17 hilarious photos of “Giant” tourists visiting Japan

When travelers from Western countries arrive in Japan, one of the first things they often notice is just how compact everyday life feels. From doorways and trains to restaurants and hotel rooms, nearly everything is designed to match the average height of the local population—about 1.57 meters for men and 1.49 meters for women.

For taller visitors, this sometimes means bending down more often than usual, squeezing into smaller spaces, or realizing they tower above everyone else. The contrast can be both surprising and hilarious, leading to plenty of photo-worthy moments.

>> 11 strange things you’ll only find in Japan that amaze tourists

Here are 17 entertaining snapshots of Western tourists in Japan—where being “too tall” becomes part of the travel experience and adds to the charm of exploring the Land of the Rising Sun.

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1. “I was taking a bath during a trip to Tokyo. I almost hit my head on the ceiling while standing in the bathtub.” – Then how to wash hair?
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2. All the doors are very small – If you walk without paying attention, you will hit the wall.
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3. Try washing your face by bending down really low – Looking at the bent back already makes me tired.

>> Unique things in Japan that surprise first-time visitors

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4. Danger Lurks Everywhere – Feeling Like No Place Fits You
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5. The Room We Rented in Japan – We Were Like Giants
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6. This guy doesn’t need a ladder to install a ceiling light – He even has to bend down to walk in the hallway

>> Only in Japan can travelers encounter such unique experiences

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7. “Don’t mind me. I just want to get a closer look!” – Although it’s a bit hard to read from close up…
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8. The Japanese didn’t design these for us! – Not only is the height short, the width of the door is too narrow
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9. Watch your head! – Thanks for the reminder!

>> Don’t miss these unique festivals when visiting Japan

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10. I had a hard time in Tokyo – I was stopped everywhere
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11. Japan is ruining my hair – I can’t pose for Facebook photos
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12. My stepdad is traveling in Asia this week – Everything is so small compared to him

>> Only in Japan: When public toilets look like works of art

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13. Everything in Japan is amazing, except for rush hour – I’m glad I get some fresh air up here
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14. Forget about taking beautiful virtual photos! – The Tori gates are really small
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15. Let’s create lovely moments when coming to Japan! – Look at me, I’m having fun

>> A closer look at Japan’s most bizarre “Naked” festival

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16. The hotel really wanted to trap me! – The fire escape door didn’t fit
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17. My height was just right for the door – Learn to bow – that’s a lesson for Western visitors to Japan

“For many Western travelers, visiting Japan is not only about exploring its rich culture and traditions, but also about adapting to daily life designed with different proportions in mind. While the height difference may sometimes feel unusual, it quickly becomes just another memorable part of the journey. These experiences, whether amusing or simply eye-opening, remind us that travel is about embracing differences and enjoying the unique charm each country has to offer.”

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