One of the first things that strikes anyone riding a Japanese train is the unbelievable silence. Despite being packed with people, hardly anyone talks, and talking on a cell phone is virtually unheard of. While chatting and enjoying music are common sights on trains overseas, a completely different scene unfolds in Japan. Why are Japanese trains so quiet? This time, we’ll delve into the reasons behind this and explain the Japanese culture and manners that lie behind it.
An Unfamiliar Silence: The Gap with Overseas
On overseas trains, especially subways, lively scenes unfold with passengers conversing, listening to music, and sometimes even performances. However, the inside of a Japanese train is like another world. Passengers sit quietly, using their smartphones, reading books, or closing their eyes to rest. This unfamiliar silence often becomes a culture shock for people coming from abroad.
Reasons for the Silence: The Depths of Japanese Culture and Manners
Behind this silence lies not just mere manners, but deep-rooted Japanese culture and values.
The Spirit of “Wa”: Valuing Harmony
At the root of Japanese culture is the spirit of “Wa” (和). “Wa” is the idea of valuing harmony and cooperation with those around you. In public spaces like trains, individual actions affect those around you. Therefore, speaking loudly or making noise is considered disruptive to the surrounding harmony and is generally avoided.
“Reading the Air”: Consideration for Others
The phrase “Understand the situation” (空気を読む – kuuki wo yomu) is a well-known expression unique to Japan. It means to perceive the feelings and situations of others without them being explicitly stated, and to act accordingly. On trains, there are various people: those who are tired, those who are concentrating on work, those who want to enjoy reading, and so on. Quietly spending time while being aware of the surroundings is a manifestation of consideration for others.
Manners in Public Spaces: A Long-Standing Custom
Manners on trains are customs that have been passed down from long ago. The awareness of spending time quietly in public spaces has permeated throughout society. This is naturally acquired through school education and family environment, and has become a part of the Japanese code of conduct.
Imagination for Others: Empathy and Respect
Being quiet is not just about following rules, but also a manifestation of imagination for others, that is, empathy and respect. In sharing the same space with strangers, they respect each other and consider how they can spend their time comfortably. That can be said to be the fundamental reason for the silence seen on Japanese trains.
Comfort Born from Silence
The silence on Japanese trains not only means the absence of noise, but also brings various benefits to passengers.
- A Relaxing Space: A quiet train car is the perfect space to rest a tired body or calm the mind.
- An Environment for Concentration: It is suitable for tasks that require concentration, such as reading, work, or study.
- Securing a Private Space: You can spend your own time without being disturbed by other people’s conversations.
Japanese Trains: A Place to Experience Culture
Japanese trains are not just a means of transportation, but also a place to experience Japanese culture. You can feel the consideration and values of the Japanese people contained within the silence. When you visit Japan, please enjoy a train journey. Through that quiet space, it should be a valuable experience to touch Japanese culture.
Summary: The Japanese Heart Hidden in Silence
The silence seen on Japanese trains is not just a coincidence or a rule, but a result of the deep connection between Japanese culture, values, and consideration for others. Behind this silence hides the beautiful Japanese heart of valuing harmony and respecting others. If you have the opportunity to visit Japan, please experience this unique culture through a train journey. It will surely be an unforgettable memory.
