How people move about in public spaces varies from one society to the next. What’s the “right” way in Japan?

Could you hack it for life in the salaryman world?

It comes as no surprise that Tokyo is a city of extremes. Being one of the largest cities in the world, Tokyo can be gentle as a baby’s behind or as a wild as a bobcat. If Tokyo were a woman, I would have to spend years putting much effort into understanding her odd nature. This city has the unique ability to change its overall vibe like day and night; literally!
During the day time Tokyo is one of the mellowest places in the world; as far as international jewel cities …

A big issue that is rarely addressed in Tokyo, as well as all of Japan, is looking at how much we drink. Anyone who spends any amount of time in Tokyo will notice that there are a hell of a lot of bars here. You can get a drink at any time day or night in Tokyo. It is very easy to have a stiff shot of Jack at four in the morning; I know because I have done this. It would seem that getting drunk is a way of …

On the surface, Tokyo is overwhelming at first. Avenues lined with neon-clad buildings give the major areas a futuristic look while back alleys and shotengai give the place either a run-down look or a local feel. During rush periods, Shinjuku and Ikebukuro Stations take most foreigners, even those of us from big cities, to a new level of survival-of-the-fittest living; We learn quickly that nobody stops for anyone else. I’ve gotta get to my train so don’t get in my way or I’ll run your ass down. Finding your way …