Travel notes: busy subways in Japan
The once-was famous personal space in Japan certainly doesn’t apply in the crowded and busy subways that run throughout the country. The worry about being late may strike fear in each individual there. It’s a fact that being a few minutes late in Japan can break a code of respect, which is a situation that most Japanese would try to avoid.
Although extremely efficient and accessible, subways in Japan still have some problems. As shown in the video, the crowdedness of the Japanese subways is beyond imagination. Especially during rush hours, you can feel like being packed-in, just like sardines in a can. When those extra people decide to use the same door after you’re already crammed up against a ledge, wall or person, it gives you a sense of disbelief and annoyance.
Have you seen the bright yellow and black Tokyo Metro posters, namely “Please do it at home”? They’re not only good for a laugh, but point out true to life situations and bad etiquette. The simple posters actually include many guidelines for passengers such as share the seat with others; refrain from putting makeup on in the train; set your mobile phone to silent and refrain from making calls; offer courtesy seats when needed by other passengers; be careful when handling a wet umbrella; and refrain from drunken behavior. Despite some exaggerations for the sake of humor, these are indeed real issues that need to be addressed in the busy and crowded subways.
Please be prepared for this type of scenario if you plan to travel in Japan.