Which side of the escalator do you stand on?

Which side of the escalator do you stand on?

When riding an escalator, people in Tokyo stand on the left. People in the Kansai region stand on the other side.

Although no one can say for sure the reason for this however, there are theories.

One theory is that Tokyo had lots of samurais who preferred to stay on the left side so that they could draw their swords quickly if need be.

The other theory is that many merchants lived in Osaka and they liked to stay on the right to protect their money and other belongings by holding on to them with their right hand.

However, recently it was pointed out that walking on the escalator is dangerous, but Japanese people still use the escalator with one side open because we dislike having strangers next to us and most of us adjust ourselves to others. I guess Japanese people are shy.

How about in your country? If you'd like, please send me a message!

I hope you’ll have a great time in Japan！
Thank you for reading my article!
Feel free to leave a comment!

Comments

🍁 Kyoto Autumn Night Viewings & Illumination Guide 2025 🍁

🍁 Kyoto Autumn Night Illuminations & Temple Light-Ups 2025 🍁 *All information may change. Please confirm on each official website before visiting. Dates are based on 2024 information unless confirmed for 2025. Table of Contents 1. Ninnaji Temple “Sea of Clouds” Illumination 2. Kodaiji & Entokuin Autumn Night Viewing 3. Yoshimine-dera Bamboo Light-Up 4. NAKED × Nijo Castle: Moonlight Exhibition 5. Kenninji “Fushiki – A Zen Light Experience” 6. Kitano Tenmangu Momiji Garden Illumination 7. Shouzan Garden Autumn Lights 8. Toji Temple Night Illumination 9. Kurama “Path of Tengu” Light-Up 10. Shoren-in Temple Main Hall Illumination 11. Kifune Shrine Main Approach Light-Up 12. Toyokuni Shrine Digital Light Performance 13. Ohara Hosen-in Temple Night Garden Light-Up 1. Ninnaji Temple “Sea of Clouds” Illumination Fri, Sat, Sun, Holidays Only Dates Oct 24 (Fri) – Dec 14 (Sun) *...

The Global Love Affair with Japanese Culture #1

I t’s not uncommon to encounter people on platforms like YouTube and other social media who, surprisingly, have a deeper love for Japanese culture than many Japanese themselves. Among the aspects they are most passionate about are Japan’s entertainment offerings, such as manga , anime , and movies. The term “ otaku ” has even gained recognition overseas, and many people proudly refer to themselves as otaku. Interestingly, the word “otaku” originally had a negative connotation in Japan during the 2000s, used to describe middle-aged men who were enthusiasts of computers, idols, or two-dimensional anime . However, with the widespread use of computers and smartphones, the term has taken on a positive meaning, referring to “ people who are deeply passionate about something ” or “ those who are highly knowledgeable in a particular field .” One reason for this reevaluation of otaku culture is the phenomenon of Japan’s manga, anime, movies, games, and cosplay gai...

Why Japanese Izakaya Culture Is More Than Just Drinking After Work

Izakaya and the Culture of Entertaining in Japan In Japan, izakaya — casual restaurants where people gather to eat and drink — are a common sight. But from an international perspective, izakaya are a unique blend of two worlds: in many Western countries, meals are typically enjoyed at restaurants, while alcohol is reserved for bars or pubs. The combination of food and drink in a single, laid-back setting is part of what makes izakaya culture so special. Izakaya menus are extensive, with dishes meant to be shared among groups. Diners enjoy small plates alongside a wide range of alcoholic options, including beer, sake , shochu , umeshu (plum wine), and fruit-flavored “ chuhai .” One surprising concept for many foreigners is the “all-you-can-drink” ( nomihodai ) option, often available for a set time. Late-night hours are another defining feature, with many izakaya staying open until the early morning. It’s common to move from one place to another in a night...

Local Japan Guide

Search This Blog