Japan Thoughts

I thoroughly enjoyed the 10-ish days recently spent in Tokyo and Kyoto. The main highlight was hanging with Mr. Horn, whom I hadn’t seen since 2019.

There are things from this trip, culturally, that I appreciated. Not that I’m somehow an expert or anything. These are just a few things I observed and think are worth noting.

Tokyo and Kyoto are tourist destinations, so this may not apply to smaller towns and cities there. Even though there was a language barrier (Duolingo did not help), communication was possible. Be it ordering food via touchscreen devices or folks knowing a small amount of English. I’m sure the locals had a minute understanding of other languages, too, based on touchscreen language options. Other than Spanish here, it doesn’t seem to be any type of priority, much less a consideration. Even places without touchscreen options, they would have a picture style menu so you could point and order.

One thing I liked, not because I am a cheapskate (I am), is the non-tipping service culture. But really, it is not the same service. They bring you your drinks and glasses with a flask or carafe of water, and you pour yourself. No one comes back asking if it was good or whatnot. I like this experience, and I don’t feel like I have to judge the place on how I was treated by one staff member and just on the food itself. I have no idea how the employees are compensated, but I hope it is more of a livable wage than what folks in the American service industry get. I really don’t know about that either, as I have never worked that type of job.

About a third of people were wearing masks. They were a mix of cloth, surgical, and N95 types. This was even outdoors and in cars. I feel like here there is some sort of stigma, like “Are you sick,” or “I thought covid was over.” That seems to highlight a big difference in how they care for themselves and each other. Especially each other and their society as a whole.

That’s my 10 day reflection, and I can’t wait to go on another adventure with Mr. Horn. Maybe I can get the Mrs to join next time.