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Aug 30 2010 10 Comments

Japanese workers (having a relaxing rest) from working #32

Unlike some things in Japan, the nation’s parcel delivery services are unbelievably efficient rather than efficiently bureaucratic, meaning desired delivery times are strictly adhered to, and a quick and easy call will have a re-delivery round in no time.

But such conscientiousness must come at a cost, and for those doing the rounds of doorsteps, dealing with distances and dictated drop-offs must be dizzying. And, along with the likely long hours and rigid rules and regulations, the chance for a respite must be rare. So, when the opportunity for a bit of peace and quiet does present itself, a clandestine nap in an air-conditioned cab must be not only incredibly nice, but no doubt equally necessary.

Japanese driver sleeping

Categorized: Photography

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Mike says

    8/30/2010 at 2:12 pm

    I always felt a little bit sorry for the posties here in Japan. While I love the fact that if I call before 6pm I can get a redelivery that same night before 9pm, I imagine how tough it must be for them having to shuttle back and forth. I try to be polite and cheery when they do arrive, even going to the point of offering them drinks sometimes on hot days. I guess it’s all those years of “quality” British service that makes me feel especially grateful…

    Reply
    • Lee says

      8/30/2010 at 8:20 pm

      Yeah, I know what you mean Mike. Remarkably the one’s who come here are more often than not surprisingly cheery, which given their workload is arguably more more impressive than the service itself.

      Reply
  2. Katie says

    8/30/2010 at 2:26 pm

    Re…delivery? Same…day? Your words make no sense. Japan…strange, wonderful place.

    And Mike, the Yank service is just as bad! Both countries seem shocked that anyone could be away from home at 2pm on a Tuesday and miss their delivery. So what if you then walked into town after work and waited in the queue for 45mins to pick it up on the same day? Go back home and wait 24 hours. For no good reason.

    Lovely picture by the way 🙂

    Reply
    • Lee says

      8/30/2010 at 8:24 pm

      Cheers Katie!

      Yes, redelivery. Same day, and at your specified time too!

      Reply
  3. Linette says

    8/30/2010 at 10:14 pm

    Lee, your pictures continue to amaze. You capture the everyday moments with such artistry. It’s really nice. Thank you.

    Reply
    • Lee says

      8/31/2010 at 10:38 am

      Thanks Linette! Very kind of you to say so.

      Reply
  4. John says

    8/31/2010 at 12:12 am

    Nicely created post: the writeup built up to the photo and the photo more than delivered. As impressive as the Japanese delivery services that you were praising. Speaking of which, I have to call them to tell them to delivery a parcel at MY convenience!

    Reply
    • Lee says

      8/31/2010 at 10:39 am

      Thanks John!

      Reply
  5. Lizzy says

    8/31/2010 at 5:20 am

    Fantastic capture, as always. 🙂

    Reply
    • Lee says

      8/31/2010 at 10:39 am

      Cheers Lizzy!

      Reply

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