Saturday, January 30, 2016

My Trip To Japan: Shinagawa Station Subway Platform

Here are a few photos from the JR Yamanote Line platform. They give a good idea of what to expect at most any train platform in Japan.


There are four train tracks on this platform. Two of these tracks are dedicated to the JR Yamanote line. The other two are dedicated to various other trains, some of which do not stop. Occasionally, you will end up on the wrong side of the tracks. Sometimes you can just face the other way. Other times you will need to go upstairs and cross over to the other set of tracks. I had to do this more often than I'd like to admit.


Sometimes you have a better chance of getting a seat if you head away from the crowds. Most people will continue straight as they come off the escalator.




You will be riding the subway with all sorts of people. Some will be coming home after partying all night. There will be students, office workers, and even someone on their way bak from a fishing trip like the man in blue.


You never know what sort of items will be brought on the train. So, bringing luggage onboard is not a problem except during the peak of rush hour.


Be prepared for people running at full speed as soon as a train door opens. I am very impressed with how fast some women can run in high heels. I did not think it was possible. Most of the time the people are transferring to another train line and need to make a connection as quickly as possible.


The proper way to enter the train car is to wait to the side while everyone exits. Then, you can go on and try to find a seat. While everyone is exiting, it is time to move to an empty seat. I must say that Japanese people are a little more courteous than the South Koreans.


For tourists it is better to exit the train, stay out of the way for awhile, and then move towards the exits when the crowds have left. It will be better for you and the locals too.

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