people at the station that were just pointing passengers towards the exit

This is actually one of the things I really like about Japan. It's so easy to miss a sign, or not be sure if this is the sign you should be following in your situation, or otherwise get confused in train stations, airports, etc.. Having an actual person there showing that yes, this is where you should be going, and even help you with questions if necessary, makes things that much simpler and more comfortable.