Japanese Railway Tells Photographers: Stop Risking Your Life for Train Photos

Photographers have long been drawn to the energy and movement of train stations, capturing everything from sleek bullet trains to candid commuter moments. But East Japan Railway Company, known as JR East, is now asking photographers to pause before grabbing their cameras on station platforms. 

According to a report by transportation news site Traicy, JR East has launched a safety awareness campaign warning against risky photography practices that could endanger both photographers and other station users.

The Awareness Campaign

Starting December 16, JR East will display posters at major stations highlighting four types of “dangerous recording and nuisance photography.” 

The illustrations focus on behaviors that may seem harmless but carry serious risks. These include using tripods or stepladders, leaning out over platform edges, standing on tactile paving blocks designed for the visually impaired, and recording with long boom-type equipment.

The posters carry a clear message: “Absolutely do not engage in these actions.” 

JR East emphasizes that such behaviors have caused inconvenience to passengers and created situations that could result in contact with moving trains or even electric shock.

Accidents Involving Photographers

There have been multiple tragic incidents in Japan involving photography near train tracks or platforms. In 2024, a 61-year-old Hong Kong tourist was killed while taking photos near train tracks, highlighting how quickly a moment of distraction can turn fatal.

Another case involved a Taiwanese tourist in 2015 who was fatally struck by a train while attempting to photograph a train at a station in Japan. In Saga Prefecture, a 55-year-old foreign woman was hit by a local train while taking photos near a level crossing, an incident that temporarily suspended services on the JR Sasebo Line.

These incidents illustrate that even seemingly minor missteps, such as stepping too close to tracks or attempting unusual angles for a photo, can have deadly consequences. They also demonstrate how such accidents can disrupt train services, affecting other passengers as well.

Photography Etiquette on Platforms

For photographers who want to continue shooting at stations, there are safer approaches. 

Keep a reasonable distance from the platform edge, avoid ladders or large tripods, and respect tactile paving and other accessibility features. Planning shots during off-peak hours or using zoom lenses to capture details from a safe distance can reduce risk.

Being aware of your surroundings is critical. Even experienced photographers can underestimate the speed and unpredictability of trains and crowds. Small precautions can protect both yourself and other passengers while still allowing you to capture compelling images.

JR East’s campaign is a timely reminder that creativity should not come at the cost of safety. Train stations are lively and exciting spaces, but they are also environments where a single misstep can have serious consequences. By learning from past incidents and following guidelines, you can continue capturing the energy and beauty of Japan’s railways while keeping yourself and fellow passengers safe! 

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