Driving along the expressway in Japan and have to use the bathroom- or get the sudden hunger pang? Why don’t you pull over and experience the truck stops scattered throughout Japan. I have, and let me tell you it’s quite an experience.
First, the bathrooms. Large and roomy, with many urinals and stalls-walk in and wonder-where is the familiar western toilet with the seat? Well, there are just a few-the ADA ones. The rest require you to squat over a slot in the floor with a hood on one end. So which is the right way to use it? Face the hood and do your thing. When you’re finished and go to the sink to wash your hands, there is liquid soap, but guess what? No paper towels to wipe your hands. So you walk over to the hand dryers and turn the unit on-the blast of air will almost blow your wig off your head-seriously! You’re lucky if you get a heated one-especially in winter. Bring your own handkerchief to wipe your hands. Forgot your handkerchief-buy some in the 100-Yen store.
Next let’s talk about the vending machines. They look like normal vending machines, but with attitude! How about hot latte coffee or cocoa in a can? Feeling hungry? How about a hot Japanese oden stew in a can? Or how about hot french fries, or hot dogs, or fried rice balls? Your 3G cell phone running out of juice? Try plugging in to a cell phone vending machine. Feeling tired? Try a cold bottled vitamin drink.
Looking for something more substantial to eat, or looking for an omiyage gift or souvenir of your trip? Walk a few steps further, through the automatic glass doors, and lo and behold, you will be in a large souvenir shop/konbini(convenience store). If you are looking for the local seasonal food or gift, you are sure to find it here. You might even be able to get to sample the product before purchase.
Japanese truck stops are a must see on your trip to Japan.
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