Here are the things you should know before riding a train in Tokyo!
Japan has always been known for its fast-paced lifestyle and strives to be on time to their destination whether it’s work, school or even going home. Many citizens in Tokyo rely heavily on trains as their way of transportation since it’s a cheaper and easier way for them to get around without the hassle of owning a car, walking or taking a taxi which can become a bit pricey as the total adds up at the end of the ride.
However, compared to the States, Tokyo has certain rules and standards for their train stations, and it is important for tourists to come to Japan with the proper etiquette for entering trains, behavior on the train ride, and then departing the train. Here are some things to helpful tips.
Japan’s busy lifestyle
Whenever you enter a train station in Tokyo, it is best to know how to go at a fast pace since the stations are going to be packed with people, especially during the morning and afternoon rush hours, so getting there earlier is a must.
In fact, getting there on time simply won’t cut it. You also need to have your transportation card (a Suica or Icoca card) ready to access trains and leave the station as well. it is essential to have this card, or it won’t be easy to get around the station.
Keeping your transportation card handy and using Google Maps as your best navigating app
After you scan your card and you can pass through, knowing which train to take for a particular destination is the most difficult part of using the transit system. Many trains go to certain places and if you’re not careful, you’ll most likely end up going on the wrong train and wind up arriving in a different neighborhood or even a different city.
The best way to navigate yourself through the train station is to acquaint yourself with train line that go where you want to go and try to find maps that show the closest landmarks. You can also use Google Maps as well. It will show what time a specific train arrives as well as the departure time and what train to get on.
Waiting to get inside
In America, people are used to crowding around the doors and waiting for them to open just so they can get in as quickly as possible. In Japan, that is not the case. Instead, while waiting to get inside the train people are expected to line up on either side of the doors so that they can avoid blocking commuters exiting the train. Once they exit, you may enter the train, which usually goes smoothly.
Respectfully giving up your seat
As is typical in Japan or the United States, once you enter the train, you can either sit or stand just as long as you are respectful toward other people’s space and comfort. But, when it comes to elderly, pregnant women, and women with small children, then it is considered respectful to give up your seat for them since they are the ones who may not be able to stand for a long time.
Do not litter!
Since there are no trashcans or recycling bins on the train, you would have to wait until you get off at the next station where there would be trashcans available, or you are expected to carry your trash around for a short while. What you should not do is litter or leave your trash behind when exiting the station since it is considered rude and completely unacceptable in the Japanese culture, especially since Japan is considered to be a litter-free country. Japanese people strive to keep their trains and cities a safe and clean environment to prevent pollution or anything that could potentially disturb the environment.
Exiting the train
At one point when you know that you are at your destination, start planning on gathering your items and start moving towards the exit area. This will help to exit the train faster without the hassle of getting up last second and scurrying to grab your items, especially since you might forget your items on the train leaving you in panic mode. Grabbing your items ahead of time helps with time management, and you can gather your items faster before departure.
Before you depart, be sure to form a line by the door, then slowly without shoving anyone, make your way out of the train so that other passengers can enter the train. Then, be sure to pay attention to the signs that are all over the station to confirm what station you are located in and the directions for upcoming exits or transfers. Following these rules will helop guarantee a successful ride.
Taking a train in Japan is a great experience to have when you can properly navigate throughout the station. You will find it easy in the long run. It will feel as if you are a native yourself ready to go anywhere in Tokyo you want!
About The Author
