Life in Japan

Train etiquette

Yaaay team April 11, 2024
Man in Black Business Suit Sitting on Train Chair 
Japanese public manners prioritize the consideration of others, especially when sharing the same space. In this column, we will explain train etiquette while on board.

No Phone Calls on the Train

In Japan, it is considered rude to talk to someone on the phone while riding a train, or any form of public transportation (except taxis). If you answer a call, expect to receive disapproving glances from fellow passengers. If you anticipate an important call and need to respond promptly, the customary practice is to get off at the nearest station and return the call.

Moreover, it's not just about refraining from accepting calls; it's also better to switch your phone to silent mode while onboard. Particularly near priority seating areas, passengers are often requested to turn off their phones entirely, especially during peak hours when trains are crowded. Phone etiquette is a part of respecting shared spaces and being considerate of others.

Priority Seats

Japanese trains also have what they call "Priority Seats" (優先席, yuusen-seki). You can point them out by the color of their seats and big signs on the windows that are written "Priority Seat."

These seats are reserved for folks like the elderly, people with disabilities, pregnant women, and others who might need them. If there are plenty of empty seats around, it's okay for those who are in no condition to sit in priority seats to sit in one of these spots. But when the train starts filling up, it's good manners to give up your seat if you notice someone who needs it more than you do. This isn't just about the priority seats; it's a general rule of thumb for any seat on the train.

Women-Only Cars

To prevent incidents of sexual assault on crowded trains, certain train lines in Japan have designated women-only cars (女性専用車両, josei senyou sharyou). You can easily spot them by the large pink stickers displayed on the windows of these particular train cars and on the ground in front of the platform gates.

Typically, the women-only policy is enforced during specific times of the day, especially during rush hour peaks in the morning and evening when trains are most congested. You can find the designated times clearly indicated on the stickers affixed to the train cars. Outside of these designated times, however, anyone is free to enter these cars, regardless of gender.

The fundamental principle is to avoid making others uncomfortable

Some foreigners may feel that the train etiquette in Japan is more strict than in their own countries. For a place like Japan, there are many instances where you need to share spaces with others. So by following etiquette, you make living in Japan more comfortable for yourself and everyone else.

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