On the Escalator

In Japan, escalator etiquette is key: stand left and walk right in Tokyo, but reverse it in Osaka. Following these regional rules keeps traffic flowing smoothly and shows respect—just observe and go with the flow!

Standing on the left vs. standing on the right

In Tokyo and Osaka, escalator etiquette differs notably. In Osaka, the practice of standing on the right began in 1967 with the installation of a new escalator at Umeda Station. An announcement instructed passengers to “keep the left side open,” which was inspired by practices observed in London. This guideline became the norm in Osaka.

In contrast, Tokyo’s approach emerged in the late 1980s without any formal instruction. People in Tokyo naturally began to stand on the left side of escalators.Kyoto’s approach to escalator etiquette

Despite being close to Osaka, Kyoto has a more varied escalator etiquette. You might see people standing on either side or even both sides on different train or subway lines. On JR and subway lines within Kyoto city, standing on the left is common. However, on the Hankyu, Keihan, and Kintetsu lines, which connect Kyoto with nearby cities like Osaka and Nara, people often stand on the right.

The variation in Kyoto’s escalator etiquette is partly due to the high volume of international tourists. With over 8 million foreign visitors annually, the local population has adapted to a mix of practices, often following the lead of those around them.

Escalator etiquette in other regions of Japan

A 2014 survey by J-town Net revealed that outside Tokyo and Kansai, most regions in Japan follow the practice of standing on the left side of escalators. In some areas, there is no strict rule, and people simply stand wherever there is space.

What then is the correct side?

In reality, there isn’t a universally “correct” side. According to the Japan Elevator Association, escalators are meant for standing rather than walking or running. Public posters on escalator etiquette often show figures standing in the center or on both sides, regardless of the city.

In Kansai, which includes Osaka, Kyoto, and other cities, the norm is to stand on the right. Outside Kansai, the left side is preferred. The primary goal of these practices is to avoid obstructing others, especially in busy stations where commuters are often in a hurry. Unlike in the U.S., where people might stand on either side without concern, Japan emphasizes not inconveniencing others.

The reason for this regional difference isn’t entirely clear. One theory suggests that Osaka adopted the right-side practice for the 1970 World Expo and continued it afterward. While different countries have their own conventions, Japan’s approach varies regionally. If you’re visiting Japan, simply follow the locals and you’ll fit right in.