If there is one thing that makes people say “That’s Japan!” then surely the train is at the top of the list. Amidst the hustle and bustle of the morning commute, millions of commuters quietly board the train with absolute trust in a system that operates almost flawlessly. In Tokyo, the number of train rides can reach 9 million per day – a figure that not only demonstrates the efficiency of public transport but also shows the attachment of Japanese people to this form of transport.
But the train in Japan is not simply a means of transportation. It is a part of the spirit, a miniature image of Japanese culture - where punctuality, order and respect for common space are raised to the standard. In this article, let's join JAM on the cultural train to better understand why Japanese trains are so "very Japanese"!
Train Habits: When Travel Becomes a Lifestyle
In Japan, taking the train is more than just a journey from point A to point B – it’s a repetitive ritual, one that exudes discipline and efficiency. Train station habits aren’t taught in books, but are a way of life for everyone.
First, punctuality. Trains arrive at the right minute, passengers arrive at the right time – and if you miss your train, it’s no surprise that you kick yourself for not being more careful with your timing. Waiting for a train becomes a breeze when you know that, in a few minutes, another one will glide silently and precisely along.
Silence – that is the most prominent “sound” in each train car. No one speaks loudly, no music is played on the speakers. There is only the sound of smooth movement, and sometimes the sound of pages turning. Smiles are exchanged, polite glances, all communication is like whispers in that limited space.
Queuing is also a familiar sight. No matter how crowded it is, you will always see orderly lines of people standing in their designated spots, waiting for the train to arrive. No one pushes or cuts in line, because everyone understands that a moment of jostling can ruin a dreamlike operating system.
In addition to being orderly, the Japanese train system also brings many other benefits such as saving travel time, reducing environmental pollution thanks to clean energy, and ensuring absolute safety. Not only does it help make life more efficient, but it also contributes to preserving a clean and humane living environment.
The Unwritten Rule: When Silence Is Also an Act of Respect
Without warning signs or constant reminders, trains in Japan still maintain almost absolute order thanks to "soft rules" - also known as unwritten rules.
You will rarely see someone talking on the phone on the train. It is considered rude to talk on the phone or speak loudly, as it can disturb others in a quiet shared space. If you must listen, most people will either leave the train or keep the volume to a minimum.
No eating or drinking on the train is also an unspoken convention. Except for long-distance trains or trains with separate dining areas, passengers usually limit snacking to avoid causing odors or creating trash.
Also, when someone asks you something, taking off your headphones to answer is a small but polite action. When standing, people should always avoid blocking the way, creating comfort for those around them.
These rules are not harsh, but they create identity. Thanks to that, every train journey becomes smooth and civilized. You may encounter "half-crying, half-laughing" situations if you accidentally forget these unspoken rules - but it is this difference that brings an interesting and unforgettable cultural experience.
Memorable Experiences: Traveling to Japan, You Must Try Taking the Train Once
If you have the opportunity to visit Japan, don’t just visit the famous tourist spots – take the time to experience a train ride. This is not simply a means of transportation, but the most authentic way to feel the rhythm of Japanese life right from the most ordinary things.
You will feel the “magic” of punctuality – when the train arrives at the station almost exactly to the second. The feeling of waiting for the train and stepping on the train at the exact moment the door opens will surprise you because everything happens quickly and neatly as if it had been calculated in advance.
On board, you will enjoy a rare quiet space – no loud music, no loud calls. That is the time for you to sit down, relax, read a book or simply watch the city go by through the window.
The politeness, orderliness and mutual respect of the passengers around you are an integral part of this experience. The gentle glances exchanged, the natural silence without anyone having to remind you – all create a very unique, very Japanese “train culture”.
Even standing in line to board the train or taking off your headphones when you need to talk are small actions that make you feel like you're living in an environment where everyone thinks of each other.
So if you want to understand Japan beyond its temples, food, and kimonos, try taking a train ride – where you will touch the spirit of Japanese life in the most intimate way. A gentle experience but one that will surely leave you with lasting memories.
Japanese train culture is not just about being punctual or lining up. It reflects an entire ideology of life: respecting others, valuing time, and behaving civilly in public spaces.
For foreign visitors, experiencing the train is not just a form of transportation. Try to slow down, listen to the silence, observe how Japanese people behave, and you will feel a part of the true Japanese spirit.
Who knows, after a trip, you will bring back not only the image of a modern train station, but also profound lessons about how to live and how to respect the community - what makes Japan such an admirable country today.