My Trip To Japan: How To Safely Cross A Busy Intersection

It can be intimidating to cross an intersection when you are facing 20 or 30 people coming your way. In Japan you get an even greater rush of anxiety due to having up to 200 to 300 people coming at you. This massive flow of people doesn't just exist at intersections, but in the subway stations, stores, and basically anywhere there are people.

I am sure that there are unwritten rules that may even be difficult for Japanese people to understand. However, I think I can simplify it for you. This worked for me not just in Japan but also in South Korea.

First, look for a mom with a baby stroller or possibly someone in a wheelchair. When the light turns green just stay close behind them. If that is not an option, get right behind someone elderly or someone holding a small child's hand. Again, stay close behind them as they cross the street. My philosophy is that MOST people will not purposely run into an knock a child or elderly person to the ground. Some might enjoy a little contact with a foreigner though! You can also use this technique when crossing the street with cars speeding through the intersection. Groups of small school children work especially well for this.

After using this "safe" technique for awhile you will sort of figure out how to do cross the street without bumping into people. I think it is important to pick a path and speed and stick to it. That way others can calculate their path. If you walk like you are unsure of where you are going then you will have trouble crossing the street as well as those walking towards you.

After you master walking across the street by yourself safely, you can add in some complications. Try adding in your rolling suitcase, backpack, cup of coffee, umbrella, all the while using your cell phone's GPS.

I think there were about 100 people on each side of the street during this crossing. I think it was actually easier to cross the street whenever people were carrying umbrellas.

This lady holding the hand of the little girl is the perfect person to walk behind when crossing the street. Everyone heading in their direction will walk around them. They will probably walk a little slower than you but it will only cost you 5 or 10 seconds at most.