Unauthorized entry into private property to set up tripods in sunflower fields and cutting down garden trees—these are some of the worst behaviors of certain "train enthusiasts" that are becoming problematic in various regions.

In recent years, the actions of "tori-tetsu" (railway photography enthusiasts) who deviate from proper manners have become a social issue within Japan's railway photography culture. At the "Ogaki Sunflower Field" in Ogaki City, Gifu Prefecture, shouting matches erupted among people trying to capture the blooming sunflowers and the Shinkansen inspection vehicle "Doctor Yellow," leading the organizers to consider banning tripods and stepladders. The executive committee has strengthened its warnings (the field covers about 3.1 hectares with 140,000 sunflowers). Furthermore, along the Shinano Railway in Nagano Prefecture, a serious violation occurred when photographers trespassed onto private property and cut down garden trees without permission. As a result, the railway company has ceased the monthly publication of the 115 series train operation information, which had been ongoing for over 10 years. Complaints from the local community were also disclosed. Such actions may violate laws such as trespassing on private property (Article 130 of the Penal Code), entering fields (Article 32 of the Minor Offenses Act), and damaging trees (Article 261 of the Penal Code), and they threaten tourism, community management, and railway safety. This article explains specific examples, legal frameworks, the responses of railway companies and communities, and practical etiquette that even readers from abroad can understand.