Observations of Japan, Part 1 of probably many

In this digital global age, it's easy for me to consider everyone to be citizens of one greatly interconnected world. But Japan is a surprising mix of fast-moving technology and deep traditions that is very different from America. It's widely known that Japan is clean and that the people are courteous. But I've noticed many other little tiny everyday differences, and quickly want to jot some of them down before I assimilate too much.

Bike theft is apparently non-existent.

This one is a no-brainer. But coming from New York City, it has still surprised me how no one really seems intent on stealing things. For example, bike chains and locks in New York usually weigh about 5 pounds and are built so that it takes more than a few minutes to saw through. But here? My shiny new bike is protected by a tiny built-in lock and a tracking sticker. Nuts!

The black round device is the entire lock!

Earth (and wallet!) friendly packaging. Also: Japan sells scented toilet paper.

Just like the states, Japan has an enormous variety of household goods. Rows upon gleaming rows are filled with various cleaning products for yourself and your home. The big difference here though is that every product comes in two options: one in a standard bottle, and one refill. It's amazing how that applies across the board, from shampoo to detergent. This greatly seems to reduce waste, as consumers can just buy a tiny refill package. But best of all, the refills are almost always nearly half the price of the bottled product!

Same product! For less money!

Women-only train cars.

I've been in ridiculously crowded subway cards before. But as smelly and cramped NYC subways can get during rush hour, I apparently have been pretty lucky all along. In Japan (and several other countries), crowded train cars have been easy locations for inappropriate groping to take place. Therefore, train companies have created women-only cars. These are marked clearly by signs along the train tracks, and on the train cars themselves. I really haven't seen rush hour in action (riding my bike to work is aweeeesome), but if I did, I would probably take advantage of these cars, just because they seem less crowded overall.

No guys allowed!

Vending machines that spit out hot drinks in winter.

It's really convenient to have vending machines around every corner. At least, you always know you'll never be dehydrated! But when it's chilly outside, sometimes you don't want a cold drink. And voila! Japanese vending machines will spit out hot drinks. Usually coffee or tea, but also sometimes red bean or corn soup. It's so simple, efficient, and amazingly comforting.

The lower row (with the red labels)
come out hot, while the upper rows
(blue labels) come out chilled!