German Streamer Streichbruder Sparks Outrage in Japan with Loud Public Stunts

A wave of public frustration is growing in Japan over the antics of German livestreamer known online as Simon.bth, alias Streichbruder, whose disruptive public performances—most notably blasting loud music from a portable speaker in urban and commuter spaces—have drawn comparisons to earlier notorious foreign provocateurs such as Johnny Somali.

Multiple clips circulating on social media show Streichbruder performing backflips, playing loud music in public places, and riding the infamous Yamanote Line in Tokyo while blaring audio from his speaker, visibly irritating local passengers. His recent activities have stirred strong reactions online and revived debate around nuisance tourism and the influence of content-driven social media behavior in Japan.

A Pattern of Public Disruption

Observers noted that Streichbruder’s videos follow a familiar formula: showy, unsolicited performances in crowded public spaces—often in the name of viral fame. This includes incidents in Shibuya, Nakano, and even inside the Yamanote Line train cars, where etiquette and quiet are highly valued. In one such video, passengers can be seen visibly disturbed by the sudden music, with some attempting to ignore or distance themselves from the source of the noise.

While street performers and buskers have long been a part of Tokyo’s urban landscape, Streichbruder’s approach has been viewed by many as particularly abrasive. The issue isn’t just volume, critics argue—it’s context, intent, and repeated disregard for local norms.

Online critics have noted that he appears to have exported the same behavior to Japan that has drawn condemnation in Germany. One commenter on Reddit wrote, “Yea this guy does it in German trains as well sadly… We hate him too.”

Influence and Incentives

Streichbruder reportedly earns thousands of euros per video through TikTok and other platforms, with some estimating as much as €5,000 per post at the peak of his viewership. His follower count is said to exceed 1.9 million across platforms, underscoring the growing financial incentive for content creators to engage in controversial or provocative acts abroad.

This monetization model has been condemned by both local residents and international viewers, many of whom argue that the reward system for social media virality encourages disruptive, disrespectful, or even unlawful behavior.

“He’s not the first, and sadly won’t be the last,” said one user on Reddit, referencing infamous streamers like Johnny Somali and Logan Paul. “Until platforms or governments crack down, there’s endless clout to be gained.”

Public and Legal Backlash

The reaction has not been limited to social media. Japanese residents have expressed growing discontent with a perceived lack of action from authorities. Several users called on Japanese police to increase enforcement of public nuisance laws, especially when repeated violations occur on public transport.

Japan’s tolerance for public disturbances—especially on trains, which are widely regarded as spaces for quiet and order—remains low. However, enforcement can be inconsistent, particularly when it involves foreign nationals. While deportations and blacklists are not unheard of, commentators note that unless an act crosses a clear legal line, authorities often settle for non-confrontational measures.

There have been renewed calls for legislation to better regulate behavior by foreign influencers and to hold social media platforms accountable for facilitating and profiting from disruptive or illegal content filmed abroad.

Tourism and Tensions

With Japan welcoming over 37 million tourists annually pre-pandemic and trending toward similar figures in the post-COVID era, incidents involving disruptive foreign visitors have risen. Critics argue that a small subset of tourists, driven by social media fame or “rage bait” tactics, are undermining the respectful travel culture long associated with Japan.

“Japan is not a theme park,” one commenter said bluntly, summarizing what has become a growing sentiment among both locals and long-term foreign residents. Another remarked, “The more we react, the more they earn. But if we ignore them, they just go louder.”

What Comes Next?

As debate continues, the case of Streichbruder serves as a flashpoint in a larger conversation about how Japan, and other countries experiencing nuisance tourism, can balance open hospitality with protecting the public order. While individuals like Simon.bth may see themselves as entertainers or provocateurs, the public’s reaction—ranging from digital backlash to calls for deportation—suggests the act may soon wear thin.

For now, his content continues to circulate—and attract viewers—for better or worse. But in the court of public opinion, his loud performances are being increasingly drowned out by calls for consequences.