Unspoken Rules of Elevators in Japan? What Visitor Should Know Navigating elevators in Japan might seem straightforward, but there’s an etiquette that locals follow almost instinctively. While most travelers won’t need to worry too much about these details, this guide is for those who want to dive deeper into Japanese culture or understand business etiquette in Japan. If that sounds like you, keep reading to learn the unspoken rules and tips for handling common situations. The Role of the Elevator Operator In Japan, it’s common for the person closest to the control panel to take on the role of the “operator.” This means they are responsible for opening and closing the doors, selecting floors, and ensuring everyone is accommodated. If you find yourself in this position, don’t panic—just follow these simple steps: Hold the Door for Others: Press and hold the “open” button (開) to keep the doors open as people enter or exit. Close the Door Gently: Once everyone is inside, press the “close” button (閉). Avoid rushing or slamming the doors shut. Standing Positions Matter Japanese elevators are often compact, so space is limited. Where you stand can make a difference: Priority for Exiting: Those getting off first should stand near the door. Move to the Back: If you’re traveling to a higher floor, step toward the back to make room for others. Keep It Quiet: Conversations in elevators are typically kept to a minimum, especially in business or public settings. Mind Your Position in the Elevator In Japan, elevators are often small and busy, so knowing where to stand can make the ride smoother for everyone: Let Exiting Passengers Go First: If you’re staying in the elevator, stand to the side of the doors when they open to let others exit easily. Step Back or Temporarily Exit: If you’re traveling to a higher floor and the elevator becomes crowded, step aside or temporarily exit to allow those near the door to leave without obstruction. Stay Quiet and Respectful: Conversations are typically avoided in elevators, especially in professional or public spaces. Silence is considered polite in Japan and allows everyone to travel comfortably. Buttons and Common Mistakes Operating elevator buttons in Japan comes with a few tricks and tips: Cancel a Selection: Accidentally pressed the wrong floor? No problem. Most Japanese elevators allow you to cancel a floor selection by double-clicking or triple-clicking the button. Press Responsibly: Avoid touching buttons unnecessarily. Overcrowding the control panel can confuse the operator or delay the elevator. Emergency Button: Only press the emergency button in true emergencies. It alerts building staff or emergency services. Priority for Elderly and Disabled If someone with mobility challenges, the elderly, or parents with strollers enter, it’s customary to step aside and give them priority access. Many elevators have designated spaces for wheelchairs or strollers, often near the control panel. Exiting the Elevator When leaving the elevator, there’s no need to rush. However, if you’re at the back, it’s polite to say sumimasen (excuse me) as you navigate past others. Hold the door open for those exiting after you, especially if you’re near the controls. Business and Formal Settings In professional environments, elevators are not just a means of transport—they’re a subtle stage for hierarchy and etiquette. Here’s how it works: Elevator Hierarchy: Who Stands Where? The position you take in an elevator can reflect your role or status in a group. Important guests or senior members are usually guided to the back of the elevator, which is considered the most prestigious spot. The person nearest to the control panel, often a junior team member or host, takes on the role of managing the elevator. They are responsible for pressing the buttons and ensuring everyone exits smoothly. For example: Back Center: Reserved for the highest-ranking individual or guest. Front Near the Door: Typically for the junior staff or host who can easily operate the buttons and step aside for others to exit. If you’re in doubt, let others choose their positions first, and avoid rushing to the back unless you’re explicitly invited. Greetings and Acknowledgements In Japan, even in the confined space of an elevator, formalities matter. When entering the elevator, a slight bow or polite greeting (“Otsukaresama desu” or “Shitsurei shimasu”) is often exchanged, especially in business contexts. Similarly, when exiting the elevator, it’s common to bow again slightly and offer a polite acknowledgment, such as “Arigatou gozaimashita.” If you’re accompanying a group, you might also hear junior members express thanks on behalf of everyone as the elevator ride ends. This practice showcases respect and attentiveness to hierarchy. Pro Tip: Timing is Key If you’re the one operating the control panel, it’s polite to hold the “door open” button to prioritize others when they are entering or exiting. Let your group or senior members step in or out first before following suit. While this custom is less strictly followed nowadays and many people don’t pay much attention to it, it’s still observed in some settings. Keeping it in mind might be helpful, even if it feels tedious at times—it’s a small gesture that can go a long way. Conclusion: Mastering the Elevator Dance Japanese elevator etiquette might seem intricate, but it’s all about being mindful of others. By holding the door, standing in the right spot, and knowing how to cancel a floor selection, you’ll navigate elevators like a pro. Next time you step into a Japanese elevator, remember these tips to ensure a smooth and polite ride!