아직 번역 전이라 영어로 보여 드려요.
When traveling in Japan, have you ever been unsure which side to stand on an escalator? In Tokyo, it's common to stand on the left and leave the right side open, but in Osaka, it's the opposite: stand on the right and leave the left open. This difference is an interesting example of how "unspoken rules" vary by region in Japan. How did this difference come about?
Actually, this habit spread in the 1960s and 1970s through awareness campaigns by railway companies and police. In Tokyo, it is said that the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department instructed people to "stand on the left and leave the right for pedestrians" ahead of the 1970 Osaka Expo. In Osaka, on the other hand, during the 1970 Expo, they encouraged standing on the right to create smooth flow in crowded venues. It is also said that the Kansai region has long had a custom of "right-side traffic," which may be a remnant of that.
On actual escalators, in Tokyo, most people stand on the left, and those in a hurry walk past on the right. In Osaka, it's the reverse: stand on the right and leave the left for walkers. However, recently, safety campaigns urging people not to walk on escalators have spread, and more stations encourage standing on both sides. Especially at some stations in Tokyo, announcements say, "Please do not walk and stand on both sides."
If you're unsure which side to stand on while traveling, observe the people around you. Most people naturally line up on one side, so following them is the easiest. Also, when you have a lot of luggage or are with elderly people, consider standing still on both sides for safety. Adapt to local customs while using escalators comfortably.
【Key Points】
- Tokyo: Stand on the left, leave the right open.
- Osaka: Stand on the right, leave the left open.
- When in doubt, follow those around you.
- For safety, consider standing on both sides without walking.