Where Taiwanese people most often stand on the MRT | Daily survey: Most likely to encounter harassment

Where do people usually stand when traveling or commuting? A survey by the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department shows that based on statistics of molestation incidents on Japanese trains, there are three spots in train cars where sexual harassment is most likely to occur. Over half of the cases happen near the doors—the very spot where many Taiwanese people often stand on the MRT. Passengers who usually stand near the doors are advised to be extra cautious.

Cases of chikan (train molestation) on Japanese trains are frequent. The Japanese website “buzz-plus” reports that the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department investigated 219 past cases of train molestation and identified the three most common areas in train cars where perpetrators are most likely to grope passengers. The “area near the doors” is the highest-risk spot, with 57.5% of offenders targeting victims there. Another 22.4% of incidents occurred in the “middle aisle,” 16% in “seats,” and 4.1% were unaccounted for.

If you encounter harassment while riding, the Taipei MRT’s sexual harassment prevention measures recommend that you try to stop the behavior. You can use the intercom inside the station or car, the emergency call button in the restroom, or directly report to MRT police or station staff for immediate response. Depending on the situation, victims will be provided with assistance in filing a report and other necessary support.