Tokyo subway pushers, commonly known as “oshiya” or “pushmen,” are individuals employed at crowded train stations in Tokyo, Japan, to help facilitate the smooth boarding of passengers onto packed subway trains.

The primary role of subway pushers is to assist with the efficient boarding of passengers during rush hours when trains are often overcrowded. Their responsibilities include ensuring that passengers are safely and efficiently squeezed into the trains, preventing doors from getting stuck, and minimizing delays caused by overcrowding.

Tokyo’s subway system experiences extremely busy rush hours, particularly during the morning and evening commutes. The large volume of passengers and limited space on trains necessitate the assistance of subway pushers to manage the flow and avoid any safety hazards.

Subway pushers typically wear uniforms provided by the subway operators, distinguishing them from regular passengers. They may also carry identification badges or armbands to clearly identify themselves as authorized personnel.

To facilitate boarding, subway pushers use a combination of verbal communication, gestures, and physical contact to guide passengers onto the train. They apply gentle pressure to push people into the train cars while ensuring safety and preventing overcrowding.

While subway pushers assist with boarding, safety is paramount. They are trained to maintain a balance between ensuring maximum occupancy and avoiding uncomfortable or unsafe conditions. They adhere to strict guidelines and protocols to prevent accidents or incidents during the boarding process.

The practice of employing subway pushers has drawn mixed reactions. Some argue that it helps maintain order and prevents accidents, while others criticize it as an uncomfortable and dehumanizing experience for both pushers and passengers. In recent years, technological advancements and efforts to alleviate overcrowding have reduced the need for manual pushing.

To address overcrowding and reduce the need for physical assistance, Tokyo’s subway system has implemented various technological solutions. This includes improved train schedules, platform screen doors to enhance passenger flow, and real-time passenger information systems to help passengers plan their journeys.

The practice of subway pushers in Tokyo reflects the unique challenges faced by one of the world’s busiest and most crowded subway systems. While their role has become less prominent over time due to technological advancements, they remain a part of Tokyo’s transportation history and serve as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to improve passenger flow and safety in the city’s bustling subway network.