When you travel to Japan, one thing you’ll notice right away in train stations and shopping malls is the escalator. But here’s something many visitors find surprising—Japan has unique escalator rules and manners. You might wonder, “Why is everyone standing on just one side?” Don’t worry, we’ll break down how it works, the differences by region, and what tourists should keep in mind.
The Basic Escalator Rule in Japan
In Japan, when you ride the escalator, people usually stand on one side. This makes space for those who want to walk up or down on the other side.
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Tokyo and most of eastern Japan (Kanto region) → Stand on the left side
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Osaka and western Japan (Kansai region) → Stand on the right side
This regional difference often surprises visitors, but it’s a fun cultural detail to notice.
No Walking Campaigns: Safety Comes First
In recent years, you may hear announcements or see signs saying “Do not walk on the escalator.”
The reason is safety—accidents like tripping, bumping into others, or dropping luggage happen more often than you’d think.
Because of this, many train stations, airports, and shopping centers encourage everyone to stand still on the escalator instead of walking.
Tips for Travelers Using Escalators in Japan
If you’re visiting Japan, here are a few simple tips to follow:
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Follow the locals → Stand on the left in Tokyo, stand on the right in Osaka
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Keep luggage in front → Hold your suitcase or backpack in front of you, not sticking out behind
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Safer to stand still → With more campaigns against walking, it’s best to just stay put
Escalator Etiquette as a Reflection of Japanese Culture
Even something as small as how people ride an escalator shows Japan’s culture of being considerate and avoiding inconvenience to others. If you know these rules, not only will you blend in more easily, but locals will also see you as a respectful traveler.
So, next time you’re in Japan, pay attention to the escalators—you might notice how this everyday routine reflects Japanese manners and order.
