As a visitor in Japan, I couldn’t help but notice how some of the once-local hangout spots have now transformed into popular tourist attractions. It’s a bit of a shame, considering how convenient these spots are for the average worker. Take, for example, the area near Shinjuku Station – an ideal stop for people on their way home after a long day. For many working-class Japanese, the journey home can be an hour or more, making these pit stops essential to unwind and satisfy any cravings before a long commute.
Interestingly, I rarely visit similar spots in Malaysia. To be fair, we don’t have many places that quite compare – unless we count Mamak stalls. Personally, I’m not a fan of those either, largely due to the unhealthy options on the menu. But perhaps that’s a topic for another day.
