Stand or Walk? Navigating Japan’s Unique Escalator Etiquette

Hello, everyone!
In Japan, did you know people stand on the left of escalators at train stations, so others can walk on the right? Well, it turns out escalators weren't actually built for walking!

I live in Saitama Prefecture, just a little way out from Tokyo, and we have an intriguing rule here. Did you know that, in October 2021, Saitama became the first place in Japan to introduce a rule saying people must stand still on escalators? There's no penalty if you don’t, but they prefer everyone to stand still, not walk or run.

Saitama became the first place in Japan to introduce a rule in October 2021

And guess what? Now, Nagoya City is thinking about adopting the same rule! When I found out Nagoya aimed to enforce this starting October 1st, 2023, it took me back to when Saitama first started doing it.

Even though this rule was made to make escalator rides safer, it kind of faded away, and people went back to doing what they were used to: standing on the left and leaving the right side free for walkers.

People are used to standing on the left and leaving the right side free for walkers.

The merit of not walking on escalators? 1. Enhanced Safety: there’s less chance of falling or bumping into others.

But there are demerits too. 1. It Might Be Slower: particularly when it's crowded, especially during busy times because no one is walking to speed things up. And 2. Changing Habits Is Tough: even with the new rule, some folks still walk because it’s what they're used to.

Thinking about Nagoya’s new rule and our experiences here in Saitama, what do you prefer to do? Stand or walk on escalators?

Next time you visit Japan, whether you choose to stand or walk on our escalators, remember: it's all about ensuring a safe and pleasant journey for everyone!