Etiquette for bus or train rides
When the train arrives, allow passengers to alight the train first before boarding.
Queue up beside the door to give alighting passengers space as they leave the train.
Enter the train in queue order after all alighting passengers have disembarked.
In Japan, people alighting vehicles are given the right-of-way regardless of the type of vehicle.
Note that priority seats are available on buses and trains in Japan.
Please refrain from occupying these seats even if they are empty as they are reserved for elderly, disabled, and pregnant passengers.
Avoid talking on your phone while inside public transportation as this is considered rude.
Make or take your calls after alighting from the train or bus.
Also note that talking in a loud voice in public spaces is considered bad manners in Japan.
You may engage in conversation while riding public transport, but take care not to disturb other passengers.
Except for designated smoking areas, all public transport and platforms are no-smoking zones.
You should avoid eating and drinking in all public transport, except for long-distance train rides.
Rules for pedestrians
Always use sidewalks if they are available.
If for some reason the road you are on does not have a sidewalk, stick to the rightmost side of the road.
Always follow pedestrian lights.
If no pedestrian lights are available, follow available traffic lights.
If crosswalks are available, use them to cross the street.
You may cross the road if no crosswalks are available nearby (within 30m), but remember to look both ways before crossing.
