Three indigenous languages are spoken. These are Yapese, Ulithian, and Woleaian. English is the official language, though some local government organizations still conduct business in Yapese language. The same occurred during the Japanese occupation, so by Micronesian standards, Yap remains relatively unaffected by modern society. Most of the land outside of Colonia is private property, so visitors are asked not to litter or to take pictures of people without their permission.
Visitors can still see some of the traditional houses in the villages.
The villages of Yap proper still retain the foundations of meeting houses and platforms used by the elder male residents to discuss community matters. Only a limited number of visitors come to Yap each year, so the people, who are naturally shy, are more responsive to those who respect their culture and customs. All land and beaches on Yap Proper and the outer islands are privately owned by the traditional leaders and chiefs. If you want to get off the beaten track, request to explore further by asking permission from the tribal elders. You may have to pay a small fee for the privilege.