Japan reeling under Rush Hour Crowded Trains.

Japan’s urban commuters endured an increase in cramped rush-hour conditions on trains in 2024, with the most crowded train in Tokyo more than 70% over capacity, according to recent government data.

Morning rush hour on a section of the Nippori – Toneri Line, in Tokyo’s Arakawa Ward, was found to have an average congestion rate of 177%, the highest in a survey covering congestion on Japan’s urban trains, conducted by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism.

Between 7:30 a.m. and 8.30 a.m. on a section of the driverless guideway transit system traveling from Akado – Shogakkomae Station to Nishi-Nippori Station, carriages with a capacity of accommodating 4,887, actually transported 8,664 passengers, which is 77% over the stipulated capacity, according to the survey data published in July.

With a congestion rate of 163% percent, the second highest in Tokyo, Hibiya Line trains from Minowa Station to Iriya Station in Taito Ward were the most crowded for morning rush-hour passengers using the Tokyo Metro network.

JR Saikyo Line trains from Itabashi Station to Ikebukuro Station in Toshima Ward shared the same rate, making them the most crowded of the trains in Tokyo operated by East Japan Railway Co.

Passengers on trains with a congestion rate of around 150% manage to travel standing without touching shoulders but there remains some crowding near the doors, the survey report said. At 180%, shoulders will be touching, and passengers may feel some pressure. Passengers near the doors will feel cramped. The annual survey on urban train congestion highlighted conditions in Japan’s three major metropolitan areas — Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya. The ministry surveyed 31 sections of Tokyo’s railway network.

The Congestion rates were derived based on calculations during morning rush-hour passenger numbers during one or more days between October and November in 2024.

In order to mitigate with the Rush Hour congestions & possible fatalities, “train pushers,” or “oshiya”, are appointed. They are station attendants who help passengers board crowded trains, especially during rush hour. They physically assist people in getting onto the train, ensuring the doors can close, and preventing delays. This role is particularly necessary on lines with high passenger volume, like those in Tokyo.

While the practice was more prevalent in the past, with some stations having dozens of pushers, modern railway management and infrastructure improvements have reduced the need for them on many lines, though they still exist in certain areas, particularly in Tokyo. While primarily known for pushing, oshiya may also manage arguments, assist people with disabilities, and even respond to incidents like passengers falling onto the tracks.

Team Maverick