Polite to Host
Cultural · Etiquette
こちらでは撮影はご遠慮いただけますでしょうか。 — Could I ask you to please refrain from photography here? (Cultural · Etiquette, Polite to Host, JLPT N3)
You
こちらでは撮影はご遠慮いただけますでしょうか。
こちらではさつえいはごえんりょいただけますでしょうか。
Could I ask you to please refrain from photography here?
Romaji: Kochira dewa satsuei wa go-enryo itadakemasu deshō ka. / Reply Romaji: Shitsurei shimashita, wakarimashita.
Reply
失礼しました、わかりました。
しつれいしました、わかりました。
I apologize, understood.
Gesture & etiquette
Approach calmly with a slight bow before speaking. Maintain a polite, non-confrontational expression. If the person appears not to understand Japanese, point to the no-photography sign with an apologetic smile.
Photography restrictions at temples, shrines, and some traditional venues are strictly observed. This ultra-polite phrasing is what staff use to make the request without confrontation. Always respect no-photography signs — violations can offend locals and may be considered spiritually disrespectful.