Do Your Makeup on a Japanese Train? (The Morning Commute Debate)

The Rule-Abiding Society

Japan is globally famous for its strict public transportation etiquette. You are not supposed to talk loudly, play music, or eat messy foods on local trains. However, during the chaotic morning rush hour, you might spot a controversial sight: a woman doing a full makeup routine in her seat.

The Masterclass of Balance

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Watching someone apply liquid eyeliner or mascara while a train is shaking and speeding down the tracks is honestly impressive. It requires a masterclass level of balance and precision. But despite the skill involved, it causes a massive social debate in Japan.

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The “Manner Ihan” Complaint

Many older generations and strict rule-followers consider doing makeup on the train to be a “Manner Ihan” (violation of manners). They argue that the smell of cosmetics is bothersome and that personal grooming should be kept strictly private, inside the home or a restroom.

The Brutal Morning Rush

So why do women do it? The reality of the Japanese corporate lifestyle is often brutal. With extreme overtime and incredibly long, exhausting commutes from the suburbs into Tokyo, every minute of sleep is precious. Doing makeup on the train is simply a desperate time-saving survival tactic.

The LA Traffic Equivalent

If you live in LA, you have probably seen someone desperately applying lipstick in their rearview mirror while stuck in bumper-to-bumper traffic on the 405 freeway. The Japanese train makeup routine is the exact same concept—just done shoulder-to-shoulder with strangers!