Using mobile phones on trains Never talk on your phone while on the train, unless using the designated phone area of the shinkansen. Silence and use headphones so that your media cannot be heard by others. Finally, turn your phone off if sitting near the priority seating area.

On the Japanese Shinkansen (bullet train), the general rule for talking is "keep it low and be considerate." Unlike local subways or commuter trains where silence is often the norm, talking to your travel companion on a long-distance Shinkansen is perfectly acceptable, provided you use a "library voice." Japanese culture places a high value on omotenashi (hospitality) and the comfort of others, so loud, boisterous laughter or shouting across seats is frowned upon. The most important rule involves mobile phones: you should never take or make a phone call in the seating area. If your phone rings, you should immediately silence it and move to the "deck" area (the space between the carriages near the restrooms and trash bins) to conduct your conversation. Most passengers use this time to sleep, work, or enjoy an ekiben (station bento box) in peace. While you will hear a low hum of conversation in the car, you will notice that it is significantly quieter than an Amtrak or European train, as everyone tries to minimize their "audio footprint" to ensure a tranquil environment for their fellow travelers.