Coming back to Japan again after 4 years is definitely a very satisfying experience, and the culture and surroundings continuously keep me exploring.
Four years ago, as illustrated by a very large number of photographs here (some kind of embarrassing), was truly the beginning of my first-hand impressions of Japan.
These days, I am continuously both impressed and intimidated by the size of the roads in Japan (especially when I'm a pedestrian). Most small roads have no defined sidewalks, aside from the white lines drawn on the pavement us Americans would normally refer to as the 'Shoulder'. I've noticed here that when cars are passing each other, one of the two vehicles, if not both, usually has to pull to the side so both cars can fit (thus on many occasions nearly running over my foot). Japanese people seem very used to this act, and are never phased by other fast-moving cars. Cars slow down, sure, but not as much as you would expect when trying to drive next to another car near millimeters away from your right side.
If sidewalks are ever defined (in small city areas at least), they're done so with poles or other markers. At least this keeps the cars from pulling into the pedestrian lane, and keeps me feeling a bit more safe. (I just get run over by bikes instead!)
This weekend, however, I took a trip to Shibuya, Tokyo, and experienced the northern city life of Japan for the first time.
The atmosphere is completely different there, much like New York City, which I go to at home all the time.
There's a larger influence on pop culture, fashion, etc. I'm especially fond of some Japanese fashion sense, and while I find it hard to attempt such a style myself, it's an amazing form of self-expression and fascinating to look at.
The city life was all hustle and bustle, and I can't want to go back. Coming back home to Osaka, I noticed the extreme difference immediately. It's so quiet here!
Please check out my sets on Picasa:
Surroundings Album
NipponBashi (DenDen Town) Album
Kiyomizu Temple Album
Tokyo Trip Album
1 comment:
A very nice beginning to your anthro blog. Nice connections between the physical environment and people's behavior.
As for fashion, etc., I think you need to explore Osaka a bit more, especially Shinsaibashi and America Mura. "Quiet" is usually not a term associated with Osaka...
Lots of good photos in your blog entry and in your linked pages. I look forward to many more fine photos (and commentary) in the weeks to follow.
-scf
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