Why cant we use the stairs?

We were at a karaoke bar trying to catch out last train. However, this place was between the ground and a Toriki late at night.

We were never going to get in a lift.

No matter. The stairs!

But, both sets seem to be fire exits and have big signs on them saying 'do not use'. We did anyway. Time for a gaijin smash.

No alarms seemed to go off. I've noticed this a lot in Japan that the stairs are often blocked off.

But why? The lifts would be less packed if I could go up or down my 1 floor with my legs.

by joehighlord