Getting away from Tokyo gives me a chance to make comparisons when I return.

For example,Tokyo has much better subways and trains. London’s Tube is small, dirty, and subject to lots of delays as old switching equipment fails regularly. The Tokyo subway system is efficient, clean and relatively inexpensive. But London’s trains aren’t as crowded as Tokyo’s.

Water pressure in Tokyo is better than in London. Apparently, the London mains have fine pressure, but buildings don’t use the mains—they put water in tanks on the roof and use that. So the pressure is pretty poor, especially in upper storey flats. This may not mean much to the casual vistor, but living without good water pressure makes showering and dishwashing lothesome chores.

Food is a draw. Althought British food has a reputation for being bland and fatty (and it’s a well-earned reputation), London has a great variety of restaurants from around Europe. Japan has better native cuisine, but it’s hard to find Polish or Greek food here.

Overall, with only a week’s experiences, I certainly prefer Tokyo to London. Posted by kuri at April 15, 2002 02:41 PM