Pregnant and Visiting Japan? Here’s What to Expect on Public Transport
Travelling in Japan while pregnant can be a very positive experience—thanks to the country’s clean, reliable and well-organised public transport. That said, there are a few things that might catch you off guard if you’re visiting from abroad, especially when it comes to using trains and buses while expecting.
Whether you’re heading to Kyoto by bullet train or navigating Tokyo’s underground, here’s what pregnant visitors should know to stay comfortable and safe on the move.
Priority Seats: Yes, You’re Entitled to Use Them
On trains and buses throughout Japan, you’ll find priority seats (優先席 yūsen seki) clearly marked, usually at the ends of carriages or near the doors. These are reserved for:
- Pregnant people
- Elderly passengers
- People with disabilities
- Parents with young children
Priority seat symbols (Credit: The Japan Times)
Even if you’re only visiting Japan, you’re absolutely entitled to sit in these seats if you’re pregnant—regardless of how far along you are or whether it’s visible. Don’t worry about “taking someone else’s seat”—they’re designed for anyone in need.
If the seat is taken and you’re feeling unwell, you can say "Sumimasen" (excuse me) and politely gesture to your bump—or even better, use the Maternity Mark (more on that below).
But Let’s Be Honest…
Despite Japan’s reputation for being polite and considerate, not everyone gives up their seat—even when they clearly should. This surprises many visitors to Japan (myself included), but it’s not unusual to see students, businesspeople, or young commuters sitting in the priority seats during rush hour, pretending to be asleep or glued to their phones. (This might be mainly Tokyo, I can't speak for other prefectures.) There has been a lot of talk about this on social media since the recent tourist boom in Japan, but it isn't a new phenomenon.
Many passengers will offer their seat if you make your situation known, but others won’t bat an eyelid. To be fair, some people may have hidden disabilities, but it’s also true that many simply choose to ignore others in need.
So here’s what to keep in mind:
- Don’t be shy to speak up if you really need to sit down.
- Try to avoid rush hour if you can—generally 7:30–9:30 AM and 5:00–7:00 PM.
- Stand near the priority seats so you're visible.
- And don’t take it personally—it’s a cultural norm that surprises many, even locals.
What’s the Maternity Mark—and Can Tourists Get One?
You may notice people carrying a small pink tag with a cartoon of a baby in the womb. That’s the Maternity Mark (マタニティマーク)—a gentle way of letting others know that you’re pregnant, especially helpful if you’re in the early stages or don’t have a noticeable bump yet.
This badge, which charmingly reads “there is a baby in my belly,” provides you with an all-access pass to priority seating areas on public transport.
The design varies from time to time, but it is always reminscent of the above. Credit: Coto Academy
Wearing it can:
- Help people understand you might need a seat or more space
- Make station staff more responsive if you need help
- Give you a little more confidence when using busy transport
Can Tourists Get One?
Not a lot of people know this, but yes, you can—and it’s free. You don’t need any paperwork or ID. Some of the following links are in Japanese, but you can use a translation application to see the information.
Try asking at:
- Most stations in Tokyo, Kanagawa Prefecture, Saitama Prefecture, Chiba Prefecture, Ibaraki Prefecture, Tochigi Prefecture, Gunma Prefecture, Yamanashi Prefecture. Iwaki Station, Haranomachi Station and Izumi Station in Fukushima Prefecture.
- Atami Station and Ito Station in Shizuoka Prefecture.
- Shinkansen stations and Chino Station, Kami-Suwa Station, Shimo-Suwa Station, Okaya Station, Shiojiri Station, Matsumoto Station, Toyoshina Station, Shinano-Omachi Station, Hakuba Station, Minami-Otari Station, Togari-Nozawa-Onsen Station, Nakagomi Station in Nagano Prefecture
The above stations are all part of JR East, but it would make sense that JR West and elsewhere would have a similar policy, so don't hesitate to ask if you're in Kyoto or Hokkaido etc.
Toei Subway (Tokyo)
The Tokyo Metropolitan Bureau of Transportation offers Maternity Marks (about 5cm wide, on a ball chain) to pregnant women and new mothers.
To request one, speak to staff at:
- Any Toei Subway stationmaster's office
- Nippori-Toneri Liner Nippori Station
Rinkai Line (Tokyo Waterfront Area)
Maternity Marks are also available at:
- Ticket counters at all Rinkai Line stations (excluding Osaki Station)
Hankyu Line (Kansai Region)
If you’re travelling in the Kansai area (Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe), the Hankyu Line provides Maternity Marks at:
- Information counters at major stations
No proof is required—just ask, and either you or a family member can receive one on your behalf.
Airports
If you’re flying in Japan, both ANA and JAL airlines provide support for expectant mothers:
- ANA offers original Maternity Mark tags at airport counters (domestic and international) in Japan, available on request.
- JAL provides Maternity Mark tags at special assistance counters for domestic flights. Tags are limited in number and designs are gradually updated depending on airport and date.
JAL's Maternity Mark (Credit: JAL)
Just say “Maternity Mark, arimasu ka?” or show a photo on your phone, and staff will usually understand.
Rare but Important: Discrimination on Trains
While most people in Japan are extremely kind and respectful towards pregnant women, there have been rare reports of women being spoken to harshly or even harassed on public transport if they’re visibly pregnant or wearing the maternity mark. I want to stress that as far as I know, it is rare: it has never happened to me, and I’ve never witnessed it myself or know anyone who has. But it’s something to be aware of. Some believe these reactions may stem from broader social issues, such as the emotional toll of infertility — a common and sensitive topic in Japan. If you ever feel uncomfortable, quietly moving to a different car or seeking out a station attendant can help resolve the situation.
More Tips for Pregnant Travel in Japan
Here are a few things to help make your journey smoother:
- Use lifts or escalators rather than stairs—there’s usually at least one in every station, though signage isn’t always obvious.
- Carry water and snacks, particularly in summer or if you’re prone to nausea or dizziness.
- Don’t hesitate to ask staff for help—they’re used to dealing with all sorts of situations and are generally very polite and discreet.
- Some train lines offer women-only carriages during rush hour—these can feel safer and less intense.
- If you feel unwell, head to the station office—staff can guide you to a rest area or call assistance if needed.
Travelling with Young Kids Too?
If you’re pregnant and also travelling with little ones, take a look at our Little Nomads Japan delivery boxes. We send nappies, formula, snacks, wipes and other essentials straight to your hotel or Airbnb, so you can pack light and stress less. Or if you only need one or two items, like nappies or food, we can do that too!
