Bicycles, Bicycles, Bicycles

After six months in Japan without a bicycle, I have finally joined the majority of the population by acquiring a used gray bicycle. China has long been associated with images of bicycles racing through traffic, but surprisingly bikes are very common in Japan as well. Especially in the country and smaller cities like Himeji.

Sidewalks are wider to allow for bicycles to pass one another alongside meandering citizens. Most people ride at a leisurely pace, but many (including myself) race through the streets. Baskets allow for groceries or shopping bags. Baby seats in back allow for children up to 4 or 5 t o ride behind their mothers.

Although bicycle theft is quite common ( my first bicycle in Nagoya was stolen the week I bought it) bike locks are much easier. Bikes are seldom locked to poles or trees as in the states. Instead with the turn of a key tires are locked in place and bicycles can be parked in massive groups. It's also okay to move a bicycle over to the side in order to fit yours in a space. But it can be dangerous like dominoes on occasion.