Leaving one side open was traditionally considered polite because it allowed people in a hurry to pass. Today, however, railway operators are placing greater emphasis on safety and accessibility.

Walking on a moving escalator can lead to falls, collisions, and other accidents, especially when stations are crowded. It can also make escalators difficult to use for passengers who need more space, extra time, or access to a particular handrail.

The nationwide campaign therefore asks passengers to remain standing, regardless of whether they are on the left or right side.

Why Do People Still Leave One Side Open?
Although the official safety message is to stand still, the custom of leaving one side open remains widespread.

In Tokyo and much of eastern Japan, passengers traditionally stand on the left and leave the right side open. In Osaka and parts of western Japan, people often stand on the right and leave the left side open.

The Osaka custom is commonly traced to an announcement introduced at Hankyu Railway’s Umeda Station in 1967, asking passengers to stand on the right. The practice later became more familiar around the time of the 1970 Osaka Expo.

Tokyo’s stand-left custom developed separately and became widespread as the city’s railway network expanded. Several explanations have been proposed for the difference, but there is no single confirmed reason.

For travelers, however, remembering these regional patterns is becoming less important. Whether you are in Tokyo, Osaka, or elsewhere in Japan, the latest safety advice is the same: remain standing rather than walking.

1. It Can Cause Falls and Collisions
Escalators are moving machinery, and walking on them increases the chance of losing your balance.
A passenger walking past may bump into someone standing ahead, while bags and suitcases can strike nearby passengers. Sudden stops can also cause several people to stumble at once.
This is particularly relevant for international travelers, who often use stations while carrying large suitcases or unfamiliar luggage.

2. Some Passengers Need a Particular Handrail
Not everyone can safely stand on the side traditionally expected in that region.
Someone with an injury, disability, or mobility issue may need to hold the handrail with a particular hand. When passengers are pressured to stand on only one side, that person may be unable to ride safely.
Allowing passengers to stand on either side makes escalators more accessible to people with different physical needs.

3. Busy Stations Are Used by People With Different Needs
Japanese stations are used by older passengers, families with children, travelers carrying luggage, and people who may be unfamiliar with the station.
Walking passengers can create pressure for others to move aside, sometimes suddenly or without enough space. Asking everyone to remain standing helps create a calmer and safer environment.

The basic advice is simple:
Stand still, face forward, and hold the handrail. Do not walk up or down the escalator.
You can stand on either the left or right side when space allows. Passengers do not need to leave one side open, and standing in two lines is also acceptable.
In practice, you may still see most passengers forming a single line. Some commuters may also continue walking on the open side because the old custom remains deeply established.
You do not need to walk or move suddenly simply because someone behind you appears impatient. Stay securely on the step, hold the handrail, and follow any signs or instructions provided by station staff.
When you are in a hurry, use the stairs where available instead of walking on the escalator.

Many passengers still follow the traditional custom of leaving one side open, so reactions can vary. However, railway operators are asking passengers not to walk on escalators. You do not need to walk or make a sudden movement simply to allow someone to pass. Prioritize your safety and remain securely on the step.I

Suitcases are fine as long as you hold them to prevent falling. Strollers have a high risk of falling, so please be sure to use the "elevator" instead of the escalator.

The nationwide initiative is primarily a safety and etiquette campaign, not a new national law. Some local governments have introduced ordinances requiring escalator passengers to remain standing. Even where no ordinance applies, railway companies strongly encourage passengers not to walk.

A total of 58 railway and transportation operators are participating, including Odakyu Electric Railway, JR Group companies, Tokyo Metro, and other operators around Japan. The campaign is also supported by related organizations, commercial facilities, and local governments. The signs and announcements displayed may differ depending on the station.

Japan’s former custom of leaving one side open was intended to help passengers in a hurry. The latest safety message reflects a different form of consideration: making escalators safer for everyone, including older passengers, families, people with disabilities, and travelers carrying luggage.

You may still see commuters walking on escalators or leaving a passing lane open. Nevertheless, the safest approach is now the same throughout Japan: stand still, hold the handrail, and use the stairs when you want to walk.

(Source/Main Image :PR Times)