Crowds aren't your thing, but you still want to see those famous sights that everyone else is flocking to. Sometimes you just can't avoid the crowds. How can you make that experience less frustrating? How can you reduce the bruises and the stress? Here are some tips from a guide who leads private tours through the bustling cities of Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and Kobe.
In my previous job supporting security at a major theme park, I sometimes had to navigate through tight crowds very quickly, to take action before a known bad situation could get even worse. And even when not in a hurry, I was still circulating on foot, among cramped, not-very-happy people in overcrowded park areas all day, nearly every day of the summer (other seasons weren't so bad). Over time, I developed some personal guidelines that might help you out the next time you find yourself surrounded by masses of people.
First off, pick a side - left or right - and stick to it. If you see most people heading in one direction, switch sides to go with the flow. Keep an eye out for sudden changes in the crowd's movement, too. (e.g. the former "walking side" might reverse!) When different groups of people come together, things get a bit chaotic.
Avoid pushing your way through an oncoming group unless absolutely necessary. Skirt the edge, it's both faster and more pleasant. If you must, stop and stand your ground unmoving for a moment to make them go around you. Look down and pretend to fumble for something missing in your pocket, perhaps. Avoid their eyes and become an obstacle. No one can accuse you of intentionally bumping into them if you're not even moving at the time!
If you're with a group or family, try not to walk side by side. For many people, this is a constant temptation which you must resist. Save the chit-chat for when you're having a nice drink somewhere. Walk in single file or be ready to fall back into one, to make room for others on the path. You don't own the place, so please don't act like it.
Remember not everyone walks at the same pace. Some people might need to pass you, so be courteous and just let them through. Blocking someone's way is just plain rude. We can't know their needs. Would you want someone blocking you from getting to a new job interview on time? From getting to the hospital, where someone you love has just been taken? Be considerate.
When you come across a narrow spot you must move through, try to slide sideways - unless you're wearing a backpack! Backpacks make people much "wider" than they think they are, front-to-back. So be mindful of the amount of floor space you take up, and in which directions you extend the furthest.
Above all, remember that a little courtesy goes a long way, in a crowded place.
