Reader’s Question:
In the final episode of the anime “Game Center Girl and Cross-Cultural Exchange,” the character mentioned that one of the reasons she likes Japan is because of “driving on the left side of the road.” What does that mean?
Driving on the Left: A Quirky Love for Japan
So, I
was binge-watching the final episode of “Game Center Girl and Cross-Cultural Exchange” the other day, and a line caught my ear. One of the characters says she loves Japan because of “driving on the left side of the road.” At first, I was like, “Really? That’s what you’re into?” But the more I thought about it, the more it resonated with my own experiences, and I figured it deserved some exploration.
You see, I grew up in California and was raised in Osaka, which means I’ve had my fair share of driving on both sides of the world. Japan’s left-side driving culture is definitely a quirk that sets it apart from most of the world, where right-side driving reigns supreme. It’s a bit of a novelty, and honestly, it can be both a joy and a challenge.
Left-Side Driving: The Upside
Let’s start with the positives. For anyone who’s ever driven in Japan, you know that the roads are just… well, beautiful. I mean, have you seen the highways? The scenery is often breathtaking, with a mix of mountains, coastlines, and urban sprawl. And driving on the left? It gives you a different perspective. You sit on the right side of the car, which, I swear, feels more like you’re in the passenger seat most of the time (talk about a surreal experience).
What I love most about driving in Japan is the sense of order. Everything just seems to flow. Traffic signals are taken pretty seriously, and people actually stop at red lights! Unlike some places I’ve visited, where red seems to be more of a suggestion. It’s like a breath of fresh air.
A Road Trip to Remember
Speaking of driving, let me share a little story. A few summers ago, I decided to take a trip from Osaka to Hiroshima with my family. My kid was still pretty small then, but oh boy, was he excited! Since we were driving, we had the freedom to stop whenever we wanted. We pulled over at a few roadside stalls, munching on fresh melons and grilled corn. Those little moments made the trip memorable.
Now, here’s where the left-side driving came into play. My mind was constantly juggling the fact that I had to keep to the left while simultaneously keeping my little one entertained in the backseat. I’ll tell you, it was a bit of a circus act! I was joking with my partner, “Who knew parenting came with a side of dodging oncoming traffic?”
Left vs. Right: A Cultural Perspective
Returning to that line from the show—there’s something oddly charming about the left-side driving culture in Japan. It’s not just about cars; it’s about how ingrained these habits are in the culture. Like how the British view their left-side driving as a point of pride. In Japan, it’s a bit similar; it feels like a part of their identity. They embrace it with a certain flair. I mean, have you ever seen how smoothly they navigate those narrow streets? It’s like watching a dance, almost choreographed!
I can’t help but wonder if the character in “Game Center Girl” was hinting at something deeper. Maybe it’s not just about driving; it’s about the experience of living in a place that feels different and unique. The left-side driving could symbolize a love for the nuances that make Japan, well, Japan!
Surprising Challenges
But let’s not sugarcoat it—driving in Japan can be quite the adventure. For starters, I vividly remember trying to get used to the road signs. They’re mostly in Japanese, which can be a bit daunting. I found myself squinting at kanji characters, trying to decipher if that sign meant “turn left” or “danger ahead.” Trust me, it’s a learning curve!
And let’s talk about parking. Oh boy, the parking situation in cities can sometimes feel like a game of Tetris. You have to be quick on your feet—park in the wrong spot, and you might find yourself facing some hefty fines. It’s a real-life test of your spatial awareness and ability to think on your feet. I’ve spent way too long circling around looking for a spot, all while my little one’s patience was wearing thin.
A Final Thought
As my car finally rolled into a parking space after what felt like hours, I thought about that character’s line again. It’s funny how something as mundane as driving can evoke such strong feelings about a place. Whether we love or hate it, driving—especially on the left in Japan—connects us to our surroundings, to our experiences, and even to our loved ones.
So yeah, I get why that line resonated. It’s not just about driving on the left side of the road; it’s about feeling at home in a culture that embraces the little quirks that make it special. Whether you’re zooming through city streets or cruising along coastal highways, it’s all part of the journey. And that, my friends, is what makes life interesting.
Next time you find yourself in Japan, don’t forget to buckle up—on the left side, of course! And remember, every adventure is just one drive away.
