The Sound of Silence: Tokyo’s Quiet Commute
Silence isn’t awkward it’s art. Step into a train here, and you’ll enter what feels like a moving meditation chamber with wheels. Everyone’s calm, composed, and collectively pretending the person two inches from their face doesn’t exist.
No one’s arguing, no one’s on speakerphone, and absolutely no one is watching TikToks at full volume (a crime punishable by death stares). The only sounds are the train’s rhythm and the gentle symphony of polite sniffles.
If you’re new here, it’s easy to forget this rule especially if you’re used to subways that sound like reality TV auditions. You might whisper something to your friend, and suddenly, fifty pairs of eyes flick toward you like: “Ah… a foreigner.” Congratulations, you’ve become the entertainment.
Why the hush? It’s all about respect. Japan’s train system moves millions daily, yet it’s remarkably peaceful because everyone values wa social harmony. Silence is Tokyo’s version of saying, “We’re all in this together… but let’s not talk about it.”
So next time you hop on a Tokyo train, embrace the quiet. Scroll silently, daydream dramatically, or perfect your “serious commuter” face. Just don’t call your mom. She’ll think you got kidnapped.
Because in Tokyo, silence speaks volumes especially during rush hour.
