September 5, 2025 | 01:09 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - An Australian tourist sparked outrage among Japanese netizens after he chugged a drink offered at a cemetery in early August 2025. The tourist uploaded a video of himself at the cemetery on social media, drawing widespread criticism.
As reported by Sora News24, the video showed the man approaching a grave where a canned chu-hi cocktail was left as an offering to the deceased by family members, friends, or loved ones. The male tourist walked up to the gravestone, placed a coin on it, then took a can, opened it, and drank the contents. He then gestured to clink the empty can against the gravestone, as if making a toast.
In Japanese culture, such behavior is unacceptable. Food and drinks left at graves are offerings meant to honor the deceased, not beverages to be consumed. Moreover, the Australian man jokingly referred to them as vending machines or supermarket counters, sparking outrage.
Donations at temples and sacred places in Japan are to be placed in offering boxes located in the main hall, not left at specific graves. In another uploaded video, the man is seen tossing the empty can onto the ground in the cemetery, brandishing a toy gun, and swinging an itatoba, a wooden grave marker inscribed with the posthumous Buddhist names of deceased family members. It appears to have been taken from one of the graves.
The videos were uploaded in early August 2025, but it wasn't until the end of the month that they drew flak in Japan. Furious comments filled the comment section. "Don't ever come to Japan again," and "Apologize, grave robber."
Respecting Japanese Culture
Before visiting a country, it is important to understand the local culture. Many foreign tourists do not fully understand Japan's attitude towards religion. Japan's understanding of religion involves rituals that are not overly formal or involve rigid protocols. However, it does not mean that Japan is indifferent towards those who disrespect its religious traditions, especially those related to preserving the memory of loved ones.
Following the strong reaction in Japan, the Yamanashi Prefecture Police Department, Fuji Yoshida District, stated that they are investigating the matter. Despite having video evidence of the perpetrator, the investigation will likely focus on identifying the individual and considering sanctions to hold them accountable for their actions. They may be banned from the city or even Japan.
Editor’s Choice: Singapore's New Vape Laws: Penalties for Tourists and Foreigners
Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News
10 Fun Activities to Enjoy at Marine Safari Bali
18 jam lalu
Here is a list of 10 fun activities to enjoy at Marine Safari Bali.
Indonesian Diaspora Hold Prayer Rally for the Nation in Germany
22 jam lalu
The Indonesian diaspora community in Bonn, Germany, held a prayer rally as a gesture of solidarity with the dynamics in the homeland.
Saudi Arabia Partners with Cristiano Ronaldo to Become Global Event Center
23 jam lalu
In addition to hosting prestigious sports events, Saudi Arabia holds major international events.
4 Tips to Choose a Resort for a Perfect Vacation
1 hari lalu
To guarantee a memorable vacation, it is crucial to choose the right resort for your needs. Check out the tips here.
Tourists Flock to Malioboro as Yogyakarta Declared Safe After Recent Protests
1 hari lalu
Police declare the situation in Yogyakarta to be generally safe, allowing for normal economic, governmental, and tourism activities.
Australia Asks Tesla to Recall 7,301 Model Y Vehicles
1 hari lalu
Defects in the Model Y Tesla system are suspected to cause its windows to close too quickly, potentially injuring users.
Indonesia Remains Open and Safe for International Tourists Despite Protests, Says Minister
1 hari lalu
Indonesian Minister of Tourism Widiyanti Putri Wardhana has guaranteed the safety of foreign nationals living in or visiting the country.
Hamas Rejects US Tourism Plans for Gaza: "Not for Sale"
1 hari lalu
Hamas has rejected the United States' plan to turn Gaza into a tourist site and relocate its residents from the area.
8 Oldest Tourist Attractions and Festivals to Explore in Sendai
2 hari lalu
Known as the city of trees, Sendai in Japan offers a variety of tourist attractions, culinary delights, and traditional heritage.
Bali Remains Safe for Tourists Despite Recent Protests, Govt Says
2 hari lalu
Bali remains the main tourist magnet in Indonesia, contributing to most foreign arrivals in the country.
