#34: Japan Train Etiquette 

When travelling in Japan, you will more than likely take a train (whether it be a local train or shinkansen), to a destination at some point. Trains in Japan are reputable for being punctual and efficient. Here are some tips for when you do hop on board: 

• Little to no talking on trains. It is fine to have a conversation, but try to keep it at a low volume and to the person next to you. 
• No talking on phones or other devices. 
• On some trains, there are women-only carriages. Please only board these carriages if you identify as a woman. 
• Medium to large backpacks should be worn on the front of body to avoid accidentally hitting other people, and to create more space on crowded trains. 
• No eating on trains (with the exception of long-distance trains and shinkansen). 
• When reclining your chair on the shinkansen, consider the person behind you, even if you just say a simple 'excuse me' as you recline your chair. 

Similar etiquette applies to other forms of public transport like buses and trams. If in doubt, try to observe the manners and the actions of local people around you.  As they say,  "when in Rome, do as the Romans do"!