Shinkansen Etiquette: Seating and Lunch Box Procedures for a Comfortable Ride

Procedures when using the Shinkansen

[Cùrsa etiquette bho iar-rùnaire a’ chinn-suidhe]book 34

During the Golden Week, many people may enjoy traveling by Shinkansen to return home or go on vacation. The Shinkansen is used as a form of long-distance transportation, and if you are not used to using it, it may be a bit confusing.
For example, do you know the procedure for smelling bento boxes on the Shinkansen? In fact, the smell of your lunch box can make people around you smell sick. In public settings, it is important to follow good manners and be considerate. There may be unexpected ways to say “I didn’t know” or “I didn’t notice.” This time, we will introduce in the form of a Q&A some procedures that you should be careful about in terms of seats and smells when using the Shinkansen. Be sure to check them out for a comfortable ride.

Shinkansen seating ethics

Q. Should I shout to the person behind me when I am sitting on the seat?

A. Say something according to the situation.
If you want to fold down the seat, basic procedure is to shout to the passenger in the back seat before folding it down. If the person in the back is working on a computer or eating or drinking, an unexpected situation could come back suddenly when you leave the chair. It’s not a very pleasant feeling when the seat in front of you suddenly falls down. So, ask yourself if it’s okay to recline your seat, then sit down and slowly and gently recline the seat. If the other person is asleep, it is a good idea not to talk to them depending on the situation. Also, be sure to return the folded seat to its original position when you leave the vehicle.

C. Another person is sitting in my seat! How should I respond?

A. Look at each other while showing the ticket to the other person.
If you find yourself in a situation where someone is already sitting in the seat you bought, you might be surprised, but don’t worry. Calmly hold your ticket in your hand, show it to the other person, and say, ”Excuse me, I think this is my seat.” By checking each other’s tickets, you can find the seat should be confirmed. In this case, the key is not to say it in a way that seems to blame the other person. Also, you might end up sitting in the wrong seat, so make sure your ticket is readily available.

Lunch box etiquette

Q. Is there a specific time to eat lunch?

A. Avoid “just after departure” or “just before reaching the next station” as much as possible.
Eating ekiben on the train is one of the joys of traveling. Does timing matter when eating bento on the Shinkansen? Some people may think so, but it is important to be aware of those around you. When it comes to eating bento on the Shinkansen, it’s a good idea to avoid eating lunch right after the train leaves and right before you get to the next station. It is important to consider the situation and decide when to go immediately after departure, as there may be a large number of people moving around or people next to you. Also, if you are sitting in an aisle seat, be careful if the person sitting next to you is leaving at the next station, because it will be difficult for them to leave if the lunch is spread out.

Q. Is it true that there are certain foods that some people should avoid because they smell?

A. Avoid foods with strong odors that can spread throughout the vehicle.
Although there are no rules or laws regarding foods that should be avoided on public transport such as the Shinkansen, we recommend that you choose a lunch box that does not smell as much as possible. Even if the smell spreads throughout the vehicle, it may be unpleasant for the people around you, even if it is good. Also, some people get intoxicated by the smell of Shinkansen bento boxes. In fact, some foods are labeled as “Please refrain from eating them on Shinkansen trains or inside stations,” so when you choose a bento, we recommend rice balls, choose sandwiches and bentos that do not have a strong smell.
Also, some Shinkansen trains no longer sell on board, so it’s a good idea to buy a bento lunch and drinks before boarding the Shinkansen.

in conclusion

On the Shinkansen, the smell of bento boxes spreads easily, and people move around, so you have to be careful about the time and manner of eating ekiben. Although not regulated by law, it is important to follow good manners and enjoy your Shinkansen ride. The important thing is to be a little sensitive to those around you. Remember that the basic method for a comfortable trip is to be aware so that not only you but also those around you can enjoy the trip.

＜Information from the author＞
Writer: Reiko Nomi
After graduating from university, she gained about 7 years of experience as a secretary at a major insurance company as a fresh graduate, and then moved on to work as a secretary to the president of an IT consulting company. After that, she worked as a secretary for several companies and has been a secretary for about 15 years. Obtaining Level 1 of the Secretarial Certificate.
Using his previous knowledge, he writes with an emphasis on “respect” such as hospitality, manners, and manners.

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