03 Why do Japanese train stations do that?

03 Why do Japanese train stations do that?

Author: JapanKyo.com February 9, 2020 Duration: 54:51

Today's Question

On this episode of Ichimon Japan we ask: Why do Japanese train stations do that?

Topics Discussed

  • The train system in rural areas versus urban areas in Japan
  • Trains in Kagoshima and Ishikawa
  • What a Wanmanressha (one man trains) is
  • Unmanned rural train stations
  • Why Japanese train stations use cute songs to indicate a train is about to depart
  • Hasshamero (train departure melodies)
  • The use of Nogizaka46's song "Kimi no Na wa Kibō" as a train departure melody
  • The logic behind train departure melodies
  • A brief history of train departure melodies in Japan
  • How the song "Yappa Sukiyanen" by Uashiki Takajin was adapted into a train departure melody after his death in 2014
  • How Osaka locals prefer to use "Umeda" when referring the the area in and around JR Osaka Station
  • Why there are lines and numbers on the train platforms
  • How to line up when waiting for a train
  • Women only train cars
  • The use of high-pitched noises (17 khz) to disperse people loitering at train stations in Japan
  • Standing versus walking on escalators
  • How Japanese railway companies are trying to get people to only walk on escalators
  • Japanese people's reluctance to stop walking on escalators
  • Why standing on escalators can be faster than walking
  • Why Japanese train stations use blue LED lights on platforms
  • The claim that blue LED lights are extremely effective at preventing suicide
  • The role of seken no me (世間の目, the public gaze/the eye of society) on Japanese trains and at Japanese train stations
  • Train etiquette
  • The claim that cell phones interfere with pacemakers
  • Putting on makeup on Japanese trains
  • And more!

We Want Your Questions

Is there something about Japan that confuses you? Is there something about Japanese culture that you would like to learn more about? Is there something in Japanese history that you would like us to explain? We're always looking for new questions about Japan to answer, so if you have one, please send it to ichimon@japankyo.com.

Special Thanks

Opening/Closing Theme: Produced by Apol (YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, Fiverr)

Ichimon Japan cover art: Produced by Erik R.

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Curious about why some Japanese words sound so specific or what really lies behind a historical anecdote you heard? Ichimon Japan: A Podcast About Japan and the Japanese Language by JapanKyo.com digs into exactly those kinds of inquiries. Hosts Tony and Ryan, both holding master's degrees in Japanese Language & Linguistics, use listener questions as a starting point for deep, conversational explorations. Their approach is grounded in personal experience living in Japan and thorough research using Japanese and English sources, which allows them to move beyond surface-level explanations. Within this podcast, you'll hear discussions that weave together language quirks, societal norms, and lesser-known historical threads, all while gently correcting common misunderstandings about the country. It feels less like a formal lecture and more like joining two knowledgeable friends who are eager to share what they've learned. Whether the topic is a subtle cultural practice, the etymology of a phrase, or an event from Japan's past, each episode builds a richer, more nuanced picture. The result is a consistently engaging listen for anyone wanting to move past stereotypes and develop a deeper, more informed appreciation for Japan and its language.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 86

Ichimon Japan: A Podcast About Japan and the Japanese Language by JapanKyo.com
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