Certain behaviors during international travel show that the pursuit of social media attention can cross basic respect lines. The iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine, located in Kyoto, issued an official notice asking visitors to moderate their actions after several videos showed tourists dancing and blocking the path of worshippers just below the traditional tunnels of torii gates.

The controversy erupted earlier this month when recordings taken inside the sacred grounds began circulating. In one widely shared video, a person is seen dancing in front of their phone while others try to dodge them. Another clip shows a young woman in revealing clothing performing a dance routine for the camera, forcing a group of worshippers to wait uncomfortably to continue their path. Videos of groups stepping off the trail to dance in the narrow passage, and even a man in sunglasses blowing kisses to the camera amid the crowd, were also shared.

Following complaints questioning why such behavior was allowed, the shrine administration confirmed they verified the videos and confirmed the incidents occurred on their grounds. On September 7, they posted a notice in both Japanese and English, reminding visitors that the site has served as a sacred prayer space since its founding in 711, over 1,300 years ago. Officials explained that while patrols are conducted and such actions are asked to stop when detected, it is regrettable to see some visitors’ lack of understanding of Japanese cultural norms.

Founded in 711, Fushimi Inari Taisha is the main shrine dedicated to Inari, the Shinto deity of rice, agriculture, and prosperity. Located at the foot of Mount Inari in Kyoto, this historic site is world-famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates forming intertwined paths, making it one of Japan’s most important tourist and pilgrimage destinations.

What do you think about this type of behavior by tourists at sacred sites in Japan?