Are Monopods ok for photography?

Hey everyone,

I am a keen photographer heading to Japan for the first time In Oct-Nov for a few weeks.

I planned on using different cameras to capture as much as I can on both digital and physical media formats but was advised against using a full tripod and was told to use a monopod instead as its directly in front of me so wont inconvenience others. Is this the case?

I ofcourse wouldnt use it in very crowded places but in travel videos I rarely see people use any form of tripod/monopod. Im a deeply respectful person when it comes to other cultures and don't want to upset the locals

Thanks in advance!!! 🙏