Many foreigners are surprised at how quiet they are when riding Japanese trains.
“Why don’t Japanese people make noise on trains?”
“Why is everyone looking at their smartphones?”
In fact, this is Japan’s unique culture of “reading the atmosphere.”
In this article, we will use the silence on a train as an example to explain in an easy-to-understand manner the behavior of Japanese people who unconsciously “read the atmosphere.”
When riding a train in Japan, many foreigners seem to be surprised by the tranquility.
“Why don’t Japan make noise on trains?”
“Why is everyone looking at their smartphones all the time?”
On trains in Japan, passengers rarely talk to each other in a loud voice.
This is because making loud noises or making noise is considered a violation of etiquette.
Many railway companies in Japan call on passengers to refrain from talking on board announcements and posters as a manner when using mobile phones on trains.
In addition, there is also an announcement that says, “Set your mobile phone to silent mode in the car, and turn it off when it is crowded near priority seats.”
Many people use trains, so when using a mobile phone, be considerate of the people around you and refrain from talking on the train.
Many people look at their smartphones not only to gather information and pass the time, but also to be quiet in consideration of their surroundings.
Japanese people tend to emphasize non-verbal communication.
The act of sensing the other person’s feelings and the atmosphere of the situation, and adapting your words and actions accordingly, is called “reading the atmosphere.”
The silence on the train is based on the tacit understanding among passengers to be quiet so as not to disturb those around them.
Being quiet on Japanese trains is not just a sign of good manners, but also a sign of consideration for those around you.
A quiet space provides a space for passengers to relax.
Also, by concentrating on your smartphone, you can block out surrounding sounds and enjoy a more comfortable time.
The silence on Japanese trains may seem strange to foreigners. However, for Japanese people, this is a natural behavior and an unspoken rule for creating a comfortable space.
Cultural differences
In many foreign countries, it is common to have conversations and listen to music on the train. A quiet space like Japan may feel unnatural to them.
Differences in communication
Japanese people tend to emphasize non-verbal communication. The silence on the train is a tacit understanding to respect each other and not to cause any trouble.
Differences in manners
In Japan, making noise in public places is considered a violation of manners. Conversing or listening to music on the train may be considered a nuisance to those around you.
Consideration for surroundings
The inside of a train is a public space used by many people. It is considered good manners to be quiet so as not to disturb the people around you.
Comfortable space
A quiet space provides a space for passengers to relax. I especially appreciate a quiet space when I’m tired, such as during rush hour.
Concentration
People who enjoy reading, studying, or using their smartphones on the train need a quiet space to improve their concentration.
Just because Japanese trains are quiet doesn’t mean Japanese people don’t like conversation.
I love talking to my close friends and family. However, in public places, they simply remain quiet out of consideration for those around them.
Etiquette on Japanese trains
By observing these manners, everyone can use the train comfortably.
Japanese railway companies that can read the atmosphere keep their trains clean.
The silence on Japanese trains is a sign of Japan’s unique culture of “reading the atmosphere” and consideration for its surroundings.
If you think “I have to be quiet” on the train, you are “reading the atmosphere” just like Japanese people do.
In addition to this, you can experience the Japanese culture of “reading the atmosphere” in various other places.
It may be difficult for foreigners to understand, but it is a natural behavior for Japanese people.
Reading the atmosphere is the first step to enjoying Japan
By understanding Japan’s unique culture of “reading the atmosphere”, you will be able to spend your life in Japan more comfortably and enjoyably.