railway area to take photos, and there have been past incidents where Taiwanese tourists trespassed on train tracks and were fatally struck by trains.

While photos preserve wonderful travel memories, they can also become a disaster for both travelers and locals. Ignoring “No Entry” signs can provoke local backlash, potentially leading to the loss of scenic landmarks. Last year in Biei, Hokkaido, the famous “Philosopher’s Tree” was intentionally felled by its owner due to concerns over its old and fragile condition risking collapse, as well as ineffective attempts to stop tourists from trespassing on farmland.