Why is it rude to talk on trains in Japan?


Why is it rude to talk on trains in Japan? Additionally, Japanese people find it disrespectful to discuss personal issues in public. Since trains are considered public spaces, people must be constantly aware of proper etiquette and avoid disturbing others. As for smartphones, those must be set to silent when traveling aboard a train in Japan.


Is it rude to talk in public in Japan?

In Japan, it is considered impolite to have a private conversation on a cell phone while others, especially strangers, are around to listen. This rule extends beyond trains, subways and buses. It is considered impolite to talk on the phone in just about any indoor public space.


What is train etiquette in Japan?

While on the train, your phone should be on silent mode and you should avoid making or receiving phone calls. Keep conversations to a minimum. Much like phone etiquette, if you are riding with friends, family, or coworkers, you can typically talk but do so quietly. Don't eat or drink.


Is it rude to talk on Japanese trains?

Talking on trains While you may be accustomed to chatting with your traveling companions while using public transportation, this is not the norm in Japan. Loud chatter or other disturbance is considered rude. You may notice that most Japanese train passengers stand or sit in silence.


Can I wear jeans in Japan?

Trousers are fine, jeans are fine, skirts are fine. Many Japanese young women are covered up A LOT on the top half but have very short shirts and that seems to be fine, for some reason. If you do this, just keep in mind that you will be bending down to take shoes on and off, more often than normal.


Is smiling rude in Japan?

I wouldn't say it's considered rude, but it's just not really normal, especially in bigger cities, and definitely not in Tokyo. It is possible that you could look a bit crazy or suspicious if you make a point of meeting people's eyes and smiling. It could also lead to misunderstanding.


Can you drink alcohol on the train in Japan?

Having a few drinks is perfectly acceptable; the emphasis on Shinkansen trains is quiet stress-free travel (even loud mobile phone conversations aren't allowed). BUT, do not become intoxicated (i.e. drunk) on board (or any other public space in Japan) to the point of being loud/obnoxious/rude/physically violent etc.


Is it OK to eat ice cream while walking in Japan?

Eating while walking is a big no-no for most Japanese–even children enjoying an ice cream are often told to sit down before consuming food.


Can you eat while walking in Japan?

There's also no cultural relevance that prohibits people from eating while walking. As long as you are following TPO guidelines, you should be good. While it's okay to eat while eating, it's not a common practice. Japanese people are mindful of having cleanliness and respect for public spaces.


Why are Japanese trains never late?

To put simply, the reason why trains in Japan are always on time is because there are just so many people taking so many trains run by so many railway companies every single day all over Japan.


Do you tip in Japan?

Tipping in Japan is not expected, and attempts to leave a tip will almost certainly be turned down (a potentially awkward moment). In Japan, it's thought that by dining out or drinking at a bar, you are already paying the establishment for good service.


What time should you avoid trains in Japan?

Especially when visiting large cities such as Tokyo and Osaka, you will want to avoid traveling during rush hour. Throughout Japan, rush hour typically lasts from 7 AM to 9 AM each morning, and 5 PM to 7 PM each evening. These are the times when many residents and going and coming from secular employment.


Why doesn t the us have trains like Japan?

Rail in the US is dominated by freight movements, the passenger sector is very much and afterthought and doesn't receive much investment. As a result their lines are slow, dominated by freight, and their rolling stock is old and low tech. Japan, in contrast, has one of the best and most modern railways in the world.


Is it rude to eat quietly in Japan?

Eat everything in silence except ramen or noodles for which slurping is encouraged. It's actually considered polite as you're showing enjoyment for the dish.