PSA: Don't giggle at a funeral in Japan, even if it's a loved one's

I was in Kyoto last spring and my cousin's girlfriend let out a nervous laugh during the incense offering, and the priest gave her a look that could freeze sushi, so has anyone else accidentally broken a cultural rule at a ceremony and wanted to just vanish?

2 comments

2 Comments

charles_chen931mo ago

Priests are human too. Probably had a long day and was more annoyed than scandalized. Japanese funerals are formal but a quick nervous giggle isn't getting you banned from the country. Worst case the cousin gets a stern look and everyone moves on. The real cultural rule is just don't be loud or disruptive on purpose. I've seen locals crack smiles at awkward moments too.

jordancoleman29d ago

Right, people forget priests are just regular folks underneath all that ceremony.