Tokyo Times

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Odd

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Used schoolgirl underwear ban?

Tokyo’s used underwear industry was in a state of shock today, as it has been reported that the Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly intends to put a stop to used underwear trading. The new regulations – when they come into effect – will admittedly only stop the selling of panties worn by teenage girls, but with sales of middle-aged men’s undergarments not the strongest, the industry it is feared could be damaged beyond repair.

Rumours of frantic bulk buying since the news surfaced has been denied, but insiders are said to be expecting a marked increase in orders over the coming weeks. One even predicting that some schoolgirls could be going through three or four pairs a day to keep up with the demand.

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Drink, drank, drunk

It was an early start to the weekend for police officer Nakamura Shotaro. He was boozing until 2 am on Friday morning, and then when he woke up at 7 am, he started at it again. That’s fair enough, but maybe not such a good idea when you are working that day. Especially when you have to drive. And perhaps even more so when you are an assistant inspector.

It has to be said that officer Nakamura arguably tried to do the right thing. He was going to catch the train to work. The major fault in his plan being that he decided to drive to the station. It was on the way there that he was arrested.

The thing is, he obviously wasn’t just a bit tipsy. He must have been absolutely hammered, as his car had a punctured tire, and the sparks from the wheel had caused a fire to break out. Assistant inspector Nakamura unfortunately failed to notice this. Perhaps these poor observation skills are why he hasn’t yet made the rank of inspector.

But fear not. This is unlikely to happen again. Not only did Nakamura’s boss apologize, but he also assured concerned locals that “We will offer thorough training of our officers and try to make sure something like this doesn’t happen again.” That should do the trick.

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Officer Nakamura’s car looked like this. Perhaps.

Categorized: Odd

(Old)boy racers

The National Police Agency (NPA) recently reported that the number of traffic accidents involving electric wheel chairs was a staggering 231 from January to November last year. An increase of 50 on the previous year.

The NPA gave no information about the cause of the accidents, but rumour has it that many old men (and the occasional old lady) have been spotted racing in the early hours of the morning. It seems that these retired rebels are making the most of the quiet roads; staging races, speed trials, and stunt competitions. There is even talk of large amounts of cash changing hands. Some participants allegedly gambling their weekly pension on a particular race or driver.

But with fading eyesight, and decidedly slow reactions, it’s no wonder the number of accidents is on the rise. With no real protection except slippers, and a warm blanket thrown over their legs, it’s surprising that the death toll isn’t higher. Yet having said that, the number of fatal accidents has risen from 10 to 15. Unless something is done, and soon, it would appear that these figures can only get worse.

It has to be said that there is another theory regarding this large increase in electric wheelchair accidents. Namely that a rise in both traffic congestion and motorized wheelchairs has led to an inevitable escalation in the number of incidents. But frankly I find this argument too far fetched to even consider.

Wheelchair.jpg
Engineers working on the aerodynamics

Categorized: Odd

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Hello Kitty

Hello-Kitty.jpg*

I presume you are well aware of the fact, but just in case you aren’t, this year marks the 30th anniversary of Hello Kitty. What’s that? Oh right.

Anyway, in Japan the strange looking feline is huge. Kids and adults alike adore the little creature, and the marketing people are unfortunately all too aware of this. You can buy hello Kitty everything. From suitcases to sandals, and videos to vibrators. Yeah, even vibrators! If you don’t believe me check here.

So, seeing as this year marks a momentous time for the Hello Kitty money making machine, the jewellery shop Ginza Tanaka will be selling a limited edition jewel encrusted Hello Kitty. Only 30 will go on sale, and if you happen to have 3,000,000 Yen (15,400 Pounds) spare, you could be one of the lucky buyers.

To stop you missing out, I should tell you that they go on sale from February 2nd. You might want to consider getting there early to avoid the rush.

*The picture shown is not the Hello Kitty mentioned in the article. It’s one that went on sale last year. A bargain it has to be said, retailing for a thrifty 400,000 Yen (2,000 pounds). A picture of the item in question regrettably couldn’t be found. The author apologizes for any kitty confusion.

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Toilet Humour

I’m guessing that the how-to-use-a-Japanese-toilet conundrum isn’t one that keeps most people awake at night. But for anyone interested, this little animation explains things quite nicely. Even if this most tricky of procedures holds no interest to you, it’s worth a look anyway, as it’s pretty funny. Perhaps unintentionally, but funny nonetheless.

The site it comes from also has some information on public lavvies in Tokyo. Admittedly an odd topic for a website, but judging from the owner’s writing, he does seem to have an unhealthy interest in all things toilet related. I guess this is a good outlet (for want of a better description) for his passion.

If you have just eaten (or are about to) I suggest you don’t take a look. If you haven’t (or aren’t), go here and be sure to click on the small map, for perhaps the internet’s only Tokyo Toilet Tour. Complete with cleanliness and design rankings too!