Smoke and a pancake
So it dawned on me today concerning one of the major differences in Japan that I have not yet blogged about (as far as i know).
Smoking here in Japan is much more accepted in public places than in the States. Most every restaurant has a smoking section, and in many restaurants their is no differentiation between smoking and non-smoking areas. So for you smokers out there - Japan is a very smoker-friendly place. Even many fast-food places have smoking sections ready for their customers.
In fact, smoking is permitted in many other places as well. When Ayako and I were at the apartment company this past weekend signing the paperwork - the manager there asked me if I would like to smoke. Likewise, in many businesses here you are allowed to smoke in the office while you are at work.
This smoker friendly country is however very strict on one no-smoking zone… and of all places it is outside! Most sidewalks have signs or painted patches every so many meters that remind everyone that it is strictly prohibited to walk and smoke. It is ok, however, to stand off the side of the walkway and smoke - however, you are not allowed to smoke while you stroll.
As a non-smoker myself, with allergies triggered by smoke (as well as the potential of asthma reactions if the smoke is too strong), I find these differences a big blotch on the overall pleasant experience that is living in Japan. For those of you on the other side of the fence, perhaps you will see this as a wonderful new freedom.
April 29th, 2009 at 7:56 am
I can attest to your Allergies being severe. We could almost never work at my house do my dog.
Maybe you need to were one of those white breathing masks around town, and a backpack. You’ll surely fit in.
April 29th, 2009 at 8:55 am
I love that dog, i hate that dog’s hair
Really, cocoa is a nice pet - and I do love dogs…. but why oh why was i cursed with such allergies *shakes fist in air*
At least with Benadryl handy I was able to focus on work, but then you were left with a visiting zombie.