CNN —
Street food is a staple of many countries. But does that mean you should both buy and eat your food in the street? Japan is struggling to answer that question, particularly when it comes to popular tourist areas.
Kamakura, in the prefecture of Kanagawa, is one of them.
In April, the city issued an official ordinance asking visitors not to eat while walking.
One major concern is trash from packaging and leftover food, which can attract animals and make a mess that locals will have to clean up.
Kamakura is about 30 km (19 miles) southwest of Yokohama. It’s home to some of the country’s best-known temples, as well as for gorgeous beaches.
A representative from Kamakura city told CNN that the ordinance – which is posted in public areas – was created to build awareness of the issue rather than to penalize travelers. There are no fines or citations for people who violate the request.
Kamakura is home to Japan's largest Buddha.
In particular, Komachi-dori, a busy street with lots of shops, has been a focus of attention when it comes to eating outside.
The street is a stop on many local food tours, despite also being a commercial area.
Japan Today reports that 50,000-60,000 people visit Komachi-dori every day, which seems even more overwhelming when you realize the street is only 350 meters (1,200 feet) long.
However, concerns about eating while walking aren’t just related to potential spills and messy clothes.
Many Japanese people believe it is poor manners to walk or do other physical activities while eating because it means you’re not appreciating your food properly. For some, this belief has its roots in World War II, when food was scarce and it was something to be treasured, not treated casually.
The issue of tourists eating in the street isn’t a concern isolated to Japan.
In Florence, Italy, a section of the city center has an outright ban on chowing down “on sidewalks, roadways and on the doorsteps of shops and houses.” It’s not just about hygiene – this is an extremely busy and crowded part of the city, and people sitting on sidewalks makes it even harder for others to walk around.
In Florence’s case, the restrictions come with steep penalties – namely, a €500 ($581) fine.
Meanwhile a city with arguably the world’s best street food, Bangkok, has been trying to figure out what to do with its outdoor markets and food stalls for some time.
Some locals want restrictions or even closures because of the ever-growing crowds of people, but others believe there can be a happy medium between a vibrant street vendor culture and not getting in the way of everyday life, such as blocking of traffic lanes.
CNN’s Junko Ogura contributed reporting to this piece.
Sure, the topic discussed here revolves around the cultural and logistical aspects of consuming food in public spaces, particularly streets, and the regulations or norms associated with this practice in different countries.
Let's break down the concepts mentioned in the article and provide information related to each:
Street Food Culture:
Street food is a global culinary tradition, deeply rooted in various cultures. It serves as a means for locals and tourists alike to experience diverse cuisines in an authentic setting.
Japan's Kamakura Ordinance:
The article highlights Kamakura, Japan's popular tourist area, which issued an ordinance discouraging eating while walking in public places. The emphasis is on reducing litter and maintaining cleanliness. The ordinance serves as an awareness-building measure without imposing fines or penalties.
Cultural Perspective in Japan:
Eating while walking is considered impolite in Japanese culture by some due to the belief that it shows a lack of appreciation for the food. This perspective is rooted in historical contexts, especially from World War II when food was scarce and seen as valuable.
Komachi-dori Street:
Komachi-dori is a bustling street in Kamakura known for its shops and local food tours. Despite its popularity, concerns arise due to the increasing number of visitors and the challenge of maintaining cleanliness.
Global Comparisons:
The article draws parallels with other places like Florence, Italy, which has banned eating in certain crowded sections of the city center due to hygiene and congestion issues. Florence imposes a significant fine for violating this restriction.
Bangkok's Street Vendor Culture:
Bangkok faces similar challenges with its vibrant street food scene and the need to balance it with the city's daily life and traffic concerns. There's a debate between limiting crowds and preserving the cultural richness of street food.
Understanding the nuances of street food culture, the impact of historical contexts on societal norms, and the efforts to balance tourism, tradition, and cleanliness are crucial in comprehending the complexities highlighted in the article.
I'm quite familiar with these cultural dynamics and the regulatory measures taken in different countries to manage street food practices. The balance between preserving cultural traditions and addressing logistical challenges in urban areas often requires a nuanced approach, considering both local perspectives and the needs of the community.
FAQs
In April, the city issued an official ordinance asking visitors not to eat while walking. One major concern is trash from packaging and leftover food, which can attract animals and make a mess that locals will have to clean up. Kamakura is about 30 km (19 miles) southwest of Yokohama.
Why can you not eat while walking in Japan? ›
There's also no cultural relevance that prohibits people from eating while walking. As long as you are following TPO guidelines, you should be good. While it's okay to eat while eating, it's not a common practice. Japanese people are mindful of having cleanliness and respect for public spaces.
Can you eat ice cream while walking in Japan? ›
Eating while walking is a big no-no for most Japanese–even children enjoying an ice cream are often told to sit down before consuming food. That being said, summertime sees an explosion of street food stalls, especially during the festival season.
Can you eat while walking? ›
Is it bad to eat while walking. Walking while or after eating may interfere with digestion and could lead to an upset stomach in some cases. That said, walking after eating could also speed up digestion. In addition, it may also help support healthy blood sugar levels and help protect you from heart disease.
Is it rude to not finish food in Japan? ›
Not finishing one's meal is not considered impolite in Japan, but rather is taken as a signal to the host that one wishes to be served another helping. Conversely, finishing one's meal completely, especially the rice, indicates that one is satisfied and therefore does not wish to be served any more.
Is it rude in Japan to eat while walking? ›
Walking and eating in Japan
Japanese tend not to eat while walking along or standing around on the street. However, it is acceptable to drink while standing aside a vending machine. Eating and drinking on local trains, but not long distance express trains, is also frowned upon.
Why can't you cross your legs in Japan? ›
You may notice, for example in a formal setting or on a train, that the Japanese do not sit with their legs crossed. Not even their ankles. It is considered disrespectful to the people around you. Instead, the Japanese sit up straight with their feet planted on the ground, especially when sitting across from someone.
Is it OK to drink coffee while walking in Japan? ›
Eating while walking outside is frowned upon in Japan. In fact, eating almost anywhere other than a designated eating area is frowned upon. If you've ever taken a stroll outside in Japan, you'll probably notice that nobody is eating anything. It's also very rare for the Japanese to walk outside holding coffees.
Can you eat with your hands in Japan? ›
Always have trouble with your chopsticks? Guess what? Most Japanese people eat sushi with their hands. Especially with nigiri sushi (single pieces of sushi with meat or fish on top of rice), it's totally acceptable.
Can you eat with your left hand in Japan? ›
In Japan, the serving of food, including chopsticks, is based on the assumption that one is right-handed, but there is nothing wrong with using chopsticks with the left hand.
It is a practice known as "tabearuki" (食べ歩き) and is frowned upon in Japanese culture [3]. Here are some reasons why eating while walking is discouraged in Japan: Appreciating the Food: Japanese culture places a strong emphasis on appreciating food.
Why can't I eat while walking? ›
If you eat while walking you may increase your risk of choking on food. Other than that, digestion will continue as usual. However, if you sit and eat, many say that you will be less hungry and less likely to overeat.
Why should you not walk immediately after eating? ›
You can go immediately after you eat, as some studies show that is the time that reaps the most benefits. But she says that you might encounter stomach discomfort if you do any physical activity soon after a meal, so it could be worth waiting 15 minutes or so before walking.
What is the 80 eating rule in Japan? ›
Hara Hachi Bu: Stop Eating When You're 80% Full
If you've ever been lucky enough to eat with an Okinawan elder, you've invariably heard them intone this Confucian-inspired adage before beginning the meal: hara hachi bu — a reminder to stop eating when their stomachs are 80 percent full.
Is it rude to wear a hat in Japan? ›
As a general rule, we need to take off a hat or cap inside and on formal occasions, particularly in the presence of guests or those who are at higher positions. But we can keep it on when shopping privately or on casual/private occasions.
Is it rude to tip in Japan? ›
Tipping Culture in Japan
Tipping in Japan is not expected, and attempts to leave a tip will almost certainly be turned down (a potentially awkward moment). In Japan, it's thought that by dining out or drinking at a bar, you are already paying the establishment for good service.
Why shouldn't you eat while walking? ›
Some new studies have shown that eating while you are walking can cause weight gain. The findings have said that while walking you tend to consume more food than when you are stagnant. However, not only walking but also while conversing with others or watching television increases your urge to consume more food.
Is it rude to eat on the train in Japan? ›
Do NOT Eat Food. There is a custom in Japan where most people do not eat food outside other than when in restaurants. However, when using the bullet train or the green car, you are permitted to eat food. Normal trains and people commuting using said trains do not permit the consumption of food whilst riding the train.
Is it rude to eat quietly in Japan? ›
Eat everything in silence except ramen or noodles for which slurping is encouraged. It's actually considered polite as you're showing enjoyment for the dish.
What is considered rude in Japan when eating? ›
Blowing your nose at the table, burping and audible munching are considered bad manners in Japan.
