Being in Japan is like being on another planet. Everyone is so courteous in public, so it’s no wonder that they have a whole set of no-go behaviours.
For example, did you know that it’s considered very rude to drink or eat while walking?
Instead, you’re supposed to stand by the side of the vending machine/convenience store and finish your drink or food there and then.
You won’t get fined, arrested or thrown into jail for disobeying these unspoken rules. Instead, you’ll get stares of disapproval from members of the public.
Here’s Japan’s Top 10 Rudest Actions On The Train, Don’t Do Them When You’re There
Japanese trains also have their own set of rules, and to save you some embarrassment for your next trip to Japan, I’m going to give you a low down on 10 unacceptable behaviours:
1. Sitting Improperly
There are various ways of sitting that are frowned upon such as manspreading aka sitting with your legs wide apart. Another eyebrow-raiser is crossing your legs while sitting as it may take up the space of those who are standing.
2. Rude Behaviours While Getting On & Off The Train
These include blocking the doors of the train when it has arrived at the station, and not moving in to make room for those boarding, pretty basic stuff.
3. Having Your Bags Take Too Much Space
Remember how there are signs in Singapore trains that tell you to place your backpack on the floor if you’re standing to make room for others? This one is kind of like that.
4. Improper Use Of Smartphones
Basically, do not walk while using your phone in the hustle and bustle of the train station as it might slow others down. Also, be sure to turn off notifications or put your phone on silent while on a train.
5. Loud Conversations
Have you ever heard someone talking like their trying to shout at someone who’s across the football field? No one likes that, so be sure to pay attention to how loud you are so as not to disturb others.
6. Coughing Or Sneezing Without Covering Your Mouths
Proper hygiene is basic etiquette anywhere in the world, but in Japan, it is especially important, which is why you see a lot of people wearing face masks. Hence, be careful when you are sneezing or coughing in public and always have a tissue ready to cover your mouth and nose.
7. Listening To Overly Loud Music On Your Phone
Have you ever heard someone else’s music through their headphones or earpiece before? I bet the first thing you thought about was how it’s going to damage their hearing. People in Japan will think you’re #rude if your music is too loud.
8. Littering
Do not, I repeat do not leave your garbage behind on the train. I’m sure this is a no brainer for most of us, but still.
9. Drunk Passengers
No one likes a drunk passenger who misbehaves. So yes, drunk passengers are frowned upon. Do not over-drink and then ride the train and behave like a hooligan. Not cool.
10. Applying Makeup On Train
This one’s a weird one for me. Why can’t you apply makeup on the train? It’s not like you’re applying makeup on someone else’s face.
But apparently, this behaviour is considered to be rude in Japan for fear that your makeup will somehow fly around and smack someone in the face, giving them a splotch of mismatched foundation/concealer/eyeshadow. The horror.
So there you have it guys, 10 rudest actions on the train to avoid at all costs.