toilet: “Otearai” is also commonly used (just like “bathroom” or “rest room” in English). Most Japanese toilets are high-tech with warmed seats and a bidet function. escalator: In Kanto it is customary for people to stand on the left hand side of the escalator, leaving the right hand side open for those in a hurry. In Kansai, it’s the opposite; people stand on the right leaving the left open for those in a hurry. elevator: In many department stores a member of staff in uniform stands by the elevator to assist customers about matters such as what floor they can find a particular product on.