Green Japan

During my trip I caught a lot of signs about Japanese efficiency. After 3/11 (how everyone refers to the earthquake/tsunami/nuclear disaster), Japan implemented energy efficiency measures (setsuden) that reduced energy use by 15%. This is also known as "cool biz" - among other things it relaxed the Japanese business dress code so people don't have to wear suits. You'll also notice some kawaii appeals in these advertisements.

Kawaii

"Kawaii" is the word for "cute" in Japanese. It pervades public signage, transportation and advertisements. Here is a collection of kawaii images I found during our trip.

Around Tokyo

On one of our free days we wandered around Tokyo - visiting neighborhoods Shinjuku and Shibuya. Here are some street scenes.
Video screens everywhere in Shinjuku.

 No smoking allowed in Shinjuku (but this is disregarded).

 More enormous video screens.

 Many people dressed in different costumes want to sell you things!

 Robot Restaurant advertisements abound - here, women dressed as robots control robots to deliver your food. I didn't visit. I've got enough robots and people who control them at home!

A temple in the middle of the city!

 Interesting architecture...

 Signs are usually very particular.

 A good way to cart empty bottles for recycling!

 Shibuya is a big shopping district.

 Watch out for the gaspanic!