We have been learning to say “That’s different!” instead of “That’s weird!” or less appropriately, “What the….?” Here are a few of the little things that are different.

1. Bathroom light switches are usually on the wall outside the bathroom. Don’t go in and shut the door expecting to grope your way along the wall to the light switch. (I think I already warned you about the high-tech toilet buttons.)

2. Vending machines: someone told me there is a drink vending machine for every eight people in Japan. I believe it—they are everywhere. Canned coffee, tea, soda, fruit drinks with fruit bits, and water in various forms.

Jet and Ransom like this peach soda—especially since I can’t read the kanji label and see the sugar content.

3. Money: If paying in dollars: There are no pennies used here– purchase totals are rounded. My wallet is noticeably lighter!

If paying in yen: when paying off base, stores have a money tray where you place your bills, coin, etc. If I have to hand money to the cashier (rare), they will receive it with two hands cupped. If there is not a tray, I invariably feel that I am violating someone by handing them money, and I feel like I should do it with two hands which is nearly impossible while holding my wallet, bowing in respect and apology, and telling my children to be quiet. It is hard to explain, but it feels very different than the way we pay in the states.

4. Lost in translation: Many signs and notices are translated into English with varying success. This pic has one translation that makes me laugh each time we drive past it. The sign is for a jewelry store and says, “Encounter the wedding bands of fate.” I wish there was an evil laugh track playing behind it or at least the theme to Jaws.

5. Driving: I started to list a few things that are different on the roads here, but it turned into another post. I’ll share a little on driving later this week.