Train manners in Japan: phones, priority seats and backpacks
On Japanese trains, set your phone to silent, skip phone calls, give priority seats to those who need them, and hold your backpack in front. Here are the main points from official guides.
Phones: silent mode, no calls
Official guides from JNTO and Tokyo Metro ask riders to put their phone on silent mode and not to talk on it during the ride.
- On long-distance trains such as the shinkansen, take calls in the space between cars (the deck area).
- Near priority seats, Tokyo Metro asks riders to turn the phone off during rush hour and other busy times.
Priority seats
Priority seats are for older people, people with disabilities, people with infants, and expectant mothers. Tokyo Metro and JNTO both ask you to give up your seat to someone who needs it.
- You may sit there when the train is empty, but be ready to stand up.
- A "Maternity Mark" keychain (available at station offices) shows that a rider is expecting. Please be kind to people wearing it.
Backpacks, strollers and space
- In a crowded car, take your backpack off and hold it in front of you or put it on the luggage rack, so you do not bump into other people.
- Do not block the way with a stroller or large bag. Keep the areas in front of stairs, escalators and ticket gates clear.
- Do not run to catch a train.
Boarding and platforms
- Line up at the side of the door so people can get off first.
- Stay behind the white line on the platform edge. Do not lean on platform doors or step over the line to take photos.
- Do not take photos of other people in stations. Smoking is not allowed in stations.
Women-only cars
In some cities, certain cars are for women only during the morning rush hour. Signs on the platform and on the car show this. Children, people with disabilities and their carers may also ride in them. The hours and lines differ, so read the signs.
A note about local rules
Manners differ a little between operators and between trains. When you are not sure, do what the people around you do, and follow the posters and announcements.
FAQ
Can I talk quietly with my friends on the train?
Yes. JNTO says talking softly is fine. What people dislike is loud voices and phone calls.
Can I sit in a priority seat?
When the train is not crowded, many people do. If someone who needs the seat comes near, please stand up and offer it.
Is it rude to wear a backpack on a crowded train?
It is not rude, but it can hit other people. Official guides ask you to take it off and hold it or put it on the rack.
Sources
Related tips
- Shinkansen seat manners: reclining and turning seatsMost passengers ride alone, so keep your voice low and skip loud parties. Look behind and say "sumimasen" before you recline. Only turn the seats around if your group fills the seats, and put them back before you get off.
- Big suitcases on the Shinkansen: the 160 cm ruleBags up to 160 cm in total size need no reservation. Bags from 161 to 250 cm need a seat with an oversized baggage area, or you pay 1,000 yen. Over 250 cm is not allowed.
- Suica and IC cards: how visitors can pay for trains and shopsA Suica is a rechargeable IC card for trains, buses, vending machines and many shops. Visitors can get a Welcome Suica card or use Welcome Suica Mobile on a phone.
- How to ride a city bus in Japan: front door or rear door?It depends on the city. In central Tokyo you board at the front and pay first. In Kyoto and the Tokyo Tama area you board at the rear and pay when you get off.
- Where to throw away trash in Japan (there are few street bins)Public trash bins are rare in Japan. Carry a small bag, use the bins at stations and convenience stores, and take your trash home if you cannot find one.
Last checked: 2026-11-01. Rules and prices can change, so please confirm with the official sources above.