Thai influencer criticised after rooftop dance at Mount Fuji viewpoint

A Thai influencer with a large online following has come under fire after posting a video of himself dancing shirtless on the roof of a car at a well-known Mount Fuji viewing point in Kawaguchiko.

According to local media, the clip was filmed outside a Lawson convenience store that is widely recognised as one of the most photographed spots for capturing Mount Fuji.

Video goes viral

The one-minute clip quickly circulated across social platforms, drawing strong criticism from Thai users who labelled the behaviour disrespectful and inappropriate.

In the video, the influencer performs a dance routine on top of a parked car, accompanied by a caption suggesting disregard for those who “look down” on him.

Kawaguchiko, located at the northern foothills of Mount Fuji, is a major tourist destination and a hotspot for scenic photography.

Residents and frequent visitors have increasingly voiced concerns over disruptive behaviour by tourists at such sites.

Cultural sensitivity concerns

Japan has introduced tighter regulations for foreign tourists in recent months to address issues ranging from littering to crowd control.

Some commenters warned that the influencer’s actions could harm the reputation of Thai travellers and lead to stricter rules.

Many urged him to respect local customs and avoid actions that compromise the experience for others.

When questioned online, he responded by asking, “How would they know I’m Thai?”, a remark that further fuelled discussions on accountability and cultural awareness.

Wider debate over responsible tourism

The incident has triggered broader debate about social media behaviour among travellers.

Commenters emphasised that influencers hold significant influence and should consider how their actions reflect internationally, particularly in culturally sensitive locations.