Japanese culture on souvenirs

Japan is huge on souvenirs, or お土産 (おみやげ) in Japanese. And, I have a love-hate relationship with them. On one hand, I love receiving them and trying out different ones but... finding good ones to give to people can be a pain in the neck. They are similar to postcards and Christmas cards... you love receiving them, but it is a challenge writing them.

Especially when you go to a place more than once... it looks awkward to have to buy the same ones over and over again >____<

Japan's interesting culture

Kumade Rake Charm (Asakusa Tourist Information)

Japan can be summarized in this picture perfectly. (Please click on the image to see a larger version)

All cultural aspects have been fit nicely on this "wreath"

explanation of Kumade Rake Charm (Asakusa Tourist Information)

what this image says:

A tradition from the Edo period, a lucky "kumade" rake charm from the Otori-Jinja Shrine is said to bring increased happiness, good fortune, and prosperity.
At the Tori-no-ichi market, held at the shrine every November on the Tori-no-hi days (the days of the rooster), one of the 12 signs of the Chinese zodiac, more than 100 stalls lined up within the shrine grounds sell these kumades. 

travel tips (Japan)

money from different parts of the world... how many do you recognize?

If there is one thing I can get used to in Japan is that I do not have to pay any tips!!!!... in fact, it is considered offensive to give tips.

I read some where if you give tips you are showing what bad service they had provided (yes, this is weird) and that you believe they were only working for money (which is why you give them money to offend them).

If you give tips, the server will be very confused and refuse.

Seriously... if there is one thing I don't miss about Toronto AND New York is the tipping system @.@v

Fast pace!!

It has been more than month since I have first set foot in Tokyo. After attending a church, finding a job and just hanging around people, I realize that people here are much more fast pace than Toronto.

When I attended church, I joined a Small Group, after telling them my concerns, they all got to work to help me, not only did they pray but they have taken action to help...

When I first applied for a job, the company immediately wanted to see me the next business day. During the first five minutes of the interview, I was offered the position with a contract. I was very shocked and was stepping back because I didn't expect I would get an offer so soon. After speaking with a few friends, I learned that this is how Japan does things, if you are suitable, they will hire you immediately.

In Toronto, America and Hong Kong I am considered an average to fast eater... but in Tokyo, I am always the last one.

When you meet guys (to date) they immediately want to get things done, they would immediately want to see you at the next available time (if you talk to them in the morning, they would want to "date" you in the afternoon or night time). Or sometimes they will even attempt to get something "done" during the first date. (you can interpret "done" as 1. be in a relationship as boy/girl friend 2. having LOTS of body contact or 3. something which involves spending the night together in a love hotel or in one of our homes).

When I see an item for sale that I like (whether it be clothing, pair of shoes or something) and I take some time to think... before I know it... someone already bought them and it is sold out X.x.

It's quite interesting... as I learn to catch up as I sadly fall behind...