CELLPHONE USE

How many cellphones do you see?

In keeping with the Japanese concept of “mind your own business and don’t infringe on others”, when using a cellphone, and EVERYONE does, the Japanese, with few exceptions, keep the ringer turned off. It’s rare to hear a phone ring anywhere. 

Though they may have their phone out for texting, browsing the internet, or playing games, it is the exception to see, let alone hear, someone in a public space talking on their phone. Trains, train stations, restaurants, stores, you name it. If there are more than a couple of people in the vicinity the Japanese don’t generally talk on their phone within earshot.