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Trains: Getting on.

Getting onto a packed train can be a chore. There are a few things you should know if you are going to board without getting blasted to the wayside by the train-savvy commuters of Japan.

Lining up.

The way to line up for the train is important. Remember, the people inside of the train who want to get off at that stop will get off first, and then the people who are boarding will get on.

In order to avoid being swamped away from the train and up the stairs to the exit of the subway, do not line up directly in front of the doors when the train arrives. You should position yourself off to the side a bit, as shown below.

Once everyone has gotten off the train, proceed inside and secure your position.

Human shoe-horn technique.

Yeah but the train is packed! How do I get on?

If you need to get on a train that is already more than 167% full, there are a few things you can do.

One of the more common techniques is the human shoe-horn, otherwise known as, the butt-first technique. It might help to watch a few natives pull this one off before you try it yourself, but basically... here is how it works.

1. First step up to the train face first, with a calm look on your face.
2. Get into the train by standing on your tip toes at the edge of the door.
3. Do a 180 degree spin, and place your right hand on the top of the doorway.
4. With your raised arm pressing back against the top, push your butt into the people standing behind you.
5. Push hard. Push until you fit into the train.
6. After you push your way in, be careful that the door doesn't smash you when it closes.
* Even if the door does smash you, one of the station employees will come stuff your body parts into the door, so don't worry too much.

If you're lucky, you can get on the train when it is not so packed. This won't do you any good though if you don't know where to position yourself. Read on...

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