Discarded

Despite there being very few public trash cans in Japan, there is almost no litter in the streets. This may be because, knowing there are few trash cans, Japanese people make a point of getting rid of trash before they leave stores, or maybe it is simply a common courtesy. In any case I was quite surprised to see while visiting a well-known temple that there is an old bridge where people often throw away large items like this bicycle here. There were several other bicycles as well as old tires, and traffic cones. Maybe Japanese people just need to get their littering fix in from time to time.

Stick some tank treads on it!

I saw an employee unloading packages from this device at a train station today. I can't imagine what sort of advantages this has over a traditional dolly, but it certainly looks cool.

A different time.

I went to the Japanese version of an antique store for the first time today. There were a lot of interesting trinkets and entertainment memorabilia, but a few objects stood out. Two cases held several pieces of Nazi-related memorabilia. Some were potentially made after the war, like this doll, but other pieces appeared to be original such as several medals featuring the swastika. I would imagine that during the America occupation after WWII, the allies wouldn't have been very supportive of the possession or production of such items so they are likely very rare. That could explain why this doll was going for around $580. 

The real Gundam

In truth, the main reason I went to Odaiba was to see the 1:1 scale Gundam installed there. From 5pm-11pm, every 20 minutes, a custom scene plays from a projector behind the Gundam and the Gundam moves it's head, lights up, and smokes along with the scene.
Only the head moves, but I'm fairly certain that if Japan comes under attack, the Gundam will activate and defend it's homeland.

If you build a copy of it, they will come.

Apparently the original statue of liberty, (the one built in France before the one in the US was built) visited Odaiba in 1998. It was such a huge tourist attraction that when it left, the tourism department commissioned a copy to be made which has continued to attract visitors since. I think this is a good example of how Japanese people, in general, are not terribly concerned with authenticity when it comes to foreign imports. I can think of several other examples of things like this that I may blog about in the future, but in any case, It's a trend I've noticed.
I also think it's sort of funny that this copy is the first incarnation of the statue I've seen in person.

Fascination goes both ways

While one often hears about some Americans' fascination with Japan. This certainly goes in the other direction as well. Some larger anime goods stores have entire floors dedicated to American cultural icons such as Starwars, Aliens, and Mickey Mouse. This interest is not limited to fictional material. Here is a Michael Jordan figure for only $470. 

The Design of the Century

While most Japanese cars have what most would consider "futuristic" styling, some models are clear reflections of the past. This is the 2014 Toyota Century. It bears a striking resemblance to the original 1967 Century and unlike many retro-styled cars in the US that are recent re-makes, the Century has maintained it's styling consistently since it's introduction 47 years ago. The interior is also almost identical to the '60s model.
It would appear that this car is considered the pinnacle of luxury. This model cost around $150,000 and the emperor of Japan is shuttled around in a modified version of the Century.