Stay quiet
Japanese trains are very quiet. Especially during commuter hours, many people spend their time quietly reading or looking at their smartphones. Please be mindful of the following points while on the train.
- No phone calls: It is considered bad manners to talk on the phone on the train. If you absolutely need to talk, wait until you get off the train before doing so.
- Be careful of sound leakage from your earphones: When enjoying music or videos, adjust the volume to prevent sound from leaking out.
Rules for priority seats
Trains have “priority seats” which are set aside for the elderly, pregnant women, people with disabilities, and those with small children.
- If any of these people are nearby, please offer your seat to them.
- When trains are particularly crowded, you may be asked to refrain from using your smartphone near priority seats.
Line up and be considerate to others
In Japanese stations, it is common to queue neatly when waiting for a train.
- Wait next to the doors: When the train arrives, give priority to those getting off.
- Don’t force your way on: Don’t try to squeeze onto a crowded train; you can also wait for the next one.
- Keep your luggage compact: Carry your backpack in front of you or at your feet to avoid taking up space.
- If it’s crowded near the doors, get off the train when it stops at the station to make it easier for people inside to get off.
- When the train is crowded, squeeze in the space between the people standing on the inside. Even Japanese people don’t like being stuck in a door line.
Eat and drink less
Eating is permitted on the Shinkansen and long-distance trains, but it is considered good manners to refrain from eating or drinking on regular trains.
- In particular, avoid foods and drinks with strong odors.
- It’s okay to just sip a little water or tea, but avoid drinking loudly.
How to place your luggage
You also need to be careful about where you place your luggage on the train.
- Don’t leave your bags on the seat: Place your bags on your lap or on the overhead rack so that other people have a seat.
- Carry your backpack in front: When it is crowded, carry your backpack in front of you to avoid bothering people around you.
Don’t spread your legs or monopolize the seat
When sitting in your seat, try to sit as compactly as possible.
- If you spread your legs too wide, the person next to you will feel cramped.
- Don’t hog a seat and be considerate of other passengers.
Avoid nuisances at stations and on trains
- Rushing onto a train is dangerous: It is dangerous to try to board a train just before the doors close.
- Take your trash with you: There are often no trash cans on board, so please take your trash with you.
summary
Observing proper train etiquette in Japan will not only ensure a comfortable journey, but it will also help you make a good impression on locals. Keep these rules in mind and enjoy your train trip in Japan!
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