Train Etiquette in Japan

Keep Quiet

• Keep conversations quiet. Talking on the phone is strictly prohibited inside trains.

Priority Seats

• Priority seats are reserved for the elderly, pregnant women, people with disabilities, or those injured. Offer your seat if someone needs it.

Consideration at the Doors

• If standing near the doors, step out temporarily at stops to let others get off easily.

How to Carry Your Bags

• Carry backpacks in front of you or place them on the overhead rack to save space. Keep large luggage out of the way.
  • However, be careful not to forget items left on the luggage rack.
    Looking at your smartphone right up until your stop increases the likelihood of forgetting them.

No Eating

• Eating are generally frowned upon, except on long-distance trains like the Shinkansen, where bentos are common.

Boarding and Exiting Rules

• Always let passengers exit first before boarding. Line up and wait your turn.