A video showing two Indonesian men playing padel at a Japanese cemetery has sparked widespread outrage online, with netizens from both Japan and Indonesia condemning the act as deeply disrespectful to local culture.
The clip, which has been circulating on social media platform X, shows the two men hitting a padel ball and even setting up a net within the cemetery grounds, prompting strong reactions from viewers who felt the location was wholly inappropriate for recreational activities.
“Unbelievably disrespectful,” says Japanese netizen
The incident was highlighted by a Japanese X user, Haruka Suzumori, who criticised the behaviour and questioned how such an act could take place in a space meant for remembrance.
Two Indonesian Muslim men decided to play padel at a Japanese cemetery. I don’t think I even need to explain how unbelievably disrespectful this type of behaviour is,” she wrote.
Her post quickly gained traction, with many Japanese netizens expressing anger and disappointment. Some said the video reflected a growing frustration over what they perceive as a lack of cultural sensitivity among certain foreign visitors or residents.
Why cemeteries are considered sacred in Japan
In Japanese culture, cemeteries are regarded as sacred and solemn spaces, closely tied to ancestral spirits and family heritage. Such areas are meant to be quiet, respectful environments for remembrance and prayer, not places for leisure or sport.
As a result, activities like playing games, shouting, or treating the space as a recreational area are seen as highly offensive, regardless of intent.
Indonesians also condemn the act, call it “embarrassing”
Condemnation also came from Indonesian netizens, many of whom described the men’s actions as embarrassing and harmful to Indonesia’s image abroad.
Some accused the pair of being driven by FOMO, suggesting they were attempting to gain attention by playing padel in a so-called “rare” location. Others reminded fellow Indonesians that respecting the customs and values of the country they are visiting or working in is a basic responsibility.
Offensive IQ comment draws backlash
However, the online discourse took a darker turn when one Indonesian netizen posted an offensive comment that quickly went viral.
The netizen apologised to Japanese viewers before writing:
“So sorry for their stupidity. Hope you guys understanding that the average IQ of Indonesians is below that of gorillas (below 70) and they are examples. This is why you shouldn’t bump your head on the floor often because it will make you stupid like them.”
The comment sparked backlash from other users, who criticised it for being racist, demeaning, and factually baseless. Many stressed that while the actions of the two men deserved condemnation, insulting an entire nationality crossed a clear line.
Several netizens also pointed out that such remarks did not represent Indonesians as a whole and only served to escalate tensions rather than encourage accountability or cultural understanding.
