Drink Responsibly
Who is Tanuki?
Tanuki (狸), or raccoon dog, is a shapeshifter famous for his love of sake and parties, but he’s also a symbol of generosity and laughter. They are also known for their magical, shape-shifting abilities, mischievous nature, and love of fun and sake.
Japan has a rich and illustrious night culture, and exploring the various eateries and drinking spots can be a real highlight of your holiday. Yet even as the Japanese let their hair down and relax, the culture is still respectful and considerate of others.
Your efforts to fit in to the local culture will help keep doors open for other travellers who come after you. Remain vigilant about the volume of your group, whether inside a restaurant or walking down the street. Avoid making noise in clearly residential areas with families - remember, most of these folks did not sign up to be in a tourist area, and need to wake up early for work and school.
The law in Japan about drinking and driving is clear cut - there is zero tolerance, which means that even one drink is too many. Always appoint a designated driver, or take a taxi.
