First Move
Look for signs first, then ask if photos are okay.
Quick steps
- Look for no-photo or no-flash signs.
- Check before taking photos in shrines, temples, shops, or exhibitions.
- If people are close to your camera, ask first or avoid taking the photo.
- If staff asks you to stop, lower your camera right away.
Don’t Do This
Don’t ignore no-photo or no-flash signs.
Some places allow photos without flash. Others do not allow photos at all.
Don’t take close-up photos of people without permission.
Be careful around people praying, staff, customers, children, or anyone close to your camera.
Don’t block paths or entrances for a photo.
Move to the side, especially in crowded places or near shrine and temple approaches.
Say or show this
Use these phrases to speak or point when you need help.
Use before taking photos in a shop, shrine, temple, or exhibit.
Shashin o totte mo daijoubu desu ka?
写真を撮っても大丈夫ですか？
Can I take photos?
Use when you want to photograph a specific item, display, or area.
Kore o totte mo daijoubu desu ka?
これを撮っても大丈夫ですか？
Can I take a photo of this?
Use if staff or someone nearby asks you to stop.
Sumimasen, yamemasu.
すみません、やめます。
Sorry, I will stop.
If You See or Hear This
Satsuei kinshi
撮影禁止
It means: No photography.
Your move
Put your camera away.
Furasshu kinshi
フラッシュ禁止
It means: No flash photography.
Your move
Turn off the flash, or skip the photo if you are unsure.
Satsuei wa goenryo kudasai.
撮影はご遠慮ください
It means: Please refrain from taking photos.
Your move
Do not take photos here.
If You’re Stuck
If you are not sure, ask staff or skip the photo. If someone corrects you, stop right away and lower your camera.
Tiny Culture Note
Photo rules can change by room, object, or ceremony. A nearby sign matters more than what other people are doing.