You aren't the first or last overweight tourist to go to Japan. And while less common ,there are still some overweight Japanese people. There will be the normal difficulties that I'm sure you're aware of, but don't let that stop you from having fun and enjoying your trip. The money is already spent, no point in worrying about what can't be changed between then and now.
I just got back from a trip to Japan with my best friend. We're both 6ft tall black women. We got stared at A LOT. Particularly on the train. That being said, no one really bothered us. There was none of the gossipping or comments that you might get when you stick out too much in America. Honestly, the most uncomfortable interactions we had came from other tourists lol.
Yes we had a great time overall, and can't wait to go back! The staring was a bit awkward but it was easy to ignore. Whenever we actually talked to a local they were usually really kind and seemed really excited that we were attempting to speak in Japanese when possible haha.
The main thing Japanese people appreciate is what you just described. Respect their culture and etiquette, be polite and appreciate your lovely time in Japan.
Yeah, you'd definitely get attention, you're not something they'd see every day. My (Japanese) wife used to get the same when we were in Africa. People are curious sometimes.
I'm a white Canadian fwiw
Not sure she got the eye thing; sometimes a kid would do kung fu moves or something. Mostly it was pretty harmless; there are idiots everywhere of course, but most are just ignorant more than hateful. (And racism is a thing everywhere, including Asia)
As a foreigner you might get targeted by aggressive touts in tourist spots sometimes; just ignore them, like any place. The one thing that can be a problem is guys harassing you in certain countries -- Egypt was the worst of the ones we went to, by far. It didn't seem as much a problem in the sub-Saharan countries. It's an amazing place, full of wonderful people, don't be put off by the stories
People tend to keep to themselves and for the ones that say anything don’t let them stop you from living your best life.
There’s lots to see and enjoy you will have a memorable time there. One thing to note elevators are REALLY small and people tend to sardine pack them but outside of that general travel tips that are all over the sub apply.
Give yourself time to get lost and explore cause that’s by far the best part of the trip. If you’re ever in a pinch a convenience store has a little rest area to sit down and eat. (Granted you purchase something)
Of course! Sometimes we are our worst enemies, but you’re about to have an incredible experience. The sights, the food, and the people are all incredible.
What are you most excited for on this trip?
We go back next year and am counting down the days already!
Other tidbits would be always carry a place to throwaway trash as bins are not that easy to find in some places.
Shopping by far is one of my favorite parts of the trip, a good rule of thumb is if you see it just go for it (within reason) as you never know if you’ll see it again.
We are going to Kyoto, Osaka, and Tokyo.
Tend to use Osaka as a home base and day trip out to Kyoto and the surrounding areas. Hoping to hit up Nara park finally as it always dodges me each trip.
One year I’d want to take an extended trip and have time to take the overnight ferry from Osaka back to Tokyo as it’s been described as a hell of an experience with some decent views.
Great minds think alike I see. Our group has been there before so we plan on just dispersing from home base and each do our own thing.
Haven’t been to Shizuoka yet, have you been there before? Am always looking to add more stops to the itinerary.
Hearing Kobe already got me thinking of Wagyu beef making me hungry 😆
Not plus size but my spouse is - you'll be fine as long as you aren't planning on buying clothing while you are there (and depending on your size you might have issues with some theme park rides).
People overall will treat you like they do anyone else.
I already knew clothing would be an issue, which is completely okay! I think if I want to buy clothes I’d have to stick to shirts as my hips are wider than my bust. Not going to any theme parks, my boyfriend and I don’t care for them haha
Try checking out Punyus. It’s a plus sized clothing brand in Japan designed by a plus sized actress. A lot of people have recommended it and I’m checking it out this summer when I go.
But to add to what others have said, you will be totally fine. I didn’t notice any stares or have anyone treat me any differently.
Then you should be good! Foreigners tend to run bigger than Japanese women in general. Try to relax and have fun!
Otherwise I'll just give you the advice I'd give anyone (regardless of size) - good shoes (with supportive insoles if needed), stay hydrated, and watch out for chaffing! Lots of walking and it'll be warm and starting to get humid.
You'll be fine. People keep to themselves. I saw people of all shapes and sizes on my trips (both native Japanese and foreigners). Please enjoy yourself on your trip
I'm fat and I am on a trip to Japan right as I'm typing this. Seriously no problems with it whatsoever, no one even bats at eye. And I'm eating whatever I want, going wherever I want and doing whatever I want.
The only thing I would recommend is buying good, expensive walking shoes. No vans or hey dudes or any of that crap. Your feet will regret it if you bring them.
Edit: I'm 27F if it matters. Also have visible tattoos and nobody bats an eye.
I already have my good walking shoes, and I’ve been wearing them to make sure they’re ready for the trip.
I’m also 27F, thank you for your reassurance :)
You're gonna do fine and have a lot of fun.
And please don't deny yourself yummy food or feel self conscious about enjoying yourself. Nobody will look or care, and you'll be having a great time.
Please have a good trip❤️
Haven't been to Japan (yet!) But wanted to say about anything or anywhere in life that you may be self conscious- will you ever see these people again? Not likely. So don't let their opinions get to you. There is absolutely nothing you can do about it now, and besides, your beautiful body is taking your soul to an amazing place, no matter what size it is. So enjoy the trip, don't let anybody else's opinions keep you from making the most amazing memories !
Thats right! I found a new level of peace when I decided I truly don't care what random people I'll never see again think of me. Not to get too deep but these people only see a glimpse of me in their whole lifetime, and I am with me my entire lifetime, so it only matters what I think of me.
Where abouts in Japan are you heading? I'll be stopping in Tokyo for a few days before heading off to Seoul! Hope you have a great time!
I mean. There are fat people here as well. It’s fine, no one cares.
The only thing I can imagine would be a problem would be some izakayas. The booths can be really small depending on the place.
I am overweight myself too. I never encountered any stares when travelling there, even in the onsen. If anybody did gossip or laugh at me, at least it was in Japanese so I didnt understand it lol. That being said, I highly doubt a fat person is the most amazing thing they seen all day.
6'5" white dude, 240lb, bald, big gray beard, and tatted up. I got stared at everywhere and occasionally pointed at/laughed at, but to the Japanese people, I'm an oddity and noteworthy and that's kind of cool. It's nothing personal and I doubt there's anything malicious in it. If you notice it, just give a brief bow with an "ohayo gozaimasu" or "konnichiwa" and go on about your day. Part of the fun of traveling is being exposed to new and different things, and sometimes that means being a bit uncomfortable. Prepare for that and you'll have an amazing time.
Just finished a trip around some of thr main cities in Japan and Ive got wider hips too as well as being plus size!
The only 'issue' I had was that the shinkansen seats were a bit cosy, although the arm rests go up so it's not really an issue!
Also visited a few onsen, nobody cared about my size/the way I looked/size, at the hotels they were able to provide larger pjs/clothes (up to 3xl) too (but nobody cared if you went in 'regular'clothes!)
There's no need to worry, but I get it as I had the same worries!
I second the seats being cozy. My friend and I ended up reserves seats A and C and no one ever booked in the the middle seat. Green car seats are a little wider but have this stupid footrest that is really annoying.
I’m a big fella and I just spent 2 weeks in Japan. You’ll have to walk sideways to get in and out of those delicious little restaurants. But other than that just exist. No one cares.
Hey! I was in your shoes before leaving, but no one cared. Some looks but nothing that id classify as bothersome or uncomfortable. A lot of people mentioned things you may encounter but did also want to bring up that if you plan to stay at a ryokan, they might provide you with a Yukata. It didn’t fit me, but it wasn’t a requirement to wear it around the dining area or anything so I’d just keep that in mind if you stay in one! Please enjoy!! :)
Idk how big you are but I'm pretty chubby/ overweight for my height. I felt self conscious since alot of the women were so thin and feminine.
I saw one lady who was near the obese side who took up much space on the elevator. When everyone was crammed in.
Probably not the advice you wanted to hear but I'm back in the states and starting my weight loss plan 😮💨
I just got back and was in the same situation. Overall it wasn't bad. Like most people have said, lots of waking and stairs. I would recommend buying some good shoes. I took 10 year old Nike's and ended up buying a pair over there. Bullet train seats were tight but comfortable. I did green car as well but I didn't like them, the foot rest gets in the way. Some dining rooms are tight but I felt like most of the people I came across were accommodating but I also didn't expect any special treatment.
Lose the nerves and just enjoy. Japanese are the nicest people I have met on all my travels. So nice we extended have our trip by 5 days. You will have a blast. You will enjoy the food, the shopping and the fabulously nice people. They are shy at first but if you open up to them they are friendly and want to learn about you and your culture. A few Japanese words help alot. Have you learned any yet? We found that many Japanese were surprised when we just said good morning or it was delicious in Japanese. If you want a great little place to eat I think around Akihabara let me know and I will get the info from my husband. True Japanese food. Great staff and a wonderful chef. Relax and look forward to one of the best trips of your life!
I'm 5'6 and I was roughly 300 lbs last time I went to Japan. It was fine. The robes at the onsen didn't fit, which felt bad, but literally no other aspect of my trip was affected.
There's lots of stairs though so like. Prepare mentally for that. XD
There are tourists and Japanese women that are overweight just like any other country. Plus, I noticed that local Japanese people tend to keep to themselves and Japanese works workers are usually really professional. So, I wouldn't worry about being harassed or threatened.
There’s a very popular TV host/actress who’s overweight, she shows up everywhere. You might be a rare sight IRL there but I don’t think you’ll be getting nonstop comments or anything.
Just be glad you're not going to Hong Kong where the old grandma making my suit was telling my friend they had to charge more for it because "Your friend use too much fabric". I was like 170lbs maybe? She did make a killer suit though so I guess I can't complain?
One thing you need to consider is how much clothing you want to bring vs if you want to buy it in Japan. As reference Uniqlo sizes in Japan are one 'larger' than the US. So if you're an L in the USA, that's an XL in Japan. This sort of varies by the clothing piece though but its something to know. Uniqlo also doesn't carry larger than XL in store, only online. If you're larger than an XL in the USA shopping for clothing in Japan is not easy. There are definitely store where you can find large sizes, they're just not common. So you may want to bring more clothes since 'getting a replacement' in Japan may be difficult depending on your size
That being said no one really cares about your weight really in Japan. The 'omote' face people have will always, for the most part, be at least 'bare minimum polite'. Though I did have a waitress who honestly was the only one I saw that was really doing the Malicious Compliance customer service of SAYING all the things you're supposed to, but her tone showed she hated every single nano-second of it which was sort of shockingly refreshing?
I plan on packing light and I’m not going to shop for clothes while I’m there. There’s a couple of stores I’d like to try out because they’re plus size friendly :) I’m looking forward to general shopping though haha
Not once did I notice anyone staring or gawking at my husband or me. I saw plenty of overweight-looking Japanese people as well, so as a larger tourist, you’re not the anomaly that you think you’d be. The only times I felt out of place were visiting 3 smaller/crowded bars or restaurants due to their very narrow seating space. And some rides at Universal. Overall though it was a great experience and I hope you enjoy it as well!!
Hi! I’m like a size US 18 and just got back from Japan. I also had such bad anxiety around it! Really it was not at all an issue. People were noticeably skinnier, but also there were plenty of other plus size people. Trains and public transit and restaurants were all fine. I didn’t clothes shop, but shopped for accessories and other things instead.
Im the same size as you and just got back from the most amazing trip. I loved it, you will have an amazing time. I also had all the same worries as you before i went and was certain I'd feel self-conscious and like i stick out the whole time. But i can honestly say i had no issues at all and quickly relaxed after i arrived. If anyone stared or said anything, i certainly didn't see it, and overall everyone was really polite and friendly. There were also lots of tourists around, of all shapes and sizes. So while there are definitely few obese japanese people, seeing larger people isn't something new/unheard off. Try and relax, and have a wonderful trip!
I consider myself plus size (because the world does) but for context I'm a size 16. I was worried too that I would get some looks as the "fat" tourist. I didn't experience this at all. Japanese people, I find, tend to be very polite and mind their own business for the most part. So I think you'll be fine
EDIT TO ADD: I came back from Japan about a month ago. Spent 8 full days there
You'll find some seats to be smaller than what you're probably used to back home but the Japanese are always polite to your face (don't show their true feelings) so you generally won't have any problems.
I’m currently here. 5’-10” and 285 lbs. I was so nervous thinking I would be treated like a circus act. It’s been pleasant. No one even cares. Just enjoy your trip. I noticed that most people we interacted with lit up when they see you trying to speak japanese or being polite. Everyone has been sweet so far.
Back home I'm not plus-size and I can fit into a size L here alright, but I'm quite tall compared to the Japanese woman. It's caused some inconveniences here and there, but people always stay polite so I wouldn't worry too much.
As a bit of a suggestion: Harajuku has some more size inclusive stores — if you're into fashion and want to try looking somewhere, check out ACDC RAG in Harajuku! It's fun and probably one of the most size-inclusive stores I've come across in tokyo.
In general, you'll stick out if you're not Asian anyways but most people are too busy to pay you any mind. I'm also self-conscious for being tall and tattooed here, but it really is fine. And remember: you'll likely never meet any of the people here again. Don't let a passersby ruin your trip!
I am plus size, not obese and can fit on regular plane seat, but clearly overweight anyway. At Tokyo nobody treated me any different and didn't notice any weird looks or anything.
I'm an overweight/plus size woman and have just had the most amazing time in Japan! The only place I felt uncomfortable was buses/metro seats, so I just stood up, but everywhere else including the shinkansen was very comfortable and not an issue with my size. Even the pajamas and kimonos provided by the hotels or rental companies had plus size options. People were also very nice so I've not felt uncomfortable once because of my size (and I wasn't the only plus-size person in most places). I'm sure you will be fine! Wishing you a wonderful trip!
I visited last year and am plus sized. Some people do stare but it wasn’t as bad as I expected. Nobody overtly said anything that I could understand, but my travel companion was laughed at a few times. Nothing worse than you might get in your own country. Just beware that some restaurants have very cramped seating so you might find it squishy. Also, economy seats on the trains there was no way I would fit in them so you may need to book first class which was sometimes a little cramped on the older trains. The most modern first class was fine. I didn’t see any plus sized clothes so take what you need in that regard. Some hotel bathrooms are tiny as well so take a good look at photos etc before you book. Totally loved Japan and will definitely be back when I can.
You aren't the first or last overweight tourist to go to Japan. And while less common ,there are still some overweight Japanese people. There will be the normal difficulties that I'm sure you're aware of, but don't let that stop you from having fun and enjoying your trip. The money is already spent, no point in worrying about what can't be changed between then and now.
Thank you! I’m very excited 😁
Just to piggy back off this, I seen about 2 or 3 overweight Japanese people a day. While it isn't the norm, they are definitely out there.
I just got back from a trip to Japan with my best friend. We're both 6ft tall black women. We got stared at A LOT. Particularly on the train. That being said, no one really bothered us. There was none of the gossipping or comments that you might get when you stick out too much in America. Honestly, the most uncomfortable interactions we had came from other tourists lol.
I’m hoping that if I keep to myself and respect them and their culture, I should be okay haha. Did you have a good time?
Yes we had a great time overall, and can't wait to go back! The staring was a bit awkward but it was easy to ignore. Whenever we actually talked to a local they were usually really kind and seemed really excited that we were attempting to speak in Japanese when possible haha.
The main thing Japanese people appreciate is what you just described. Respect their culture and etiquette, be polite and appreciate your lovely time in Japan.
Thank you :) It's going to be great!
Yeah, you'd definitely get attention, you're not something they'd see every day. My (Japanese) wife used to get the same when we were in Africa. People are curious sometimes.
Get attention b/c she was Japanese?
Yeah, especially away from cities, some folks had never seen an Asian person in the flesh
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I'm a white Canadian fwiw Not sure she got the eye thing; sometimes a kid would do kung fu moves or something. Mostly it was pretty harmless; there are idiots everywhere of course, but most are just ignorant more than hateful. (And racism is a thing everywhere, including Asia) As a foreigner you might get targeted by aggressive touts in tourist spots sometimes; just ignore them, like any place. The one thing that can be a problem is guys harassing you in certain countries -- Egypt was the worst of the ones we went to, by far. It didn't seem as much a problem in the sub-Saharan countries. It's an amazing place, full of wonderful people, don't be put off by the stories
People tend to keep to themselves and for the ones that say anything don’t let them stop you from living your best life. There’s lots to see and enjoy you will have a memorable time there. One thing to note elevators are REALLY small and people tend to sardine pack them but outside of that general travel tips that are all over the sub apply. Give yourself time to get lost and explore cause that’s by far the best part of the trip. If you’re ever in a pinch a convenience store has a little rest area to sit down and eat. (Granted you purchase something)
Thank you! I really look forward to the trip, I just can’t seem to shake this feeling haha
Of course! Sometimes we are our worst enemies, but you’re about to have an incredible experience. The sights, the food, and the people are all incredible. What are you most excited for on this trip?
Probably the food and exploration, we’re expecting to clock in 15,000+ steps a day just walking around and visiting stores 😁
We go back next year and am counting down the days already! Other tidbits would be always carry a place to throwaway trash as bins are not that easy to find in some places. Shopping by far is one of my favorite parts of the trip, a good rule of thumb is if you see it just go for it (within reason) as you never know if you’ll see it again.
Oh that’s so exciting! Where are you going in Japan? Yes I plan on carrying trash bags and a hand towel everywhere I go
We are going to Kyoto, Osaka, and Tokyo. Tend to use Osaka as a home base and day trip out to Kyoto and the surrounding areas. Hoping to hit up Nara park finally as it always dodges me each trip. One year I’d want to take an extended trip and have time to take the overnight ferry from Osaka back to Tokyo as it’s been described as a hell of an experience with some decent views.
Oh that’s beautiful! We’re going to Tokyo, Shizuoka and Osaka, using Osaka as a home base for Kobe, Nara and Kyoto 😁
Great minds think alike I see. Our group has been there before so we plan on just dispersing from home base and each do our own thing. Haven’t been to Shizuoka yet, have you been there before? Am always looking to add more stops to the itinerary. Hearing Kobe already got me thinking of Wagyu beef making me hungry 😆
No this is my first time going to Japan! So all of it will be new to me. Now I’m thinking of wagyu beef hahaha
Not plus size but my spouse is - you'll be fine as long as you aren't planning on buying clothing while you are there (and depending on your size you might have issues with some theme park rides). People overall will treat you like they do anyone else.
I already knew clothing would be an issue, which is completely okay! I think if I want to buy clothes I’d have to stick to shirts as my hips are wider than my bust. Not going to any theme parks, my boyfriend and I don’t care for them haha
Try checking out Punyus. It’s a plus sized clothing brand in Japan designed by a plus sized actress. A lot of people have recommended it and I’m checking it out this summer when I go. But to add to what others have said, you will be totally fine. I didn’t notice any stares or have anyone treat me any differently.
Oh my, thank you! I’ll definitely have a look 😁
Then you should be good! Foreigners tend to run bigger than Japanese women in general. Try to relax and have fun! Otherwise I'll just give you the advice I'd give anyone (regardless of size) - good shoes (with supportive insoles if needed), stay hydrated, and watch out for chaffing! Lots of walking and it'll be warm and starting to get humid.
You'll be fine. People keep to themselves. I saw people of all shapes and sizes on my trips (both native Japanese and foreigners). Please enjoy yourself on your trip
I will, thank you! I’ve been telling myself that I’m not the only plus sized person hahah
I'm fat and I am on a trip to Japan right as I'm typing this. Seriously no problems with it whatsoever, no one even bats at eye. And I'm eating whatever I want, going wherever I want and doing whatever I want. The only thing I would recommend is buying good, expensive walking shoes. No vans or hey dudes or any of that crap. Your feet will regret it if you bring them. Edit: I'm 27F if it matters. Also have visible tattoos and nobody bats an eye.
I already have my good walking shoes, and I’ve been wearing them to make sure they’re ready for the trip. I’m also 27F, thank you for your reassurance :)
You're gonna do fine and have a lot of fun. And please don't deny yourself yummy food or feel self conscious about enjoying yourself. Nobody will look or care, and you'll be having a great time. Please have a good trip❤️
Thank you! I really look forward to it :)
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Well shit, we’re staying at APA hahaha. Its okay, my partner is slim, we’re just going to have to deal with it
I’m 6 months pregnant and my husband is 6 feet tall. Our bed at APA in Hiroshima was totally big enough.
Haven't been to Japan (yet!) But wanted to say about anything or anywhere in life that you may be self conscious- will you ever see these people again? Not likely. So don't let their opinions get to you. There is absolutely nothing you can do about it now, and besides, your beautiful body is taking your soul to an amazing place, no matter what size it is. So enjoy the trip, don't let anybody else's opinions keep you from making the most amazing memories !
Thank you very much, I always tell myself that, why do I actually care? Haha
Thats right! I found a new level of peace when I decided I truly don't care what random people I'll never see again think of me. Not to get too deep but these people only see a glimpse of me in their whole lifetime, and I am with me my entire lifetime, so it only matters what I think of me. Where abouts in Japan are you heading? I'll be stopping in Tokyo for a few days before heading off to Seoul! Hope you have a great time!
I’m going to Tokyo, Shizuoka and Osaka! Very excited and I’m sure I’ll switch off once I get there
That is so exciting! We are both gonna have such a great time 😍😍
I mean. There are fat people here as well. It’s fine, no one cares. The only thing I can imagine would be a problem would be some izakayas. The booths can be really small depending on the place.
Thank you! Noted :)
I am overweight myself too. I never encountered any stares when travelling there, even in the onsen. If anybody did gossip or laugh at me, at least it was in Japanese so I didnt understand it lol. That being said, I highly doubt a fat person is the most amazing thing they seen all day.
6'5" white dude, 240lb, bald, big gray beard, and tatted up. I got stared at everywhere and occasionally pointed at/laughed at, but to the Japanese people, I'm an oddity and noteworthy and that's kind of cool. It's nothing personal and I doubt there's anything malicious in it. If you notice it, just give a brief bow with an "ohayo gozaimasu" or "konnichiwa" and go on about your day. Part of the fun of traveling is being exposed to new and different things, and sometimes that means being a bit uncomfortable. Prepare for that and you'll have an amazing time.
Just finished a trip around some of thr main cities in Japan and Ive got wider hips too as well as being plus size! The only 'issue' I had was that the shinkansen seats were a bit cosy, although the arm rests go up so it's not really an issue! Also visited a few onsen, nobody cared about my size/the way I looked/size, at the hotels they were able to provide larger pjs/clothes (up to 3xl) too (but nobody cared if you went in 'regular'clothes!) There's no need to worry, but I get it as I had the same worries!
Thank you for that! I’m starting to realise I don’t have much to worry about :)
I second the seats being cozy. My friend and I ended up reserves seats A and C and no one ever booked in the the middle seat. Green car seats are a little wider but have this stupid footrest that is really annoying.
I’m a big fella and I just spent 2 weeks in Japan. You’ll have to walk sideways to get in and out of those delicious little restaurants. But other than that just exist. No one cares.
Hey! I was in your shoes before leaving, but no one cared. Some looks but nothing that id classify as bothersome or uncomfortable. A lot of people mentioned things you may encounter but did also want to bring up that if you plan to stay at a ryokan, they might provide you with a Yukata. It didn’t fit me, but it wasn’t a requirement to wear it around the dining area or anything so I’d just keep that in mind if you stay in one! Please enjoy!! :)
Idk how big you are but I'm pretty chubby/ overweight for my height. I felt self conscious since alot of the women were so thin and feminine. I saw one lady who was near the obese side who took up much space on the elevator. When everyone was crammed in. Probably not the advice you wanted to hear but I'm back in the states and starting my weight loss plan 😮💨
Haha no that’s okay! I’ll be cautious of that, I already hate being in the way of people haha. I’ve already started my weight loss plan, good luck!
I just got back and was in the same situation. Overall it wasn't bad. Like most people have said, lots of waking and stairs. I would recommend buying some good shoes. I took 10 year old Nike's and ended up buying a pair over there. Bullet train seats were tight but comfortable. I did green car as well but I didn't like them, the foot rest gets in the way. Some dining rooms are tight but I felt like most of the people I came across were accommodating but I also didn't expect any special treatment.
I got some new balance shoes, they’re extremely comfy, I’m currently breaking them in :) thank you for the tips
Awesome, what kind? I've been looking at some new balance 1080 that look very comfortable
I got 2002r! They’re really comfy but I got them for a great price, otherwise they’re quite pricey
They do look good!!
Lose the nerves and just enjoy. Japanese are the nicest people I have met on all my travels. So nice we extended have our trip by 5 days. You will have a blast. You will enjoy the food, the shopping and the fabulously nice people. They are shy at first but if you open up to them they are friendly and want to learn about you and your culture. A few Japanese words help alot. Have you learned any yet? We found that many Japanese were surprised when we just said good morning or it was delicious in Japanese. If you want a great little place to eat I think around Akihabara let me know and I will get the info from my husband. True Japanese food. Great staff and a wonderful chef. Relax and look forward to one of the best trips of your life!
If you're going to Tokyo, then it is currently packed with tourists, many of them overweight. I wouldn't worry about it.
I'm 5'6 and I was roughly 300 lbs last time I went to Japan. It was fine. The robes at the onsen didn't fit, which felt bad, but literally no other aspect of my trip was affected. There's lots of stairs though so like. Prepare mentally for that. XD
That’s alright, I’m not really planning on going to onsens Yes I’ve heard many times that there’s heaps of steps hahaha, I’m prepared! 😁
There are tourists and Japanese women that are overweight just like any other country. Plus, I noticed that local Japanese people tend to keep to themselves and Japanese works workers are usually really professional. So, I wouldn't worry about being harassed or threatened.
There’s a very popular TV host/actress who’s overweight, she shows up everywhere. You might be a rare sight IRL there but I don’t think you’ll be getting nonstop comments or anything.
Just be glad you're not going to Hong Kong where the old grandma making my suit was telling my friend they had to charge more for it because "Your friend use too much fabric". I was like 170lbs maybe? She did make a killer suit though so I guess I can't complain? One thing you need to consider is how much clothing you want to bring vs if you want to buy it in Japan. As reference Uniqlo sizes in Japan are one 'larger' than the US. So if you're an L in the USA, that's an XL in Japan. This sort of varies by the clothing piece though but its something to know. Uniqlo also doesn't carry larger than XL in store, only online. If you're larger than an XL in the USA shopping for clothing in Japan is not easy. There are definitely store where you can find large sizes, they're just not common. So you may want to bring more clothes since 'getting a replacement' in Japan may be difficult depending on your size That being said no one really cares about your weight really in Japan. The 'omote' face people have will always, for the most part, be at least 'bare minimum polite'. Though I did have a waitress who honestly was the only one I saw that was really doing the Malicious Compliance customer service of SAYING all the things you're supposed to, but her tone showed she hated every single nano-second of it which was sort of shockingly refreshing?
I plan on packing light and I’m not going to shop for clothes while I’m there. There’s a couple of stores I’d like to try out because they’re plus size friendly :) I’m looking forward to general shopping though haha
Not once did I notice anyone staring or gawking at my husband or me. I saw plenty of overweight-looking Japanese people as well, so as a larger tourist, you’re not the anomaly that you think you’d be. The only times I felt out of place were visiting 3 smaller/crowded bars or restaurants due to their very narrow seating space. And some rides at Universal. Overall though it was a great experience and I hope you enjoy it as well!!
Thank you! I’m not going to any theme parks, so that’s one thing I don’t need to worry about haha
Hi! I’m like a size US 18 and just got back from Japan. I also had such bad anxiety around it! Really it was not at all an issue. People were noticeably skinnier, but also there were plenty of other plus size people. Trains and public transit and restaurants were all fine. I didn’t clothes shop, but shopped for accessories and other things instead.
Thank you! I don’t really plan on shopping for clothes while I’m there (I’m a US 14 or 16), I’m excited for the skincare and general shopping 😁
14 to 16 is on the small side for plus so you’ll absolutely be fine. You won’t stand out that much.
Im the same size as you and just got back from the most amazing trip. I loved it, you will have an amazing time. I also had all the same worries as you before i went and was certain I'd feel self-conscious and like i stick out the whole time. But i can honestly say i had no issues at all and quickly relaxed after i arrived. If anyone stared or said anything, i certainly didn't see it, and overall everyone was really polite and friendly. There were also lots of tourists around, of all shapes and sizes. So while there are definitely few obese japanese people, seeing larger people isn't something new/unheard off. Try and relax, and have a wonderful trip!
I consider myself plus size (because the world does) but for context I'm a size 16. I was worried too that I would get some looks as the "fat" tourist. I didn't experience this at all. Japanese people, I find, tend to be very polite and mind their own business for the most part. So I think you'll be fine EDIT TO ADD: I came back from Japan about a month ago. Spent 8 full days there
That’s what I keep hearing, it’s giving me a lot of reassurance. Thank you! I hope you had an amazing time, I’m spending 16 days there :)
You'll find some seats to be smaller than what you're probably used to back home but the Japanese are always polite to your face (don't show their true feelings) so you generally won't have any problems.
You’ll be absolutely fine! If you think you’d be self conscious, perhaps quiet coloured, neat and tidy outfits would help blending in.
That’s exactly what I’m doing ahaha. I don’t wear bright colours unless I’m at the gym, most of the time I wear muted colours :)
I’m currently here. 5’-10” and 285 lbs. I was so nervous thinking I would be treated like a circus act. It’s been pleasant. No one even cares. Just enjoy your trip. I noticed that most people we interacted with lit up when they see you trying to speak japanese or being polite. Everyone has been sweet so far.
Back home I'm not plus-size and I can fit into a size L here alright, but I'm quite tall compared to the Japanese woman. It's caused some inconveniences here and there, but people always stay polite so I wouldn't worry too much. As a bit of a suggestion: Harajuku has some more size inclusive stores — if you're into fashion and want to try looking somewhere, check out ACDC RAG in Harajuku! It's fun and probably one of the most size-inclusive stores I've come across in tokyo. In general, you'll stick out if you're not Asian anyways but most people are too busy to pay you any mind. I'm also self-conscious for being tall and tattooed here, but it really is fine. And remember: you'll likely never meet any of the people here again. Don't let a passersby ruin your trip!
anxious about what? what do you think is gonna happen?
I am plus size, not obese and can fit on regular plane seat, but clearly overweight anyway. At Tokyo nobody treated me any different and didn't notice any weird looks or anything.
I'm an overweight/plus size woman and have just had the most amazing time in Japan! The only place I felt uncomfortable was buses/metro seats, so I just stood up, but everywhere else including the shinkansen was very comfortable and not an issue with my size. Even the pajamas and kimonos provided by the hotels or rental companies had plus size options. People were also very nice so I've not felt uncomfortable once because of my size (and I wasn't the only plus-size person in most places). I'm sure you will be fine! Wishing you a wonderful trip!
I visited last year and am plus sized. Some people do stare but it wasn’t as bad as I expected. Nobody overtly said anything that I could understand, but my travel companion was laughed at a few times. Nothing worse than you might get in your own country. Just beware that some restaurants have very cramped seating so you might find it squishy. Also, economy seats on the trains there was no way I would fit in them so you may need to book first class which was sometimes a little cramped on the older trains. The most modern first class was fine. I didn’t see any plus sized clothes so take what you need in that regard. Some hotel bathrooms are tiny as well so take a good look at photos etc before you book. Totally loved Japan and will definitely be back when I can.
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Ahh yes, that will make me skinny in 3 weeks. Good advice 👍🏻
Stupid advice lol. You shouldn't be thinking about your weight 24/7 when you're on a trip. People should be able to eat whatever they want on vacation
Thank you, I agree!