Originally posted by DArtagnan at 6-3-2013 11:39
This contrasts with Japan, for example, which I would describe as a culture where "zero" personal space is the accepted norm. Complete strangers have no hesitation of standing right next to you in full physical contact (especially on the subway) but even in the busiest places in Tokyo, nobody ever actually bumps into anyone, and if they do (those very rare instances), both parties stop and acknowledge.
This actually happened to me in Tokyo, travelling on a subway with my luggage in tow, trying to get to Shibuya station. It must be afternoon rush hour or something, I had one hand on my luggage handle and the other holding on to the overhead knobby thing. Next thing I know, the train is jammed pack with people, and there is this cute Jap chick squeezed right in front of me (facing me). I see that one hand she is holding onto the verticle metal bar thing, while the other is holding her mobile phone. There is "ZERO" space between her breasts and my chest! (ahhh so soft) I was trying to look anywhere but at her since this has never happened to me and was feeling a bit awkward but she doesn't even have any reaction, as if this happens to her ALL the time. As soon as I got off the train, I told my GF that we are travelling on the subway everyday on our holiday during peak hour rush! |
