Holidaymakers crown the ‘best’ destination in the world - but you must know local customs

"A rush of pure adrenaline" is how Tripadvisor described the city of Tokyo, Japan's capital named the number one destination in the 2024 Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice Awards. The buzzing metropolis has been applauded for its perfect blend of "pop culture" and rich history.

However, if you are planning a holiday to Tokyo in the coming year, Tripadvisor's experts recommend brushing up on some local customs before you travel.

"The city is famously cutting-edge, yet its ancient Buddhist temples, vintage teahouses, and peaceful gardens offer a serene escape—and a reminder of its past," said Tripadvisor.

Tourists can also anticipate an "unrivalled food scene", with an abundance of Michelin-star dining and smaller restaurants.

Tsukiji Outer Market is one of the top recommended spots in the city, where you'll find narrow corridors packed with tons of spots to choose from.

Previous visitor Madison S said: "Something old, something new, and something delicious — just for you. Everyone loves a good meal, and in Tokyo— Japan's greatest metropolis — there seem to be good meals on offer at every turn."

In the spring, the city enjoys its pastel-hued cherry blossom season, with tourists from around the world flocking to take photographs and enjoy the pleasant weather before the heat of summer arrives.

Tokyo’s high season falls between mid-March to late April. Similarly, October and early November are peak times to view the fall foliage.

In the summer, temperatures can soar beyond 30C regularly, and sit at a humid 29C on average. "Avoid July, August, and early September if you don’t like to sweat," warns Tripadvisor.

Local customs you should know when visiting Tokyo

If you are visiting, Tripadvisor highlights five main local customers which the team of experts say tourists should know.

Blowing your nose and eating in public

"Try not to blow your nose in public, and avoid both eating and drinking on the street," said the experts. "It is considered rude."

Though eating on the streets is frowned upon, eating in parks is generally considered to be okay.

Counting your change

When shopping, the experts also advise not counting your change in view of the person who gave it to you. This is also considered to be rude.

Shoes

When entering private homes, ryokans, and even some restaurants and offices it is polite to remove your shoes.

Public transportation

"Try to be quiet in trains, at restaurants, and at your hotel," said the Tripadvisor experts.

"Japanese culture puts great emphasis on consideration for others and maintaining a quiet and harmonious atmosphere."

Tattoos

While tattoos are very common in the West, there are local customs surrounding tattoos in Japan. Tattoos are not illegal in Japan, but they aren't allowed everywhere.

Walking on the street with a visible tattoo in Japan won't cause any problems, though it may be intriguing to some people.

However, Tripadvisor warns: "If you have a tattoo, forget trying to visit a Japanese hot spring. Unless you have booked a hotel room with a private bath, you won’t be able to enter."