New Working Rules

Historically and globally Japan is known as having a strict working environment with long hours. This sentiment extends across industries and sectors. For example, it was typical for cashiers to only be allowed to stand and not sit especially in convenience stores and supermarkets. However, a huge chain, Don Quijote is changing their policy to permit their workers to sit when manning the register, and perhaps this will encourage other companies to reexamine their policy as well. 

Considering the disproportionately large older population, with many of whom having continued in the workforce, this change will make the physicality of working much more manageable. Assuming this has no effect on the customer, there is no reason for workers to not be able to sit during their shifts. In fact, I feel relieved to see others comfortably perform their job.

As the workforce demographic is getting older in Japan maybe it will be beneficial to change other common company policies that have no bearing on productivity. Improving working conditions could even help retain domestic workers as well as attract overseas workers in the coming years. I hope to see more stories like this in the near future!

Lani

Spring has come and brought beautiful Sakura to Nakameguro

With the arrival of spring, Tokyo wakes up from its cold dry winter to scenes of tourists crowding the streets to see the sakura trees that paint the sidewalks city wide. Among the most picturesque spots in the city from late March to early May, Nakameguro stands out as a haven for those hoping to catch beautiful views of spring sakura. Nestled along the sides of the Meguro River, this charming neighborhood calls visitors to enjoy a short period of other worldly beauty brought by the blooming of sakura trees.

The site of the beautiful sakura here can be enjoyed both day and night, but day time viewing parties from both locals and tourists alike usually crowd out the banks of the river to their maximum capacity. Many younger people can be found taking advantage of the less crowded streets at night, setting up mini photo shoot and enjoying hanami drinking parties, all huddled together around the soft glow of a lantern or the neighborhoods street lamps.

Nakameguro offers a quintessential hanami experience that can compete with the likes of bigger and more famous areas like Yoyogi Park or Shinjuku-gyoen National Garden. Most visitors can enjoy not only the beautiful sites, but also savor the delicate flavors of seasonal specialties like sakura mochi and matcha while admiring the picturesque scenery around them. 

Beyond the sakura blooming throughout spring, Nakameguro boasts a vibrant atmosphere, dotted with trendy cafes, artisanal shops, and stylish boutiques. After enjoying the sakura many tourists opt to take a leisurely stroll along the Meguro River, lined with charming shops and eateries, to immerse themselves in the rhythm and life style of one of Tokyo’s most fashionable and stylish districts.

Whether you’re capturing the perfect Instagram-worthy shot or simply basking in the tranquility of nature, a visit to Nakameguro during sakura season is an experience to cherish. This year why don’t you allow the beauty of the Nakameguro’s cherry blossoms to transport you to a world of wonder and enchantment, and revel in the magic of springtime in Tokyo.

Nick