BANGKOK — A Thai influencer, Jack-Pap-Ho, has drawn heavy criticism after filming himself shirtless and dancing on the roof of a car parked outside a Lawson convenience store in Fujikawaguchiko, a well-known photo spot with views of Mt. Fuji. The stunt has triggered widespread concern among Thai social media users, who worry it could damage Thailand’s reputation and jeopardize the country’s visa-free access to Japan.
The location — the Lawson Kawaguchiko-Ekimae branch in Yamanashi prefecture — is a popular stop for international tourists, including Thais. Local officials have previously taken steps such as posting warning signs and installing barriers to curb unsafe or illegal behavior, including jaywalking and trespassing onto private property.
The YouTuber’s actions quickly went viral in Thailand, with many calling them disrespectful and harmful to the image of Thai travelers. The Facebook page of the Embassy of Japan in Thailand has since been inundated with comments, some demanding the influencer be permanently banned from entering Japan. Others apologized to Japanese citizens and urged both governments to take legal action.
More than 815,800 Thai travelers visited Japan between January and September this year, an 8.5% increase from 2024, according to the Japan National Tourism Organization. Thailand remains Japan’s sixth-largest inbound market, and the largest among Southeast Asian countries.
Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow told reporters before Tuesday’s weekly Cabinet meeting that tourists must respect local laws and customs, adding that Japan is a rule-oriented society where inappropriate behavior can damage Thailand’s image. “We don’t want this to affect Thai travelers,” he said.
Asked about calls online for the influencer’s passport to be revoked, Sihasak said the matter should be handled by Japanese authorities according to their laws.
Tourism and Sports Minister Attakorn Sirilatthayakon said authorities cannot restrict individuals from posting online but have continually urged Thais abroad to follow local cultural norms. “Every negative action affects the country’s image,” he said, adding that he hopes more Thais will consider traveling domestically.
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