Can you talk in a Japanese subway?

Talking loudly on trains is considered bad mannered and ranks highly amongst the most annoying behaviors on trains in Japan. Don't talk on the phone. Only on long-distance trains on the decks between cars is talking on the phone acceptable. Set your phone to silent mode.



While there is no legal "ban" on talking, the established social etiquette in a Japanese subway is to remain as quiet as possible to respect the shared space of other commuters. Most passengers in Tokyo or Osaka engage in "silent travel," choosing to read, sleep, or use their smartphones quietly. If you must speak to a companion, you should do so in a very low, hushed whisper. Talking on a mobile phone while the train is in motion is considered extremely rude and is strictly prohibited by most rail operators; signs throughout the carriages will remind you to "set your phone to silent mode and refrain from talking." This cultural norm, known as meiwaku, is centered on avoiding being a nuisance to others. In 2026, this etiquette remains a cornerstone of the Japanese travel experience. For tourists, following this "quiet rule" is one of the easiest ways to show respect for local customs and ensure a harmonious environment for everyone on board the often-crowded transit systems.

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Generally it is quiet in the train cars in Japan, so loud noises are very conspicuous. Almost all people listen to music using earphones and turn the sound off on their smartphones.

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Yes, not only is it ok, but they actually sell beer on the trains. Originally Answered: Is it ok to drink alcohol on the Shinkansen? Don't they sell beer and sake on the Bento trolley that goes down the aisles? Yes, its OK to drink on the train.

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Avoid foods with strong odors that might offend others. You may bring water on local trains, but avoid other drink types, including soda and coffee.

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The cost to ride the subway or bus in Japan varies depending on the city and transportation company. Generally, fares range from around 200 to 300 yen for short distances, and can be up to 500 yen or more for longer distances.

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There's also no cultural relevance that prohibits people from eating while walking. As long as you are following TPO guidelines, you should be good. While it's okay to eat while eating, it's not a common practice. Japanese people are mindful of having cleanliness and respect for public spaces.

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You may bring water on local trains, but avoid other drink types, including soda and coffee.

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Talking loudly on trains is considered bad mannered and ranks highly amongst the most annoying behaviors on trains in Japan. Don't talk on the phone. Only on long-distance trains on the decks between cars is talking on the phone acceptable. Set your phone to silent mode.

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All shinkansen are equipped with multiple toilets, which are sometimes separated by gender. The toilets are Western-style except on some older train sets.

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In Japan, the high-speed Shinkansen trains spray water onto snowy tracks to prevent the snow from blowing up into the undercarriage and re-freezing. In all areas with extreme winter conditions, de-icing, like in the airline industry, is essential.

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Trousers are fine, jeans are fine, skirts are fine. Many Japanese young women are covered up A LOT on the top half but have very short shirts and that seems to be fine, for some reason. If you do this, just keep in mind that you will be bending down to take shoes on and off, more often than normal.

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While on the train, your phone should be on silent mode and you should avoid making or receiving phone calls. Keep conversations to a minimum. Much like phone etiquette, if you are riding with friends, family, or coworkers, you can typically talk but do so quietly. Don't eat or drink.

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