After the intentionally funny "smoking manners" poster I put up last week, I decided to go with an unintentionally funny—and deeply philosophical—one this week. I'll post a few more of these in the future, but don't worry, I won't go through all 70 or so in the long-running ad campaign by Japan Tobacco. … [Read more...]
Funny Japanese Smoking Manners Sign
This funny sign is part of a brilliant ad campaign by Japan Tobacco to encourage "smoking manners." You'll see these things all over the place in Japan. … [Read more...]
Japanese Add Faucet to Toilet to Save Water
Most people are aware of Japan's high-tech toilets with their numerous (and let's face it, mostly unnecessary) functions, but not everyone knows that most toilets in Japan come with a faucet and a little sink above the water tank. When you flush, the faucet starts running to refill the tank, giving you a chance to wash your hands without using up any additional water. Pretty … [Read more...]
Cow Piss Vending Machine in Tokyo
Alright, so they're not actually selling cow piss, but that's what it sounds like when someone offers you some Calpis. Since they're also responsible for Pocari Sweat, I have to believe the Japanese are the undisputed champions of unfortunate drink names. This particular vending machine is located in the Bentencho area of Shinjuku in Tokyo, but you can find them pretty much … [Read more...]
What Does a $100 Dumpling Look Like?
It looks big. Very, very big. This "jumbo gyoza" (a Japanese dumpling known as pot sticker) sells for 9600 Yen, which is US $110 at today's exchange rates. If you happen to find yourself in Tokyo with a large group of extremely hungry friends, make your way to the Iidabashi district. Take a right after exiting the main gate of the JR Iidabashi Station and walk to the main … [Read more...]