Train Warfare
Are the trains in Tokyo really convenient?
Today was a day like any other as I made my way across fair Tokyo. I was in such a good mood I even left early. As I hummed my way down the street and on to the train platform I expected my day to go on without a hitch. I looked up to check my train time. "The next train is at 8:50" said the computerized clock. I hastily checked my watch, "9:05" it said. I suddenly realized it was going to be a very long morning. Whether it's due to weather, accidents, suicides (an interesting article on this at Tokyo Suicides) or mechanical failure, it can be very very inconvenient for train riders. It can result in being cramped, crowded and stuck in a humid environment for however long it takes to fix the problem.
Now, honestly speaking, the train system in Japan is quite good. The trains more often come on time than not and conveniently weave through the city than around it. However the crowded trains in the rush hour morning and evening periods are less than desirable. Here are a couple of videos demonstrating:
So how to avoid the worst of it but still get to work on time? There's a couple of ways.
1. See if there are are multiple ways to get to your destination. So you could always jump out if things get sticky on your train.
2. Take a bus. Buses are the undiscovered cheap traveling treasure that most foreigners think too difficult to approach. Celina told me that during her first couple of years here, the only bus she took was to immigration. It doesn't have to be that way. Often the buses aren't very crowded and even if they take a tiny bit longer, you may not encounter the daily struggles of the train. It's not often a bus will be held back for 30 minutes due to an accident, etc. Buses can be confusing even for Japanese people. However, you can start by paying attention. Do you see buses in your area? Take note of their destinations which should be displayed in English as well as Japanese. Also take note of bus stops near your home and their destinations. On a free day when you happen to be at that destination point, you can check to see if there are connecting buses. Or if there is a simple short train ride the rest of the way to where you need to go. I know it sounds like an effort but it may well be worth it. Celina, who has taken 20 minutes off of her traveling time, is now a converted busser. Try it and see!
posted by Fudocom - Rei @ 3:02 PM
1 Comments:
Those videos are hilarious!!! I can't believe that they don't limit the amount of train passengers.
I also agree about the buses. But they'd probably take getting used to.
Gina-Australia
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