Japan’s bullet trains, or Shinkansen, are known for their efficiency, comfort, and punctuality. They are a top choice for travelers navigating the country and offer a smooth and fast ride between major cities. However, for tourists unfamiliar with Japanese customs, there are 13 etiquette mistakes that tourists make on Japan’s bullet trains that can cause discomfort or frustration for fellow passengers and staff.
From phone conversations to seat selection, cultural expectations on these high-speed trains are different from what travelers may be used to. The Japanese take respect for others’ space and quietness seriously, and adhering to these social norms is essential to having a pleasant journey. Ready to make your next Shinkansen trip smoother? Here are 13 key etiquette tips to follow to ensure you’re traveling like a local.
Talking loudly or taking phone calls
Japan’s bullet trains are famously quiet, not just because of engineering, but because passengers value a peaceful ride. Loud conversations can quickly disrupt the calm, especially in reserved seating cars. Talking on the phone is especially frowned upon—most riders switch their phones to silent mode before boarding. If you need to take a call, quietly move to the vestibule area between train cars. Speaking softly with travel companions is acceptable, but keep your voice low. Locals often use the time to read, nap, or work. A loud voice, even for a short moment, breaks the shared atmosphere of respect.
Eating messy or strong-smelling food
Food is allowed on the Shinkansen, but that doesn’t mean anything goes. Bento boxes sold at stations are packed with this in mind—compact, neat, and neutral in aroma. Bringing fried food, durian, or something dripping in sauce will not go unnoticed. The smell can linger for hours, especially in an enclosed car. Others may be sensitive to odors or simply uncomfortable with a mess. Passengers often unwrap, eat their meals quietly, and then pack everything back into the same bag. If you're unsure about your food choice, ask yourself: Will this be quiet, clean, and neutral enough for shared space?
Not reserving seats properly
Shinkansen trains have both reserved and unreserved cars, and sitting in the wrong seat creates confusion and frustration. Tourists unfamiliar with the system often take any open seat, only to be asked to move mid-ride. Your ticket will clearly mark the car and seat number. Unreserved cars are first come, first served, but reserved cars are strict—locals expect accuracy. When in doubt, check platform signs or ask train staff before boarding. Sitting in the wrong place disrupts the rightful passenger’s experience and can delay seating for others. Knowing where you belong is part of the etiquette.
Placing luggage in aisles or walkways
Space on the Shinkansen is thoughtfully organized, but not unlimited. Leaving large suitcases in walkways or between seats can block foot traffic and irritate passengers and staff alike. Overhead racks are fine for small bags, but larger suitcases belong in designated areas—often near the end of the car. On some routes, you can reserve a seat that includes oversized baggage space. If that’s not an option, keep luggage out of the way and close to your seat. Blocking emergency exits or food carts is considered careless. Luggage should be part of your space, not something others must work around.
Reclining your seat without checking behind you
Shinkansen seats do recline, but it’s good manners to glance behind you before pushing the button. The person seated behind may be using a laptop, eating, or simply not expecting the sudden shift. Reclining without warning can jolt them or disrupt their space, especially if the tray table is in use. A simple look and polite nod can make a big difference. It’s also common practice to return your seat to the upright position before exiting, especially if you’re in a reserved car. Small gestures like this show consideration for the person behind you and maintain the flow of shared travel.
Leaving trash behind
On Shinkansen trains, cleanliness is everyone’s responsibility. There are no attendants collecting waste during the ride or trash bins at your seat. Passengers are expected to carry their garbage to bins located near the doors at the end of each car. Leaving wrappers, drink bottles, or food containers behind is considered careless and disrespectful. The train may look spotless when you board, but that’s because riders before you took care to clean up after themselves. Even small items like receipts or tissue packs should be taken with you. Cleanliness on public transport is not optional—it’s a shared courtesy.
Speaking on speakerphone or playing media out loud
Watching videos, scrolling through social media, or playing games without headphones is one of the fastest ways to get glances from nearby passengers. Noise, even from entertainment, disrupts the peace that locals expect during their journey. Japan values unspoken consideration in public, and loud personal audio can break that unspoken agreement. If you want to pass the time with your device, use headphones and keep the volume low. Speakerphone calls, even short ones, also break the flow. Quiet doesn’t mean silence—but it does mean being aware that your sound might spill into someone else’s much-needed calm.
Putting feet on seats or armrests
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Feet belong on the floor, not the seat across you or the armrest beside you. Even if the train isn’t crowded, putting your shoes—or even socked feet—on surfaces where others sit is frowned upon. It’s seen as inconsiderate and unsanitary. Japan has strong standards for public cleanliness, and shoes often come off when entering homes, schools, and some restaurants. That sensibility extends to trains. Kicking off your shoes and stretching out may feel relaxing to you, but to nearby passengers, it can come across as inconsiderate or thoughtless. Stick to your own seat and respect shared space.
Blocking doors during boarding or exiting
Efficiency is key to Japan’s rail system. When passengers block doorways—either by lingering, pausing for photos, or standing in the way—it slows everything down. The Shinkansen stops for just a few minutes at most stations. People need to get off and on quickly, and blocked exits cause confusion or delay. Instead, stand to the side, let people off before boarding, and move into the aisle quickly. Lining up is orderly, and moving briskly is expected. Delays are rare on these trains, and that’s partly because passengers don’t hold them up by standing where others need to pass.
Failing to queue properly
In Japan, lining up is almost sacred—queues are quiet, organized, and respected. At train platforms, marked lines show exactly where to stand and which car you’ll be boarding. Jumping the line or drifting out of place disrupts a flow that regular riders rely on. There’s no pushing or rushing; passengers board in the order they arrived. Even during busy hours, people wait calmly. Cutting ahead or crowding near the doors may not draw a confrontation, but it will earn silent judgment from everyone around you. Respect the lines, follow the flow, and the entire process moves smoothly and without tension.
Using priority seats unnecessarily
Priority seats exist for passengers who need them most—people with injuries, disabilities, pregnancies, or infants. While you’re not banned from sitting there, you should be ready to give up your seat without hesitation. In some regions, priority seats are to be left empty entirely if someone in need is standing. Signs and symbols make this clear, and ignoring them isn’t seen as casual—it’s taken seriously. Even pretending not to notice someone nearby who may need that space is frowned upon. Being mindful of those around you and willing to move quietly is a small action that holds great respect.
Wearing backpacks in crowded areas
Backpacks may seem harmless, but can cause issues in tight train aisles or packed boarding areas. Swinging or bulky bags bump into seated passengers or block walkways. In Japan, it’s common practice to take off your backpack and carry it by hand or place it at your feet when standing. This habit keeps movement flowing and minimizes awkward contact with others. Leaving your bag behind you while moving down the aisle can also make passing harder for people. Being aware of your physical space—and how it affects others—is a quiet but important part of train travel etiquette.
Not adjusting volume or tone with travel companions
Even private conversations can become too loud on a train. Whether you're sharing a laugh, telling a story, or reacting to something surprising, volume matters. In Japan, many passengers treat the Shinkansen as a space to rest, read, or reflect. Loud chatter—even from tourists caught up in excitement—can disrupt that environment. It’s not about being silent, but being aware. If you’re traveling in a group, speak softly and avoid animated gestures that might draw attention. Locals tend to speak in low tones or not at all. Matching that energy shows you’re paying attention and respecting the shared atmosphere.
Ride With Respect
Navigating the Shinkansen is more than just about getting from point A to point B—it's about respecting the culture that makes Japan’s public transport system so efficient and well-organized. By following the etiquette tips outlined here, travelers can avoid common mistakes and ensure a smooth, pleasant journey for themselves and fellow passengers. These simple gestures—like keeping conversations quiet, being mindful of personal space, and properly disposing of trash—go a long way in maintaining the calm and order that the Japanese value so highly.
Next time you hop on a bullet train in Japan, remember that a bit of consideration can enhance your travel experience. Travel is about more than just following rules; it’s about embracing the local culture and showing respect for those around you. A thoughtful approach makes every journey more enjoyable and rewarding.
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