We saw plenty beautiful, historic, inspiring sights in Tokyo. Yet, it’s the little differences that have stayed with me since our visit a few years ago. It’s the vending machines, trash cans, Starbucks signs, automatic doors, and subway stations. So similar and familiar in most ways, but different. Cleaner or faster or louder. These are the small impressions that are so hard to capture in photos or describe to friends back home. I mean, who wants to hear about the announcer at the baseball game or the hotel mirror that magically remains un-fogged after a shower? Some things you just have to see for yourself.
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I haven’t been to Tokyo but I know what you mean. In Hong Kong you can check in your bags at the train station before going to the airport. When you get off the train there’s a line of trolleys for your luggage waiting on the platform. SO well organised….
Yes, well-organized is definitely how I’d describe Tokyo! I’d love to visit Hong Kong someday.
It’s fun to check out the little details like that wherever you travel. I’m sure people think we’re nuts to be taking pictures of things like grocery stores, candy wrappers, toilet controls, whatever…but those little things tell you a lot about how folks really live in a place
I used to feel self conscious about taking pictures of food or a trash can or other normal things, but I’ve done it enough now that I’m over being embarrassed! I regret the days when I didn’t take as many pictures.
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It is both disheartening and comforting to see American brands while traveling abroad. You are right – it is the small impressions that create some of the most memorable experiences.
For me, it depends on the brand. If it’s an American fast food chain, it does make me sad. Something like Coke is so ubiquitous that it almost seems like a world brand, not uniquely American even though it is an American company. I’m sure others would disagree with me there…
Sometimes I’m a little embarassed to be seen taking photos of stuff like that when traveling. But I’m equally captivated by them. And I’m going to remember this photo the next time, be brave, and snap the picture!
Thanks! I hope you will go out and take LOTS of photos, even of mundane things, and then share them on your fabulous blog.
I love the vending machines in Japan! As a teen, I was shocked that huge cans of beer could be bought from a vending machine… More recently, the kids and I got such a kick out of them when we were there a couple of years ago; we ended up with a Fanta with some tapioca(?) in it and were, really, quite shocked by chunky soda. Maybe Coke is a little too prominent (I was a little put off on our recent trip to “World of Coke”, but, hey, I still drink my Fresca and Coke Zero), but chunky soda? That’s something we don’t get here….