We are always amazed by the peace and sense of order in Japan-- and we should be. If you've ever stepped foot in a classroom before, you've experienced how difficult it can be for people to get along and move in the same direction. So what is Japan’s secret to keeping things in order and creating a comfortable environment? The answer is simple: everybody follows the rules and knows the queues.
As non-locals, it can be quite difficult to catch onto these unspoken rules or know when you're doing something the wrong way. We’re gonna do you a solid and introduce a few simple social rules to help you enjoy your trip while also maintaining the comfort of those around you.
Look Before You Act:
This one is simple. If you are unsure of whether you are doing the right thing or not, just have a look around at the locals. In most cases, following their lead is a foolproof plan.
Let the Taxi Door Open Itself:
In Japan, even the automobiles are polite. So, just relax and wait for the door to open for you. Way back in the 1950s, Osaka Tonbo Taxi introduced automatic doors to ensure hospitality for its passengers as well as safety for its drivers, as the automatic doors serve to deter armed robberies.
Avoid overdoing it on the PDA:
Japan keeps it classy. And despite the abundance of cute couples walking around Kawaramachi or Dotonbori, you probably won’t see anything too PG-13. At most, you will see people holding hands or leaning on each other.. maybe a hug every now and then.
Escalator Fast Lanes:
Escalators in Japan usually have room for two people to stand on each step. However, one side is always left open to make room for people who are in a rush and do not want to stand waiting to reach the top. (Escalator signs urge people not to walk on them at all, but that’s the one rule everyone ignores.) In every city, with the exception of Osaka, folks stand on the right side and leave the left side open for those with the fast pass... but ngl, sometimes it's easy to forget. Do as everyone else does and make way for people trying to make their connection, and you should be golden.
Stay Out of the Bike Lanes:
Especially in cycler-friendly cities like Kyoto, it is important for one to be aware of the bike lanes and not walk in them. There are MANY cases of people getting clipped, and we all know how much of a pain it is to make a hospital trip during one’s hard-earned vacation time. Just don't do it!
In sum, having spatial awareness and being mindful of your surroundings while enjoying Japan pays big dividends for EVERYONE. Though some of these rules may seem a bit strict or even annoying to follow, you’ll be surprised to find how satisfying it is to be part of the peaceful atmosphere here and know that you’re contributing to it by simply doing as the Romans do.
Let us know what other rules you catch onto during your stay. Have fun and be safe!
