Train Etiquette

Here are just a few simple guidelines to obeying Japanese etiquette while on the train. Of course depending on where you are these can vary. Tokyo is a more progressive city so the penalties when these are violated can be less harsh. 

1. First and foremost mind the 'silver sections'. These are the areas at the end of each car that are set aside for elderly, handicapped, pregnant, and just flat out cranky people. The rules are the strictest and penalties most harsh around these areas. Do not worry if you pay attention these areas are clearly designated by different color seats and indicators on the floor. You must not sit down if any of the people listed above are standing. ( This is just common courtesy and should be obeyed throughout the whole train. You must turn off all electronic devices including cell phones and certaintly MP3 players. You are not to talk loudly to those around you in these areas.                                                             
2. Almost equally important to remember is that cell phone use on the train is extremely prohobited. If violated you may be scolded verbally and at the very least you will not escape the death stares from the entire car. Texting is fine just don't talk on the phone.
3. Listening to music in your headphones is acceptable, so long as you are aware of the people around you and not completely in your own world when it comes to blocking the door. I have been repremanded several times for listening to my headphones to loudly. It is considered a nuisance and is not tolerated. So just keep the noise to a minimum. 
4. The entrance/exit procedure for getting on and off the train is universally recognized.  Always step aside when waiting to get on the train because those getting off must be comepletly exited before you can get on. Everyonce in awhile you'll see an ignorant salaryman try to jump the gun and get on but the masses exiting almost always prevail in keeping him in line, forcing him to wait until the car is exited. 
5.       Do not enter the train with excess baggage, all you backpackers out there who love your gigantic rucksacks need to be very mindful. If you plan on riding for more than 2 stops please put your bag on the overhead shelf. 

So all said and done, just try not to be a nuisance to the people around you. The name of the game here is to not bother anyone.