Yoga Etiquette in Japan: What to Know Before Your First Class
Whether you’re visiting Japan or living here long-term, joining a yoga class can be a beautiful way to connect with your body and the local culture. But if it's your first time taking a class in Japan, you might be wondering: What should I wear? Are tattoos OK? Will the class be in English?
At Nami Yoga Studio in Kyoto and Tokyo, we welcome students from all over the world. And while we’re an open and friendly space, it helps to understand some of the unspoken cultural etiquette around yoga in Japan—so you can relax and enjoy your class with confidence.
Here’s what you need to know before rolling out your mat:
🙏 1. Arrive On Time (Or a Little Early)
Punctuality is very important in Japan, and yoga is no exception. Try to arrive at least 10–15 minutes before class starts so you can change clothes, settle in, and center yourself.
Being on time also shows respect to your teacher and fellow students, as late arrivals can be distracting during opening meditations or breathing exercises.
👕 2. What to Wear (and Not to Wear)
In general, Japanese people dress more modestly than in some Western countries. While comfort and movement are important, your outfit should also be respectful of local norms.
Men: Please wear a shirt at all times. Shirtless practice is not permitted in most studios, including ours.
Women: Fitted yoga tops are fine, but avoid low-cut or revealing outfits.
Shorts: Choose something mid-length or longer—short shorts can be considered inappropriate.
If you tend to sweat a lot, it’s good manners to bring a yoga towel, especially if you're borrowing a rental mat. It protects the surface for the next person and helps maintain hygiene.
Please also keep in mind that Japan doesn’t have a big culture of perfumes. Spraying perfumes in the studio may be a little disrespectful.
🧼 3. Cleanliness Is Key
Japanese yoga studios are known for being very clean and orderly. After your practice, be sure to:
Wipe down your mat, especially if it’s a studio rental
Wipe yoga blocks and props with the provided spray and towels
Put everything back neatly where it belongs
This small gesture goes a long way in respecting the space and those who share it with you.
🧘 4. Class Structure May Feel Formal
Japanese yoga classes can sometimes feel more structured or quiet than what you may be used to abroad. Many students focus inward, and there's less chatting before or during class.
If you're unsure about something, just follow along or quietly ask the teacher when appropriate—most instructors will be happy to help!
🌐 5. Is the Class in English?
At Nami Yoga Studio, we offer bilingual classes in English and Japanese. This means instructions are given in both languages, so everyone can follow along comfortably.
In other studios, it’s helpful to check in advance if English guidance is available. Even if the teacher doesn’t speak fluent English, yoga is a universal language—body movement, breath, and kindness go a long way.
🤫 6. Quiet, Please
Japanese culture values silence in shared public spaces, and yoga is no different. Keep your phone on silent or airplane mode, and try to speak softly if you need to chat before or after class.
This creates a peaceful atmosphere for everyone to enjoy.
💦 7. What to Bring
Depending on the studio, you may need:
Comfortable clothes to move in
A water bottle
A yoga towel (especially if you sweat easily)
Your own yoga mat (if not renting)
At Nami Yoga Studio, we have rental mats and props available, so you can come empty-handed if you need to.
🧍 8. Tattoos Are OK (At Our Studio!)
In Japan, tattoos can still be taboo in certain places, especially onsens and public baths. However, at Nami Yoga Studio, tattoos are totally welcome. We believe yoga is for every body, regardless of appearance or background. However, please be mindful that this is not the case in all yoga studios in Japan.
On a side note, if you’re looking to unwind after class, our neighboring sento, Umeyu (in Kyoto), also allows tattoos. It’s a great local bathhouse where you can soak and relax in a laid-back, friendly environment.
🧘♂️ A Space for Everyone
Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or trying your very first class in Japan, you’re welcome here. Our studios in Tokyo (Akasaka-Mitsuke) and Kyoto (Gojo area) offer a range of classes for all levels, taught by experienced, bilingual instructors in a warm and inclusive environment.
We believe yoga should be accessible, respectful, and joyful for everyone—local or traveler, beginner or expert.
📍 Locations
Tokyo Studio – Akasaka-Mitsuke
3-min walk from Akasaka-Mitsuke Station
10 mins by train from Shibuya or Ginza
Kyoto Studio – Gojo
5-min walk from Kiyomizu-Gojo or Shichijo Station
15-min walk from Gion
🧾 Book Your First Class Today
Explore our class schedule and join us:
👉 https://www.namiyogastudio.com/en/schedule