Rumors and Observations About Trains in Japan (So Far)

As many of us know, there are stereotypes about Japan and Japanese people that we have heard - here and there - throughout our lives. Those who are looking specifically to visit Japan, or even those just interested, might want to know about whether these rumors are true or not. Here are some I've noticed about taking the metro in Tokyo.

1. As I live very close to Manhattan, I'm used to the dirty subways packed with people who are either too loud or too "shut-the-fuck-up" faced. We all know about the rush hour trains in Tokyo (how it is incredibly packed and people are pushed in my metro employees to try to get everyone squished in). Yes, in my experience, that is so, so true. I've been on the metro in Tokyo when there are spaces free to sit and everyone just sits quietly. I've been in Japan where everyone is packed in like sardines and I can't freaking breathe. What makes me feel at home, though, is sitting next to a guy who smells like pee and a group of drunk working men speaking about how much they hate their boss. Ah, I miss New York. Otherwise, the trains are clean and quiet. It really just depends on what time you go. 

2.Two rules you may hear about on the train that you must obey (even more strictly as a foreigner): Don't eat/drink on the train and don't speak on the train. Are these true? Well, sort of. When it's more quiet, you should be quiet. That's courtesy. No one wants to be the foreigner that causes a scene and draws dirty looks from those around you (yes, this is directed at you, Logan Paul). When it's a Friday or Saturday night and people are drunk off their asses, there will be chatter. Of course now is an okay time to talk, as well. Basically - just follow what everyone else is doing. That's how Japan is, for the most part. Honestly, people drink all the time. Even alcohol on the trains. You'll see businessmen with open beers riding the train home from work all the time, or teenagers who obviously just turned 20 (legal age in Japan) showing off that they can drink now. Just be respectful and don't spill. I personally suggest closed lids as opposed to cans when drinking and walking around. Don't eat, though. You'll draw looks. I was also told that you shouldn't drink while walking in Japan. That was one thing I was worried about, considering I drink A LOT of water. Turns out people do it all the time. Walk down the street and see people drinking whatever beverage they got at 7-11 or the billion vending machines around. That was a myth busted.

3. Also on the trains: I was told by multiple people that I would be stared at often and avoiding on the trains. So, I knew that going into it, but how obvious it was was a bit of a shock. There would be a seat on either side of me on the train and people would rather stand. Do I smell? No, I showered, put on deodorant, all that jazz. Ah, yes. I'm a foreigner.  It makes me feel like I have cooties and people are afraid to catch the foreigner-bug. 

Did I miss anything? Have any questions? Comment below!