Tokyo Train System: 101, 201, 301

Posted on May 30, 2007 by Steven Coleman

I’m from Hawaii where we have no trains, so mastering the sprawl and complexity of the Tokyo train system was not unlike deciphering the DaVinci Code. Such basic concepts as local and express trains, inbound and outbound platforms, ticket purchasing or multi-line transferring were as foreign to me as kanjiThe most complex of the three types of characters used in written Japanese. Sometimes called "Chinese characters.".

But as my basic understanding solidified, another layer of ‘logistical logic’ appeared. What is the latest time I can leave my apartment to make the fastest train to get to work on time? Which door of which car will place me directly in front of the escalator? How early (or slow) a train do I need to board to get a seat? I’m sure you too have accumulated a lexicon of similar stratagem.

Mastering these, a whole new vista dawned: The Etiquette of Passenger Trains. Here I imagine Tokyo must have its own unique railway persona. Tokyoites, are these familiar? You must back onto a crowded train if you are in the last ten or fifteen people boarding. You can take the door-side ‘pocket’ position and, even in the most packed trains hold your place stoically. Pushing and shoving is allowed insofar as it makes space for other commuters. A heartfelt, “Sumi-masen!” (with an equally genuine ‘head-bow’) will smooth most contentions. ‘Playing dead’ will allow you to keep your seat in almost any situation. But if you opt for a public display of compassion, “Suwari-masen-ka?” (‘Won’t you please sit down?’) complete with a hand gesture is the proper way to defer. Also, when sitting, you may nod off and slouch onto your neighbor; but you mustn’t complain when your neighbor requires your shoulder. Finally, you must always make way for, and even assist by force if necessary anyone who proclaims, “Ori-masu!” (‘I’m getting off!’) – as you too may need to use this ‘emergency ejection’ technique someday.

“Ori-masu!”