Taking trains in Osaka

I really took a lot of trains this time round. 

One thing I realized is that all the platforms look different. Well of course, since they are of different lines and companies. Plus the platform and also differ depending on whether the train is underground or above ground. 

Underground platform. More common in the city, e.g Namba area.

Above ground. This one was taken at the bay area. See that little 'box' there? If it's too cold outside, you can sit inside to wait for your train. I guess it works the opposite way during summer.

People usually queue up neatly behind the yellow line. At busy stations there will be station masters telling you to queue in 2/3 at behind the line to make the queue shorter.

Then when the train arrives, please move to the side to avoid blocking others.

One reason why you will never board the wrong train. 

I think it is quite impossible to board the wrong train in Japan. With this you will know the train type, whether it's a normal train or limited express, where it is headed to and the time of arrival. Usually if there is anything out of the ordinary, the notices can be found there too. If something is late or stalled for even just 30 seconds, a notice will be out.

Chairs for your to sit while you wait for your train.

To make the ride more pleasant, there are signs everywhere in the train and even through the PA system.

You can usually hear:

1. Please stand behind the yellow line as the train is approaching

2. Please make sure you do not leave any of your belongings on the train

3. Please silent your phone so that you do not disturb others

4. Please do not block others

etc......

Good manners = Pleasant ride

Well, ppl are usually either reading, sleeping, sending texts or playing games on their phone in the train. I think they have mastered the art of sleeping while standing and maintaining balance.

There are also announcements asking the passengers to totally switch off their mobile phones or other similar devices. I think I hear it every single time I get on the train. At first I was confused, but according to Keio's website (http://www.keio.co.jp/english/manners/), it is because they may interfere with the pace makers especially at the priority seats area. 

erm....this one says it's illegal to do anything pervert.

Be careful of the moving doors.

I find it amazing when there's a woman in super high heels who can maintain her balance, without holding onto the railings, while I'm like holding onto the railing super tightly. Such good balancing skills~

Then there's also these sign boards and maps

Thanks to this, you will never have to get lost in Japan! Conveniently located at every station is a sign board that tells you where to exit depending on your destination. And once you exit, you will find a map to tell you your exact location so that you can navigate to your desired destination.