General

While things are still far from frosty, Japan’s relationship with cigarettes certainly seems to be getting a little rocky, with more and more restrictions being regularly rolled out.

However, that’s not to say it’s all bad news for those partial to the odd puff, as manners are still the main priority. And, despite a smoking ban even on the street in some sections of the city, plenty of places are still happy to cater for those with a craving — whether that happens to be in the confines of a coffee shop,

or, for those hoping to fend off any health fears, in the middle of a midday meander.

Although as far as cigarette-friendly seats go, what park-based pastime is being promoted on the next bench, is not quite so clear.

Barely moving along a busy expressway with a bladder — or heaven forbid one’s bowels — about to burst is far from fun, and for some it would seem, the fear of a faux pa can drive them, quite literally, to distraction.

With that in mind, the 57-year-old driver’s presumably post-toilet proclamation of putting his foot on the accelerator instead of the break at the service station has, perhaps predictably, met with a certain amount of suspicion, and even been poo-pooed in some parts.

While the present giving pandemonium of Valentine’s picked up most of the media coverage last week, top Japanese pin-up Aki Hoshino still took some time out to parade her new footwear-themed photo collection. A book that takes a much needed look at the decidedly neglected niche of jogging and jubblies.

At the event, 30-year-old Hoshino spiced up the proceedings with some suitably saucy sneaker-based shenanigans, although despite her obvious attributes, she coyly complained that, “I didn’t have anyone to give chocolate to this Valentine’s Day. I hope I have better luck next year.”

A longing made all the more lamentable by the fact that she had lovingly prepared a couple of comely cupcakes to proffer to the right person.

Had one risen up from the crowd.