Japanese in Real Life: Train Etiquette in Japan (with Useful Language)
Trains are a part of everyday life in Japan. They are clean, punctual, and usually quiet. Knowing basic train etiquette—and a few key Japanese phrases—will help you feel confident and avoid uncomfortable situations. 🚆 Basic Train Etiquette in Japan ✅ What to Do 1. Line Up ProperlyStand in line at the platform markings and wait for passengers to exit before boarding. 2. Keep Your Voice LowQuiet conversation is okay, but speaking loudly is considered rude. 3. Put Your Phone on SilentSet your phone to マナーモード (manā mōdo) – silent mode. 4. Offer Priority SeatsPriority seats are for: - Elderly people - Pregnant people - People with disabilities - People with small children 5. Wear Your Backpack on the Front or Put It DownThis helps avoid hitting others in crowded trains. ❌ What NOT to Do 1. Don’t Talk on the PhonePhone calls are strongly discouraged on trains. 2. Don’t Eat or Drink (Usually)Eating is generally avoided, except on long-distance trains like the Shinkansen. 3. Don’t Block the DoorsMove inside the car quickly after boarding. 4. Don’t Spread OutAvoid sitting with legs wide or using extra seats for bags. 🗣️ Useful Japanese Language on Trains 📢 Announcements You’ll Hear - 次は〜です。Tsugi wa ~ desu.→ “Next stop is ~.” - ドアが閉まります。Doa ga shimarimasu.→ “The doors are closing.” - ご注意ください。Go-chūi kudasai.→ “Please be careful.” 🙏 Polite Phrases to Use - すみませんSumimasen→ Excuse me / Sorry (very useful) - ありがとうございますArigatō gozaimasu→ Thank you (polite) - 大丈夫ですDaijōbu desu→ “I’m okay” (use when refusing a seat) 💺 Offering or Refusing a Seat - どうぞDōzo→ “Please” (when offering a seat) - 座ってくださいSuwatte kudasai→ “Please sit.” - 大丈夫です、ありがとうございますDaijōbu desu, arigatō gozaimasu→ “I’m okay, thank you.” 🌱 Real-Life Tip If you’re unsure what to do, watch what Japanese passengers do. Quiet behavior, awareness of others, and simple politeness go a long way. 🚉 Final Thought Train etiquette in Japan is based on consideration for others. You don’t need perfect Japanese—just calm behavior and a few polite phrases will help you fit in smoothly.