by Wonsuh Song
If you’ve taken an elevator in Japan during a visit, you might not have noticed anything unusual. However, Japan has unspoken rules and etiquette even for elevator use, reflecting the subtle social manners ingrained in Japanese society. While these rules may not be apparent to outsiders, they offer a glimpse into the cultural nuances that govern daily life in Japan.
The first person to enter the elevator usually stands by the buttons, taking on the responsibility of controlling the open and close buttons. This person stays inside until everyone else has exited, even if it means being the last one out. While this may seem inefficient, especially in busy environments, it reflects Japan’s deep-rooted sense of consideration for others. In public places like companies, this practice is quite common.
However, there are exceptions. In settings like restaurants or service venues where getting in quickly is essential, the rules can shift. The first person who holds the elevator is expected to be given priority when it’s time to register for services or enter the venue. It would be considered rude if someone who entered later rushed to the front or took precedence. In Japan, these small gestures of consideration are important to avoid misunderstandings.
Expressing gratitude is a fundamental part of Japanese culture. Even a small act, such as holding the elevator button, warrants a thank you. Failure to do so may be perceived as impolite. While Japanese people are known for their kindness and politeness, they also have little tolerance for rudeness. This expectation for good manners is not only part of daily interactions but also influences the way customer service is handled in Japan.
In Korea, it is common to see signs in stores reminding customers to treat employees with respect, such as “Our staff are someone’s family members too.” In Japan, while such signs are rare, the expectations for customer service are incredibly high. Yet, this level of politeness comes at a cost. Customer complaints, known as “claims,” are often more detailed and demanding in Japan. The emotional labor and stress experienced by service workers can be overwhelming.
While Korea has been actively addressing issues related to unreasonable customer behavior, Japan tends to internalize these challenges. As a result, employees often bear the pressure quietly. Although Japanese society may appear calm and polite on the surface, the stress faced by workers in customer service roles is significant and comparable to, if not greater than, what their counterparts in Korea experience.
In conclusion, Japan’s elevator etiquette is more than just a courtesy; it reflects a broader cultural framework of unspoken rules and social expectations. While Japanese politeness is often admired, the low tolerance for perceived rudeness reveals another side of the culture. This duality is also evident in customer service, where the pressure to meet high standards can be mentally taxing for workers.
Understanding and respecting these subtle social rules will not only enhance your experience in Japan but also help you appreciate the delicate balance of kindness and responsibility that defines Japanese society. Even a small gesture of politeness can make a big difference in maintaining harmony.
Wonsuh Song (Ph.D.)
Full-time Lecturer, Faculty of School Teacher Education, Shumei University
Adjunct Lecturer, Faculty of Education, Waseda University
Visiting Researcher, Center for Spatial Information Science, University of Tokyo
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